Humanist Life
Looking to explore life’s biggest existential questions through human connection, ethics, and reason rather than religion? Humanist Life at Tufts is here for you. In partnership with the Humanist Community at Tufts (HCAT), we welcome atheists, agnostics, humanists, and the non-religious to cultivate meaning, community, and joy in the here and now. Centered on curiosity, reciprocity, and creative action, we offer a fresh, thoughtful space to discuss ethics, build deep friendships, and work together to leave the world a little better than we found it.

About the Community
We want to help you build a rich, ethical, and deeply connected life. Our weekly HCAT gatherings mix lively intellectual discussions—spanning philosophy, science, and current events—with relaxed social events like shared meals, movie nights, and music jams. We’re known for signature programs like seasonal Death Cafés, Solstice gatherings, and the annual "Kindling the Humanist Spark" summit. Above all, our chaplaincy offers spiritual care, a safe space for open self-expression, and a vibrant home for secular life on campus.
Community Leadership
Anthony Cruz Pantojas was appointed Humanist Chaplain in Summer 2021. As Humanist Chaplain, Anthony supports the Humanist Community at Tufts (HCAT), offers pastoral care, and works alongside the University Chaplaincy team and campus partners on program offerings that encompass interbelief/interfaith, intercultural, civic life, decolonial, and anti-racism initiatives. Anthony is the University Chaplaincy liaison to the Africana Center, Latinx Center, GLAD-I, CMHS, StAAR, and Tisch Library.
Programs and Resources
Humanist Chaplaincy Spring Book Club
Mondays, January 26 to April 13, 2026, 12:00-1:15 PM
Please RSVP here to join the Humanist Chaplaincy's Spring Book Club for all students! This spring semester, we will delve into What I Believe: Humanist Ideas and Philosophies to Live By author Andrew Copson.For questions and to acquire your book copy, e-mail Humanist Chaplain Anthony Cruz Pantojas.
Humanist Community at Tufts (HCAT) Weekly Reflections
Fridays, 3:00-4:00 Goddard Chapel (First meeting Jan 23 and last meeting April 24)
We gather each week, beginning with a grounding meditation, and reflect on our personal experiences and thoughts regarding a specific topic. Topics in the past have included death, new beginnings, love, the changing seasons, our relationships with technology, and much more. We discuss how to give meaning to our own lives outside of a traditional religious structure, but people of all religions are welcome. Email HCAT Board Member Lara Oktay with any questions.
Solstice

