Question 1

What does Second Presence actually build?

Accepted Answer

Members construct 3D reconstructions of spiritual environments — including Christian churches, Buddhist temples, caves, and deserts — designed to recreate or enhance elements like sacred light and transcendent presence that are difficult or impossible to access in the physical world.

Question 2

Is this club religious, or more research/tech-focused?

Accepted Answer

It sits at the intersection of both. The club is student-led and investigates how virtual and physical spiritual experiences compare, examining how different modes of sensory input shape belief, cognition, and meaning-making — blending spiritual exploration with research methodology.

Question 3

Do I need to be Buddhist or religious to join?

Accepted Answer

The club was formerly known as Buddhist Community at Berkeley but now spans multiple traditions, building environments from Christian churches to Buddhist temples to desert landscapes. Its comparative, research-oriented framing suggests it welcomes participants regardless of personal faith background.

Question 4

What skills would be useful — or developed — as a member?

Accepted Answer

The club builds 3D virtual environments, suggesting members work with or learn 3D modeling and VR/spatial technology, in addition to engaging with questions around spirituality, cognition, and the study of religious experience.

Second Presence (formerly known as Buddhist Community at Berkeley)