Fellowship and Ministry Groups

Manchester University has a number of ways to engage and grow in faith:

• Students Following Christ
• Manchester Catholics
• Fellowship of Christian Athletes
  
• Simply Brethren
• ROBOT
• Inter-Collegiate Ministries
• Handbell Choir
• Praise Jam
• Other Opportunities

Students Following Christ - Students Following Christ seeks to move as many individuals as possible toward a life that is fully dedicated to loving and becoming like Jesus Christ. SFC is structured such that believers and unbelievers alike can learn more about Christ, as well as helping to equip believers to lovingly live out their faith biblically while seeking Christ-likeness. The group meets Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. in the SAC. <Back to Top>

Manchester Catholics - This is an organization for all interested Catholic and non-Catholic students, faculty, and staff. The group meets periodically to provide religious education, pastoral care, mutual support, fellowship, and service to others. "Mass and a Meal" is held each Sunday evening beginning at 6 p.m. in the chapel. Regular educational events are also held Wednesdays at 8 p.m. in the Academic Center. <Back to Top>

Fellowship of Christian Athletes - This newly re-energized group has weekly meetings and occasional special events particularly geared toward students who participate in athletics, providing a place for discussion, connection, support, and education while growing in faith. Currently meetings are held Sundays at 4 p.m. in the SAC. <Back to Top>

Simply Brethren - Simply Brethren is a group dedicated to providing support and connection for Church of the Brethren students and other interested students, faculty, and staff. Simply Brethren meetings center around fellowship and include times of worship, playing games, educational events, exploring Church of the Brethren heritage, sharing, singing, discussions around current issues, and enjoying each other's company. People of all faith traditions are invited to participate. It usually meets every other Thursday at 9 p.m. <Back to Top>

ROBOT* (Radically Obedient Brethren Outreach Team) - This student worship team travels to area Church of the Brethren congregations, primarily during spring semester, to lead worship and visit with church members. Students preach and assist with all facets of the service while developing their ministry gifts. <Back to Top>

Inter-Collegiate Ministries - Inter-Collegiate Ministries is a student organization committed to proclaiming the Lord Jesus Christ as God Incarnate and leading others to a personal faith in Him as Savior and Lord. Study of the Scriptures, one-on-one discipleship, prayer, and fellowship are utilized to deepen and strengthen the spiritual life of its members. Membership in this organization is open to all students who are interested in its purpose and desire to take part in its program. <Back to Top>

Handbell Choir - The goal of the Handbell Choir is to provide members the opportunity to learn, practice and perform together as a musical ensemble. Through performances both on and off campus, the Handbell Choir represents Manchester University in a positive manner to the community. The Handbell Choir is open to all students, faculty and staff regardless of musical skill or familiarity with the handbell instruments. Primary requirement for membership is attendance at weekly rehearsals and performances. Membership is limited to the number of positions available for the number of handbells used by the choir. Questions may be referred to the campus pastor (x5243).<Back to Top>

Praise Jam – Each Wednesday at 10 p.m., an energetic praise and worship time offers contemporary music, prayer, sharing of joys and concerns, other reflections, and fellowship in the chapel. It’s open to anyone interested in coming together to worship God with energy and passion. <Back to Top>

Other Opportunities – Short-term or longer-term book study groups, Bible studies, discussion groups, service opportunities, prayer times, groups for athletes, events with local congregations, and other places to connect faith and education are also offered periodically. See the campus ministry office to inquire about starting a group or for information. Current groups meeting regularly include:

• Assistants for Residential Ministry (ARM) programs in individual residence halls.
• Women's Bible study (Mondays at 8 p.m., Petersime Chapel lounge)
• "Common Ground" Covenant Bible study (Mondays at 4 p.m., Petersime Chapel conference room)
• Religious Skeptics--open conversation about religion (time TBA, Student Union cafe' area).

Campus Interfaith Board also plans a variety of events.

On Sunday mornings, students are encouraged to attend a local congregation. To schedule a ride to a local church, call or e-mail the Campus Ministry/Religious Life office at 982-5243 before 5 p.m. Friday. <Back to Top>