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Manchester University logo
Spiritual Life

A Community of Faith, Respect, and Understanding

Spiritual life at Manchester University embraces tradition while providing welcoming spaces and meaningful opportunities to deepen your faith. Through interfaith events, fellowship groups, and reflective experiences, we foster an environment that supports you as you explore your beliefs and build lasting connections.

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Walk the Prayer Labyrinth

The Prayer Labyrinth at Manchester University, located behind Cordier Auditorium, provides a peaceful, reflective space for meditation and prayer. It invites all to experience a meaningful spiritual journey, embracing mindfulness and tranquility.

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Petersime Chapel

Enter Petersime Chapel

Petersime Chapel, centrally located on Manchester University’s campus, offers welcoming spaces for worship, reflection, and community gatherings. Join chapel services or find quiet moments for personal meditation and spiritual renewal.

Religious Life

MU VALUES FAITH
Manchester University values Faith, because our faiths call us to make the world a kinder and better place, establish justice, build peace amid strife, and model lives of agape (selfless love), tikkun olam (repairing a broken world), and salam (peace) —Manchester University Values Statement
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Church of the Brethren

Manchester University was founded by the Church of the Brethren, a Christian denomination deeply committed to peace, community, and service. Grounded in these historic values, MU warmly welcomes students of all faith traditions, fostering respect, understanding, and spiritual growth across campus.

Campus Interfaith Board

The Campus Interfaith Board at Manchester University provides meaningful opportunities to explore diverse faiths, traditions, and spiritual experiences. Through inclusive events, engaging discussions, and interactive experiences, the board encourages authentic dialogue, personal growth, and deeper understanding across our campus community.

Fellowship and Ministry Groups

Manchester University’s Fellowship and Ministry Groups offer welcoming spaces for students to grow spiritually, build meaningful friendships, and find support. From faith-based gatherings to service opportunities and musical ensembles, these groups encourage authentic connections and enrich your spiritual journey on campus.

MU & Bethany Theological Seminary

Add Graduate-Level Religious Studies to Your Degree

Beginning in fall 2025, a new initiative between Bethany and Manchester offers a creative way for undergraduate students interested in doing graduate work to include courses from Bethany as part of their programs. In addition to your bachelor’s degree from Manchester, you could earn either a graduate certificate or a Master’s degree from Bethany in a reduced amount of time and with no additional costs for these graduate classes. With Bethany’s technology classrooms, Manchester students will be able to participate fully in these courses with students in Richmond, across the country, and internationally, all without needing to travel. We are pleased to pilot this new initiative, strengthening our long-standing relationship with Bethany Theological Seminary.

For more information

  • Current students, please contact your academic advisor.
  • Future Students, please contact your Admissions Counselor