September 23, 2016



Rebekah Houff addresses the group at the Peace Pole dedication.

New Pastor Leads Petersime Chapel

Mack Leinweber


Rebekah Houff is Manchester’s new campus pastor, having arrived on campus last spring, and is now transitioning from a position at Bethany Theological Seminary.
 
Before finding her way to Manchester, Houff earned a BA in philosophy and religion at Bridgewater College in Virginia while also coordinating outreach programs for the seminary. She served through Brethren Volunteer Service as coordinator of the National Young Adult Conference in 2008, and the National Junior High Conference in 2009.
 
At Manchester, Houff keeps a regular schedule throughout the week. “I prepare for congregation,” she said. “I think of what I’m going to say, or what I’m going to highlight. I think of what announcement needs to be mentioned.” Chapel services are held every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. at Petersime Chapel, located in the center of campus.
 
Manchester’s Church of the Brethren also offers multiple programs, including Religious Life. In an atmosphere that encourages learning about and respecting religious differences, the Religious Life program, according to the MU website, asserts the right of students both to share their faith with others, while exploring and understanding the diverse faiths represented. Consistent with the University’s origin in the Church of the Brethren, the Religious Life program creates opportunities for students with Christian traditions to care and grow their faith through worship, learning and service.  The program welcomes and serves students of all faiths.
 
“I counsel, lead and work on strategies to carry out the message of the Brethren Church,” Houff said. “The most enjoyable part is investing my time in people. If I can help in any way, students and community members should not hesitate to reach out to me.”
 
On Sunday mornings, students are encouraged to attend any local congregation they wish to visit. Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) leads weekly discussions in the chapel every Thursday evening at 8 p.m.