Campus Ministry from a Student Perspective
When you first enter our beloved Chowan Chapel you will be greeted by the Welcome Team with a brief “Good evening! How are you?” Then you will be guided through two big doors leading to a cross. A cross that so signifies God’s overwhelming love for each and every one who enters into the chapel.
Wednesday evenings in the chapel is an opportunity to worship and fellowship for all students, staff, and faculty who come. Kashara Simpson says, “I personally enjoy a midweek pick me up that is able to last me throughout the rest of the week.” Dr. Shelly Greene adds, “It’s a space where I can center myself spiritually and be part of a supportive Christian community. Coming from a public institution I wasn’t used to seeing students openly worship and express their faith in such a public and genuine way. It is incredibly moving to witness young people so freely sharing their love for God and supporting one another in their spiritual journeys. I am grateful to be part of a community where faith is embraced so openly.”
The chapel also offers a space for students to teach, encourage, and share their faith journeys, giving them time to deepen their relationship with God. Gabe Espiritu states, “My favorite memory is when I got to preach because people share with me that the message touched their hearts and made a difference.” Jason Fowler, Interim Chowan Minister says, “This is the student’s mission field. They study their faith and deepen their relationship with a God who loves them.”
Anyone who has ever attended Wednesday Night Worship has no doubt felt the presence of God in our midst as we worship and praise through music and the Word of the Lord. The Bible states, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20). In our chapel, there are certainly more than two or three gathered in His Name, as we have had up to 100 people on certain nights.
Our adored President, Dr. Thomas, one who attends nearly every Wednesday Night Worship shares, “This is the highest level of reassurance that I am in the presence ofGod. I am here to serve the students, faculty and staff… but on Wednesday nights I am able to sit and receive God’s grace through the music and ministry of the beautiful people in front and all around me. It is my opportunity to fill myself up again and give thanks to God for holding me in His hands.The students inspire me every single night. The music is beautiful. The message is powerful. The reactions of the students is inspiring. The prayer time at the altar is moving. The number of people in the chapel makes my heart swell with pride and gratitude. Thank you God for allowing me to be in this place at this time with these people. ”