Religious Life at The College

The religious life programs and activities of Ottawa University are designed to strengthen and broaden the faith of students, faculty, and staff in keeping with the mission statement of the University. The University makes an effort to encourage individual growth and community interaction as issues of faith are explored. Events and activities include contemporary issues and time-honored traditions.

The Director of Campus Ministries oversees each program, along with the help a campus ministries intern and student leaders. Events and activities range from chapel services to concerts and from campus mixers to mission trips. Activities and programs are open to any OU student desiring fellowship with God and other students.

Ottawa University enjoys a close relationship with community churches, whose ministers and lay people actively participate in campus ministry programs. Worship services are held in the University Chapel on Sunday evenings at 8:00 p.m. and students are encouraged to seek fellowship in a local church for their ongoing worship needs.

Chapel Services are held weekly on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) reaches out to student-athletes by sponsoring activities and events. The group meets Wednesday evenings to discuss issues dealing with teams, relationships, and character on and off the field.

Braving Discipleship is a weekend retreat for high school students from Kansas and surrounding states. OU students plan and administer this program, which takes place the first weekend in November. Students have opportunities to lead committees and small group workshops. The event focuses on service ministry and training for discipleship.

Summer Camp Ministry Teams are sent each summer to various American Baptist summer camps around the Midwest. Summer camp teams attend a training session that emphasizes all aspects of summer camp ministry, including how to lead small group Bible studies, music, craft activities, games, devotionals, and team building activities.

Praise Band is a student-led worship team which provides worship in music at Chapel on Thursdays and at special events.

Escape is a spring retreat for OU students and serves as a time of renewal and refocus.

Spring Break Mission Trip provides OU students the opportunity to travel regionally to do mission work during The College’s annual spring break.