Religious Life

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.

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 Schendel Conference Center, Monday evenings at 7:00 p.m.. Students are encouraged to seek fellowship in a local church for their ongoing worship needs.

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.