Student Life

Spiritual Enrichment

In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus said that the most important commandment is to love the Lord with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus was making it clear that every aspect of who we are should reflect our passion for the Lord. At Rochester University, we are endeavoring to live out this commandment.

We intend to promote the spiritual life at Rochester University through academic advising, mentoring, field education, chapel, bible study or any other form. We intend that prayer, worship, dialogue about God and His Word, and fellowship flow through the community of Rochester University.

Chapel Services

Through the convocation, chapel, and other services, we plan to offer services as dynamic times for responding to the Holy Spirit and the truth of the Word. Passionate worship marks these strong times together. Guest speakers as well as faculty members and selected students bring messages of encouragement and challenge from God’s Word.

Special Days

The administration and faculty of Rochester University seek to be sensitive to both the needs of the students and the direction of the Holy Spirit. Periodically, a special day of prayer and worship may be called for the purpose of spiritual reflection and renewal, with the entire school community uniting together for the day.

Ministry Emphasis

At least once annually, a special series of chapel services is planned for ministry emphasis. The speakers are men and women of God who exemplify Christian leadership in the Church and/or the world.

Church Services

Throughout the book of Acts we read how God visits His people when they gather together for times of prayer, praise, and worship. Our doctrine calls on us to “identify ourselves with the visible Body of Christ.” We interpret this call to mean that each member of the Rochester University community should participate regularly in the life of a local church.

We assemble together in local congregations to allow the Word to work in us with authority and mutual accountability. We do this so that the gifts can work in and through us by the power of the Holy Spirit. We gather as well, to fellowship among God’s people, who are the true temple of God by His Spirit. New students are encouraged to visit several churches in the local area prior to selecting a “home church.”

We believe it is important for students to attend their home church consistently

Small Groups

As part of his or her spiritual development, each student is expected to regularly participate in a small group. These groups provide an opportunity for Bible study, fellowship, and accountability. Many students meet in a small group provided through their church; others participate in various groups that meet on campus.

Devotional Life

All members of the Rochester University community (administrators, faculty members, staff, and students) are encouraged to maintain a rich, daily devotional life. Times alone with God in Bible study, meditation, prayer, fasting, and praise are invaluable in forming the character of Jesus and in receiving the empowerment of the Spirit. In addition to private devotions, it is not unusual for students to meet regularly with other members of the campus community for special times together in God’s presence.