Overview
Chapel is an important part of student engagement at ETBU and a required element for all undergraduate students (See the Chapel Credit Policy below). All the Chapel programs are designed to nurture our spirit as individuals and as members of the ETBU community. As followers of Christ, we recognize the privilege of gathering for corporate worship where we may express to God our dependence on Him; hear and respond to the Word of God; grow in our understanding of the Christian faith and offer our heartfelt praise. The discipline of regularly convening as a community strengthens our Christian walk both corporately and as individuals.
- Chapel Information
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When and where do Chapel services take place?
Chapel services are generally held each Monday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Baker Auditorium in the Rogers Spiritual Life Center. The services are a mix of contemporary and traditional in format. Special evening chapel services are held on occasion each semester.
How does Chapel accommodate different worship styles?
Services display characteristics of contemporary evangelicalism, but they will also reflect the rich heritage of the church over the past two millennia. Chapel services also affirm the diversity within the body of Christ as is evident within our members and across the globe. Through our programs students discover much about the nature and challenges of global Christianity, including the vitality and character of churches in several regions of the world.
What about Sunday worship?
While ETBU sponsors Chapel services during the week, participation in Chapel should not replace attendance and involvement in a church. Students are strongly encouraged to find a local church where they can worship and contribute regularly.
How can I get the most out of Chapel?
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Come with an open mind and heart.
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Be respectful. Chapel services should be approached in a spirit of reverence. Bringing food or drink into the building; doing homework during the services; or talking while others are speaking/singing is disrespectful.
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Out of Reverence for God, avoid disruptions!
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Be a good host! ETBU often welcomes guest speakers that have never visited the campus. Participate appropriately so that our guest feel and sense our hospitality
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Remember that while everyone may not connect with each chapel speaker, someone probably is engaged so please remain respectfully quiet so as not to disrupt.
For more information on requirements, procedures, etc. please stop by the Spiritual Life Office in the Rogers Spiritual Life Center or contact us at 903.923.2173.
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- Chapel Credit Policy
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Requirements
Chapel Credit must be earned every semester a student is enrolled in 12 or more hours. Credit for Chapel will be given on a credit / noncredit basis and is a requirement for every student graduating from East Texas Baptist University.
How are credits obtained?
Credits are earned each semester by attending 22 of the scheduled Chapels. Students are required to maintain a valid, scannable Student ID Card. This card is scanned at the end of each Chapel to record attendance. The scanner displays a green light when the card is accepted and a red light if it is not accepted. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that his/her card scans correctly. Any scan problems should be brought to the attention of Spiritual Life Staff immediately. Responsibility for making sure the Chapel requirements have been met and duly recorded rests solely upon each student.
Chapel Makeups
Although it is the intent for those enrolled in Chapel to attend all scheduled chapel/assembly programs, the University recognizes that circumstances may require one to miss some programs. In order to help students meet the 22 Chapel requirement, there is an on-line make-up process. The Makeup Process includes watching chapel on-line, completing Makeup Form (limited to 7 per semester) and returning it to Spiritual Life Office. Makeup Forms are accepted up to 30 days after the semester ends. The Makeup Form is available on Watch Chapel page or by accessing the link below.
Alternative program policy
Alternative programs may be allowed in a given semester for students with special problems relating to the regular chapel/assembly schedule, such as being enrolled in only Tuesday-Thursday and/or night classes. A reduction in the number of programs required for chapel assembly credit may be allowed for students enrolled for 7 to 11 semester hours. Forms for requesting a reduction or an alternate program are available in the Office of Spiritual Life and decisions concerning such requests are made by the Office of Spiritual Life and the Chapel/Assembly Advisory Committee.
- Students enrolled in fewer than seven (7) hours in a given semester are exempt from chapel/assembly for that semester. Such students, nevertheless, are subject to the minimum chapel credits prior to graduation.
- Students not pursuing a degree are exempt from all chapel/assembly requirements. Transfer students may request credit for chapel attended at previous institutions by contacting the Office of Spiritual Life.
