Dear HPU Faculty, Staff, and Students,
I’m writing to share an important change coming to our weekly HPU Chapel experience.
After extended conversations with students, faculty, staff, and campus partners, we have made the decision to move Chapel to 7 PM on Wednesdays, beginning this upcoming term.
This is an exciting change, one we believe will empower HPU Chapel to better deepen students’ faith in the future. We recognize, too, that this is a significant adjustment, one that may be disruptive for some. Please know that this decision was made carefully, with deep consideration for our community, and a shared desire to create the strongest possible environment for student spiritual growth.
Over the past several years, the number of students enrolled in Wednesday evening classes at 5:30 PM (the time Chapel has been held for more than 35 years) has steadily increased. Currently, more than 600 undergraduate students are in class at that time, compared to approximately 300 students at 7:00 PM. While no time is without conflicts on this vibrant campus, we believe that prioritizing a time that minimizes academic barriers gives the greatest number of students the opportunity to participate in Chapel.
More than a schedule shift, this change fits with our desire to build a Beloved Community through HPU Chapel to better practice Belonging, Becoming who God calls us to be, and Beholding God’s grace in all that we do. Beginning this fall, Wednesday evenings will offer a more holistic experience:
- 6:00 PM – HPU Chapel Connect
A time to practice belonging: gather, connect, and build meaningful relationships.- 7:00 PM – HPU Chapel Worship
A time to practice beholding Christ: A vibrant, Christ-centered service designed to engage, challenge and grow students in their faith.- 8:00 PM – Vital Groups (Small Groups)
A time to practice Becoming who God calls us to be: Intentional spaces for scripture study, reflection, prayer, conversation, and deeper discipleship.
We understand that this change may create challenges for some of you who partner with us. We value those partnerships deeply and are committed to working with you. If this shift impacts your area, I welcome the opportunity to connect and explore how we can support one another better.
We are excited about what lies ahead for HPU Chapel and grateful for the shared commitment across our campus to serving students. Our goal is not only to grow the Chapel community, but that God’s Spirit might grow within each person who enters Hayworth Chapel. With God’s guidance, we believe this step will help foster an even stronger culture of discipleship and spiritual flourishing at HPU.
Thank you for your partnership, flexibility, and care for one another.
Grace and peace,
Rev. Dr. Preston Davis
Vice President & Minister to the University
