Hardin-Simmons University is embarking on a transformative journey in its approach to spiritual formation under the visionary guidance of Shelli Presley, Director of Spiritual Formation, and Dr. Stacey Martin, Dean of Students. Traditionally, chapel services at HSU were held exclusively on Tuesdays in the grand Behrens Auditorium. However, with the goal of prioritizing spiritual formation as an integral part of education, HSU has introduced significant changes, including the introduction of double chapel sessions each week.
The motivation behind this chapel transformation is multi-faceted. First, it is about providing ample opportunities for students to accumulate the required 80 chapel credits for graduation. In the past, with chapel only once a week, students had to carefully plan their attendance to meet this requirement. However, with chapel now being twice a week, students can accumulate these credits more naturally, ensuring that they receive a holistic education that includes spiritual development.
Additionally, this transformation aims to enhance the overall experience of chapel. The new location for chapel sessions is the intimate Logsdon Chapel, chosen for its smaller size, which fosters a sense of closeness and community among attendees.
The weekly chapel schedule is designed to provide a diverse spiritual experience. Guest speakers are featured on Tuesdays, offering unique perspectives and insights, while Thursdays are reserved for testimonies, allowing students to share their spiritual journeys. Chapel sessions are held from 9:30 to 10:10 a.m., providing a convenient time slot for students to attend between classes.
Furthermore, HSU encourages students to actively participate in spiritual formation through service. Those interested in serving can volunteer for specific community service tasks. HSU's aim is not only to provide chapel credits but also to inspire students to be beneficial contributors to their community, fostering a culture of service and community involvement.
In conclusion, HSU's double chapel initiative, driven by Shelli Presley and Stacey Martin's vision for spiritual formation, represents a significant step towards integrating faith and education. It not only simplifies the process of earning chapel credits but also aims to provide a rich, diverse, and spiritually enriching experience for students. As the HSU community embraces this transformation, it reflects the university's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who will make a positive impact on the world.