The mission of College Church is “Faithfully serving our Community and College through God’s love.” Our core values are thankfulness for the gift of Jesus Christ, Son of God, and his ministry; mindfulness of the various gifts of Jesus, care for and ministry to all; continued learning and study of how to live a Christlike life; appreciation of tradition in the Church and College cultures; open-mindedness about human differences, recognition that given the physical location in the middle of the College campus we value, and seek out, the gifts of students to worship; and recognition of the central role of music in worship.

The long history of College Church gives evidence to the providential and sustaining hand of God. Humbly, we continue to trust God’s guidance for our future. Prayerfully, we seek to discern God’s will for our future. Faithfully, we strive to be an asset to God’s ministry in this particular place and to bring God glory.

Chaplaincy

Since 1968, the pastor of College Church has also served the role of Chaplain for Hampden-Sydney College. The Church and College strive for a blending of this unique Pastor/Chaplain role. As Chaplain, the pastor seeks to reach and develop the spiritual life of all Hampden-Sydney students and provides pastoral care and liturgical leadership to the College community. This includes working to develop the spiritual dimension of the students of the College; encouraging and collaborating with community and campus religious groups; regularly seeking opportunities for informal interaction with students, faculty, and staff; supporting students, faculty, and staff members in their growing faith and service; providing a listening ear and comforting presence to bereaved, ill, or anguished students, faculty, staff, and their families; and participating in the various worship and ceremonial occasions of the College.

The Pastor/Chaplain is located on campus and has an office in the basement of College Church.  The ready availability to the community is intentional.  The Chaplain’s office is part of the HSC Student Affairs office and, as such, is able to provide care in many situations and be active and available to work in the life of the entire community.

For more information about specific opportunities for students, see the Student Ministry page.

Presbytery

College Church is a member of the Presbytery of the Peaks in affiliation with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).