Student Chaplains step up
Student chaplains step up as campus pastor role remains unfilled
Bethel College is undergoing a transition in its Campus Ministries leadership following the departure of Pastor Michael Unruh. While the school has not yet announced who will fill the position, the student chaplains have taken on expanded roles to maintain the programs and events that Unruh helped lead.
Despite his absence, student chaplains remain committed to continuing the ministry. “With Michael being gone, we are still carrying out the same tasks as if he were still here,” student chaplain Tobin Wise said. He added, “We are keeping chapel and other campus ministries events, such as Testimony Tuesday and Breakfast Night, going throughout the semester.”
The transition has come with challenges, but the chaplains have adapted. “It’s different not having him to lead us in biweekly group meetings or one-on-ones,” Wise added. “But we’ve done well to work together and delegate tasks so everything still gets done.”
Taryn Paulino emphasized that preparation helped ease the transition. “We did a lot of pre-planning as a group in order to feel more secure once he left,” Paulino said. “So far, things have gone smoothly. Of course, we miss him, but we are optimistic about what’s ahead.”
Emma Graber has taken a lead role in planning Chapel, with support from the rest of the team and Dr. MeMe. While the chaplains are busier, they remain dedicated. “Serving the Lord—even for the one sheep that ran away—is more important than ignoring the calling,” student chaplain Jordan Twenter said.
For now, Campus Ministries continues its mission, with student leaders stepping up to ensure that faith-based programs remain a vital part of campus life.