From its inception, religious life activities have been a cornerstone at Rust College. Rust College has a great religious heritage and is religiously functional in all aspects of campus activities. While the College is related to the United Methodist Church, it makes no attempt to force denominational views upon the students or faculty.

Religious Education

As a United Methodist-related institution, Rust affirms the Wesleyan tradition of “knowledge and vital piety.” The Religious Education Department helps students explore religion, spirituality, and moral values as an integral part of a liberal arts education. On-campus activities include chapel, Vespers, spiritual formation groups, mission, and study groups. All on-campus religious activity must be approved by the Chaplain. A directory of congregations for off-campus worship is also available.

The Rust community worships in James A. Elam Chapel. The Chaplain provides counseling, spiritual direction, and mentoring. Students may serve on the Religious Education Committee to plan programming. The College welcomes students from all religious traditions—as well as those with none. All interactions about religion shall be respectful and tolerant of others. Proselytizing (soliciting converts to one’s personal religious practice) is not allowed.

Religious Organizations

  • Methodist Student Movement (MSM)
  • YMCA
  • YWCA
  • Sunday School
  • Baptist Student Movement (BSM)
  • Catholic Student Association (CSA)

14. Religious Life

Rev. Sapada Thomas,

M.Div. College Chaplain and Professor of Religion 

Email: gthomas@rustcollege.edu

Office Phone: 662-252-8093


Religious Life Facebook: RC Religious Life

Religious Life Instagram: rustcollege.religiouslife