Ellie came to Georgia Tech as a second-year student. After her freshman experience at NC State had left her feeling isolated and spiritually adrift, she felt overwhelmed and disconnected and was searching for a place where she could truly belong. She approached Lutheran Campus Ministry’s Grace House with excitement, assured that it would not turn out to be unexpectedly conservative or exclusionary.

Grace House offered a different kind of community, one that was not only “instantly welcoming,” but also inclusive and grounded in radical love. Ellie discovered that our values of safe inquiry and inclusive justice created a space where she could freely explore her beliefs, as well as connect with others who shared her values. Through small group discussions, worship services, and one-on-one meetings, Ellie deepened her understanding of her faith and developed a stronger relationship with God.

Beyond her spiritual growth, Ellie found a supportive and nurturing community in Grace House. “My mom jokes that the reason I joined Grace House is because I love coffee. That’s not why, but it doesn’t hurt,” Ellie laughed. Whether in enjoying a cup of coffee on Thursday afternoons, participating in worship or small groups, or simply finding a quiet place to study, Grace House offers a sense of belonging that had been missing from her earlier college experience. It may start with a cup of coffee, but it doesn’t end there.

Through Lutheran Campus Ministry’s Grace House, Ellie has found a place to belong, deepened her spiritual journey, and developed the skills and confidence to make a lasting impact on the world. Her experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of community and faith; a testament to our mission of equipping students to embody and share the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom. 

Your investment in Lutheran Campus Ministry’s Grace House enables our campus ministers to walk alongside students and welcome them to spaces of belonging where they encounter Jesus. Your partnership impacts the lives of young people like Ellie and empowers them to become agents of positive change in the world. 

Both my parents are ELCA pastors. Sometimes when I mention this to friends or people I meet, I notice a skeptical look on their faces. It’s like they’re wondering if I’ll be stricter or different somehow. But every time, especially when I mention that they’re the same type of pastors as the Grace House, everyone’s face lights up. It’s like an instant connection. People start sharing how much they love Grace House, mentioning grabbing coffee there or attending worship services. It’s incredible how universal the positive response is, no matter where I am or who I’m talking to.

I believe it’s because our mission at Grace House is so transparent. Our values of radical love, inclusive justice, and safe inquiry resonate deeply with our student body. It’s something that everyone can understand and relate to, regardless of their background or beliefs. Whether I’m studying at the library or hanging out with friends, Grace House seems to be a part of everyone’s experience. It’s not just a place for worship or small group meetings—it’s a hub of community.

Every Thursday, you’ll find students stopping by for coffee, picking up free food, or grabbing blessing bags. It’s a space where everyone has the opportunity to connect and engage. And that’s what makes Grace House so special—it’s more than just a church. It’s a place of true community, where people from all walks of life come together.

For me, being part of the Grace House community has been life-changing. It’s opened my eyes to the power of communion and what genuine community looks like, not only here at Georgia Tech but also in the greater Atlanta area. I’m so grateful for this place and the love it embodies.