Rooted
Gustavus is a place to spark or nurture your faith. As a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), Gustavus is rooted in a particular Christian tradition and Lutheran heritage. We take this rootedness seriously, not only in the faith life of the Chaplain's office, but in the very identity of the college. The Lutheran Reformation was rooted in principles of grace, freedom, humility, curiosity, paradox, vocation for service, and accessibility, all values that Lutheran higher education lifts up. The Chaplain's Office facilitates worship, community service, and spiritual growth opportunities to steward the development of a community of belonging, where a mature understanding of faith is inspired, and lives of leadership and service are nourished. View more for the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities.
Open
While being rooted in the ELCA faith tradition, Gustavus is also open to those of diverse religious and non-religious identities. Gustavus is not a "sectarian" institution, where daily worship attendance is required and where faculty, staff and students must sign a "statement of belief." Nor is Gustavus a "secular" institution, which has little interest in talking about things of faith. Rather, Gustavus honors the distinct Lutheran heritage of a "third path", being both rooted in a particular faith tradition, yet genuinely open and honoring of diverse people, cultures, and beliefs. Gustavus is home to students, staff, and faculty of people from a variety of interfaith backgrounds.
Resources for Students
Meditation, counseling, preaching internships, and support and exploration of a variety of faith and religious traditions.
