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April Newsletter

 

 

Hope in the Darkness

During Lent our weekly dinner conversations have been based on blessing things we struggle with — remaining curious, recognizing imperfection and fragility, holding onto hope. As we welcomed students back for the start of Spring term, our conversation last night took a different turn.

 

This year in particular, students are learning that Palm Sunday was a protest — a defiant act of the followers of Jesus to turn away from the imperial power of Rome and towards a teacher with a different message. A message of radical love, acceptance and grace. Students shared how this knowledge changed their understanding of what faith and Palm Sunday meant to them, with some naming that they struggle because it seems we are still facing the same problem. One student however, a new student at her first dinner, pipped up "it gives me hope though — because we have seen how it ends" with people gathering in support of new life at Palm Sunday, choosing a new path standing hand in hand with neighbor and community, with Jesus — and that leads to Easter.

 

This student reminded the table that there is light in the darkness, and that it only takes one person to see it for hope to be shared. While we walk in the darkness of Holy Week may we hold hope in our hearts, not undoing our somber reflection but companioning it.

 

- Intern Julia

 

 

Baby Announcement

Pr. Hallie and her family welcomed baby Roman on March 15th. Mom, dad, big sister Eve and baby Roman are all doing well and settling into new rhythms and life together. Thank you for your prayers, love, and care of our little family in this tender and beautiful newborn time.

 

Easter Vigil

All students are invited to our Easter Vigil at the Owl's Nest this Saturday, April 4th. Starting at 7:30 pm, students will retell the stories that lead to Easter — beginning with Genesis.

We will start with the lighting of the new flame and end with roasting marshmallows and burning the prayers for new life that students write. 

 

Sunday Dinner Church

Weekly Sunday Dinner continues this month!

 

Take a break, refuel, and recenter, and join us every Sunday 6-7:30 PM in November for a free dinner — open to all college students!

 

Come hungry (physically + spiritually) — vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free will be available. For other dietary accommodations, please contact Intern Julia.

 

April 12th: 6 pm dinner with guest Dr. Melissa Bird

 

Hosted at Luther House (211 NW 23rd), there's no need to sign up — just show up. See you Sunday night! 

 

 

Maker's Space 

Looking for a cozy, creative way to unwind? Come join us as we start up Maker's Space again in winter term.

 

Tuesdays in April, from 6–8 PM, students are invited to chill with friends, make something awesome, and connect with community every Tuesday evening in winter term.

 

Hosted at Luther House (211 NW 23rd St), bring your creativity (and maybe a friend!) — we’ll bring the cookies, craft supplies & dinner. Let’s make something beautiful together!

 

Western Oregon University E-Lu

Do you know a student at Western Oregon University? We do, too! We have a number of students this year at WOU, and we are looking to support our students in an affirming, inclusive community of faith (and seeking) on campus. 

 

We'll gather this month in Monmouth at St. Hilda's Episcopal Church on Thursday April 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th. Dinner provided!

 

 

Thrivent Benefit and Associate Membership

 

Did you know? Thrivent clients (benefit & associate) are eligible for $250 cards for supplies, food, etc. for sponsored events. Benefit Members can apply for 2 cards per year, and Associate Members ($20 fee) can apply for 1 card.


We would LOVE to help you apply with ideas and descriptions for projects and events at the campus ministry to help raise funds for the following:

 

- basement renovation project (spring 2026)

- free little food pantry restock (ongoing need)

- WOU E-Lu hunger ministry outreach (spring or fall 2026)

- pollinator plant project for front garden of Luther House (spring 2026) 

 

Additionally, Thrivent benefit members can allocate "Choice Dollars" each year to an organization of their choosing. We are so grateful for those of you considering the campus ministry when making your allocations!

If you need support or have questions, contact Alexa at lhouse@peak.org or intern Julia at jrankin@ses.plts.edu. 

 

 

 

While the students were away for Spring Break, we scrubbed, organized and decluttered Luther House! With the help of students we have made a list of needed supplies that will help keep our kitchen clean and usable — not only for Sunday Night Dinners but also for everyday student cooking and baking. 

 

You can access our wish list here or by using the QR link above. Thank you so much for providing us the tools we need to continue having the Lutheran Episcopalian Campus Ministry be a welcoming and nourishing place!

If you need support or have questions, contact intern Julia at jrankin@ses.plts.edu. 

 

 

ELCA Young Adult Gathering + 

To God – whose power now at work in us can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine.  Ephesians 3:20 (Inclusive)

 

Students, mark your calendars!

 

The ELCA Young Adult Gathering is happening next year, and there is a cool opportunity for folks to apply and help be a part of the Leadership team. The event is in MN and goes alongside the youth gathering. 

 

You can find the application here, and more information about the ELCA Gathering here.

 

ps- Episcopal students, keep an eye out for information about the General Convention in July 2027 and young adult ministry connection- coming soon! 

 

Undergraduate Scholarship Opportunity

Trinity Education Foundation is delighted to announce that our 2026-2027 scholarship applications are now open for future scholars to apply! We invite you to share this opportunity with students in your churches, campuses, and communities who are seeking to grow in faith, discern calling, build meaningful community, and care for creation.
 
Through financial support, mentoring, and coaching, Trinity works to remove barriers to education, nurture purpose, and empower students to live out Christ’s call to serve others and steward the world.
 
Trinity Flame Scholarship – $5,000 award

Trinity Family Scholarship – $1,000 award
 
Dave Ellingson Scholarship for Environmental Studies – $5,000 award
 
We especially encourage students who are open to growth, committed to community, passionate about service, and curious about their vocational calling to apply.
 
Learn more and apply online. Applications are due Monday, April 20th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific).

 

April Hours for Luther House 

The office at Luther House (211 NW 23rd St) will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 9:30 am - 1:30 pm in April.

 

Luther House is always available to students for study space, pool, free laundry, and gatherings/meetings from 8 am to 10 pm; please contact the office or intern Julia for a building access code.

 

Throughout the term, staff may be in and out of different ministry spaces. Please email intern Julia or call ahead if you would like to stop by. 

 

 

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