Udistrict Church
There is a number that occupies space in my mind, 25 million. This is the number of students that attend one of the 5400+ colleges and universities in the United States. How many of them should hear about Jesus? I am in constant prayer and always thinking of new ways to reach them with the gospel message. One need is consistent throughout every one of these colleges and universities. That is the need for community. It is easy for students to get lost in the numbers leading to loneliness and isolation. Adventist Christian Fellowship (ACF) was created for community and designed to be a church on campus. Throughout the North American Division there are over 100 such clubs, many of them supported by local churches who provide a space for students to grow as disciples.
Last fall while meeting in our home we found that the house had become a comfortable safe space for students to catch their breath and relax after a long week. Students expressed their desire for Spiritual Community and some of the challenges they faced finding one. Since most students do not have cars, they rely on city transit to get them to church. Though there are churches in the area they could attend it takes about 40 minutes to walk to the bus stop, ride the bus, then walk the final path to church. After praying about this hurdle God led us to establish the ACF House church plant.
ACF House is situated within walking distance of the university and offers a space for worship, fellowship, and community. The Sabbath begins with a meal and conversation that helps build community. The fellowship continues as we gather in the living room. Relaxing on the sofa students share their victories, challenges and how God showed up during the week. A Word of worship follows and as the students reflect on the goodness of God prayers are offered to encourage each other.
Beyond spiritual support and community, ACF House is seeking ways to fight food insecurity on the campus. The Seattle Times reported in 2022 that 49% of students experience food or housing insecurity. With the cost of food on the rise, ACF House is dedicated to meeting this need. Along with a weekly meal, snacks are available to take back to campus and share with others.
ACF House is continuing to have conversations with students and advocates and has become a planning space for reaching the mission field that includes 50,000 students. If you would like to learn how you can support ACF House or how you can launch your own space on campus contact John Leis, Washington Conference Public Campus Ministry Director, NPUC ACF Coordinator, and University Commission Director.