Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Welcome to University Lutheran Church & Student Center
We are a vibrant faith community rooted in the Lutheran tradition, serving University of Oklahoma students and Norman residents since 1975. Our mission centers on proclaiming God's reconciling work through Jesus Christ, expressed through worship, education, and service. We offer weekly liturgical worship with Holy Baptism and Holy Communion at its core, supported by a thriving music ministry featuring choirs, organ, and contemporary band performances. Our ministries extend beyond the church walls through environmental stewardship initiatives like our Styrofoam recycling program that has diverted over 900 bags of waste, refugee resettlement partnerships with local and national organizations, and community outreach addressing food insecurity through pantry donations and meal preparation.We provide educational programs for all ages, including our SOUL campus ministry for OU students, and maintain active outreach through quilting projects that support families in developing countries. Our congregation values both tradition and innovation, balancing rich liturgical practices with contemporary expressions of faith while fostering inclusivity and diversity within our community.
Services
Campus Ministry
Worship Services
Music Ministry
Environmental Stewardship
Refugee Support
Food Pantry Assistance
Quilting Outreach
Christian Education
Wedding Ceremonies
Community Fellowship
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- We've served OU students and Norman residents since 1975 with deep community roots
- Our ministries combine traditional Lutheran worship with innovative outreach programs
- We operate Oklahoma's largest Styrofoam recycling initiative diverting 900+ bags annually
- Our refugee support spans local coalition work to national ELCA AMMPARO network involvement
- We offer comprehensive music ministry with diverse worship styles and talented musicians
Associations and certifications
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Services
Campus Ministry
Our SOUL (Students of University Lutheran) ministry provides weekly meals, worship, and fellowship for OU students. We offer educational programs, spiritual support, and community service opportunities tailored to university life. This ministry connects students with faculty mentors and creates a welcoming space for faith exploration and personal growth.
Environmental Stewardship
The Green Team leads Oklahoma's largest Styrofoam recycling program, diverting over 900 bags annually. We educate members on sustainable practices and partner with local organizations to expand environmental awareness. Our initiatives include community clean-up projects and educational programs promoting responsible resource management.
Refugee Support
Through Voices for the Voiceless, we support refugee resettlement locally and globally. Our partnerships include Norman Coalition for Refugee Support and ELCA's AMMPARO network. Services include housing assistance, cultural orientation, and advocacy programs that help refugees build new lives in Oklahoma communities.
Music Ministry
Our diverse music program features choirs, organ, and contemporary worship bands. We incorporate community musicians in weekly services and special events. The ministry enhances worship experiences through varied musical styles while nurturing artistic talent among congregation members of all ages.
Quilting Outreach
Our quilting team creates handmade blankets for Lutheran World Relief distribution. Monthly sewing sessions combine service with fellowship, producing quilts that provide comfort and economic opportunities for families in developing countries through the organization's global outreach network.
People
Elisa Long
Parish Administrator
Elisa Long manages church operations and coordinates the Shalom newsletter. With over 15 years of experience in church administration, she ensures smooth day-to-day functioning while maintaining strong community connections through her editorial work.
Holly Lantagne
Early Service Music Coordinator
Holly Lantagne directs music for early worship services, blending traditional and contemporary elements. A professional musician with decades of experience, she coordinates vocalists and instrumentalists to enhance worship through diverse musical expressions that engage all generations.
Questions
What denominational affiliation does University Lutheran Church have?
We are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and maintain full communion with several other mainline Protestant denominations.
Are visitors welcome to attend worship services?
All are welcome! Our worship services are open to everyone with no expectation of membership. We offer both traditional liturgical services and contemporary worship options.
How can I get involved with student ministry?
OU students can join SOUL gatherings every Wednesday at 6 PM featuring meals, fellowship, and faith discussions. No prior experience or commitment required to participate.
What community service opportunities are available?
We offer multiple outreach programs including Styrofoam recycling, refugee resettlement support, food pantry assistance, and international quilting projects through Lutheran World Relief.
Can non-members use church facilities?
Our facilities are available for community use with proper arrangements. This includes the fellowship hall, kitchen, and parking areas for approved events and activities.
How does the church support environmental sustainability?
Our Green Team operates Oklahoma's largest Styrofoam recycling program, diverting over 900 bags annually, and promotes eco-friendly practices through educational initiatives and community partnerships.
