Building Connections - Julia

Julia came to the University of Kansas as a freshman during COVID, a time when all her college courses were taught online, and gatherings of people rarely happened. It was a challenging and frustrating time. Julia discovered the joint ministries of Lutheran Campus Ministry at KU and Wesely KU (now called Westwood House Campus Ministry) online and followed worship and other ministry activities on Westwood House’s Zoom schedule, as she searched for community in Lawrence. Later, when organizations began meeting again and other communities opened back up, Julia was excited to be among “real people” after so much time “on Zoom.”

Coming to Westwood House in person, Julia found a welcoming community and an open and affirming ministry. Julia also experienced her faith and friendships growing in this supportive environment.

Since becoming a part of the Westwood House fellowship, Julia says, “I feel more myself.” She has made wonderful connections with the other students. She has “a family here.” Julia notes positive outcomes of her time at Westwood House include she has become more comfortable playing her guitar in front of others and leading worship. Julia continues to be involved in ministry since her graduation and encourages current students to continue the legacy of “welcome.”

Westwood House continues to offer social connections through an evening meal and time for worship on Wednesday evenings. It is a place to explore faith and self. These opportunities are a direct result of your gracious generosity. We give thanks, always, for your vital part of our ministry. Thanks be to God!