Religious & Spiritual Life

Our long history with the Lutheran faith resonates in everything we do at Lenoir-Rhyne.

We strive for excellence by creating an environment that educates and empowers you to embrace your principles and values.

While rooted in the faith of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, we welcome students from all backgrounds and beliefs. Our campus community is religiously diverse, bringing traditions and ideals from around the world. Here you will be welcomed and find a home away from home.

Religion in the Classroom

As an undergraduate, you will be required to take an introductory course on the meaning of the Christian faith. You will also have the option to take additional classes that may expand your understanding of religion and spirituality.

Campus Ministry

Grace Chapel is a distinctive feature of our Hickory campus and holds our Eucharist and worship services.

As an institution of higher learning of the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, we embrace the ELCA style of worship. However, we also honor the ecumenical traditions of other denominations.

Additionally, Bible study opportunities along with prayer and meditation rooms are available.

Our Columbia and LTSS campuses also hold worship services. Contact Campus Ministry for more information.

Student Clubs & Groups

Whether you’re interested in sharing scripture, renewal retreats, serving others or just learning more about spiritual life, our groups and clubs are open to everyone, regardless of faith.

Institute for Faith & Learning

Our Institute for Faith and Learning was created during our centennial year as a reaffirmation of the intention of our founders to establish and maintain a Christian college.

By engaging not only the campus community but also clergy and laity of all denominations in theological study, discussion and decision-making, the Institute is a significant regional and national resource.

Clemmer-Long Center for Vocation & Purpose

The Clemmer-Long Center for Vocation and Purpose supports students and the greater LR community in creating lives of meaning and purpose. We want to help you identify your talents, gifts and passions so that you can use them to make the world a better place.

The center offers activities, spiritual direction, one-on-one conversations, group talks and hosts the Lives Worth Living series whose speakers include theologians, bishops, artists and advocates for justice.

Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary

LTSS is the only ELCA seminary located in the southeastern United States. Here, we teach, form and nurture you for public ministry in a context that is Christ-centered, faithfully Lutheran and ecumenically committed. Our campus community unites racially, economically and culturally diverse individuals in worship, study and prayer.