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About Us

WELCM

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What is WELCM?

"WELCM is a “joyful” community. When we get together, there is a lot of laughter and delight as well as gentle ribbing and teasing. (Sometimes, I must admit, when the humor is too generation specific, I need to ask the students to translate or explain.) WELCM is also an “affirming” community. Students who march to the beat of a different drum, who are on their own unique journey of self-definition, who need to move beyond the religious and cultural strictures of their younger years are all affirmed as beloved children of God. WELCM is “safe” community. Here you can be truly yourself, how God made you. Here you will be lifted up, not put down. At WELCM you hear words of encouragement, not words of judgment or prejudice. Here you will be included, not marginalized."

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-Pastor Norbert Hahn 

Meet the Team

WELCM COMMITEE 2024-2025

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  • Pastor Norbert Hahn
  • Bob Stonebraker, Chair 
  • Doug Gay, Treasurer 
  • Bill Sliney 
  • Kathy Schwandt
  • Morgan Smith 
  • Lori Brown
  • Sabrina Blanks
  • Brendan Quinn​
  • Pastor Gregg Hoffman
  • Chad Smith

The WELCM community is supported by members of local Grace Lutheran and Epiphany Lutheran Churches, who serve on the WELCM Committee. They are available to students for personal support, help with technical or automotive problems, or in any way they can. 

OUR MISSION

WELCM's mission is to create an inclusive faith community for Winthrop students that explores and strengthens their relationship with God by cultivating Christian discipleship. Through worship, prayer, fellowship, service, and study, we gather to grow our connection and commitment to God, ourselves, and one another.
 

WHAT WE DO

WELCM hosts weekly Gatherings on Tuesday evenings during term at our beautiful location just off-campus. Dinner starts at 6:15 pm, followed by a program of teaching and discussion, or worship,

and prayer. WELCM students are invited to worship at Grace Lutheran Church next door on Sunday mornings. WELCM students also enjoy regular fellowship activities, service opportunities, and spiritual retreats.
 

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