Immanuel has always seen NIU as a significant part of our mission field and community. For over 50 years, Immanuel has always reached out to and served student, faculty and staff at NIU. Our student organization Lutheran student Fellowship, nicknamed “Refuge,” offers many opportunities for spiritual growth each week. Pastor led Bible studies, student led Bible studies and discussions, service projects, social events and lots of just “hanging out” with food and games are regular occurrences with Refuge. Refuge meets in the college lounge on the lower level of the building and is open most nights of the week for activities and students to drop in and/or study. Sunday morning worship, either traditional or contemporary worship, is a key component to our faith journey together!

Student “peer ministers” lead much of the program in partnership with the Campus Pastor and Campus ministry committee. Students also participate in worship on Sunday mornings in various ways, as well as interact with many of the other aspects of our congregational life. Spring break servant trips have been a student favorite for many years.

At the heart of our campus ministry program is the desire to reach out with the good news of Jesus Christ, while equipping students to grow in their leadership skills for current and future service in God’s kingdom. NIU students are vital to the future and the NOW of the Church and Society!

Immanuel also proudly reaches out to the hundreds of international students who attend NIU. Our congregation and other partners, offers English as a second language classes for international students and their families as well as weekly gatherings called the “intercultural café.” The café is a partnership with Network of Nations, and group of local churches who support reaching out with a Christ like hospitality to international students.

For the most up to date information and current programming for “Refuge,” our student organization,  check our Facebook page or instagram