Haylee Hayden is an early childhood teacher and an avid hiker. She has conquered four of Colorado’s 14ers and two peaks over 13,000 feet. Her horse “Penny” is another of her passions.
While at UNC studying early childhood education, Haylee was looking for an open and affirming place to belong. Though she tried several communities on campus, she struggled to find one that felt right for her. On the advice of the director at the Lutheran camp where she had worked for six summers, she gave Lutheran Episcopal Campus Ministry a try.
On her first visit to LECM she felt right at home. “I am so thankful for the welcoming and inclusive space for everyone I found there,” Haylee said. “I was looking for a place that respected women and their role in the church.” It was also important to her to be part of a community that is LGBTQ friendly. And, she loved gathering off campus at the LECM house. “The LECM house was nicer and cozier than meeting on campus,” she said.
Haylee treasures her memories of casual communion services and conversations around the dinner table. “It took away the performance aspect of church,” she remembers. “It was okay to just be a church-going person enjoying time with like-minded people. It made me value the community of the church a lot more.” Upon graduation, she immediately sought out another faith community. Haylee wants everyone to know how welcoming LECM is. “You can be who you are, and it is safe even if you are still questioning your faith.”
Your generosity helps make Lutheran Episcopal Campus ministry a cozy, inclusive space for students like Haylee. Your support makes it possible for us to offer weekly meals and communion services where young adults can explore their faith and feel safe and at home. Thank you for your partnership in this ministry!
Credit to: Lutheran Episcopal Campus Ministry, Greeley, CO. LECM is one of 176 ministries affiliated with LuMin, the network of ELCA Campus Ministries.
