There is a number that resonates with those involved in campus ministry: 25 million — the approximate number of students attending one of the more than 5,400 colleges and universities across the U.S.
How many of them should hear about Jesus? For John Leis, Washington Conference public campus ministries director and North Pacific Union Adventist Christian Fellowship director, this question is at the heart of his prayerful mission and ongoing pursuit of new ways to share the gospel with students.
One consistent need across college campuses is the need for community. Amid large student populations, many individuals feel lost, leading to loneliness and isolation. ACF was created to address this need, serving as a spiritual home and church presence on campus. Across North American Division, more than 100 such clubs exist — many of them supported by local churches that provide spaces where students can grow as disciples of Jesus.
In fall 2024, students gathered weekly in the Leis family home. It became clear that this house was transforming into something more than just a meeting place. It had become a safe and welcoming space where students could rest, breathe and experience spiritual connection after a busy week. Students shared their longing for a consistent spiritual community and the challenges they faced in accessing one. Although there are churches in the area, it takes 40 minutes to walk to the bus stop, ride the bus and walk the final path to the church.
After prayerful reflection, Leis and his team felt God leading them to plant ACF House, a church within walking distance of the University of Washington. It offers a space for worship, fellowship and community to students.
ACF House opens the Sabbath with a shared meal and community-building conversations. As the evening continues, students gather in the living room. There, they relax on sofas, sharing personal victories and challenges and recounting how they’ve seen God move during the week. A time of worship follows, concluding with heartfelt prayers as students lift one another up and reflect on God’s goodness.
Additionally, ACF House is committed to addressing tangible needs. With food insecurity on the rise, particularly among college students, ACF House has made this a key part of its mission. A 2022 report from The Seattle Times revealed that nearly 49% of students in the area experience food or housing insecurity. In response, ACF House provides a weekly meal and provides snacks for students to take back to campus and share with their peers.
ACF House is continuing to have conversations with students and advocates and has become a planning space for reaching the mission field that includes 50,000 students. If you would like to learn how you can support ACF House or how you can launch your own space on campus contact Leis at john.leis@wc.npuc.org.
ACF House provides a space where students can gather for worship.
Students play Soularium, a game that helps them learn more about each other and their various spiritual journeys.
ACF House is a place for students to connect with other believers.
Every Sabbath gathering begins with brunch.
