About us.
Tyson House Lutheran-Episcopal Campus Ministry is a unique and vibrant ministry serving the University of Tennessee and surrounding community in Knoxville since the 1930s. As an ecumenical (i.e. multi-denomination) campus ministry, Tyson House welcomes students, faculty, and staff from diverse Christian traditions, creating an inclusive space for worship, fellowship, and service.
Tyson House's core mission revolves around providing spiritual nourishment and community through weekly events including Worship services, Communal meals, Bible/Faith studies, and Social & Service events.
What we believe.
As a joint Episcopal and ELCA Lutheran ministry, we believe in a loving, liberating, and life-giving God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
We believe in following the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world.
We have a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to tell and exemplify God’s love for every human being; women and men serve as bishops, priests and pastors, and deacons in our church. Laypeople and clergy cooperate as leaders at all levels of our church.
Leadership is a gift from God, and can be expressed by all people in our church, regardless of sexual identity or orientation.
We believe that God loves you — no exceptions.
Our primary time for gathering together during the academic year is on Sunday evenings at 6:04pm, offering a time to share a home-cooked meal provided by supporting congregations, followed by a worship service of the Holy Eucharist (Communion) in a blend of ancient traditions and modern style, seeking relevant engagement with each of our real, lived experiences.
Tyson House is made possible by the generous financial and relational support of our denominational partners: the Southeastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) and the Diocese of East Tennessee of the Episcopal Church.
Welcome Statement
Tyson House is an official
Reconciling In Christ (RIC) congregation!
Tyson House is a place of worship and exploration for all of God's children. Communion is open; we respect it as a deeply personal decision. You are created in the image of God and we honor your life experiences as a child of God. Regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ability, religious background, ethnicity, nationality, race, and native language(s) you are cherished, respected, and affirmed.
We are committed to the important work of justice and reconciliation on our campus, in our community, and the world around us by striving to dismantle the racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, and xenophobia within ourselves and our community. This is not a commitment that we take lightly, and it will take all of us to do!