Being an intentional Christian liberal arts institution, PLNU believes growing spiritually and intellectually go hand in hand.
Affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, PLNU offers a welcome space and invites students of all faith backgrounds and denominations to worship, grow, and serve collectively with open minds and respect for differing perspectives and schools of thought. As a community that values compassion, hospitality, and grace, we believe Christ-centered education happens best when it's lived out together.
Since PLNU’s founding in 1902, chapel has served as a central communal space for all community members to worship, learn, and gather collectively as a university. Traditional chapel services are offered three times a week, with additional peer-led and alternative chapel settings for students to encounter and recenter their attention on God, and to learn from speakers from varying faith perspectives.
Opportunities to Live Out Your Faith
Being active in your faith and serving others is another integral component of spiritual growth at PLNU. With numerous ministries and volunteer opportunities, there are numerous ways to get involved, including small groups and spiritual mentorships on campus, local ministries throughout San Diego County, single- and multi-day activities with our neighbors along the border, and opportunities to serve internationally.
"PLNU's spiritual mentoring program is incredible; it has given me the unique, valuable opportunity to mentor and be mentored at the same time. Being mentored by a staff member has strengthened my faith — my mentor consistently reminds me of God's faithfulness throughout our lives, and is quick to listen and share wisdom, which helps me discern God's voice."
Natalie Rosen, Class of 2017
Alpha Groups
Designed for first-semester freshmen, Alpha Groups provide an opportunity to build unique and lasting community by meeting together regularly to share faith journeys.
Discipleship Groups
Discipleship Groups (D-Groups) are designed for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, offering rich small group conversation and spiritual formation activities.
LoveWorks Missions Trips
For over three decades, PLNU has sent well-trained student mission teams to serve as the hands and feet of Christ alongside partnering ministries around the world.
Spiritual Mentorship Program
Spiritual mentoring creates an opportunity to share life in intentional, Christ-centered relationships. These one-on-one encounters provide the space for fruitful spiritual growth for the mentor and mentee.
Worship Arts
Students who seek to offer their creative arts gifts and talents can participate and lead during chapel and Time Out, as well as other opportunities to lead worship at events on and off campus.
Community Ministries
Community ministry and volunteer groups serve in various locations and with a variety of populations throughout San Diego. No special skills or abilities required!
Ministry With Mexico
Out of a desire to love God and neighbor, Ministry with México contributes to shared life within our dynamic cross-cultural context by building and sustaining relationships. This occurs through events, trips, and service projects such as Border Pilgrimage, Spring Break Build, and more!