The Koinonia Center is the Presbyterian campus ministry at the University of Oregon in Eugene. UKIRK is a combination of “University” (meaning UO) and “Kirk,” the Scottish word for “Church” or “gathering.” So, we are a “University Church.”
We are affiliated with the: Presbyterian Church (USA)
We are a progressive, open, and inclusive Christian community seeking to help students grow in their faith while attending the University of Oregon. We welcome and affirm and CELEBRATE who God has made and is making you to be, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, skin color, culture, age, or ability. Our desire is to create a safe and sacred space that is open for ALL to ask questions, confess doubts, and grow in faith. You do not need to be Presbyterian, or even a Christian to find your place at the K-Center. We aspire to be faithful to God, to love others as Christ loves us, and to trust the leading of the Holy Spirit in our life together. We Welcome You!
Reformed: We are a part of the Presbyterian USA denomination which is a part of the reformed tradition. We are not perfect, and we know it. Being reformed has historically meant that we think about God and God’s relationship with humanity as taught by those who wanted to reform the Roman Catholic Church in the 16th century. While this is still true, our understanding of the title “reform” is, also, that we (the Church) are constantly being changed as guided by the Spirit of God.
Progressive: We believe that we cannot be neutral, silent, complicit, nor indifferent toward injustices and evils in the world. We practice speaking truth to power.
Inclusive: No matter who you are, or where you are in your life’s journey, you are welcome here.
Campus Pastor, Rev. Maggie Lewis
Maggie Lewis comes to Eugene after spending time in Montana, Iowa, and Ohio. She is happy to be back of the “best coast” after growing up in the Bay Area. She has an undergraduate degree from Denison University in Ohio as a double major in Psychology and Educational Studies with a concentration in Gender Studies. Maggie graduated with a Master of Divinity from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary in 2018 and was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the PC(USA) thereafter.
Maggie has served in many different ministry contexts such as a Young Adult Volunteer, youth director, worship coordinator at the seminary, instructor of an undergraduate course, in traditional parish ministry, and as a transitional/interim pastor. Maggie lives with her sweet kitty Sami and in her free time, she enjoys writing, playing board games, going on road trips, eating sushi, and cafe-hopping!
Maggie feels called to create meaningful worship experiences that meets each person’s particular hopes and longings. She also has a passion for leading and engaging in short-term missions. Throughout her life and ministry, Maggie has worked to promote mental health and is certified in Mental Health First Aide.
The Board of Directors
Ed Willson, chairperson
Steve Stermer, treasurer
Karen Young, secretary
Rev. Liz Leavitt