Lutheran Student Movement is a pan-Lutheran student led organization active at the local, regional, and national level created to promote the active participation of students in the life and mission of the Lutheran Church on their campuses, in their communities, and as individuals.

LSM History

Established in 1923 and originally called the Lutheran Student Association of America, the first gathering was held at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. The gathering in Rock Island began the tradition of an annual national conference that is still held today over the New Year's holiday in a different city across the country. In 1969, the name of the association changed to the Lutheran Student Movement-USA. Led by and for students, LSM strives to better understand and advance the gospel of Jesus Christ through the exploration of social and spiritual concerns as the active voice of students in the church at the regional and the national level.

LSM-USA website

What is MALSM?

The Mid-Atlantic Lutheran Student Movement is the regional organization of the Lutheran Student Movement-USA. It is a place where all college and graduate students, but especially those of a Lutheran background, come together as a regional Christian community. We support each other in service, worship, friendship, and individual spiritual development. LSM is pan-Lutheran and independent, meaning that we are a student-run independent student organization welcoming of students from all parts of the Lutheran Church and beyond.

MALSM includes the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, as well as the District of Columbia. Within MALSM there are four Lutheran colleges, all with active LSM chapters. In addition, there are at least fifteen other active LSM chapters, several of which cover multiple colleges. MALSM would not be possible without the generous support of campus pastors. Even students without a campus chapter participate in regional and national events, and it is very easy, especially with the help of the regional officers, to start your own chapter.

MALSM holds several full and partial weekend retreats and other events throughout the year, and you are very welcome to participate. Simply check out the Retreats link and fill out the appropriate forms. MALSM is strongly dedicated to service, worship, and small group Bible study at all events.

Where is MALSM headed?

MALSM is in a strong, long term and accelerating process of growth and renewal. The region has grown steadily for three years in the number of students and schools involved and the scope of its ministry. There is positive momentum in the organization and within its chapters, and as God continues to bless this ministry He will call new leaders to carry this ministry forward for His glory and the benefit of students. MALSM rocks, and every new year, every new event, reveals to everyone involved the amazing power and grace of God. The involvement and support of campus pastors, advisors, and college chaplains is vital for the continued growth of this ministry. MALSM is and has been heavily focused on outreach to senior high youth, the development of new LSM chapters, strengthening the region financially, and increasing ties between the organization and other bodies such as synods, districts, seminaries, and Thrivent.