Mission and Peacemaking

Mission and Peacemaking at University Presbyterian Church

Living Out Compassionate Discipleship

At University Presbyterian Church (UPC), our commitment to mission, community outreach, and advocacy for peace and justice is at the heart of our faith. Guided by the call to love and serve others, we partner with local and global organizations to address pressing needs, promote equality, and foster compassionate discipleship. Through financial support, volunteer efforts, and advocacy, UPC seeks to make a tangible difference in Baton Rouge, across the nation, and around the world. Whether you’re passionate about serving your neighbors or advocating for systemic change, we invite you to join us in this transformative work.

Our Mission and Peacemaking Efforts

UPC’s Mission and Peacemaking Ministry focuses on three key areas:

Community Outreach: Partnering with local organizations to support vulnerable populations and strengthen our community.
Mission Support: Providing financial and volunteer support to initiatives that align with our values of compassion and justice.
Christian Advocacy: Raising awareness and mobilizing action on issues of peace, equality, and humanitarian need.

We collaborate with a diverse array of partners, from local nonprofits to international missions, to create lasting impact. Our efforts include direct service, financial contributions, and organizing events to highlight critical social issues.

Our Partnerships and Benevolences

UPC proudly supports a wide range of organizations and initiatives that reflect our commitment to compassionate discipleship. Our benevolence contributions include:

Big Buddy Program: Mentoring and empowering youth in Baton Rouge through education and support.
Park Elementary: Supporting a local minority elementary school with resources, volunteer time, and participation in the Volunteers in Public Schools reading program.
Cuban Presbytery and Living Waters: Partnering with our sister church in San José de los Ramos, Cuba, and supporting the Living Waters initiative to provide clean water and spiritual support. Learn more about our Cuba partnership on our Living Waters page.
Interfaith Caregivers: Assisting elderly and disabled individuals with compassionate care and practical support.
Interfaith Foundation: Promoting collaboration among faith communities to address local needs.
Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and LSU Food Pantry: Providing food assistance to combat hunger in our region.
Together Baton Rouge: Advocating for community-driven solutions to local challenges.
HIV/AIDS Ministry: Offering support and resources for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Heifer Project: Empowering families globally through sustainable agriculture and livestock programs.
Habitat for Humanity: Building affordable housing for families in need.
One Stop Homeless Center: Providing services and support for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Battered Women’s Program and Iris Center: Offering safety, resources, and empowerment for survivors of domestic violence.
Sthreshley Missionary Family: Supporting our missionary family in Africa as they serve communities with education, healthcare, and spiritual care.
Local and World Fund: Responding to emerging needs, such as disaster relief (e.g., through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance) or underfunded initiatives like My Brother’s Keeper orphanage in Liberia.

Advocacy and Awareness

UPC is dedicated to advocating for justice and equality, reflecting our Christian call to love our neighbors. From time to time, we:

Coordinate Citizen Responses: Organize responses to legislative debates on issues like poverty, racial equity, and environmental justice, encouraging our congregation to engage with policymakers.
Host Special Events: Arrange lunches, forums, or workshops to raise awareness about critical social issues, such as homelessness, food insecurity, or global mission needs. These events inspire action and foster dialogue within our community.

Volunteer Opportunities

Our Mission and Peacemaking Ministry thrives because of the dedication of our volunteers. Whether you’re interested in hands-on service, event planning, or advocacy, there’s a place for you to make a difference. Opportunities include:

Local Service: Volunteer with partners like the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, Big Buddy, or Park Elementary’s reading program.
Event Support: Help organize mission-focused lunches, workshops, or awareness events.
Global Mission: Support our international partnerships through fundraising or mission trips (when available).
Disaster Relief: Join efforts coordinated by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance during times of crisis. Contact PDA at 866-732-6121 or pda.callcenter@pcusa.org for volunteer opportunities.

A Welcoming and Accessible Community

UPC’s facilities are fully accessible, ensuring everyone can participate in our mission work. We offer a handicap-accessible ramp on the side of the sanctuary and behind the church, an elevator to access all floors, and designated handicap parking on all sides.

Get Involved Today!

We invite you to join us in living out compassionate discipleship through mission and peacemaking. Whether you’re ready to volunteer, contribute financially, or learn more about our partners, we’re excited to welcome you into this vital work.

Together, let’s make a difference in Baton Rouge and beyond, reflecting God’s love and justice in all we do!