Spiritual Formation
Faith in Christ is core to who we are, and has been since the beginning. At PLNU, we not only have structures for faith support, but also intentional spiritual formation outcomes for students.
Our community lives out our faith together through worship services, devotion spaces, ministry opportunities, online resources, and a variety of events and activities — not only at our Point Loma location, but our campuses across California.
See what makes PLNU an intentional Christian community in every aspect:
Faith in Focus
Our Mission
PLNU exists to provide higher education in a vital Christian community where minds are engaged and challenged, character is modeled and formed, and service is an expression of faith.
Our History
Since our founding in 1902, we have been faithfully rooted in Scripture and shaped by Christ’s teachings. We are grounded in the Nazarene denomination, which focuses on evangelism, mission-focused service, and a deep study of scriptural doctrine.
Our Outcomes
At PLNU, every student is prepared not only to excel in their area of calling, but also to serve others wherever they go. Our graduates stand out as compassionate leaders, caring professionals, effective educators, and faithful followers of Christ.
"Me being here at Point Loma and sharing the love I have for Him, it creates a safe space. Point Loma definitely does that. They give you that openness to love Him and to love what you're doing at the same time."
Faith in Practice
Growth in Community
As a community that values compassion, hospitality, and grace, we believe Christ-centered education happens best when it's lived out together. Weekly chapel opportunities, student-led chapel offerings, and other events ensure that every student is able to worship God their way — to encounter God and grow together within a deeply connected community.
Explore Growth in CommunityClassroom Integration
Our faculty are called and committed not only to academic excellence, but to help students respond to Jesus’ call to discipleship under the direction of the great commission. Faculty are united in a shared purpose of growing in Truth, Grace, and Holiness within this learning community; and are supported through initiatives that deepen their understanding of Christian ministry.
Learn About Classroom IntegrationFaculty Formation
Our faculty are called and committed not only to academic excellence, but to help students respond to Jesus’ call to discipleship under the direction of the great commission. Faculty are united in a shared purpose of growing in Truth, Grace, and Holiness within this learning community; and are supported through initiatives that deepen their understanding of Christian ministry.
Discover Faculty FormationFaith in Action
Chapel (Watch Live!)
We have several chapel opportunities each week that enable students to encounter God together. Classes and events pause to allow students to enter intentionally into spaces of pause and devotion in a distraction-free environment. Click the link to watch live services and join us in worship!
LoveWorks
For three decades, PLNU has been sending student mission teams to partner in ministry with the church all around the world. LoveWorks is well-designed and led by trained staff, faculty, alumni, and friends of PLNU. Safety and wisdom are always our key priorities.
Ministry with Mexico
The mission of Ministry with Mexico is to share life together and build relationships within our dynamic cross-cultural community. We offer opportunities for single-and multi-day trips throughout the year. PLNU students, faculty, staff, and alumni sponsors are welcome to join.
Student Ministries & Support
At PLNU, there’s a variety of resources to support students beyond the classroom. In addition to ministries by and for students — like alpha groups and discipleship groups for traditional undergraduates — there are also spiritual mentorship, counseling, and holistic wellness services across campuses.
Center for Justice & Reconcilation
PLNU’s Center for Justice & Reconciliation (CJR) strives to honor the dignity of all through advocacy, education, and intervention—especially in spaces where inequality and exploitation abide. CJR answers the calling of Micah 6:8 to “...seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.”
Chaplain Resources
For graduate students, adult learners, and online students: every campus offers compassionate, caring chaplain representation. They’re deeply committed to caring and supporting you through life’s victories and challenges.
You can reach out via Student Life resources in the myPLNU portal.
Pilgrimage Innovation Hub
The Pilgrimage Innovation Hub (PIH) is a grant-funded research and development initiative that aims for meaningful theological pilgrimages to be more accessible for young Christian congregations and organizations across North America. Race identity, justice, and faith history are common themes.
Wiley Lectures
For over 75 years, the H. Orton Wiley Lecture Series has hosted thoughtful discourse on subjects relevant to Christian life and ministry. Each spring, a prestigious guest speaker within the Wesleyan tradition visits to reflect on a theological topic that holds significance in our current academic, religious, and social climate.
Student Veteran Resources
We welcome and value active duty military and student veterans’ unique experience — and we want to empower them in their next chapter. Our robust military programs and services offer special financial, academic, and holistic support to help veterans navigate their God-given calling.
Walking the Way Together
Living the Faith-Formed Life
Answering God's Calling
Formation Through Story
Meeting the Moment: Judith Hernandez's Journey into Ministry
Research Associates: A Legacy of Faith, Mentorship, and DiscoveryCaptured in Faith
