05/26/2026
“I had no idea it was an option for me.”
Ian Johnson grew up in a Christian environment that was not affirming of the LGBTQIA+ community. Understandably, as a trans person, he did not envision himself as a fully welcomed church member, let alone a leader in the church, at least not until he began worshiping at a different kind of church in college. In Montana of all places, his eyes were opened to faith communities like his local church led by an openly le***an pastor and Emmaus Campus Ministry at University of Montana, that intentionally provide a space for people to seek communion with God and each other while fully embracing and expressing their God-given identities.
At Emmaus he found a spiritual home in the “only open and affirming campus ministry of 15 on the [University of Montana] campus.” Upon seeing the Pride flag hanging up, the RIC logo, and reading their mission statement, Ian knew that this was a faith community for him. He is extremely grateful for this “community of liked minded individuals,” a group of people who both nurture faith and honor each other’s unique make-ups, and he shows his gratitude by serving on the campus ministry board and actively participating in other aspects of the ministry.
Ian is a social work major who is eager to roll up his sleeves and practice his discipline. You get the impression in talking with him that he would live out Jesus’ command to love God and his neighbor whether or not it is church sanctioned. In his own words, he “just wants to be out in the field” addressing the needs of the community.
Thankfully, church ministry became an option for Ian last year in the form of a new student residency program offered by Luther Seminary’s Faith+Lead Project in collaboration with Emmaus. Eric Huseth, the campus pastor, approached Ian asking if he would like to consider this new endeavor, a 2-year ministry leadership/discernment opportunity designed to give students the chance to lead ministry and consider what God is calling them to in the future. This program is perfect for someone like Ian who “feels called to serve” in his present context and who is open to exploring ministry beyond college. The residency also provides him much needed monetary support, alleviating financial stress and freeing him to do more of what he loves.
During the 2025-2026 school year, his first year as a student ministry resident, Ian designed and led a support group for people in the LGBTQIA+ community who have experienced some sort of religious trauma in their lives. Titled, “Sanctuary: Q***r Folks Finding Healing & Direction through Community & Connection,” this program gives people a chance to openly share about painful church-related experiences in a safe space. Even more, he is adamant about the fact that “there is no catch.” This is not an effort to convert or recruit. It’s about healing. Period.
Like many faith leaders before him, Ian did not know ministry was an option for him, and like many before him, God called him anyway. Thanks be to God!
