graduation ceremony

Christian College in North Carolina

A Calling That Ignites Faith and Impacts Lives

Pro Deo et Humanitate – For God and Humanity.

The purpose of Gardner-Webb University is to advance the kingdom of God through Christian higher education. 

Our values and belief system are founded on the teachings of Christ. Regardless of what we do, be it nursing, business, teaching, serving the community or what have you, we do it with the highest ethical standard, just as Christ would do. Responding to needs, doing what’s right and leading by example even when it’s not easy—especially when it’s not easy. The Gardner-Webb community offers its students a variety of opportunities for spiritual growth in a Christian college environment.

Our Calling as a Christian College

In 1903, the Kings Mountain and Sandy Run Baptist Associations conceived a vision of an institution of learning where students would enjoy “the best possible educational advantages under distinctive Christian influence.”  Thus began Gardner-Webb’s journey from a boarding high school to a thriving national University committed to the vision of its founders reflected in the motto inscribed on the Gardner-Webb seal:  Pro Deo et Humanitate – For God and Humanity.

Pro Deo

Gardner-Webb University is a Christ-centered university founded on the belief that God is the source of all truth. We acknowledge one God – Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer of life.  The pursuit of wisdom and understanding in our community of faith and learning is guided by the lordship of Christ and historic Christian values such as the authority of Scripture in matters of faith and practice, the freedom of individual conscience and the right of people to worship God as they choose, the priesthood of all believers, the autonomy of the local church, and the separation of church and state.  Gardner-Webb strives to provide an environment in which all members of our community love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength (cf. Mark 12:30; Deuteronomy 6:5). Without imposing religious conformity, Gardner-Webb fosters intellectual development, critical reflection, and spiritual growth modeled in the life and teachings of Christ.

Pro Humanitate

Gardner-Webb University’s love for God is expressed in our community’s love for humanity.  We maintain that Christian higher education is a formative process in which students, faculty, and staff learn to become good stewards of all of the gifts that God has given to us.  Reflecting Jesus’ command, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31; cf. Lev. 19:18), we strive to see that all members of our community understand that the best human life is one of self-giving service, displayed in Christ-like moral action, that respects the dignity and value of every person.  At Gardner-Webb, we are committed to demonstrating God’s love for the world both by what we do and by what we say. Because we are concerned about the needs of others, we join our Lord’s global mission through service, leadership, and ministry.

Student Ministries

As your faith matures during your time at Gardner-Webb University, there are countless opportunities to express your Christian experience. Campus Ministries United (CMU) is the umbrella association over a wide range of student ministry groups. From student-led worship services to local and regional youth retreats and even international missions, CMU provides opportunities to grow in leadership, service, compassion, and faith for every student at GWU.

Missions

Gardner-Webb University’s students have multiple opportunities each year to participate in sponsored mission trips to carry Gospel Hope to others near and far. Led by Teresa Davis, Administrative Assistant for the Office of Christian Life and Service, our staff seeks God’s guidance in the locations and planning for fall, spring and summer mission trips. As the details for upcoming trips are provided, begin praying about your role on a team. 

Pastoral Care

Whether you are experiencing joy or sorrow, spiritual growth or struggling with your faith, the Gardner-Webb community is here for you. Our Pastoral Care Team meets weekly to pray for specific needs on campus, and to reach out to students in need of ministry.  

We are available to meet with you and pray with you individually. However, this team also facilitates weekly, campus-wide prayer meetings every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. before The Gathering.

Contact Us

The Office of Christian Life and Service is committed to the spiritual growth of the University community.  

Office of Christian Life and Service
Phone: (704) 406-4277
Email: [email protected]

Christian Identity Statement

Gardner-Webb University is a Christ-centered university committed to demonstrating God’s love for the world both by what we do and by what we say. We maintain that Christian higher education is a formative process in which students, faculty, and staff learn to become good stewards of all of the gifts that God has given to us. Without imposing religious conformity, Gardner-Webb fosters intellectual development, critical reflection, and spiritual growth modeled in the life and teachings of Christ.