Pancakes, Protests, and Purpose: Sarah Larson’s Story

When Sarah Larson arrived on Purdue’s campus in the fall of 2016, she didn’t walk through Wesley’s doors right away. But by the end of her first semester, she had found her way in—and Wesley quickly became a place she would return to again and again.

Some of Sarah’s fondest memories are the ones many Wesley students cherish: stacks of plates at Midnight Pancakes, laughter and celebration at the end-of-year banquet, and long hours spent studying in the building that came to feel like a second home. Over time, her involvement deepened. Sarah participated in Winterization for four years and served as Supplies Chair during her final two years of college—a role that reflected both her leadership and her commitment to service.

One of the most memorable experiences of her time at Wesley was the Colorado Spiritual Retreat in January 2020. The trip got off to a rocky start when Sarah experienced altitude sickness on the first day—so much so that Pastor Glen found himself kneeling on the floor, bringing her a Sprite to help her feel better. Thankfully, that moment passed, and the rest of the trip became one she still smiles about. The trip deepened her faith, strengthened friendships, and connected her with people who would become lifelong friends.

Sarah was also no stranger to Wesley traditions, attending multiple Labor Day Canoe Trips and embracing the joy, reflection, and community that came with them. Beyond retreats and service projects, Wesley encouraged her to engage with the world beyond campus. In January 2017, Sarah attended the Women’s March in downtown Lafayette alongside Pastor Glen and other Wesley students. After that day, Glen and Sarah jokingly—but proudly—referred to one another as “my protest buddy,” a nickname that captured their shared commitment to social justice and showing up for what matters.

Sarah graduated from Purdue University in 2021, and like many seniors, she used her final year to try new things. That included cross-country skiing with Pastor Glen and sharing meals at the Sagamore Restaurant in the Purdue Memorial Union.

After graduation, Sarah’s Wesley story didn’t end; it simply continued in new ways. She and her partner, Karl, now attend Hope United Church of Christ (UCC) in Alexandria, Virginia. Both having grown up in the UCC, they were drawn to Hope’s welcoming spirit and growing community. Though the church is relatively small, it is actively expanding, and Sarah has stepped into leadership by serving on two committees, including the Sustainable Growth Committee. The committee’s goal is to ensure Hope grows thoughtfully and responsibly by thinking structurally about how the church channels its energy and builds strong programming and infrastructure for the future.

Living in the Washington, D.C. area has also given Sarah opportunities to stay active in advocacy. She has marched with UCC organizations during World Pride Day, which D.C. hosted last year, and participated in a No Kings Rally—continuing a pattern of faithful action that began during her Wesley years.

Looking back, Sarah describes Wesley as both a spiritual home and a formative community. It taught her to stand up for what she believes in and to get involved where she lives. From service projects and retreats to protests and pancake nights, Wesley helped shape a faith that is lived out in love, justice, and community. We are grateful for alumni like Sarah Larson, whose Wesley roots continue to grow wherever she is planted.