A Place to Gather: Bay Area Lutheran Young Adults

Bay Area Lutheran Young Adults, known as BALYA, began several years ago with a simple but meaningful vision: to help young adult Lutherans in the Bay Area find one another and grow together in faith and community. What started as a joint effort between First Immanuel Lutheran Church in San Jose and Lutheran Church of Our Savior in Cupertino was shaped by the leadership and collaboration of Pastor John Bestul, Pastor Isaac Schuller (now a pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Brenham, TX), Peter Williams (now an international vicarage student of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN), Michael McThrow, and fellow organizers who saw a real need for connection among young adults in the region. As pastors and leaders were called to serve in new places, BALYA naturally found its home at Lutheran Church of Our Savior, where it continues today with a dedicated team of coordinators, including Nonso Mogor.

From the beginning, BALYA sought to offer more than social gatherings. Its purpose has been to create a space where young adults can worship together, enjoy fellowship, serve others, and deepen their understanding of the Christian faith. Each gathering blends worship from the Lutheran Service Book with activities that foster relationships such as hiking, bowling, studying Scripture, sharing meals, or enjoying creative outings together.

Over time, BALYA has grown through partnerships with congregations across the district. Looking ahead, BALYA remains committed to regular gatherings and is preparing for a Singles Mixer in summer 2026, continuing its mission of building faith-filled community among young adults.