Ruby Oswood – copy editor
In a move administration describes as “rooted in tradition, innovation, and carbohydrates,” Augsburg University announced Tuesday that it will formally transition its religious affiliation from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America to the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, also known as Pastafarianism.
University officials said the decision followed years of declining Lutheran affiliation among students and a broader institutional effort to embrace an increasingly diverse campus community.
“This change reflects who we are today,” said university spokesperson, Pepe E. Cacio, in a statement. “We are committed to welcoming students of all backgrounds, including those who prefer their theology al-dente.”
The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster was founded in 2005 by physicist Bobby Henderson as a satirical response to debates over teaching intelligent design in schools. The gospel of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, the official text of the church, published a year later, outlines their beliefs, which include a creator deity resembling spaghetti and meatballs, pirates as divine beings, and a dogma of rejecting dogma.
Despite its humorous origins, the movement has developed a global following, with adherents, known as Pastafarians, emphasizing inclusivity, individual interpretation, and the idea that belief itself is optional.
“It’s a faith that doesn’t require faith,” said Dr. Mack A. Roni, professor of religion at Augsburg. “That paradox is part of its appeal, especially in academic settings where questioning and exploration are central.” University leaders cited this openness as a key factor in the transition, noting that Pastafarianism explicitly welcomes members of all religious backgrounds.
As part of the shift, Augsburg will introduce a few changes in the upcoming months, hopefully to be fully implemented by the Fall 2026 semester, including a new curriculum, changes to the dining commons, and new uniforms for athletes.
Augsburg’s Department of Religion and Philosophy will introduce a new section into the required Religion, Vocation, and the Search for Meaning I course where Augsburg students will explore The Gospel of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, the official text of Pastafarianism.
Dining services will also undergo what can only be described as a “pre-pasta-rously ambitious transformation.” The campus dining commons will primarily serve spaghetti, with accommodations for dietary restrictions and periodic appearances by other pasta dishes for special occasions.
“We’re excited,” said Tony A. Rig, a dining commons chef. “From a culinary standpoint, specializing in pasta allows us to really perfect our craft. Also, fewer menu decisions—more time for sauce innovation, the pasta-bilities are endless.”
Students appeared to have mixed, but generally positive reactions.“I mean, I came for a liberal arts education, but I’m staying for the marinara,” said sophomore Gem Elli. “If this is what enlightenment tastes like, then I’m on board.”
I mean, I came for a liberal arts education, but I’m staying for the marinara
Gem elli
The transition will also introduce new expressions of religious identity on campus. In accordance with Pastafarian customs—where colanders are sometimes worn as religious headwear—Augsburg’s athletic programs confirmed that Men’s Football and Men’s and Women’s Hockey players will be permitted to incorporate colanders into their uniforms.
Athletics Director Les Anya said the change has already generated enthusiasm among student-athletes. “They’re lightweight, breathable, and surprisingly aerodynamic,” Anya said. “We’re still working through NCAA guidelines, but we’re optimistic.”
While the announcement has prompted laughter across campus, administration stressed that the decision reflects a serious commitment to inclusion. “Augsburg has always been a place where faith and inquiry meet,” the university said in its statement. “We believe that this new affiliation—however unconventional—continues that tradition in a way that resonates with today’s students.”
As for what comes next, students like Elli are taking it one bite at a time.