Admissions News - July 2011

Learn how two 2011 Master of Divinity grads plan to lead in God's world

New graduate Katy Warren continues to learn

Now that Katy Warren has completed her education at Luther Seminary, she is preparing to start her first call in Iowa this fall. Her work with St. Paul, however, is just getting started.

Warren, a 2011 M.Div. graduate, will be one of five full-time pastors on staff at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Davenport, Iowa.

"I'm excited to learn from the people in my new congregation and continue to learn more about the many ways God is working in the world around us," Warren said.

Warren, a presidential scholarship recipient, graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 2006. She took a year off from school and worked as a youth pastor before beginning her studies at Luther. Though commencement was held just over a month ago, Warren said she already misses the daily opportunities to learn from and talk with her fellow students.

"I know I'm stronger in my personal faith and professional leadership because I have been challenged to articulate what I believe throughout my time at Luther."

Michael Vinson wears Luther pride on his sleeve

School spirit is prominent at Luther Seminary. The school's logo can be seen all over campus on students' sweatshirts, Frisbees, water bottles--and on 2011 M.Div. graduate Michael Vinson's right bicep.

Vinson is believed to have the biggest, if not the first, Luther Seminary tattoo. His passion for Luther extends far beyond just the ink on his arm.

"My time at Luther has given me a language and voice for ministry that is set on a strong focus of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ along with equipping me to better respond to the issues and situations that may arise in my context," Vinson said.

Vinson is currently in the process of interviewing with congregations in ELCA Region 3 and hopes to work as a solo pastor or a pastor of first third ministry for a large congregation.

"I am looking forward to using all that I have learned at Luther to be a Christ-centered pastor and faithful leader for a Christian community," he said.