The call to ministry comes to people at different times, different places and in many different ways.
One crucial way in which many are awakened to their potential for ministry is through the encouragement of people around them who can identify the spiritual and personal gifts that would serve them well as a leader in the Christian church.
According to Jennifer Olsen Krengel, director of admissions at Luther Seminary, many future seminary students are first made aware of their potential gifts for ministry by their pastor, youth director, or lay leaders in a congregation or other ministry setting.
These individuals, alone or together, may see characteristics and gifts in their congregation members, youth leaders or others that help them realize that person might benefit from a seminary education.
Olsen Krengel says that beginning a discussion about discernment often starts with simply asking, “Have you ever considered attending seminary?”
You can continue this conversation by explaining what seminary is. Discuss what discerning a call to ministry entails and describe the different paths to which a seminary degree can lead. The person you’re speaking with may have questions such as, “How will I know if this is the right path for me?” or “Do I have what it takes to be successful in ministry?”
On Oct. 9-10, Luther Seminary is again hosting Dokimazo (dok-im-ad’-zo), an event specially designed to help individuals discern their invitation to Christian public leadership.
Dokimazo is a Greek word meaning to put to the test, prove, examine and discern. This two-day event at the seminary, held from Sunday evening through Monday afternoon, is designed to help prospective students explore what a future in ministry might hold for them.
If you know someone you think would benefit from a seminary education, please encourage them to attend this event. During Dokimazo, prospective students can hear others’ stories, visit a local church, explore the Twin Cities community and learn more about Luther Seminary. They will also have an opportunity to reflect on their own story and God’s call in their life.
You can learn more about the schedule and registration for this event here. www.luthersem.edu/dokimazo.