One of the joys of a Friday morning on campus is the opportunity to gather in chapel to sing favorite hymns in community with one another. One that comes around this time of year is “For All the Saints” (ELW 422). The third verse reads,
Oh, blest communion, fellowship divine,
we feebly struggle, they in glory shine;
yet all are one in thee, for all are thine.
Alleluia! Alleluia!
All are one in thee, for all are thine. What a powerful witness to the truth of Christ’s unifying love that outlasts death itself—and a timely reminder for our divided nation and world.
Here at Luther Seminary, we pray that through the power of the Holy Spirit, we will be a community that educates Christian public leaders who can be conduits of God’s healing and mercy in the world.
Part of the work the Spirit has called us to do as an institution is to reach further and open our doors wider. One way we are following this call is by working to increase the depth, breadth, and accessibility of our non-degree offerings to reach a wide variety of learners. Not all Christian leaders want or need a multi-year professional degree. How can we continue to innovate high-quality theological education to reach those who have not historically had access to it? This is what our Faith+Lead initiative is all about.
Speaking of Christian leaders, it was our great joy earlier this month to gather in the Chapel of the Incarnation to witness the ordination of Terri Elton, dean of academic affairs and professor of leadership. Dr. Elton has been diligently pursuing ELCA ordination for the past five years, and has recently accepted a call as pastor of hybrid ministry at Lutheran Church of Peace in Maplewood, Minnesota. This quarter-time position will allow her to maintain her responsibilities at Luther, and we give thanks for the ways this bivocational opportunity will unfold to shape her leadership and her ministry. Please join me in praying for Professor—and now Pastor—Elton as she begins this new call for the sake of the gospel, the church, and God’s world.
In ways big and small, seen and unseen, the Holy Spirit is indeed at work among us. Thanks be to God for opportunities to discern where that call is leading us in this time and place, and to remember that “all are thine.” Alleluia!
Peace and grace,
Robin J. Steinke, President
Luther Seminary