In honor of retiring faculty and staff

Lois Farag joined the seminary as assistant professor of early church history in 2005. She retired at the end of February.

“Lois brought a new and engaging set of perspectives to the teaching of the history of Christianity. As an Egyptian monastic from the Coptic Orthodox Church, she brought an Egyptian perspective, an Orthodox perspective, a feminist
perspective, and a monastic perspective. She brought the experience of one who grew up where Christianity is a minoritized religion and where Christians are often oppressed. She brought an expertise in the Patristic era and a keen interest in desert spirituality. She pushed the students academically and intellectually. I was always glad to check my interpretation of global events against her wider experience. I will miss her.” –Rolf Jacobson, dean of the faculty, professor of Old Testament, and the Alvin N. Rogness chair of Scripture, theology, and ministry

David E. Fredrickson ’80 M.Div. joined the New Testament faculty at Luther Seminary in 1987 and was promoted to associate professor in 1992. He is retiring at the end of June.

“I’ve had the great pleasure of coteaching the Scripture and Its Witnesses course with David for seven years. He has been a tremendous colleague—collaborative, patient, and generous with his time. David is a brilliant scholar. He
brings the New Testament into vibrant conversation with Greco-Roman literature and philosophy, Lutheran theology, and postmodern theory. …

“Into both his scholarship and his teaching, David brings a steadfast commitment to name the ways certain biblical interpretations and theological outlooks—even some of our most familiar and closely held ones—have perpetuated
harm in the world. Students leave his classes knowing many new things, but most importantly, they leave equipped with a resolve not to replicate those kinds of harm in their own ministries.” –Cameron B. R. Howard, associate professor of Old Testament

Marie Hayes joined the seminary as secretary of cross-cultural education in 1992. She is retiring at the end of June.

“It is well-known that Marie answers a
question by telling a story. That is part of her cultural tradition, and she has caused many meetings to slow down and appreciate a contextual answer. … If you know Marie, she is a highly motivated, outspoken, and a seriously dedicated professional. She holds her ground and creates room for others. She immediately speaks out if she becomes aware of an injustice and has, since its inception, served on Luther’s ABIDE committee where she could have a hand in shaping campus diversity.

“Marie’s lengthy track record of serving international students and scholars has earned her recognition worldwide from people who hold very important leadership positions. She has forged strong relationships on behalf of the seminary with international judicatories, global synods, and theological institutions, while also maintaining contact with Luther’s international graduates. … I am delighted to have worked with Marie.” –Leon Rodrigues, vice president for inclusion and belonging and dean of students

Story Magazine

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