To Commend and Give Thanks for Lutheran Schools

WHEREAS, The Synod has maintained a strong and enduring commitment to Lutheran education as a vital expression of its mission to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and

WHEREAS, The Synod facilitates one of the largest Christian school systems in the United States, with nearly 1,700 schools— including early childhood centers, elementary schools, and high schools—in addition to Concordia universities that prepare future church and community leaders; and

WHEREAS, Lutheran schools are centers of academic excellence, spiritual formation, formation in Christian character and life shaped by faith, providing children and youth with a Christ-centered education that equips them for lives of faithful service to God and neighbor; and

WHEREAS, These schools serve as powerful outreach arms of local congregations and mission efforts, welcoming students and families from both church ed and un church ed backgrounds; and

WHEREAS, Teachers, administrators, pastors, and support staff in Lutheran schools labor with faithfulness, skill,and dedication,often under challenging circumstances, to bring the light of Christ into the lives of students; and

WHEREAS, The Holy Spirit in the Scriptures exhorts the Church to honor those who labor among us(1 Thess. 5:12–13), to commend what is good (Phil. 4:8), and to give thanks to God in all things (1 Thess. 5:18); therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention give thanks to God for the ministry of Lutheran schools and for the countless lives shaped by their Gospel-centered mission; and be it further

Resolved, That the Synod commend the faithful work of Lutheran school educators, administrators, and congregational leaders who support these ministries with their time, gifts, and prayers; and be it further

Resolved, That districts and congregations be encouraged to invest in, support, and expand Lutheran schools as vibrant expressions of the Synod’s commitment to Christian formation and community engagement; and be it finally

Resolved, That this resolution be shared throughout the Synod and beyond as a public expression of thanksgiving and support for Lutheran schools and those who serve within them, to the glory of God, as they spread the Gospel and build up Christ’s Church.