To Encourage Synod Seminaries to Develop Online Master of Divinity Program

WHEREAS, The Synod has long recognized the importance of rigorous theological education and faithful pastoral formation through its two seminaries, Concordia Seminary (CSL) and Concordia Theological Seminary (CTSFW); and

WHEREAS, Holy Scripture affirms the necessity of equipping faithful shepherds for the Church, as St. Paul writes, “And he gave … pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Eph. 4:11–12, author translation), and further exhorts that a pastor “must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught” (Titus 1:9); and

WHEREAS, The Synod faces ongoing challenges in recruiting and preparing men for pastoral ministry, particularly in rural, under served, and bi-vocational contexts; and

WHEREAS, Advances in digital learning platforms and theological pedagogy now make it possible to deliver high-quality, confessional instruction in online formats without compromising academic integrity or ecclesial accountability; and

WHEREAS, The academic landscape has seen accelerated use of remote learning across educational institutions, including the Synod seminaries, demonstrating both feasibility and demand for flexible theological education; and

WHEREAS, The Synod has resolved, in 2023 Res. 1-08A, “To Promote and Commend the Synod’s Digital and Online Resources” and, in 2023 Res. 6-02A, “To Encourage Proper Pastoral Formation through Our Synod’s Seminaries,” to discourage independent pastoral formation programs not authorized by the Synod; therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod in convention encourage CSL and CTSFW, in consultation with the Synod’s Pastoral Formation Committee, to explore and develop an affordable, accredited, online Master of Divinity program that maintains the theological depth, pastoral formation, and confessional integrity required for ordination in the Synod; and be it further

Resolved, That such a program include robust mentorship, field education, and residential intensives as needed to ensure spiritual formation and ecclesial connection; and be it finally

Resolved, That the seminaries report progress on this initiative to the next Synod convention, including feasibility, timeline, and anticipated impact on pastoral recruitment and formation.