To Reaffirm Residential Seminary Formation as Preferred Route for Pastoral Preparation

WHEREAS, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and Concordia Theological Seminary,Fort Wayne, exist for the purpose of forming pastors through comprehensive residential education, communal life, faculty mentorship, and supervised pastoral formation; and

WHEREAS, The Synod has affirmed residential seminary formation as the most complete means of preparing men for the general responsibilities of the pastoral office; and

WHEREAS, The Synod has historically recognized residential formation as the normative path for preparation for the pastoral office, with alternative routes serving defined and limited purposes; and

WHEREAS, Holy Scripture emphasizes careful preparation forthe ministry of Word and Sacrament (Acts 6:4; Titus 1:9); and

WHEREAS, The Lutheran Confessions affirm the church’s responsibility to maintain good order in doctrine and practice through faithful oversight of the pastoral office (FC SD X);

therefore be it

Resolved, That the Synod reaffirm residential seminary formation as the preferred and normative route for preparing men for the pastoral office; and be it further

Resolved, That district presidents, circuits, and congregations be encouraged to recommend and support qualified men for residential seminary study, including vocational encouragement and financial assistance; and be it further

Resolved, That the seminaries be encouraged to continue addressing concerns regarding the accessibility and feasibility of residential formation; and be it finally

Resolved, That the Synod pray for an increase in vocations to the pastoral office, trusting the Lord of the Church to provide faithful shepherds.