SPRING 2012 THEPHILADELPHIASEMINARY

PSMAGAZINE

Listening to the

Voicesof a Changing Church Message from the dean ENVISIONING THE FUTURE OF THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION

This issue’s academic focus, featuring a lead article by President Philip D.W. Krey and my editorial, takes a close look at the future of theological education, and all the seminary is doing to remain appropriate academically in this challenging time. This issue features stories from Prof. David Grafton about our reaccreditation process, alumni, a seminarian, and Trustees. — J. Paul Rajashekar

Theological education in North America has and society, such as declining membership in our undergone change and will continue to do so, congregations, growing numbers of un-churched reflecting shifts in church and society. Every in society, affordability of a full-time pastor, decade or so, the faculty at The Lutheran pervasive biblical illiteracy in society, increased Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) cost of theological education, dwindling financial undertakes a curriculum review and introduces a support from our church constituencies, increased “new” curriculum for the MDiv and MAR degrees. debt load of our graduates, declining number of You might ask, “What’s wrong with our candidates for ministry, and the emerging reality existing curriculum?” of religious and cultural pluralism in our midst. Actually, our current curriculum has served us LTSP has continually sought to reinvent itself well since 2004, when it was introduced with an by broadening the range and appeal of theological overarching theme of “Public Theology.” Judging by education in the present context. We recently the assessment data, the curriculum has fulfilled its introduced two new degrees: Master of Arts in objectives. The effectiveness of our curriculum is Public Leadership (MAPL) was begun in 2009 in measured through various instruments, including collaboration with Fox School of Business and the measures of student learning outcomes at various School of Social Work Administration of Temple stages of their study. The Curriculum and Assessment Committee University in Philadelphia. This degree is intended to attract oversees the effectiveness of the curriculum, proposing changes when students interested in Christian ministry (especially service to social necessary, and reports the assessment data regularly to the faculty ministry organizations), but who are not seeking ordination. Valuing and the Board of Trustees. the importance of qualified teachers in theological institutions we Dr. Mirnalini Sebastian is the Director of Assessment and also launched a PhD program in Public Theology in 2005. Institutional Research, and compiles our assessment data gleaned Committed to Christian ecumenism, we have established a not only from students but also faculty, alumni, bishops, contextual “Methodist Advisory Committee” with faculty member Dr. Karyn education supervisors, and judicatories. Our objectives include Wiseman as director. LTSP is certified by the University Senate of making sure that our graduates are not only well-prepared academi- the United Methodist Church (UMC) as a recognized institution cally, professionally, and spiritually, but also are well-equipped with for UMC students. An “Advisory Committee for Anglican Studies,” pastoral skills and fit to undertake the challenging task of ministry with faculty member Dr. Storm Swain as director, has been in in today’s world. Assessment is an ongoing process. We spent the existence for several years. These initiatives, together with the Urban academic 2010-2011 listening to various voices in special Theological Institute (UTI) program (now over 30 years old!) and convocations about our curriculum and how it is being taught. geared toward the African American constituency, are intended to Once in a while, when LTSP alumni visit the seminary, some- provide support for students from a variety of church traditions. one will ask me: “What theologians are you reading these days in We’ve responded to congregational needs by adding concentrations Systematic Theology?” They don’t often recognize the names I cite. to our MDiv and MAR curricula helpful for these times: Metropolitan/ They were expecting me to say, Karl Barth, Paul Tillich, Emil Bruner, Urban Ministry, Black Church, Multicultural Ministry/Mission, Soren Kierkegaard, and the like. I remind them that we live in a Latino, and recently, Interfaith Studies. We have made efforts to offer different century. The challenges and issues we face and the contexts “online” courses in collaboration with The Lancaster Theological for life today are vastly different from what theologians once Seminary. experienced. The necessity to adapt is inevitable. In addition, our curriculum offers “Spanish for Ministry.” This past fall we embarked on yet another curriculum review. Recognizing the reality that Spanish is becoming the second Assumptions and objectives that framed our existing curriculum language in the U.S., we are offering “Basic Spanish” this spring must be rethought given the changes we are experiencing in church semester for students, faculty, and staff. continued on inside back cover PSWinter12_Q7 REV:PS master template 4/2/12 3:23 PM Page 1

EDITOR/DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Merri L. Brown

WRITERS PS MAGAZINE  SPRING 2012 John Kahler Mark A. Staples

PHOTOGRAPHY John Kahler FEATURES Maria Fumai Dietrich Roxi Kringle Embracing the Future Strategically: Listening ...... EDITORIAL BOARD to the Voices of a Changing Church 12 Merri L. Brown Chair Perspective: Education That Respects Lois La Croix ...... David D. Grafton both Tradition and Change 13 Louise Johnson Trustee Perspective: Helping Seminarians Embrace the World ...... 14 John Kahler Philip D.W. Krey Alumni Perspective: While We Wait, As We Work...... 16 John V. Puotinen J. Paul Rajashekar Student Perspective: Vocational Challenges and Opportunity ...... 17

CORRESPONDENCE The Future Shape of Theological Education ...... 18 PS, The Lutheran Theological Seminary Global Perspective: Speaking the Universal Language of the Gospel ...... 19 at Philadelphia, Two Faculty Perspectives: The Hunger Crisis: A “Walking the Walk” 7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19119 Public Theology Approach ...... 20 Telephone: 215.248.6311 or 1.800.286.4616 Email: [email protected] An Exhaustive Self-Study: Why? ...... 22 Visit us online: Ltsp.edu

PS is a publication of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, and is distributed without charge to alumni/ae, DEPARTMENTS faculty, staff, and friends of the seminary. Message from the Dean ...... Inside front cover © Copyright 2012 The Lutheran Theological Seminary Offerings ...... 2 at Philadelphia Alumni News...... 24 Volume 94 Number 1 News and Notes...... 26 Centered in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, The Lutheran Theological Faculty/Staff Activities ...... 26 Seminary at Philadelphia seeks to Passages/In Memoriam ...... 28 educate and form public leaders who are committed to developing and Philanthropy...... 29 nurturing individual believers and communities of faith for engagement Around Admissions ...... 32 in the world.

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Muhlenberg 300: September 6 Celebration What a birthday!Tribute to Patriarch Henry Muhlenberg recalls a proud legacy that launched the Lutheran Church in colonial times

Keynoter Martin Marty urged listeners to be inspired by Muhlenberg’s organizing and gathering ideas as a means to think about how to creatively renew and energize today’s church

If only the Rev. Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, father of the Church. St. John’s, Riley explained, traces its beginnings to Lutheran church in North America, could have been there to see 150 years earlier when Muhlenberg arrived in North America and the celebration of his 300th birthday party at The Lutheran “planted” St. John’s in 1742. Three weeks later against all advice Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) September 6, 2011. and determined to carry out his call from Halle in Germany to Had he been present, he certainly would have been familiar with serve three struggling Pennsylvania churches, Muhlenberg boarded the drenching, windswept rains he regularly described in his an ill-equipped sloop in November for a dangerous, storm-tossed journals and that accompanied his travels through the colonies and journey to Philadelphia. Riley cited many Muhlenberg journal beyond to found some 115 congregations located from Savannah, entries about the trip. Here’s one: “During the past night the wind Georgia, to Lunenberg, Nova Scotia. But the inclement weather was so violent we sailed more under the water than on it. The crew hardly provided a damper for the day. The highlights? lay all over us. Oh, how long the minutes and quarter hours were for me! Around me I had the soaked sailors and dreadful Two sets of remarks were delivered by internationally blasphemers, from above the rain fell on me, from below and from regarded scholar, the Rev. Dr. Martin Marty, the Fairfax M. the sides the seawater came into my bed. In my stomach the fear of Cone Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of the University vomiting tormented; in my blood the fever raged, on my body of Chicago Divinity School, who in his keynote explored the preyed the vermin which were an accumulation of my own and topic, “Henry Melchior Muhlenberg and the Current American those of the crew. Only one thing comforted and sustained me in Churchscape.” What was a key idea useful for today? “Henry patience, and that was the thought that if the ship cracked, it would Melchior Muhlenberg was a good example of ‘exemplum,’ one who go down and carry my wretched, sinful body down into the depths defines, lights and invites cultivation,” Marty said. In his diaries are and let my soul come to my Redeemer…” “Those of you now found stories of “unimaginable travails, difficulties, physical pain serving the church and preparing for it are not likely in your worst and illness, occasions for disappointment,” Marty noted. But days to experience ones like these,” Riley said. His sermonic advice overall, Marty said, Muhlenberg was less into whining about his included recalling in Scripture the three times denial before circumstances than he was passionate about being a minister of the Caiaphas by Peter of knowing Jesus. “This denial was the polar Gospel and an organizer of the church. Marty suggested today’s opposite of the missionary zeal” exhibited by Muhlenberg, Riley believers can study and practice the Muhlenberg example as said. “But in the Gospel we learn that even one who has turned inspiration to “gather and organize” in our time. Marty was away will be received again by the Lord…The experience of grace introduced by one of his former students, the Rev. Dr. Jon Pahl and forgiveness is related to the mission of ‘feeding my lambs’,the of the seminary faculty. mission offered Peter by Jesus,” Riley preached. This past July, Riley A stirring opening worship sermon from Bishop Roy E. Riley described sitting in a pew during worship some 110 miles to the of the New Jersey Synod described the work of three pioneers north of Charleston in Lexington, South Carolina, with his 88-year through time to explain what he called “…the spirit’s reach of grace old mother to hear the stories of the Rev. Yasunori Tajima of and peace that extends beyond even our best imagination.” In today’s Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church. Tajima described his November 1891, James Augustin Scherer came to St. John’s experience earlier in the year of having been invited by Buddhist Lutheran Church in Charleston, South Carolina determined to and Shinto priests to preside at ceremonies of cremation of serve as a missionary. In 1892 he became the first Lutheran hundreds of unidentified remains being shipped to Tokyo in the missionary to Japan, “planting” the Japan Evangelical Lutheran aftermath of the catastrophic tsunami. “We stood side by side for

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hours saying prayers I knew were being heard by Jesus,” Tajima in 1762, a hymnal and liturgy so that the church might grow told the congregation. “It was incredible to feel the mercy of God and survive. “Muhlenberg did not have an ‘edifice complex’ there in the midst of such suffering and grief.” Riley’s conclusion? (preoccupation with buildings),” Krueger said. Wengert described With what was achieved then and now through the lives of pastor and bishop Muhlenberg as one who “lived among the Muhlenberg, Scherer and Tajima, “who can imagine what else people” in his organizational ministry. “He was someone trained in God can accomplish?” the best traditions of his time” in Germany despite having hailed Four captivating workshops were led by three LTSP faculty from a family of simple means. In America, Muhlenberg “was never members and a Temple University doctoral student best known simply a parish pastor, but he was also a missionary and Evangelical for his archeological work at the Henry Melchior Muhlenberg Bishop focused on the zip code of the day. He trained believers to House in Trappe, Pennsylvania. Krauth Memorial Library Director be pastors. He lived and worked with the people around him.” Karl Krueger discussed “From Halle to Philadelphia: Have Call Muhlenberg wrote the first constitution of the young Ministerium Will Travel.” The Rev. Dr. Jon Pahl, professor of the History of of Pennsylvania, an organizational structure of the church he was Christianity in North America, explored “The Muhlenberg gathering into place. And he preached that church people are Matrix: Muhlenberg’s Ministry with Women and Their Influences interconnected and interdependent upon each other and that on Him.” The Rev. Dr. Timothy Wengert talked about “Henry having an aggregate of congregations was crucial to survival of the Melchior Muhlenberg: America’s First Pastor-Bishop.” Wengert young church. Wengert said that as passionate as Muhlenberg was is the Ministerium of Pennsylvania Professor of Reformation for his ministry he was not without his “warts.” Muhlenberg History and editor/translator of two volumes of Muhlenberg’s frequently wrote to his benefactors in Germany that his ministry Correspondence. “Discovering the Domestic Sphere in the was woefully underfunded — that his congregants were more poor Muhlenberg Summer Kitchen” was described by the Temple than their Mennonite and Moravian counterparts and thus his archeologist, Louis Farrell. A few sample snippets from two of colonial churches rested on shaky foundations. Despite his the workshops: Krueger talked about the risks inherent in the comments about other “competing” churches, Muhlenberg 14-weeks Atlantic crossing Muhlenberg made aboard a packet maintained an ecumenical spirit, Wengert said. He added that sailing ship where one-third of the passengers and crew could Muhlenberg suffered from depression at times. “He had a heart for expect to die when provisions and water would run out. Contrary people but constantly worried about finances,” Wengert noted. winds extended the trip greatly, but Krueger described how “The challenges and difficulties Muhlenberg faced were absolutely passionately determined Muhlenberg was to pursue the ministry in no different from what our churches face today,” he concluded. America he had been called to, initially serving congregations in Proclamations celebrating Muhlenberg’s legacy were brought Trappe, Germantown and New Hanover in Pennsylvania in a to the seminary from Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett, mission of faith that grew to so much more. Krueger said represented by Barbara Frankel, director of the Pennsylvania Muhlenberg brought to the young American church a constitution continued on next page

Bishop Roy Riley: “Even one who has turned away President Krey with Mayor Nutter. In remarks he Dr. Martin Marty: Encouraged believers will be received again by the Lord!” “rescinded” the 1917 rejection of the campus‘s today to use Muhlenberg‘s inspiration Muhlenberg statue. “to gather and organize.”

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Muhlenberg 300: September 6 Celebration to learn about what a man of the people Henry Muhlenberg was. I continued… always thought he was kind of an aristocrat. It’s truly inspiring to Historic and Museum Commission, and Philadelphia Mayor me to learn about what he went through and what he accom- Michael Nutter. Corbett’s proclamation noted that a Muhlenberg plished. I’m so glad I could be part of this.” Daniel described son, Peter, once served as lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania and himself as a sixth or seventh generation descendant of Henry’s and that Muhlenberg’s pioneering efforts to found an organized church as most closely related to Gotthilf Henry Ernest Muhlenberg, a in North America was part of a freedom of religion legacy “we botanist who Daniel said was Henry’s youngest son. Muhlenberg continue to cherish” in Pennsylvania. Frankel announced the and his wife, Anna Maria (Weiser) had 11 children, seven of whom approval of a Pennsylvania grant of $1.25 million to fund a survived to adulthood. connector between The Brossman Learning Center and its archives Bringing greetings during the evening banquet from and the Krauth Memorial Library. Nutter’s personally delivered Muhlenberg’s birthplace in Einbeck, Germany was Dr. proclamation celebrated the educational traditions of Muhlenberg Uwe-Jens Saltzer, who devotes his energies toward historical College and LTSP, co-planners of the day along with local preservation in Muhlenberg’s birthplace. Saltzer explained that Muhlenberg-founded churches, and he paid tribute to the semi- Muhlenberg’s parents were baptized in St. Mary’s Parish in the old nary for the central role it plays as a Mt. Airy landmark. Nutter town, relating closely to a parish structure that has not survived. especially highlighted Muhlenberg’s concern that young people “We send you kindest regards from the town that had such a of his day have a chance for the kind of education he was able to creative son. We are proud of what stemmed from inside our walls, obtain as a young person. He referenced the Muhlenberg Statue at that we laid a strong cornerstone that led to a strong Lutheran the LTSP driveway entrance, taking note that Philadelphia’s leaders Church in America.” in 1917 rejected locating the statue on city grounds because of hard The day was co-sponsored by Thrivent Financial for feelings toward Germans due to World War I. Nutter drew a Lutherans and Reinhard Schwartz, MD, and his wife Helga, rousing, standing ovation from 190 banquet attendees when, as MD, of Morristown, New Jersey. part of the proclamation, he said that he was “hereby rescinding” A giving opportunity, the Henry Melchior Muhlenberg the 1917 rejection of the statue by the City of Philadelphia and the Legacy Scholarship, was introduced during the banquet by the “great intolerance” represented by the rejection. Rev. Dr. Philip D.W. Krey, seminary president, and the Rev. John V. Attending the festivities was a direct descendant of Puotinen, vice president of the LTSP Office for Philanthropy. The Muhlenberg — Daniel Muhlenberg, a self-described rock band scholarship will be offered each year to a student who embodies drummer who belongs to Advent Lutheran Church in New York the characteristics that defined Muhlenberg. Preference will be City and who works as a sexton in two congregations to help accorded graduates of Muhlenberg College or members of congre- support his musical endeavors. Clearly moved by the birthday gations Muhlenberg founded. In brief remarks appealing for gifts, spectacle, Daniel Muhlenberg told an interviewer, “I am surprised Puotinen explained that it costs a seminarian about $31,000

More than 200 participants enjoyed the celebration. Led by Prof. Jon Pahl, the Groove Daemons provided musical entertainment.

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annually to attend seminary with about 40 percent of that figure in Planning for the Muhlenberg Tercentenary took many grants providing significant relief, thanks to donor gifts. Anyone months. During the dinner Krueger paid tribute to them. The desiring to make a gift to underwrite the scholarship can donate planners included from the seminary family Karl Krueger, Natalie online by going to Ltsp.edu/muhlenberglegacy, or by calling the Hand, Tim Wengert, Jon Pahl, John Kahler, Carrie Schwab, and Office for Philanthropy at 215.248.6316. Ellen Anderson. Planning input from regional Muhlenberg On display during the day was an exhibition entitled “Henry congregations came from Herb Michel, Richard Buckmaster, Jean Melchior Muhlenberg, Patriarch of American Lutheranism,” Godsall-Myers, James Knisely, Martha Kriebel, Carl Shankweiler, a presentation detailing Muhlenberg’s life and legacy. Developed Karl-John Stone, John Van Haneghan, and Lee Wesner, who served by the The Francke Foundations of Halle, Germany, the exhibit as volunteer photographer for the event. Key volunteers from includes 20 colorful banners and is traveling the country. Qualified Muhlenberg College contributing to the planning were President institutions interested in staging the exhibit, on permanent loan Randy Helm and past chaplain Peter Bredlau. to the seminary, may obtain use of it for the cost of shipping by Special guests for the day included Bishop Claire Burkat of the contacting Carrie Schwab at [email protected]. Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, who presided at the opening A dinner presenter was playwright Steve Seyfried who briefly worship; Bishop Samuel Zeiser of the Northeastern Pennsylvania described his stage play based on Muhlenberg’s journal entries. Synod, who gave the dinner invocation, and the Honorable Connie Seyfried read moving excerpts from Muhlenberg writings that are Peck, mayor of the Borough of Trappe, where Muhlenberg resided featured in the play, entitled “Providence.” The play, free and open during his colonial ministry. to the public, will be performed in seven congregational settings in the near future. The opening worship also served as the occasion for launching The dinner and day concluded with the singing of a powerful the seminary’s academic year. During his opening remarks as the hymn, “Now Rest Beneath Night’s Shadow,” composed by Paul service began President Krey paid brief Gerhardt (1607-1676). The hymn was sung by Muhlenberg and his tribute to Muhlenberg and referenced the wife, Anna Maria, as their son, Samuel, lay dying of pneumonia in Muhlenberg Statue, dedicated nearly 100 their arms. Karl Krueger emceed the dinner. years before the celebration. Assisting Featured at the reception at the bookstore table of LTSP ministers during worship in the Books & Gifts was a figurine of Muhlenberg developed through Schaeffer-Ashmead Chapel were Leslie a partnership with Byers Choice Ltd., in recognition of the Scanlon and Timothy Hearn, who serve as Tercentenary. The figurines may be purchased for $60. Toorder sacristans. Music during worship was a figurine, email [email protected]. led by Michael Krentz, the seminary’s director of music ministries. The Rev. Dr. Jayakiran Sebastian is the seminary chaplain.

An exhibit describing Muhlenberg’s life was provided by the Muhlenberg figurine developed for the Francke Foundations. occasion of LTSP’s Muhlenberg 300 celebration through a partnership with Byers Choice Ltd.

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CONGREGATION DAY Celebrating the Life of Henry Melchior Muhlenberg: Something for Everyone Congregation Day, held this past October 15, celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of North American Lutheran Church organizer Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, had a little something for everyone. If you enjoy listening to thought-provoking, entertaining accounts of larger-than-life figures, then the Rev. Dr. Karl Krueger’s (Associate Professor, History of Christianity, LTSP) stirring lecture on the life and sea-tossed trials of Muhlenberg was right up your alley. Krueger directs the Krauth Memorial Library on the campus of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP), which hosted this second initiative recalling Muhlenberg’s life. If you were part of the German Evangelical Lutheran Conference in North America, then the day was an ideal highlight to this year’s “History detectives” at Augustus OldTrappe Church. conference gathering. If you were a young confirmand from Faith Lutheran Church in Krueger’s lively presentation to about 70 people attending the Mt. Penn, near Reading, Pennsylvania, and you think in terms of day traced Muhlenberg’s birth in Einbeck in Northwest Germany’s Tweets and texting, then getting to look over Muhlenberg’s 250- Hannover on Sept. 6, 1711, and his historic career in the colonies. year-old journals featuring his scripty handwriting with a quill pen He described Muhlenberg’s study of theology at the University of might have opened up a “new” old world for you. Plus, you got a Gottingen, and his efforts with classmates to teach disadvantaged chance to try journaling the old-fashioned way in The Lutheran children how to read, write, and learn arithmetic. In Halle in Archives Center in The Brossman Learning Center at LTSP. That Middle Germany, Muhlenberg spent the year 1738 at an orphanage exercise was led by the Rev. Ellen Anderson, Director of Alumni for 2,000 children, which featured a school and pharmacy and and Church Relations for LTSP’s Office for Philanthropy. continues a vital mission in education today. If you appreciate an important overseas perspective, then During that time Muhlenberg was influenced greatly by August the presentation by Dr. Thomas Muller-Bahlke, Director of the Hermann Francke (1663-1727), and gained a global perspective Halle Foundations, was for you. Halle, Germany was the place that as well as a knowledge of an important approach to education sponsored Muhlenberg’s missionary exploits to North America and social work. Francke’s son, Gotthilf August Francke, was a beginning in 1742. Muller-Bahlke described the history and considerable influence too. impressive work of the Halle Foundations today, with its sponsor- Then came Muhlenberg’s call to the agricultural community of ship of four schools, including the teaching of gardening and music, Grosshennersdorf, east of Halle, in 1739, following his ordination and its remarkable library. in Leipzig. He was the assistant pastor until the patron for the Finally, if you are captivated by history, then the bus trip to congregation died. “Henry was downsized. His salary was reduced,” Trappe in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania probably made Krueger explained. “And he began to reconsider his possibilities.” your day. You got to hear the Rev. Herbert H. Michel, DD, pastor On Muhlenberg’s 30th birthday, he learned he was to be sponsored emeritus of Augustus Lutheran Church, tell the story of how as pastor to a new land. farmers, who lived in simple log cabins with dirt floors, helped In May of 1742, he got his letter of call for three years. Of course, Muhlenberg construct the church building in 1743. Augustus’s once in North America Muhlenberg never returned home, but first original church is the oldest Lutheran building still in continuous he had to get to Philadelphia (via Savannah) from London in what worship use today. The building (no electricity, heat or air- Krueger described as a harrowing trip aboard a packet ship with conditioning, just as Muhlenberg would have known it) is only cargo and 10 cannons, the vessel pushed in zig-zaggy directions used for worship between Father’s Day and around Labor Day, plus by ornery, contrary winds and which ran out of food and water for Christmas Eve worship, where candles furnish the only scant before reaching the East Coast of the colonies. There was another warmth. The rest of the year the congregation praises God in the complication, once Muhlenberg announced his presence to the “new” 1850 building next door. three congregations he had been called to serve in Philadelphia, continued on next page

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REFLECTIONS ONTHE 2011 FALL FORUM ment to South India. However, Halle responded to the need for BYTHE REV. DR. CLAIR ANDERSON pastoral leadership among the infant congregations along the What does Henry Melchior Muhlenberg eastern seaboard of America by sending Muhlenberg there. His have in common with Bartholomaeus ministry is described in his Journals and in his Notebook of a Ziegenbalg? At the November 7, 2011 Fall Colonial Clergyman. Ziegenbalg imported a printing press so he Forum at The Lutheran Theological could have the Bible printed in the Tamal language, as well as a Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP), an Tamal grammar book and dictionary. animated, engaging LTSP professor, the Rev. Dr. Sebastian began his afternoon presentation with a touching Dr. J. Jayakiran Sebastian, acknowledged that personal story about the impact of missionaries on his own life. The both men were sent out as missionaries by tragic death of his Hindu grandfather led his grandmother to seek the University of Halle, Germany, to spread refuge in a Christian mission in India, where Dr. Sebastian’s father Lutheran pietism beyond Europe. was raised. As a teenager, his father cranked a missionary’s Victrola In 1706, Ziegenbalg brought the message of salvation through and listened to J.S. Bach records. When asked what name he would Jesus Christ to South India as the first Protestant missionary, take, his father requested “Sebastian.” sponsored by the Royal House of Denmark. Realizing the Moving from mission past to mission now, Dr. Sebastian raised importance of understanding the Indian people before converting the question, “What is the paradigm or motivation for missiology them, he engaged them in disputations and published his findings today?” The last 50-60 years have been dominated by Missio Dei, in the book Detailed Description of South Indian Society, showing or the mission of God. A theological critique of this paradigm is their need for the Gospel. The book had an impact upon Europe needed and begins with the question who is responsible for mission? and may have inspired Muhlenberg to seek a missionary appoint- He advocates a new Missio Humanitas, or mission to God, which takes seriously the human condition as well as human responsibility for mission in a pluralistic, post-colonial world. What does the Bible mean for people in our society now? Mission to God forces Congregation Day continued… us to contemplate who God really is and who we are in relation to Providence, and New Hanover (Falckner’s Swamp). “No one neighbors we have, not those we might choose. What are the had told them he was coming,” Krueger said. Muhlenberg then consequences of our choices and actions? How does mission relate had the indelicate task not only of introducing himself and his to the victims of globalism, those who have suffered and continue credentials, but also of unseating his less-qualified predecessors in to suffer? the three pulpits. When asked what mission to God would look like, Dr. Sebastian Then began his remarkable decades of ministry in the colonies, drew upon a Buddhist image of the person who reaches bliss, but organizing more than 100 congregations from Savannah, Georgia, waits to cross over so he or she can help others to cross. Jesus to Lunenberg, Nova Scotia. As both Krueger and Michel accompanies us on the pilgrim journey as our guide, but instead of explained, Muhlenberg was really like a modern-day Bishop for going on ahead of us, stands along side and encourages us to pass on. the young church. We too serve as guides pointing to God. There was a good question “He established a constitution for the church, a liturgy and a and answer exchange at each session. hymnal, and reviewed the qualifications for those seeking to be Dr. Sebastian’s spirited, personal, relational style was well- pastors,” Michel told visitors to Augustus Church. Krueger told received by those present who greatly appreciated being opened his audience at LTSP that 280 people signed the young church’s to an unknown area in a stimulating, thought-provoking manner. constitution in October of 1762, “a declaration of interdependence Dr. Sebastian was born in Bangalore, India, and educated there and signed 14 years before the Declaration of Independence in the in Germany. He served several congregations in India and taught at colonies.” During the 1780s came the liturgy and in 1786 came an Indian seminary for 10 years before joining the faculty at LTSP the hymnal. in 2008 as H. George Anderson Professor of Mission and Cultures, The opening worship for the day was led by the Rev. Martha and Director of the Multicultural Mission Resource Center. Kriebel, United Church of Christ pastor for New Hanover Union The Rev. Dr. Clair Anderson is a retired ELCA pastor and LTSP Church. The closing worship at Augustus Church was led by the alumnus, living in Hanover, Pennsylvania. He tells his connection to Rev. John H. Van Haneghan, pastor of St. James Lutheran Church the Muhlenberg Legacy on the Muhlenberg 300 website at in Phillipsburg, New Jersey. Ltsp.edu/MuhlenbergStories.

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OFFERINGS

MARITIME MINISTRY AMONG “LITTLE- Recently, five first-year seminarians from The Lutheran KNOWN” BI-VOCATIONAL OR “DUAL CALL” Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) were part of a first- OPPORTUNITIES ACROSSTHE U.S. time visiting field work experience to SCI. They were Susan Loney Some opportunities for bi-vocational or “dual call” part-time of Wilmington, Delaware; Kerri Walsh of Medford, New York; ministry are little known across the church. Bivocational situations Daniel Spigelmyer of McClure, Pennsylvania; Alexa Epstein of involve someone working part-time as a pastor and part-time in Philadelphia, and Rachel Anderson of Newington, Connecticut. another vocation, such as teaching or engineering. Dual call They toured the Maple Mighty, a steel cargo ship from China situations involve a pastor or other rostered leader called to two delivering goods to the Camden-Beckett Terminal in New Jersey professional ministry settings at the same time. As economic along the Delaware River. They found out the 168-year-old SCI realities strain the resources of churches and other initiatives in initiative, an ecumenical and interfaith ministry, serves 32,000 a position to call a pastor or other rostered leader, bivocational seafarers annually and visits 1,500 ships in a given year in the and dual calls are becoming more commonplace. Philadelphia Port’s 31 terminals along 125 miles of Delaware River An example of such an opportunity is maritime ministry, which shoreline — from Fairless Hills to Marcus Hook in Pennsylvania has some 150 locations around the country, including Seamen’s and from Burlington to Paulsboro in New Jersey. Church Institute (SCI) in Philadelphia, and Seafarer’s International They learned the vast array of cargo ships bring fruits, cocoa, House (SIH) in New York City. Both ministries offer personal oil products, steel, wood, and gypsum to make sheetrock to Phila- support, encouragement, and advocacy to seafarers from other delphia, and that 95 percent of goods made use of by regional homelands. The seafarers they contact face many challenges. They citizenry come to consumers by water. The seminarians were hosted are away from their families for many months at a time. Tight port by the Rev. James Von Dreele, an Episcopal priest who serves as security and stringent working conditions leave most little or no executive director of SCI; the Rev. William Rex, a Lutheran opportunity for even brief shore leave. chaplain to SCI on call from Seafarers International House in New York City, and Mark Staples, seminary writer for LTSP, and a volunteer shipboard visitor for SCI. Arrangements for the visit were made by the Rev. Dr. Charles Leonard, a one-time U.S. Navy Chaplain who supervises contextual education at LTSP. Epstein summed up some of the thoughts of the seminarians by remarking about the “complexity” of those who participate in the life of the Port of Philadelphia. “All the different goods that come through the port, and all the agencies that are a part of the work — the ministry of SCI brings a humanizing dimension to it all.” “I very much appreciate LTSP’s Dr. Charles Leonard’s interest in helping seminarians explore a dimension of ministry that is very much below the radar screen in the church,” explained Von Dreele, who serves as chaplain to the Port of Philadelphia. “I came to maritime ministry somewhat by accident but have found it to be extremely challenging and fulfilling. It is a unique model of ministry in which the local maritime business community expects Five LTSP scholars took part in the first ever field work visit from the seminary to the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) September 24, 2011. and demands that the church be a part of its life. There is a definite From left are Pastor Bill Rex, Lutheran Chaplain to the Port of synergy of values between the church and business for the sake of Philadelphia, called by Seafarers International House in NewYork City; seminarians Daniel Spigelmyer, Susan Loney, Rachel Anderson, Kerri seafarers who are often quite vulnerable. As many port chaplains Walsh, Alexa Epstein, and the Rev. James Von Dreele, SCI executive are reaching retirement age, there will be opportunities for younger director and chaplain to the Port of Philadelphia.The seminarians learned of SCI’s ministry of hospitality to 32,000 seafarers visiting the clergy to consider this as a vocational choice. In general, maritime Philadelphia Port each year.They also visited the crew of the Chinese- ministry organizations are looking for people who as chaplains flagged cargo ship, Maple Mighty, seen behind the seminarians.The ship was delivering steel to the Camden-BeckettTerminal in New Jersey. will be entrepreneurial, self-starters, and risk-takers.” continued on next page

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SEMINARY HONORS STATE SENATOR LEANNA WASHINGTON The inscription beside a newly unveiled portrait of State Senator LeAnna Washington (D-PA 4th Senatorial) said simply, “Without her support and that of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, this facility would not have been possible.” The facility in question is The Brossman Learning Center at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP), and the portrait hangs outside of Brossman’s Benbow Hall, which hosts scores of community events each year. Washington spearheaded efforts to secure funds from the Commonwealth to help pay for the structure. Sen. Washington, whose district includes the seminary and the surrounding community, has supported the seminary’s development of several facilities including The Brossman Center. Most recently,

the senator secured a $250,000 grant to aid in construction of a Leanna Washington, with portrait, is flanked, from left, by President Krey, the connector between The Brossman Center and the century-old Rev, John Richter, chair of the LTSP Board, and Dan Muroff of East Mt. Airy Neighbors. Krauth Memorial Library, giving handicap access to this historic and important resource. While integral to the academic work of the seminary, both the library and The Brossman Center are open to In brief remarks paying tribute to Washington, LTSP President the public, with the library often used by members of the Philip D.W. Krey said, “No public official has done more for this community for research, and The Brossman Center hosting a school than you have.” Krey described as an example of variety of community events. Washington’s life of public service her passion on behalf of victims Perhaps the prayer petitions by Washington’s pastor, the Rev. J. of domestic violence, and described an event exemplifying the Louis Felton of Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ, best summed up seminary’s partnership with the community — an annual banquet both the spirit of the occasion and the momentous community hosted at LTSP on their behalf and organized by Washington. partnership with the seminary that led to the gift of state funds. “These are challenging times for the seminary and challenging “We have separation between church and state, but we do not have times for political leaders,” said the Rev. John Richter, chair of the divorce,” Felton said. “We still have visitation rights.” Those seminary’s Board of Trustees, who expressed thanks to Washington visitation rights were also referenced in remarks by Dan Muroff, on behalf of the Trustees. “We are grateful for your partnership and former president of East Mt. Airy Neighbors, a community generous commitment to do what you have done for this little organization, when Muroff referred to The Brossman Learning corner of God’s kingdom.” Center as “the Town Hall in Mt. Airy.” After the portrait was unveiled, a grateful and visibly moved Washington, who was awarded an honorary doctorate from LTSP two years ago, said the initiative to raise support for the seminary Maritime Ministry continued… was an example of her low profile commitment over 18 years in Pastor Rex is serving a dual call. His other “hat” has him serving office to “getting things done” in the name of public service. “As as pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ferndale, Pennsylvania. soon as I met President Krey, I came to appreciate his vision for Rex and Von Dreele both say maritime ministry is truly the seminary and its relationship to serve the community,” she “incarnational.” “We provide the only hospitality most seafarers said. “And I felt an immediate connection to that vision and a receive,” Rex said. “That makes us the face of Christ to them, and desire to help make his dream for that vision of a broader also the face of America.” community relationship become a reality.” She cited the seminary Information on Lutheran seafarer chaplaincies around the U.S. as an example of putting public funds to good and visible use in and Puerto Rico may be found at the web site for Lutheran Advo- terms of the community. cates for Maritime Mission (LAMM) where the Rev. Martha The Rev. Dr. Jayakiran Sebastian, chaplain of the seminary, led McCracken is President of the Board of Directors: lammworld.org. a brief religious service during the event, featuring the prayer of She may be contacted by email at: [email protected]. gratitude for the seminary and the service of Sen. Washington delivered by Pastor Felton.

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OFFERINGS

JOHN AND ROBERT ASHER HONORED WITH SOLI DEO GLORIA AWARD AT PHILADELPHIA SEMINARY’S ANNUAL ADVENT VESPERS DINNER For noted candy executive and philanthropist John L. “Jack” Asher, Jr., the dinner honoring him and his brother, Robert, featured a big surprise. Asher and his brother were this year’s recipients of the Soli Deo Gloria Award for outstanding leadership and service to the church and to the mission of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP). (Robert was unable to attend the annual Advent Vespers in the seminary’s Brossman Center.) LTSP Trustees Robert Blanck and Board of Trustees Chair John Richter presented the award to Jack Asher, and just as he stepped to Soli Deo Gloria recipient “Jack” Asher gives the audience background on the Keystone State the microphone to extend remarks of gratitude, Boychoir.The Philadelphia native described the seminary “as one of the signature places I always Blanck asked him to stop. And into the hall for a remember.” surprise performance tribute to Asher and the dinner audience came 60 members of the 150-member Keystone State Boychoir featuring donors, “We live in troubled times. This is a challenging time for the directors Joe “Fitz” Fitzmartin and Steven M. Fisher. Jack Asher is church, institutions and the country. It is a tall order to keep the choir’s founding Board member. The surprise tribute was venerable institutions like the seminary stable and thriving. Thank arranged by the seminary’s Director of Communications, Merri you for understanding the challenge. I count you as our best Brown. Her son, Graeme, was a soloist for the occasion. friends…” Krey said in the current time of transition improvements Visibly proud and moved, Asher explained the accomplishments to the seminary’s Krauth Memorial Library, including a connector of the vocal group, who call his congregation — The First to The Brossman Center, are beginning to unfold. Highlights of Presbyterian Church in Germantown — their home. The choir, he current seminary life include plans for a new curriculum, the said, has performed on every continent. ongoing 300th birthday anniversary celebrating of the life of Jack Asher, who has served on LTSP’s President’s Council, has Lutheran Patriarch Henry Melchior Muhlenberg, and a recent been a driving force behind the seminary’s capital campaigns and gathering of Philadelphia religious leaders, who strategized over “the strategic planning. In opening remarks LTSP President Philip D.W. increasing challenge of hunger in our city.” Krey thanked Jack Asher “for helping me to make the right Seminary Student Body President Laura Gorton, who is studying associations and meet the right people when I became President.” In for a Master of Arts in Religion with a focus on Christian expressing appreciation for the honor, Jack Asher, a native Education, told the audience she is striving for a career as a director Philadelphian, called LTSP “one of the signature places that I always of Christian Education (DCE) and urged the audience to keep in remember.” mind the rich diversity of graduates, including pastors, DCE’s, In his greetings to dinner attendees, Krey noted that the annual directors of music, social workers and diaconal ministers. “Thank Advent Vespers program to follow under the direction of Michael you for supporting us with your gifts in these tough economic Krentz, seminary choir director, is in honor of the Rev. Dr. Robert times,” she said. E. Bornemann, the late professor of Hebrew and Old Testament at “We watch and wait expectantly for the Christ who was given to LTSP, who directed the Seminary Choir he founded from 1955 to us as a child, brother, and Savior,” Dr. John Puotinen, said in brief 1990. Krey told the audience that gifts to the Bornemann Memorial remarks. Puotinen is Vice President for Philanthropy and Executive Fund secure the present and future of a vibrant program of music at Director of the LTSP Foundation. “I welcome you to this the seminary. The vespers were held in the Schaeffer-Ashmead celebration of God’s generosity,” Puotinen said. “I thank you and Chapel following the dinner. Krey told his audience of invited thank God for sending you here to provide leaders for the church —

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making use of gifts already given to you by God.” Brief remarks were also delivered by Richter and seminary Dean J. Paul Rajashekar. Rajashekar introduced the Rev. Dr. Jayakiran Sebastian of the seminary faculty. Sebastian becomes LTSP’s new Dean next academic year as Rajashekar returns to the classroom. The Dean also introduced the Rev. Dr. Richard Stewart and his spouse, Dawn. Stewart retired from the faculty at the end of 2011. The opening prayer for the dinner was given by Trustee, Dr. Addie J. Butler. The closing prayer was delivered by Bishop Claire S. Burkat of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. After his father’s death in 1966, Jack Asher and his younger brother, Cookin’ with Who Best Chef Rabbi George Stern (in chef’s hat). Robert, took over Asher’s Chocolates in Philadelphia’s Germantown section and expanded the business. In 1991, Asher’s acquired the Goss Candy Co. in Lewistown, PA, and renamed it Asher’s Chocolates, COOKIN' WITH WHO? Lewistown. The enterprise has grown dramatically over the years to What better way to bring together the community become nationally known. In 2006, Jack Asher was elected to the than to offer great and interesting food, community Candy Hall of Fame while serving as president of the firm and co-chair leaders, and the chance to support three key of Asher’s Chocolates. His honors have included being named Small community organizations than with a celebrity chef Business Person of the Year (Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, competition? That is the concept behind the first 1988). He’s served on many boards including as President of the annual “Cookin' with Who?” event held November 3, Germantown Business Association, President of Whosoever Gospel 2011 at The Brossman Center. LTSP, along with Mission, Germantown, President of the Germantown Historical community groups East Mt. Airy Neighbors (EMAN) Society, and the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf. He’s served as a and Neighborhood Interfaith Movement (NIM) were volunteer firefighter for 35 years and today helps direct re-enactments both sponsors and beneficiaries of a night full of of the Battle of Germantown from the Revolutionary War period. He tasting, bidding on auction items, more tasting, and has served his congregation — The First Presbyterian Church in voting for the Best Chef. Most of all, many participants Germantown — as Deacon, Trustee, Elder, Head Usher, and President noted, it was a fun, informal way for the Northwest of the Couples Club. Jack and his wife, Carolyn, have three adult Philadelphia community to gather, chat and, yes, eat children. while supporting the sponsors. Native Philadelphian Robert “Bob” Asher serves as co-chair of the The smell of good food prepared by chefs from Board of Asher’s Chocolates as well as President of Robert Asher LTSP’s food service vendor, Cura Hospitality, and Associates. He is a member of the Session of Oreland Evangelical sounds of a good time filled Benbow Hall for several Presbyterian Church, Oreland, Pennsylvania. He is a Pennsylvania hours. In the end, best chef prize, the now coveted “Mt. member of the Republican National Committee and served as co-chair Airy Platinum Spatula” (designed by EMAN Executive for the Tom Corbett for Governor Campaign. Bob Asher serves on Director Elayne Bender) went to NIM’s Immediate several boards including the Delaware River Port Authority, Past Executive Director Rabbi George Stern, who Philadelphia Hospitality, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing shared his take on traditional beef brisket and latkes, Corporation and Greater Philadelphia Executive Committee Chamber both the traditional potato and his own creation, of Commerce. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania curried sweet potato latkes. LTSP’s chefs were President Wharton School of Business and Commerce and is a U.S. Army Philip Krey and his mother’s impossible-to-resist veteran. He has been recognized for public service by the Montgomery donuts, Prof. Tim Wengert’s favorite, his mother’s County Association for Retarded Citizens, Boy Scouts of America and German potato salad, and LTSP alumna the Rev. Ann the Union League of Philadelphia. Bob Asher has been a key networker Colley’s own recipe of vegetarian spaghetti. on behalf of LTSP, facilitating the securing of grants for seminary capital projects. Bob and his wife, Joyce, have three children and seven grandchildren. Both brothers are members of the Union League of Philadelphia. To see all the chefs talk about their recipes, and more on the event, go to Ltsp.edu/CookinWithWho.

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EMBRACINGTHE FUTURE STRATEGICALLY: Listening to the Voices of a Changing Church BYTHE REV. DR. PHILIP D.W. KREY, PRESIDENT

THE LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT PHILADELPHIA (LTSP) is well known for its innovative and imaginative tradition by which it reads its context and proposes cutting edge programs for the church of the future and not the church of the past. Institutions do not change quickly. While faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and our They change course like ships that wonderful Lutheran tradition, we also embrace the turn slowly and deliberately. future that God provides. As the global, national, and ecclesial context has changed once again, at LTSP We need to value the many things that we are doing well. we are going back to the drawing board and drawing Among them we cherish the biblical and confessional upon our faith, tradition, and visionary capital in our tradition for which we have been made stewards. We have a shared vision of ecumenical partnership and passion alumni, leaders, staff, and faculty to develop new for public theology. Our Mt. Airy community loves our strategic directions for the school. commitment to public service. We have a rich diversity We are not starting from scratch as we spent the last of offerings in degrees and programs. We have a long two years listening to consultants, current students, tradition of academic excellence and preparation for alumni, and one another about the state and future of ministry and have wonderful alumni who demonstrate what they have learned in their various congregational the church and theological education. Two years ago and institutional settings. the faculty, staff, and board, with the leadership We attract a diverse and extraordinarily gifted student of our dean and the planning committee of the board, body year after year. As you will learn from the dean’s adopted a new mission, vision, and values statement editorial in this issue, (see the inside front cover) our for the school (See Ltsp.edu for our new mission curriculum receives high marks from our alumni for its effectiveness. Our worship and community life on campus is statement). We are also currently listening to all faithfully rich and filled with diversity. Our library and stakeholders about what they need in leaders and the librarians are a treasure. After 30 years our Urban changes that are going on in their churches, Theological Institute (UTI) has renewed itself once again congregations, and ministries. and is thriving. We do urban ministry well. Recently a We want to know what you think as well. Send Lutheran college president came to see me and proclaimed, “You have beautiful buildings and a gorgeous campus!” We emails or letters to me at [email protected] or come, do and thank God for this gift. We are grateful for all of you visit, and teach us. who have given so generously and all the faculty and staff who work so hard to make LTSP such a wonderful school. Of course, we need you to continue your support because of this fragile time in the midst of the present economic climate for the church and the nation.

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CHAIR PERSPECTIVE Education that Respects bothTradition and Change

BY THE REV. DR. JOHN C. RICHTER, CHAIR, LTSP BOARD OFTRUSTEES

The Board of Trustees of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) serves as stewards of the treasure that is LTSP. Our task is to sustain the seminary’s role as servant to the church, and to provide the next generation of leaders for the church. We seek to do this in the midst of new financial realities, changing demographics, and the needs of the church. When I was ordained in 1975 and called to serve a congregation in Brooklyn, New York, there were no “social media.” The church bulletin was printed on a mimeograph. There were no cell phones, no emails, no Internet, no texting. Of course we can’t imagine living without these technologies today. And, as with most technological advances, life has been made both more manageable and more challenging. While we are grateful for improved means of communication, the speed Our global, national, and church and constancy of such hi-tech wonders (among many other sociological realities) have contexts have changed. We need to reread contributed to the reshaping of the culture. them well and continue to aim the school The church lives in this rapidly changing society, and the seminary seeks to educate in the right direction for the sake of the church leaders with both respect for our tradition of sound preparation (Biblical church’s leaders and the world. By God’s Studies, Church History, Theology, Pastoral Care, Homiletics, Administration) and grace we will have read our contexts the reality of a changing culture that seems to be less anchored to the church that appropriately. We will inevitably make nurtured many of us over the years. mistakes, and difficult challenges like the Therefore, in addition to providing the foundation of a seminary education in current economy will arise. We pray that the traditional sense, LTSP emphasizes the need for future leaders to engage ministry God will help sustain our historic at the intersection of faith and public life. If in fact people no longer easily find their momentum so that these challenges do way to the doors of the congregation, how might the congregation go forth from the not overwhelm our capacity to once pews to meet people where they are? How does the education we provide create again contribute to the future positive faithful, creative, entrepreneurial leaders who are visible and competent both in the trends in theological education. parish hall and on the sidewalk, comfortable and proficient in both the pulpit as well At the last seminary Board of Trustees as the bleachers of a high school athletic event, speaking meaningfully with someone meeting the faculty, staff, and trustees who has grown disenchanted with the church, or even someone who has never been spent a day reviewing the new landscape a part of any faith tradition? How do we teach the prophetic voice, and challenge for theological education. The denomi- systemic poverty? national, financial, and environmental So there is curriculum review and revision. Strategic plans have shorter horizons. challenges that Christian ministry as a We converse with the church about perceived needs. What specific skills will church profession is facing are dramatically leaders need as we move into this future that God has set before us? And how will different than they were a generation ago. LTSP provide it? We noted that while many congregations Societies have relentlessly evolved over the last 2,000 years, and the church has are struggling in the current environment, evolved as well. The history of the church, as much as we respect and often embrace many including those led by our alumni tradition, is also about change. Worship and congregational life seem very different are thriving. today compared to what I experienced in that congregation I served back in 1975. continued on next page In a little more than a generation, the changes have been profound. The seminary’s Board of Trustees seeks to respond to those changes in a manner that serves the church, and all the people of God.

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TRUSTEE PERSPECTIVE continued from page 13

ASSUMPTIONS AND STRATEGIC Helping Seminarians DIRECTIONS The following points represent some Embrace the World assumptions and strategic directions that we will be addressing over the next two years. Again, your input is welcome and BY SARA E. LILJA, LTSP BOARD OFTRUSTEES expected. • Fewer congregations can afford to call full-time ministers, thus increasing The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP) Board of Trustees the demand for bi-vocational ministers; recently adopted this mission statement... nevertheless there will always be Centered in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, The Lutheran Theological congregations that will be able to call Seminary at Philadelphia seeks to educate and form public leaders who full-time clergy and staff, and we need are committed to developing and nurturing individual believers and to continue to prepare these candidates. communities of faith for engagement in the world. The days in which we will only prepare ordained clergy are over. Our student This mission statement communicates the direction of theological education at body will become more and more LTSP. The seminary will educate leaders who are “centered” in Jesus Christ. While diverse. the seminary is a “multi-denominational” teaching, learning, worshiping, and living community, we maintain our Lutheran identity and theological understandings. • Minority and immigrant churches We seek to educate students to live in the world, embracing our neighbors of will likely grow. Denominations with all faiths and traditions. Living in the world involves dialogue, cooperation, and a critical mass of ethnic congregations shared community — building activities with people of other faiths or no faith. may have a better chance of attracting This task is more urgent in the midst of broken or fractured communities of our minority communities. Seminaries with society. We seek to educate leaders to engage in building up the Kingdom of God, a critical mass of minority students and seeking peace and advocating for justice. faculty will attract others like them, and You may have noticed that the language to “teach pastors” is not present in this diversity is a strength of LTSP. this mission statement. We believe that it is our responsibility to educate all • In 2012 our accrediting standards for believers for public leadership. Some may be called to ordination, while others the MDiv will change, giving us more may be inspired toward various other vocations of service in the world. We flexibility in terms of the structure, understand that congregations may be served by content, and duration of the program. bi-vocational leaders who practice and model their • We need a paradigm shift in training faith in daily life. The learning process includes for ministry. The feedback loop from academic formation but is primarily the development experience in a variety of current of a “habitus,” a way of living and practicing the gift congregations and faith-based insti- of faith. tutional contexts to the classroom must You may have also noticed that the language of be fluid. We need to strengthen our “church” is not in the mission statement. model that values the best experience in The church is a community of saints and sinners, practice, reflection, and academics. but it is not monolithic or singular — even within • We will reduce the number of course a denomination. The seminary seeks to nurture requirements and develop more flexible leadership so that students have the ability to relate scheduling, especially for part-time to diverse forms of communities. In some ways we see the future direction of the students, many of whom will be serving seminary as expanding our expressions of church. As the prophet Jeremiah says, in parishes, communities of faith, or “Enlarge the place of your tent; stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, spare institutions already. We need to review not; lengthen your cords and strengthen your pegs.” (Isaiah 54:2) During difficult how courses are selected, especially the days, trust in the promises of God. electives, in relation to the curriculum. The mission statement is our attempt to express what we see as the future of All courses currently taught need to be theological education at LTSP. We are living into this statement as the curriculum reevaluated based on a set of objectives is being revised and programs developed to embrace this vision. LTSP is moving and outcomes. into the future with an understanding of God’s activity in the world, ever changing and challenging, ever comforting and compelling. For more thoughts on LTSP’s mission statement, please visit Ltsp.edu.

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• We will require full-time faculty to teach in distance education courses and on evenings and Saturdays on a rotational basis. We will offer courses throughout the year (except July 15- August 15) and increase offerings of distance education courses with the help of adjuncts. • A student will be able to finish a program by taking regular daytime courses, courses online, evening and weekend courses, intensives, and summer courses. Less travel and less moving should make completion of their programs less expensive with less debt. • This economy would make it possible for bi-vocational students in all • Our new Master of Arts in Public STRATEGIC GOALS denominations to prepare to be Leadership and our traditional Master Here are the goals we are shaping: of Arts in Religion programs have bi-vocational mission developers and 1. Complete a thorough revision of the congregational redevelopers. A significant potential for development and growth. curriculum to begin in the academic bi-vocational minister will make it year 2013-2014. possible for congregations that need • We will focus on redeveloping the 2. Arrive at financial equilibrium through redevelopment to afford professional TEEM (Theological Education for collaboration with our partners and leadership. Emerging Ministries, a non-degree good stewardship of our resources. • We will organize a track for mission certificate) and Latino programs. 3. By 2015 complete the $32 million developers and redevelopers who are • We will continue to have a strong endowment initiative for student both ordained and not ordained. Lutheran and ecumenical residential scholarships, endowment growth, Any student who would be in this student body that will prepare for faculty development, and the track would receive substantial thriving congregations that have renovation of perimeter housing. scholarship aid. adapted to their new contexts. We covet 4. Grow the student body to 500 by 2014 • We need to listen ever more closely our wonderful relationships with the by increasing the admissions by 20 per to our second professional/advanced synods of Region 7 and the Evangelical year in all programs. students and alumni to let them define Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). the courses and program offerings that We will, of course, continue this strong 5. Prepare for the 150th anniversary of the tradition. We will also develop our seminary by embracing the future that they need, and we will help provide the  faculty and resources for them. strong relationships with ecumenical God is sending. partners and constituencies in the • We will also prepare a cadre of lay- Philadelphia area. What do you think? How would you shape persons in a certificate program who or reshape these goals? Will you vigorously will work as leaders in witnessing in • God has given us a new day. Togreet support LTSP so that we can be a witness their communities. this new day we need to be good stewards of our resources and reach to the Gospel of Jesus Christ by developing • We will rethink the division of faculty our target for the 150th anniversary leaders and communities of faith for the areas and consider developing cross- initiative of $32 million in student sake of the world? disciplinary areas in redesigning the scholarships, faculty development, new MDiv curriculum. The traditional To comment, email President Krey at endowment growth, including the [email protected]. faculty areas may work best at the renovation of perimeter student and advanced-level degree programs. faculty housing.

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ALUMNI PERSPECTIVE While We Wait, As We Work

BY THE REV. CHRIS HALVERSON, MDIV ’11

I left my apartment at The Lutheran Some candidates have For that matter, Theological Seminary at Philadelphia used their wait time to all pastors are (LTSP) on June 28, 2011. I was called to learn a new skill. Some bi-vocational; our be pastor of St. Stephen Lutheran Church have relished their last few baptismal vocation in South Plainfield, New Jersey, on Sundays as non-pastors by isn’t subsumed in our September 11, 2011. In those 75 days either skipping church entirely or going to pastoral vocation. If a pastor is a parent, a between leaving seminary and being called churches outside the Lutheran tradition. daughter, a neighbor, a brother, or a I did many things. I lived in a friend’s attic, Yet, almost everyone has described the husband, he or she is already bi-vocational. worked at an inner-city church camp, period of waiting as “paralyzing.” Nonetheless, talking with both trained a Boxer puppy to heel, preached at Many tell of broken leases and uprooted bi-vocational pastors and synod leadership, a couple of churches, and sent out emails daughters and sons. Several speak of this a few things about bi-vocationality have — lots of emails. period of waiting nearly breaking apart become clear. All of these people have I asked a representative from every their marriages. Some complain that affirmed that the non-church vocation is synod and each regional coordinator, seminary only gave a description of the truly a vocation and so it must not “be as well as a variety of recently graduated ideal call process — not what seminarians treated as of secondary value” — a means seminarians and bi-vocational pastors, are actually experiencing. Many plead that to an end. a set of questions about bi-vocationality synods and regional coordinators commu- Seminaries need to prepare students and waiting for a first call. nicate with candidates, even if it is just to to be bi-vocational ministers. How? The Why did I do this? Because my check in — communicate! two biggest tasks of bi-vocational ministers classmates had been hearing a lot about Synod and regional representatives have are properly empowering lay folk and waiting an extensive time for a first call, responded with “best practices” for their communicating expectations clearly. as well as a need for pastors to become colleagues, as well as advice for those Seminaries need to both model these two bi-vocational (sometimes called practicing awaiting call. things and teach them. shared-time ministry, but strictly defined They recommend that synods tell I am still acting the ecclesial “Alfred means working in two vocations at the potential candidates right from the start Kinsey,” so if you have had experience same time). As we explored the impli- that the landscape of the church has with waiting for first call or bi-vocational cations of these two realities for our future changed and that waiting quite a while for ministry and would like to fill out my ministry we quickly realized that we were a call will be the new normal. They also questionnaire please contact me at in fairly uncharted territory — at least in recommend synods help “fine tune” [email protected]. recent history. candidates’ Rostered Leadership Profiles For that matter, if you want to be part of In order to change this, we’ve decided and hold mock call committee interviews the crowd sourcing process or introducing to create a booklet of advice for seminar- for candidates who wait for a call. the eventual booklet to your synod ians awaiting call and for bi-vocational Tofirst callers they say, “Trust the assembly please do the same. ministers. It will also contain recommen- process.” Know that the waiting is not dations to various expressions of the about you, it is not a reflection of your church on both of these subjects. We will value to God, to the church, or to your present the finished product to our various future calling congregation. The waiting synod assemblies. is, however, “part of your baptismal I am spearheading the initial data vocation and, thus, the context in which collection aspect of this project, but we will God is now drawing you to serve the “crowd source” the writing of this booklet world for Christ’s sake.” via an online document readily available Bi-vocationality has been a hard nut to for and editable by anyone willing to help crack. For example, once we use terms like better the lot of bi-vocational pastors and vocation we are linguistically sanctifying seminarians waiting a first call. what we are talking about. That means Reading responses from fellow first- bi-vocationality has to be about more than callers has been enlightening, and heart getting a second job in order to pay the bills. breaking.

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STUDENT PERSPECTIVE Vocational Challenges and Opportunity

BY DAVID HOXTER, MDIV ’12, UTI David Hoxter: urged a strong collaborative Mt. Airy was a great place to grow up. effort to help seminarians Over the years I passed The Lutheran plan for their Theological Seminary at Philadelphia futures. (LTSP) many times and never thought that one day I would be enrolled as a student. When it came time to seriously consider where I would pursue my theological education, I only added LTSP to my short list when I saw a sign for its wonderful Prospective Student Day prominently displayed on Germantown Avenue! I heard of the Urban Theological Institute (UTI), although I couldn’t remember where, and I figured it couldn’t hurt to attend the event, so I registered. What stuck in my mind most about that day was the running theme of preparation and allow them to quit their jobs. Their leave it to the students to make their own that was available for the professional attitude is that if the church can afford it choices? Can an individual who does not ministry, post-graduate studies or both. I then great, but if not, the pastor needs to have a second career, spouse, or some other was interested in both, as well as the study work to grow the ministry to the point source of financial support expect to be of the Black Church, and it seemed like a where it can become a full-time job and able to afford to pay all of his or her bills perfect fit. work a second job in the meantime. solely on a new pastor’s salary? Again, does Now in my final year of study, I can Those I spoke with who are part of a the seminary have a responsibility to enter reflect on the seminary’s ability to deliver mainline denomination have the expecta- into this conversation with students in a what initially drew me to the school as I tion that they will not have to work a formal way to help provide solutions that look toward the future. second job. If they are placed at a smaller students can work on while they are I have engaged in many interesting church that cannot support their full matriculating? conversations with classmates on the sub- salary, it is only fair that the larger churches Many students expressed an interest in ject of moving into professional ministry in the system who can afford to do so will counseling, education, and various other and how church finances relate to that pick up the slack so that everyone at all of fields that would complement their work pursuit. Most of us who intend to enter the churches in the system gets paid — as pastors and help new pastors earn a ordained ministry as full-time pastors after two opposing but very interesting views livable wage. Whatever path students or graduation expect to be paid for our on what to expect after graduation. the seminary decide to take, there are going services. Some very interesting dialogue As budgets continue to tighten in all to be challenges. I suppose that’s the good between us has speculated on what that churches, I am certain that the seminary is news. Whenever challenges are present, so pay structure will look like. wrestling with how it can help ensure the is opportunity. We live in a world that Being a Baptist, my perspective on the next generation of LTSP graduates has needs the church more then ever, and we subject seems to be somewhat different a realistic view of what lies ahead with should face these challenges head-on so from my classmates who belong to respect to being able to survive as a pastor. that we are able to exercise our spiritual churches that are part of a “connectional” There is a point that one’s student loan gifts as fully as possible. system, particularly those in mainline debt will be higher then a new pastor can The challenge for seminarians is denominations. In recent conversations typically afford to repay. Does the seminary developing a financial plan that gives a with fellow UTI classmates — many of have a responsibility to get involved in this realistic picture of what is to come. I am whom are already serving in a ministerial type of planning, or should the institution sure that is a challenge that we can all capacity at their home church — I learned stay out of the conversation altogether and meet head-on. that they do not have the expectation that upon graduation they will be called to a David Hoxter can be reached at [email protected]. church that will pay them a livable wage

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The Future Shape of Theological Education

BY THE REV. DR.WILLIAM B. MOORE

ASAFAITH COMMUNITY, we are at a place where we are experiencing rapid transition. Church as we once knew it is changing rapidly. The stability and consistency that we were once able to rely on is slowly becoming a thing of the past. We no longer live in the days where nuclear families are the norm. Young people seem to be disappearing from the pews. Societal factors have crept into the church and caused us to reevaluate the way we do ministry. The transition we are now experiencing may have contributed to Frederick Schmidt’s article, “Is It Time ToWrite The Eulogy? The Future Shape Of Seminary not as practitioners but as scholars and researchers. As a result, they Education.” Schmidt argues are equipped with the tools that are necessary to function as full- forcefully that seminaries are time academicians, rather than full-time pastors. dying and the Master of Divinity Despite this shift and its obvious consequences in the parish, has lost the credibility it once many mainline denominations have continued to stress the carried. As a seminary graduate necessity of traditional theological education for their clergy. and as a pastor, I strongly disagree In several denominations, one need not consider candidacy for with Schmidt. The benefits of a ordination without first obtaining an MDiv. The consequences quality seminary education are of these faith-based institutions’ consistent reliance on academic evident throughout one’s career. institutions that no longer foster faith may be catastrophic. In fact, Countering the author’s many within the mainstream lines have come to question the value argument, I contend that a of a theological education today. seminary education is more This transition that we are experiencing is indeed shaping the necessary than ever. way we view ministry in the twenty-first century and, in turn, Reflecting upon my seminary shaping how we must train men and women for ministry. In order experience years ago at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at to remain effective in the context in which God has called us to Philadelphia (LTSP), and comparing that experience to my serve, what we define as ministry must be constantly reassessed. observations of the contemporary scene, there has been a shift in There is a multiplicity of needs, and we must be best equipped to focus in many places from praxis and faith learning to theological meet those needs. study. This shift is most visible at mainline seminaries seeking to There is no other place than seminary and no other degree than prepare students for the professorate, rather than the parish. the MDiv for pastoral candidates that will allow us to understand This shift is obviously a change in the direction of many institu- what we do and how we do it through the lens of the Bible. There tions. Previously, seminaries and divinity schools were institutions are many other degrees that will help one be a better business person where people matriculated to be trained in theology and thus enter and a better counselor, but these will not help you to be the best into the parish with the skills that would be necessary in order to well-rounded pastor. Only a seminary education will offer that. effectively minister to God’s people. Theological education was Seminary is a crucial component in ministry as a calling and not set apart from ministerial praxis. The two were linked and as a career. We can adequately and safely wrestle through ministry intertwined, and the seminary’s classrooms were in constant as our vocation. It is within the four walls of the seminary that we conversation with the churches to which their students would are able to come to grips with the calling the Lord has ordained us eventually be called to serve. In this way, Karl Barth’s concept of to fulfill. It is there that we learn to best utilize gifts and talents theology as a secondary language and the church’s vernacular as to carry out responsibilities in the faith community. There is a primary was continually realized. The tangible relationship theological perspective that can only be obtained within the between clergy and the academy was also reflected in the academy’s confines of seminary. There, we can safely and adequately learn professorate; nearly all of whom were former or current pastors. to think theologically about everyday matters that take place Today, however, seminaries’ and divinity schools’ mission is within the church. not about the parish, but academic scholarship. In recent years, the emphasis on theology as a separate discipline has marked a change The author, an LTSP alumnus, is senior pastor at Tenth Memorial in the approach and nature of theological study. Students no longer Baptist Church in North Philadelphia and chair of the Advisory enter into the classroom expecting to leave and one day enter the Committee of the Urban Theological Institute (UTI) at LTSP. pulpit. They now come into the classroom to earn multiple degrees

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GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE move out of the region and go to Europe or North America, where they would feel more secure. What a hard decision. Youth Speaking the Universal Language after youth shared with us that they fear for their personal safety, and struggle to live in of the Gospel the hope and promise of the Gospel and to not be ruled by this fear. But none of these youth was ready to leave. They felt that BY RAY RANKER, MDIV ’11 God was calling them to be there. After all, they said, what kind of witness would it be About a day into my yearlong service church that is to the people of the Middle East if all the in Argentina through the Evangelical currently without Christians left? For the sake of the Gospel, Lutheran Church in America’s a full time pastor. they must stay. (ELCA) young adult in global mission I quickly learned After their moving testimony, I had the program, I realized I did not know that, although opportunity to talk further with one of Spanish. I had studied it for years, I was completely these Lebanese Christians. She reminded beginning in the sixth grade and on fascinated by me that struggle between fear and the through my final year of college. what I learned Gospel playing out in their lives is not Sure, I knew some of the grammar and in lectures at something unique to Middle Eastern vocabulary and could read a bit, but I did The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Christians. It is something that Christians not know how to speak Spanish or how Philadelphia, (LTSP), teaching college everywhere are struggling with. It is not to really understand its basic and essential students with that same style quickly puts easy to be a Christian in any culture, skills when it comes to communicating in them to sleep, and they will not bother especially, as she said, in a culture like another language. to come back. North America, where money, power, That year, being immersed in the Enticing the students to come to our and military might rule the day. culture and language, I slowly became Lutheran student group at UMD using What the students at UMD shared more comfortable communicating in my food will only go so far. How can we lift up seems to be consistent with her analysis. second language. And not only that, I also the good news of Jesus Christ in a way that These students have said, as they try to managed to learn more about English in will not put them to sleep? How can we be humble and to serve others, they are that one year than I had in my previous communicate with these students and tell getting the message on a lot of levels that decades in school (with apologies to my our story, the story of Christ, when we are they have to think only about themselves English teachers). competing with so many other stories and prop themselves up. With the I am quite sure that my experiences with that, frankly, have nice jingles and flashy competitive job market today, they are a foreign language are not unique. Many commercials (compared to our boring fliers constantly told their classmates are not of us learn things in the classroom, but and below average web site)? friends, but competitors. when we get out in the world, we find we For the last seven years, I have had the An attitude of suspicion toward our have trouble communicating those things. privilege of serving on Echos, the World neighbor and even strangers should not After being in a seminary or on internship Council of Churches commission on be the norm. Several years ago, while working in a church for the last four years, young adults. With 24 other young volunteering at a home for street kids in how can I communicate with the people adults from around the world and across Arusha, Tanzania, I led them to a nearby in my new context? How can I talk about confessional lines, we have met every field to play soccer. Upon arriving, I Jesus and faith in a way that makes sense year-and-a-half. Our last meeting, which noticed a Lutheran church nearby. During to someone who has not taken Biblical concluded at the end of October 2011, was halftime, all sweaty and in a t-shirt and Hebrew or Koine Greek? How can I learn held at a Roman Catholic monastery shorts, I wandered into the church. Inside from being immersed in a language and outside of Beirut, Lebanon. As part of our the evangelist told me they were about to culture other than my own? experience, we met many local Christians, have a worship service, and that I must Seven months after my ordination, I am including regional leaders in the World come. Underdressed, smelly, and with learning how to communicate. This crash Student Christian Federation from white skin, I stuck out like a sore thumb. course has certainly included some crashes. Lebanon and Syria. They shared with us As it came time for the offering, a young In my first call I am serving as the Lutheran their experiences of what it is like to be a girl next to me leaned over and asked if Campus Pastor at the University of Christian in the Middle East at this time. I had any money for the offering. Having Maryland (UMD), while also providing The question that each of them wrestles just come from the soccer field, I was pastoral care at Good Samaritan Lutheran with today is whether they should stay in penniless. She reached in her pocket, took Church in Lanham, Maryland, a nearby their homeland or whether they should out some money, and gave it to me. continued on next page

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Speaking the Universal TWO FACULTY PERSPECTIVES Language of the Gospel continued from page 19 The Hunger Crisis: A “Walking the

I walked up with the rest of the con- Walk” PublicTheology Approach gregation and dropped something in the offering plate. BY DR. KATIE DAY, CHARLES A. SCHEIREN PROFESSOR, CHURCH AND Not only did she give me some- SOCIETY; DIRECTOR, METROPOLITAN/URBAN CONCENTRATION thing to offer to God and the church on that day, but she also gave me Public theology, as is well known, is the The situation continued to get worse another gift that continues to affect organizing paradigm of the curriculum at and our commitment continued to deepen. me to this day. She taught me a little LTSP. But public theology is not just Last spring, in addition to the City Soup more about the kingdom of heaven, academic — something we teach in the journey, we held a Prayer Breakfast at about what it means to communicate classroom and read about in the library. LTSP, thanks to a grant from Thrivent God’s love. And, thanks to her gift, I Public theology is what we do as well. Financial for Lutherans. Over 150 faith will share her story and her example, As tough as the recession has been on leaders came and were led in prayer by hoping it will help others understand churches and seminaries, it has been harder Christian, Jewish, and Muslim clergy. the good news. for the poor. One congressional district in Mayor Nutter and Congressman Chaka Being in an ecumenical and indeed our city has become the “second hungriest” Fattah attended. Our speaker for the day interfaith setting, and in a global for two years now. As unemployment and was Joel Berg, a nationally known hunger context, immerses us in a language poverty rise, our neighbors increasingly advocate from New York. There will be a of faith. People around the world, cannot afford to eat — approaching one in Prayer Breakfast this spring — 2012 through their stories, have taught me three people in Philadelphia now. Interfaith Prayer Breakfast: Hungry for how to communicate the good news In response to this crisis, a few of us at Justice — Friday, April 20, at 8:00 am at with those here in my context. LTSP quickly organized a project called LTSP. Please visit Ltsp.edu/PrayerBreakfast Experiencing God, the church, and City Soup in the winter of 2010. Diane for more information and to register. the world on a global scale only helps Loucks (a recent LTSP graduate and This past fall we continued our efforts us to do this, as interactions with hunger activist), Marissa Krey (from to resource the faith-based community those with different theologies help LAMPa), and I developed a pilot program about the crisis of hunger in our region. us to understand our own theology as with others, including representatives from There are many churches that have food we learn more about who God is. NIM (Neighborhood Interfaith Move- pantries and soup kitchens — over 700 The stories of the saints help us to ment), EMAN (East Mt. Airy Neighbors), throughout the city. (The numbers of think about our own story and the Presbytery of Philadelphia, the Hunger those relying on these efforts have tripled remind us of the church universal, Coalition, and the Archdiocese of Phila- in the last few years.) These faithful which transcends all time and place. delphia. City Soup is an educational congregations are reaching the limits of resource for congregations to spend six their capacity, however. We look to our Pastor Ray Ranker is a 2011 weeks learning about hunger, sharing a public leaders therefore, to develop policies graduate of LTSP from Reisterstown, simple meal, praying together, and taking that will coordinate non-profit efforts and Maryland, currently serving as action. Although we originally intended ensure that nutritious, affordable food is Lutheran Campus Pastor at the this to be a Lenten journey, we learned accessible to all in our city. University of Maryland. He can be that those from other traditions were also We also sponsored the “Orange Card reached at [email protected] or interested. The first year, over 30 groups Campaign,” in which we distributed on Facebook. participated, setting aside funds that would 30,000 bright orange postcards that were have been used for their normal dinners delivered to Mayor Nutter, calling for new, and contributing $4,000 to local feeding effective food policies to be put in place. programs. They also walked in the Walk On campus, we had a One Seminary against Hunger, and sent letters — One Book initiative, with the whole hundreds of them — to legislators asking community reading Exodus from Hunger for more permanent solution-oriented by David Beckmann (President of Bread policies to be put into place. for the World). The author led a convocation at LTSP this past February.

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Left: Leaders involved in hunger advocacy include, from left, Diane Loucks, MAR ‘09, Marissa Harris Krey, MDiv ‘08, and Prof. Katie Day.

Bottom left: Prof. Karyn Wiseman discusses the origins of food served at LTSP with Robert Wilson, a seminary food services employee.

In September, 2011, we held a preaching BY DR. KARYN L.WISEMAN, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF HOMILETICS; workshop led by Prof. Wiseman and DIRECTOR OF UNITED METHODIST STUDIES Diane Loucks, equipping participants to Public Theology is at the heart of all we do at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at preach about hunger on World Food Day Philadelphia (LTSP). We teach and model for our students a theology that walks and talks (October 16, 2011) and beyond. Students both in the pulpit and in public in profound and important ways. In our classrooms we and clergy took advantage of the workshop want our lessons — regardless of the subject matter — to be lived in our students, in our and the word is spreading: more and more own and in their communities, in our congregations, and in our wider world. This kind of of our sisters and brothers are “food insecure.” public engagement is a hallmark of what we do at LTSP. Our own website states, “Centered As people of faith, we are called to feed in the Gospel of the crucified and risen Christ, LTSP forms leaders for public ministry.” those who are hungry, as if they were Jesus Your time here as students will prepare you to be a Christian public leader. Whether your (Matt. 25). City Soup is striving to equip call is to care for the dying, advocate for those who have no voice, lead a congregation congregations to work both faithfully and struggling to meet the needs of a rapidly changing community, teach, preach, or be about the effectively for food justice so that all may work of the Gospel in any way.” This is what we have centered our work on and it is a core be fed. We are grateful to both the ELCA value we honor. and Presbyterian Hunger Programs for One area of theological engagement that we have spent significant time addressing over their support. We hope you will join us! the past year has been the issue of poverty and hunger. In spring 2011, a Hunger Breakfast For more information, go to was held on our campus inviting persons from throughout the wider Philadelphia com- hungercoalition.org/citysoup. munity to come together to address the startling fact that one in four Philadelphians is food insecure. (go to Ltsp.edu.PrayerBreakfast for information on this year’s Prayer Breakfast being held April 20, 2012) That means that 360,000 people, 108,000 of whom are children, have to skip meals due to a lack of money and resources. One of the events that sprang from that meeting was the September 23, 2011 workshop on Preaching and Justice, also held on our campus. This event trained area preachers to address the issues of poverty and hunger from the pulpit on World Food Day, October 16, 2011. The participants spent time discussing what it means to preach the Good News with a hurting and hungry world from a framework of justice. The partnership between LTSP, LAMPa (lutheranadvocacypa.org/) and City Soup to hold this training event is just the type of public leadership we are about. City Soup’s work on the issue of hunger and poverty is known throughout the community. Their own website hungercoalition.org/citysoup provides a wide variety of resources, including a video, hunger data, a weekly congregational study guide, and other materials to help interested persons get involved. Hunger is an issue that we as a country have tackled in the past and once had nearly wiped out of existence. If hunger and poverty are top priorities for us to eradicate — we have to walk and talk that into reality. Being an advocate for those who have no voice is what we are led to do. Being a public leader on issues that affect so many in our communities in adverse ways is what we are called to do as Christians. Spend time preaching and teaching about this issue — and together we can change the world for the better. PSSPRING 2012 Ltsp.edu 21 PSWinter12_Q7 REV:PS master template 4/2/12 3:24 PM Page 22

An Exhaustive Self-Study: Why?

BY DR. DAVID D. GRAFTON, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, ISLAMIC The current Self-Study has STUDIES AND CHRISTIAN-MUSLIM RELATIONS AND DIRECTOR OF focused upon the theme of GRADUATE STUDIES; SELF-STUDY DIRECTOR “change.”If anything is true in the world of theological education it is that “change” The Lutheran Theological Seminary at AN EXHAUSTIVELYTHOROUGH is the new normal. The Philadelphia (LTSP) has been involved in PROCESS a two-year evaluation process under my The steps to arrive at the Self-Study dramatic changes in our supervision. The purpose of this “Self- have been exhaustive. Following an intro- North American society Study” is for LTSP to comply with an ductory training period with ATS and over the last 10 years have accreditation process undertaken every MSCHE, a 10-person steering committee 10 years to evaluate its mission of higher representing all these constituencies has affected the way education is education. This is done through the kept the process on track over most of undertaken, the way teachers Association of Theological Schools (ATS) the two years. In March 2010, a public teach, the way students learn, and the Middle States Commission on convocation was convened to apprise the and the way institutions Higher Education (MSCHE). These community of the purpose and plan of the accrediting agencies visited the campus Self-Study, as well as its goals. A Self-Study evaluate their effectiveness. March 4-7, 2012. web page was created on the LTSP website This Self-Study has been an institution- in order to provide public information wide endeavor involving more than 60 regarding the process (Ltsp.edu/selfstudy). persons (students, staff, administration, The Steering Committee next invited By March 2011 the final reports from faculty, board members, and alumni). Six approximately 60 persons to serve on the working groups were compiled into an working groups were organized to respond six different working groups to assure Executive Summary of the Self-Study, to particular questions about our mutual adequate representation, according to ATS which was presented to the Board of life and mission as an institution and to and MSCHE standards. Updates to the Trustees at its April 2011 meeting, which provide a report for the Self-Study Steering community on our progress were reported spent time discussing some of the initial Committee. These six working groups are: each term to the to the student body, staff findings of the Self-Study. In June 2011 the and faculty. The Board received formal working groups officially concluded their • Educational Assessment reports of the Self-Study process at each of work and were disbanded. • Faculty and Administration its meetings in April 2010, October 2010, In October 2011 a final report, nearing • Information Resources April 2011, and October 2011. 100 pages, was presented to the Board of • Institutional Mission and Integrity The working groups were provided Trustees. Once passed by the Board the • Institutional Resources Mandates and Research Questions to document will be shared with the com- • Student Services answer based upon the ATS and MSCHE munity and placed on the seminary website Standards within their area of seminary for public view. life. Each group was provided a platform The document was forwarded to the on a seminary-wide Blackboard Site in accrediting agencies in December 2011 order to store and share documents. The in preparation for the accreditation visit working groups worked in different styles, in March 2012. some assigning questions on an individual basis, others working together as a com- mittee of the whole, and others using the Blackboard Site as a discussion board for conversation.

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Prof. David Grafton: Seminary is enduring “dramatic changes.”

THEME OFTHE SELF-STUDY The current Self-Study has focused upon the theme of “change.” If anything is true in the world of theological education it is that “change” is the new normal. The dramatic changes in our North American society over the last 10 years have affected the way education is undertaken, the way teachers teach, the way students learn, and the way institutions evaluate their effectiveness. The dramatic changes in affordable technology have provided ever-shifting expectations about the availability of and access to information. The dramatic changes in the church in North America, especially among LTSP…educates and forms public the “mainstream” denominations, have tested traditional residential long-term theological education. The dramatic changes in the leaders who are committed to Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) have led to developing and nurturing individual the loss of subsidized theological education and higher debt of believers and communities of faith graduates. These dramatic changes have all impacted LTSP in ways unthinkable 10 years ago. Tothis end, this Self-Study has focused for engagement in the world. upon the question, “What is our mission in the midst of the changing landscape of the church and theological education in North America?” Reduced income from traditional ecclesiastical partners, LTSP is situated in the midst of dramatic changes within the increased debt load of students, and an unstable world economy church and theological education. As noted in one working group have prompted the seminary to engage in a review of its fundraising report, much of the work that was done over the past few years has and the school has embarked on ambitious efforts. anticipated these massive changes and is responding to those As a seminary of the church, LTSP has worked hard at remaining challenges. A new mission statement (see sidebar by Sara E. Lilja, firmly within its Lutheran heritage while being inherently ecu- page 14) and an anticipated new curriculum driven by this mission menical. The continued strength of the Urban Theological Institute statement will serve the institution well. With a diverse student (UTI), the hiring of faculty from different denominational back- body, invested in high quality theological education and ecumenical grounds, partnership with a local Anglican diocese and the United engagement, and a committed faculty, LTSP has the core of an Methodist Church, and a diverse student body, demonstrate both exciting and effective place of teaching, learning, and research. the commitment and the ability of the seminary to engage in The campus and its resources have proven to be a major asset critical, free inquiry within an engaging, exciting, and supporting for recruiting students, maintaining a quality campus life, and community of teaching, learning and research. LTSP currently serving the educational needs of both the institution and the local educates and forms public leaders who are committed to developing community. With the library situated next to The Brossman and nurturing individual believers and communities of faith for Center, the seminary provides roots in its historical legacy as well engagement in the world and will continue this ministry into as its commitment to twenty-first century education. Teaching the future. technology will require continued investment in IT infrastructures to maintain a high quality learning experience. An ever-increasing amount of financial, state, federal, and accrediting regulations regarding everything from academic guidelines to liability issues has undoubtedly put pressure on the private institutions, and will continue to do so in the future.

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ALUMNI NEWS

LTSP Alumnus Steve Jensen finds a Wounded Warriors Ministry in Retirement PHOTO COURTESY STEVE JENSEN. on their medical, mind, body, spirit, “I take about a dozen with the most relationship issues, but also building trust,” severe PTSD each quarter for a retreat to a Jensen explained. “They come to my home neighbor island,” Jensen explained. “The regularly for a cookout and discussion, United Service Organization and Armed finding it a safe place where people don’t Services YMCA help underwrite the costs ask probing or uncomfortable questions. of lodging and transportation, while Lihue There aren’t large crowds, and no loud Lutheran (Church, Kawai) for example, noises startle them. uses its contacts or funds to provide “Since I didn’t have access to any funds recreational activities and meals. LCH to help with emergent needs, the Lutheran provides free tickets to church/symphony Church of Honolulu (LCH) established concerts and St. John (Lutheran Church, LTSP alumnus and retired U.S. Navy Chaplain a discretionary account, and with local Kailua) cooks at barbecues and provides Steve Jensen enjoys a visit in Hawaii with First Lady Michelle Obama, who was on hand to support I was able to create Friends of secretarial support for me. Prince of Peace encourage Wounded Warriors in Hawaii that Windward Wounded Warriors,” Jensen (Lutheran Church, Waikiki) paid for the Jensen ministers to as a volunteer chaplain. continued. Local church conference lay Thanksgiving meal at my home. Other members help as mentors, he noted, pro- churches have gathered materials for care IT BEGAN A YEAR AGO WITH A vide intern positions at their businesses, packages to the units from which these REQUEST FROM A FORMER OFFICER host monthly barbecue meals at the Marines and Sailors came, still fighting in in charge of a Wounded Warriors ministry barracks, invite individuals and small Afghanistan. And on it goes. in Hawaii. groups to sail, fish, and play golf, sponsor “Because I am also greatly concerned Would retired U.S. Navy Chaplain family days at places like Wet ’N Wild, about what happens to them after they are Steve Jensen, an alumnus of The Lutheran and more. discharged, I am now a member of the Theological Seminary at Philadelphia “In turn, the Wounded Warriors enjoy Veterans Administration’s Institutional (LTSP), provide pastoral counseling to a giving back to the community by painting Review Board, at which we scrutinize couple having a particularly difficult time out graffiti or doing beach clean-ups, all new programs and services being with the husband’s IED wounds, traumatic bringing their service dogs to encourage developed for veterans and their families,” brain injury, Post Traumatic Stress children to read, or allow homeless kids Jensen said. “I have agreed to be a Navy Disorder (PTSD), and coping with a in a local program to pet them,” Jensen League board member beginning in dozen or more medications? continued. “They send notes and Christ- January so I can further develop contacts “There was no funding for a chaplain’s mas gifts to Silver Springs-Martin Luther and resources for the detachment. position,” Jensen explained. “However, I School (located near LTSP in Plymouth Slowing down in retirement? What’s quickly was embraced by the patients and Meeting, Pennsylvania), assist with Special that? As Jensen puts it, “It seems I have families I met — hungry for someone to Olympics or Veteran Paralympic games; been given a second chance at ministry help them deal with spiritual issues you and much more. Friends, churches, and for which all other military and civilian might expect: Why was God AWOL when strangers contribute to the fund so Jensen experience and training has equipped me. I was injured and my friends killed? Why can buy new baby items, provide work I don’t want to squander a day of this did the best of us die and I was kept alive? clothes for internships, sponsor a date opportunity, so I go at it ‘all ahead full.’ As Is there a purpose for me to be here? night for two couples a month, celebrate a friend said, I want to be all used up when “I spend a great deal of time encour- birthdays with cake and ice cream, and the my time comes, and I can’t think of a better aging them (Wounded Warriors) to work like,” Jensen said. way to expend myself in service to others.”

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classNOTES ALUMNI UPDATES The Rev. Ray Ranker ‘11 The Rev. Nancy Beckwith ‘09 Ordained August 21, 2011, Memorial Chapel at Installed October 17, 2011, Pastor of Zion The Rev. Lena Warren ‘08 the University of Maryland, College Park, MD Lutheran Church, Oxford, MA Installed June 12, 2011, pastor, Immanuel Called to serve as Lutheran campus pastor Lutheran and Salem Lutheran Churches, at University of Maryland. NEW ADDITIONS Naugatuck, CT The Rev. Deborah Stein ‘11 The Revs.Taryn Montgomery ‘11 and The Rev. JoAnna Novak Patterson ‘09 Ordained September 17, 2011, St. Paul’s Christoph Schmidt ‘11 announce the birth of Installed June 5, 2011, associate pastor, Lutheran Church,Torrington, CT Magdalene Esther Montgomery Schmidt ‘36 St. Philip’s Lutheran Church, Wilmington, DE on October 15, 2011.The name Magdalene is Installed October 9, 2011, pastor, St. Stephen inspired by Christoph’s maternal grand- The Rev. Lorraine Peterson ‘09 Lutheran Church, Syracuse NY mother and byTaryn’s favorite biblical lady, Ordained September 17, 2011, St. Paul’s and Esther forTaryn’s maternal grandmother. Lutheran Church,Torrington, CT The Rev. Keith Walbolt ‘11 Maggie’s parents serve in the Minot, ND area. Ordained August 6, 2011, University Lutheran The Rev. Carla Rush ‘09 Church, Gainesville, FL Ordained September 18, 2011, First Lutheran Called to serve as pastor at Lutheran Ministry Church, Dayton, OH in Christ of Coral Springs, FL Visit Ltsp.edu/alumni-news for more alumni news! Called to serve Bethany Lutheran Church, Kaleva, MI CHANGE OF CALL ALUMNI UPDATES: Please keep us up to date on ministry calls, ordinations, and The Rev. Bradley Burke ‘10 The Rev. June E. Bair ‘06 other alumni news to be included in Ordained May 2, 2011,Timothy Lutheran Installed, June 12, 2011, Pastor, Zion Lutheran upcoming issues of PS by emailing Ellen Church, Ashton, PA Church, Womelsdorf PA Anderson, at [email protected]. Called to serve as associate pastor at St. Michael Lutheran, Unionville, PA

The Rev.Tim Garman ‘10 Spring Convocation 2012 Ordained October 23, 2011, Allegheny Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mohnton, PA The LutheranTheological Seminary at Philadelphia Called to serve as chaplain/ campus pastor, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Center, Allentown, PA

The Rev. James Goodyear ‘10 Installed, June 31, 2011, pastor,Trinity Tuesday andWednesday, May 1 and 2, 2012 Lutheran Church, Fort Washington, PA Ltsp.edu/convocation2012 The Rev. Kevin O’Hara ‘10 Ordained June 3, 2011, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, NewYork City, NY Class reunions (Classes ending in “2” or “7”) will be held from Called to serve on the pastoral staff at 3:00-5:00 pm in The Brossman Center on Tuesday, May 1. St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, NYC Alumni reception, Easter Vespers, and the annual The Rev. James Smith ’10 Alumni Banquet will follow. Appointed October 6, 2011 as chaplain at Wagner College, located atop Grymes Hill in the NewYork City borough of Staten Island. Toregister: Ltsp.edu/convocation2012 OR The Rev. George W. Dietrich ‘11 call 215.248.7301. Ordained September 18, 2011,Trinity Episcopal Cathedral,Trenton, NJ Called to serve as pastor at Ascension Lutheran Church, Haddon Heights, NJ To vote for Alumni Association Board members: The Rev. Christopher Halverson ‘11 Ordained September 18, 2011,Trinity 1. Go to Ltsp.edu/ convocation12award to vote online Episcopal Cathedral,Trenton, NJ 2. Call the Rev. Ellen Anderson at 215.248.7301 Installed October 2, 2011 as pastor, Saint Stephen Lutheran Church, South Plainfield, NJ

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NEWSNOTES

FACULTY/STAFF ACTIVITIES

DR. KATIE DAY DR. DAVID D. GRAFTON Islamic Environment of the shop at Immanuel Lutheran The Charles A. Scheiren Associate Professor, Islamic Middle East,” Islam and Christian Church, Philadelphia; March Professor, Church and Society; Studies and Christian-Muslim Muslim Relations 22:3; “The 2011 “Hospitality and the Bible,” Director, Metropolitan/Urban Relations and Director of Word Made Book — Translating four-week Adult Forum, Upper Concentration Graduate Studies the Van Dyck Arabic Translation Dublin Lutheran Church, June 2011 presented lecture at a PARTICIPATION June 2011 of the Bible and Arab Christian Ambler, PA LECTURER conference on Global Public “Muslims in America,” Temple Views of Wahy” in Jesus and April 2011 “The Antikythera Theology in Bamberg, Germany Lutheran Church, Pennsauken, the Incarnation: Reflection of Mechanism, the Bible and the entitled: “Gun Violence in the New Jersey; September 2011 Christians from Islamic Contexts Cross,” Inaugural Lecture as U.S.: the Challenge to Public “Radical, Reformed, and by David Singh, ed. (Oxford: first recipient of the John H.P. Theology”; July 2011 led seminars Progressive Islam,” Upper Dublin Regnum Books, 2011). Reumann Chair in Biblical for clergy and lay leaders for two Lutheran Church; “9/11 Studies,” LTSP. days on “Gun Violence, Gospel Interfaith Dialogue,” Wissahickon DR. ERIK M. HEEN Values” at the national gathering Interfaith Clergy Association John H.P. Reumann Chair DR. JON PAHL of the Presbyterian Church PAPER July 2011 “For God and in Biblical Studies Professor, History of Christianity (USA), an event called “The Big Which Country?: Lutheran PARTICIPANT October 2011 in North America; Director, Tent” in Indianapolis; October Pietists and their role in the “Word Alive: Planning the Future MA Programs 2011 presented paper at meeting nineteenth-century Anglican of the Book of Faith Initiative,” March/April 2011 Invited by The of Society for the Scientific Study Mission Societies in the midst ELCA National Church Head- Fountain Magazine to go on world of Religion in Milwaukee entitled: of the ‘Eastern Question,’ 1825- quarters, Chicago, IL; August tour of sorts, with lecture stops “After Tucson: the Mobilization 1898”,Aram Conference: Western 2011 “2011 Convocation of in Tirana, Albania; Singapore; of Communities of Faith in Missions in the Levant, Oriental Teaching Theologians: Sources Jakarta, Indonesia; Kuala Lumpur, Responding to Gun Violence”; Institute, University of Oxford of Authority in the Church: Malaysia; and Melbourne and November 2011 presented papers PUBLICATIONS May/June Lutheran Traditions in North Sydney, Australia. While in at AAR in San Francisco, “The 2011 “German Lutherans and American Contexts,” Gustavus Sydney, was interviewed on ABC new Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works, Assimilation: Lessons in the Adolphus College, St. Peter, MN. Radio (the Australian Broad- English Edition, as a Teaching Current Atmosphere of Islamo- PRESENTER September 2011 casting Corporation) on the topic Tool” and “Public Theology and phobia,” The Journal of Lutheran “The Movie Babe: Romans 12 of his recent book, Empire of the ‘Post-Secular’ Condition: Ethics (elca.org/What-We- and the Transformative Role of Sacrifice: The Religious Origins of Politics, Pluralism, and Public Believe/Social-Issues/Journal-of- Christian Civility,” Dinner and American Violence; May 2011 Discourse”; continue work Lutheran-Ethics/Issues/May-June a Movie, Emanuel Lutheran lecture at Cambridge University, on Faith on the Avenue, to be -2011/German-Lutherans-and- Church, Hartford; June 2011 England “In Guns We Trust: published by Oxford University Assimilation.aspx#_ednref11); “The Gospel of Matthew,” two- American Civil Religion and Press next year. July 2011 “Defining the term week Adult Forum, Upper Dublin Violence”; June 2011 appeared at Jihād in the Arabic New Testa- Lutheran Church, Ambler, PA; the Rumi Forum in Washington, DR. WIL GAFNEY ment: Contested Arab Christian May 2011 “The Interpretation of DC, where he was interviewed for Associate Professor of Biblical Identity Within the Contemporary the Bible in the ELCA,” Work- television show dedicated to his Hebrew and Jewish and book Empire; keynote speaker at Christian Scripture Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod On sabbatical as Scholar/Priest-in- of the ELCA’s Assembly, “Malls, Residence at All Saints Episcopal Muhlenberg, and Mission”; July Church in the Episcopal Diocese 2011 studied Turkish and lived of Hawaii. Completed two-month in Istanbul, Turkey, conducting Scholar’s Program at the Tantur research for two book projects; Ecumenical Institute in Jerusalem. published a chapter entitled Published blog on time in Israel: “Homicide and American Reli- http://jerusalem40daysnights.blo gion,” in Religion, Death, and gspot.com. Spent time with LTSP- Dying, ed. Lucy Bregman; Reconstructionist Rabbinical continues active as co-chair of College (RRC) students there. the American Academy of Religions Group on “Religions, Social Conflict, and Peace,” and as saxophonist for “The Groove Dr.Wil Gafney in front Daemons.” of All Saints Episcopal Church in Kapaa, Hawaii.

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DR. STORM SWAIN Associate Professor, Pastoral Care andTheology; Director DR. NELSON RIVERA of Anglican Studies Associate Professor, Systematic Theology and Hispanic Ministry; Published Trauma and Transformation at Ground Zero: A Director, Latino Concentration Pastoral Theology (Augsburg Fortress, August 2011). From July/August 2011 taught course personal interviews with chaplains at the temporary on “The Christian Faith and the mortuary at Ground Zero and her own experiences as an Philosophical Life” for the Sum- Episcopal priest, psychotherapist, and chaplain, Dr. Storm mer Academy of Theological Swain offers a new model of pastoral care grounded in Education with Youth (TEY) theology and practice. at the Lutheran Theological Reflecting on experiences of suffering faced in ministry, Seminary at Gettysburg. Swain considers what it means to love in these instances and what is involved in ministering in these contexts. Within DR. QUINTIN L. ROBERTSON this model, caregivers can move from a place of trauma to a Director, UrbanTheological place of transformation, which enables wholeness and Institute (UTI) healing for both caregivers and those for whom they care. Implemented annual UTI Lecture and Worship Celebration each fall and will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of Preaching with Power this spring due to the success of UTI’s 30th anniversary DR.TIMOTHY J. WENGERT DR. KARYN L. WISEMAN celebration. Ministerium of Pennsylvania Assistant Professor of Professor, Reformation History Homiletics; Director of United DR. J. JAYAKIRAN SEBASTIAN April 2011 presented paper, Methodist Studies H. George Anderson Professor “Philip Melanchthon and John April 2011 preached at ELCA of Mission and Cultures; Calvin’s Reaction to Andreas Region 7 Regional Assignments; Director, Multicultural Mission Osiander” for the North Ameri- May 2011 preached for Alumni Resource Center; Seminary can Luther Conference; preached Gathering at LTSP; June 2011 Chaplain at Trinity Episcopal Church, speaker on Church Planting at PUBLICATIONS “The Guide Moorestown, NJ, on one of the The Wild Goose Festival in North Who Stands Aside: Confessing 28, No. 1 (2011), pp. 26 – 53; seven last words; May 2011 Carolina; July 2011 Fellowship Christ in India Today,” in Asian ENGAGEMENTS April 2011 presented overview of Henry participant in Wabash Institute’s and Oceanic Christianities in “Christian Hospitality and Melchior Muhlenberg’s life at Pre-Tenure Seminary Faculty Conversation: Exploring Theolo- Pastoral Practices in a Multifaith St. Daniel’s, Robesonia; June 2011 Colloquia, Crawfordsville, IN; gical Identities at Home and in Society,”organized by The Associa- Led study of what it means to be July/August 2011 preached at Diaspora, eds., Heup Young Kim, tion of Theological Schools, Hyatt Lutheran for the ELCA East Christ Lutheran Church in Upper Fumitaka Matsuoka, and Anri Regency Pittsburgh Airport Central Synod of Wisconsin in Darby, PA; August 2011 preached Morimoto, Studies in World Hotel; participant and panelist, Appleton, WI; July 2011 key- at The Village Church in Oledo, Christianity and Interreligious World Catholicism Week, “The note speech on Henry Melchior OH; September 2011 Workshop Relations Vol. 47 (Amsterdam and Discourse of Catholicity,” DePaul Muhlenberg for German-American on Preaching and Hunger at New York: Rodopi, 2011), pp. University, Chicago, IL; panel Museum in Washington, DC; LTSP; Commentary, Westminster 135 – 148; “Intertwined presentation on “Catholicity September 2011 workshop on John-Knox Lectionary Commen- Interaction: Reading Gregory of in the Fathers of the Church,” Henry Melchior Muhlenberg at tary Series, Feasting on the Word, Nazianzus Amidst Interreligious entitled “Interrogating Relevance LTSP’s celebration of the 300th Vol. XII. (Homiletical Commen- Realities in India,” in William F. — Reaching Back in order to anniversary of his birth; tary on: “Joshua 24: 1-3a, 14-25;” Storrar, Peter J. Casarella, and Move Forward”; panel presenta- September/October 2011 visited “Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18;” and Paul Louis Metzger, eds., A World tion entitled “Public Theology in Strasbourg, France at the “Ezekiel 34: 11-16, 20-24.”); Arti- for All? Global Civil Society in a Multicultural Context,” at book Ecumenical Institute for meeting cle, “Bridging the Gap: Creating Political Theory and Trinitarian presentation — A World For All? of an international team of Intimate Preaching Encounters Theology (Grand Rapids, MI and Global Civil Society in Political Lutheran and Roman Catholic in Spaces That Separate Us,” Cambridge, U.K.: Eerdmans, Theory and Trinitarian Theology; scholars who will produce an Encounter, Fall 2011. 2011), pp. 162 – 177; “The May/June 2011 faculty mentor, ecumenical commentary on the Baptism of Death: Rereading the Asian Theological Summer 95 Theses. Life and Death of Lakshmi Institute 2011, LTSP. Kaundinya,” Mission Studies, Vol.

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NEWSNOTES

PASSAGES Death of Ellen Harper McGarr saddens many The Rev.VirginiaThomas, MAR ’78 at LTSP; but her memory recalls much joy The Rev. Virginia Thomas, (MAR, ’78) died April Ellen Harper McGarr died at home in 30, 2011. One of the first women to be ordained a Boise, Idaho last April 15 after a struggle deacon in the Episcopal Church and the founder of with cancer. She was 50. McGarr was the the Dolphins Program of the Merion Deanery in the seminary’s original coordinator of student Diocese of Pennsylvania was born in Utica, New services, a position she held beginning in York, on November 22, 1917. She graduated from 1999 for a brief period, but those who Cornell University, majoring in French, in 1938, experienced her capable skills first-hand will received an MAR from The Lutheran Theological likely best remember her for her wit and Seminary at Philadelphia in 1978, and was ordained engaging personality tinged with a hint of by the Rt. Rev. Lyman Ogilby that same year. From southern drawl and charm. 1979 to 1988, she led the Dolphins Program, a Much of McGarr’s humor could be expressed at her own visitation ministry of volunteers who call on lonely expense. In an obituary she wrote for the Idaho Statesmen last people in nursing homes and become their one-on-one companions. April 21 she tells of moving to Philadelphia to attend seminary to Upon her retirement in 1988, she and her husband moved to rural prepare for ordained ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran Church Vermont, where she continued to serve as a deacon at St. Matthew’s, in America. “She managed a few semesters before realizing what a Enosburg Falls. Until a month before her death, she regularly preached terrible mistake she had made. Miss McGarr quit full-time study, sermons that were known for their good humor, sound theology, and but stayed at the seminary to work as a staff member and attend thoughtful insights into family life and the world around her. classes part time. This enabled her to remain a part of the seminary She is survived by three children from her marriage of sixty-eight years, community she enjoyed so much while still quitting something. and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Quitting was an activity she had come to love and would enjoy for the rest of her life.” IN MEMORIAM Ellen, better known as Harper in recent years, actually began her seminary career with studies at LTSP’s old New York Center during LTSP alumnus The Rev. Karl Schneider (MDiv) died February 7, 2012. In the 1994-95 academic year. She took one course there. In the fall addition to being a pastor, he was a teacher and coach, and served the of 1995 she enrolled on the Philadelphia campus of LTSP and community, synod, and greater church in his work on addictions. His teaching completed one full semester, but continued to take classes from included German language and English as a second language, and he was a time to time before she withdrew in 2001. German visitation pastor. In the meantime, she began working for the seminary. “She John H. Schneidmiller, 82, of Cabot, PA, formerly of Butler, passed away on was so darned engaging and helpful that we liked having her Aug. 9, 2011, in the Good Samaritan Hospice in Cabot, PA. He was an alumnus around,” explained René Diemer, LTSP’s Registrar, a McGarr of Capital University class of 1950, and LTSP class of 1953. administrative colleague. McGarr wore many hats at LTSP. The Rev. Stephen Paul Gerhard, 65, died Friday, May 20, 2011, in Winston- When Mark Staples arrived in July, 1997 to become director of Salem, his home for the past 16 years. He graduated from Thiel College in communications, he found McGarr filling in most capably as the Greenville, PA, where he met his wife of 42 years, Barbara Jeanne Foreman interim director. McGarr next became an assistant to the director Gerhard. Pastor Gerhard received his MDiv from LTSP and a Master of Theology of admissions and provided backup administrative support to the from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He served his internship (during which President’s Office. In what Diemer called “the mass retirement of time he became the church’s full-time pastor) at Lord God of Sabaoth Lutheran Church in Christiansted, St. Croix, USVI. After being ordained in the Western 1999,” President Robert Hughes, Registrar William Shafer, Pennsylvania/West Virginia Synod in 1971, he served at Messiah Lutheran Admissions Director George Keck, and Business Manager Ed Church in Moundsville, WV, then moved to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Schofield, all stepped down. Raleigh, where he was designated a pastor emeritus on May 31, 2009. “Ellen became the first and original coordinator of student Pr. Gerhard retired from Lutheran Church of the Epiphany in 2008, and became services, and I became registrar,” Diemer said. McGarr was part capital campaign director of the Lutheran Services for the Aging for the North of an administrative planning group consisting also of the dean, Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America until March of director of admissions, and registrar. During those years McGarr 2011. Dedicated to his calling to serve, Pr. Gerhard also held various other also headed up an influential hospitality task force appointed by church-related positions. President Hughes to improve seminary practices. The Rev. Ralph R. Hellerich died on October 24, 2011. Following his While in Philadelphia, McGarr met her partner, Judy Troyer. ordination in 1944, Pr. Hellerich served as pastor of St. Timothy Lutheran Church, She writes in her obituary that the two “would share many lovely Philadelphia (1944-1948), and St. John Lutheran Church, Woodbury, NJ (1948- vacations and several questionable real estate transactions.” They 1958). For the rest of his career he served as an editor for various church moved to Idaho in 2002. organizations and offices: the ULCA Board of Parish Education (1958-1960), Luther League (1960-1962), the LCA Board of Parish Education, and later the Division for Parish Services (1963-1982).

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PHILANTHROPY

YES, IT’SANEW NAME. Same people, same phone numbers, but a new name. Why the change? Over the years our work has been described as “fundraising,” then “development,” and more recently, “advancement.” By contrast, the word “philanthropy” may seem a bit abstract, but the meaning is rock solid: “the desire to promote the welfare of others.” Greetings from “Philanthropy” is more about what is at the heart of what you are doing than it is about our work, our the LTSP Office plans, or even our institution. It is gratifying to hear about what our for Philanthropy! donors care about, and we are blessed as we listen to those dreams. The “others” that we hear about in those conversations include: The Church, that it remains strong in its saving mission; The Congregation, that it continues to nurture and serve; The Leaders of the Church, that they preach, teach, and minister boldly; All who are included in this list are strengthened through your The Seminary, that it has resources to carry out its mission; philanthropy, and to those of us in the Office For Philanthropy, there is nothing more satisfying than helping deliver the blessings The Students, that their gifts for ministry will grow in this of your gifts. learning community; So to you, our philanthropist friend, we send our thanks. Feel The Faculty, that they find joy in helping shape lives of free to call or stop by your office at LTSP! meaning and service; Sincerely,

The Rev. John V. Puotinen Vice President for Philanthropy 215.248.6316 [email protected] 2011 ANNUAL REPORT OF DONORS IS NOW ONLINE AT Ltsp.edu/annual report

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PHILANTHROPY

LTSP NAMES YVONNE LEMBO FIRST RECIPIENT OFTHE DR. GROVER C. AND IRMA S. WRIGHT SCHOLARSHIP

YVONNE JONES LEMBO, A THIRD-YEAR Advisor. In this capacity, she SCHOLAR at The Lutheran Theological is devoted to cultivating Seminary at Philadelphia (LTSP), has been strategic relationships in named the first recipient of the Dr. Grover support of LTSP’s Urban

C. and Irma S. Wright Scholarship for Theological Institute (UTI), COURTESYOFJESSEBROWN.COM African American Lutheran Students. which provides resources for The Wright Scholarship Fund was equipping African American established with a $75,000 gift from Irma scholars and Black Church Wright, the widow of African American leaders for twenty-first Lutheran pioneer Grover Wright, who century ministry, and funds persuaded dozens of Black scholars to serve like the Grover and Irma as Lutheran professional leaders. The gift Wright Scholarship.

was made possible through proceeds from Lembo has excelled as a Pictured from left:Yvonne Lembo, with Irma Wright andThe Rev. Dr. the dissolution of the Black Lutheran student. Two years ago she Rudolph Featherstone at the May 1, 2011 celebration. Community Development Corporation was honored with the Karl (BLCDC), a non-profit enterprise founded Elster Wurster Award, recognizing her an opportunity, and a dare’ to minister with in 1987 by Grover Wright to provide academic merit and “promise of ministry.” integrity in new ways and new settings to affordable housing and support services to Sharing her thoughts on receiving the expand the frontiers of the Gospel. When single parent families in order to help them first Grover and Irma Wright Scholarship I’m moving in that direction, I feel their become self-sufficient. This is the single award, Lembo said, “I’m inspired and wind beneath my wings.” largest African American Lutheran gift to deeply, deeply moved by Grover and Irma’s Since the Wright Scholarship was LTSP in its nearly 150-year history. life of faith, courage, hope, perseverance established in 2010, there has been a well- Lembo is a candidate for rostered and humility, and incredible investment spring of support from African American ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran in raising up African American Lutheran Lutherans. A Celebration of Thanksgiving Church in America (ELCA). She joined leaders for the church. Mrs. Wright could Service this past May generated nearly Little Zion Lutheran Church of Telford, have chosen to do many things with the $3,500 in additional gifts for the Grover Pennsylvania, in 2006, and in 2008 began funds she received from the BLCDC. But and Irma Wright Scholarship Fund. Master of Divinity studies at the seminary. she chose to invest in the future of African This past August, New Hope Lutheran As a field education student, Lembo served American Lutheran leaders. I feel as if Church in Jamaica, New York, an African as Vicar at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, God has lavished these gracious gifts — American Lutheran congregation, desig- where the Rev. Dr. Charles Leonard, LTSP of receiving the scholarship and this oppor- nated a gift of nearly $6,000 to the Wright associate professor of Practical Theology, tunity to raise funds for the seminary — Scholarship Fund. is pastor. Leonard also is director of as part of a wonderful plan to extend and In her capacity as Philanthropic Advisor, Contextual Education at LTSP. Recently, enlarge Grover and Irma’s incredible legacy. Lembo has organized a Grover and Irma Lembo assisted Bishop Claire Burkat, of So it’s not only the financial gift, but also Wright Scholarship Fund Task Force to the ELCA’s Southeastern Pennsylvania the Spirit behind the gift that is a blessing follow through with the goal of increasing Synod (SEPA), as pianist and worship to bequeath to each succeeding generation. the Fund from the original $75,000 gift to leader for the Synod’s “God is Doing It’s a vision of hope and promise for the $100,000 or more in 2012. The Task Force Something New” series of three Fall future of African Americans in the includes the Rev. Jessie Brown, Dr. Addie Gatherings. She has served as part of Lutheran Church. It’s an investment in Butler, the Rev. Daniel Shook, and Sister LTSP’s Office for Philanthropy since the future of our communities — to raise Cecilia Wilson, all of whom have been 2009, first as a work-study student, then as up caring qualified leaders who are sensitive longtime friends of Grover and Irma an administrative assistant, and since and responsive to giving a hand up to those Wright and who served on the original October 1, 2011, as a Philanthropic in need. In Grover’s words, it’s ‘a challenge, Scholarship Task Force.

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Lembo is excited about continuing to LTSP RECEIVES “STEWARDS OF ABUNDANCE” GRANT build momentum and support for the FROMTHE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA Wright Scholarship Fund. “The Task Force is working with Dr. Charles Leonard, Larry THE LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT PHILADELPHIA (LTSP) House and, of course, Mrs. Irma Wright, to received a grant from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) produce a short DVD that will tell the entitled “Stewards of Abundance” that has been implemented in the Northeastern Grover and Irma Wright story through Pennsylvania Synod (NEPA) this past fall. This venture is a joint effort of the LTSP footage and photos from Grover’s life and Office for Philanthropy (formerly Advancement) interviews with Irma and several of The Stewards of and Office of Admissions to raise awareness in Grover’s key colleagues and protégés.” Abundance grant congregations of the church’s need for ministry The DVD will be used to invite others leaders, and to increase financial support for students will fund a cadre of to join in the Wrights’ spirit of philan- who answer that call to leadership in the church. thropy and investment in African volunteer visitors The need now is greater than ever. With half American Lutheran leaders. It is scheduled who will visit the ELCA clergy at retirement age, the rising cost to be ready this spring and to be congregations over of theological education, and increasing levels of introduced at an African American student indebtedness, the seminary needs your the next two years. Lutheran History Day at LTSP — “Let It help in partnering with us on this initiative. Shine” — that Lembo is working on with These visits will The Stewards of Abundance grant will fund a LTSP faculty member the Rev. Dr. Richard educate congregation cadre of 25 volunteer visitors who will be recruited Stewart. The History Day is Saturday, May members and inspire and trained to visit 100 congregations in the 26, 2012, and more information and NEPA synod over the next two years. These visits registration is at Ltsp.edu/letitshine. them to support will educate congregation members on the situation Pastor Larry Smoose and his congregation, theological education. facing the church and inspire them to be a part of Reformation Lutheran Church of Media, the solution, supporting theological education. Pennsylvania, have taken the lead in It will encourage congregations to lift up prospective students and commit to supporting the Grover Wright DVD and supporting them financially as they answer God’s call into ministry. 2012 fund-raising initiative by pledging Congregational events can be tailored to each congregation’s preferences for $2,500 for DVD production costs and an a visit. Temple talks, a presentation to the congregational council, or meeting additional $2,500 matching gift that will with small groups of influence are examples of ways a congregational visit can double the impact of those who contribute be structured. to the Grover and Irma Wright Scholarship In addition, two synod-wide events will be held to thank, inform, and inspire over the next year. potential donors and prospective students. This will enable potential donors to “put a face” on to whom their contributions might go, as well as enable prospective For more information about the Grover and students to recognize there are committed individuals willing to help them Irma Wright Scholarship Fund, contact financially in their journey to public ministry. Yvonne Lembo at the LTSP Office for A steering committee comprised of seminary staff from the Office for Philan- Philanthropy at 215.248.6318, or thropy and Office of Admissions, current LTSP students, as well as rostered leaders [email protected]. The LTSP website also from the NEPA synod is currently working to implement this endeavor. features information about the Grover If you are in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod and are interested in serving and Irma Wright Scholarship and photos as a volunteer visitor, having your congregation visited, or simply want to learn from the May Celebration of Thanksgiving more, please contact Tom Henderson in the Office for Philanthropy at at Ltsp.edu/GroverIrmaWright [email protected] or 215.248.6315. For more information or to be a “Steward Scholarship. of Abundance” with your generous gift to student aid, go to Ltsp.edu/stewards For information and to register for African ofabundance. American Lutheran History Day, go to Ltsp.edu/letitshine.

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around ADMISSIONS

Changing Church: Project Connect

THE REV. LOUISE N. JOHNSON, DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS, LTSP

FOR THE PAST DECADE AND THEN SOME, I have had the opportunity to work with young adults as they are discerning God’s call. As a seminary admis- sions director, I have the particular privilege to work with those who are discerning calls to public ministry. The Holy Spirit at work in them is what reminds me of the hope we have in Christ. In addition to being deeply faithful, so many of the young adults with whom I have worked are bright, creative, bold, and born to lead. They are beginning new ministries and reviving old ones. They are writing about God and human existence from brand new perspectives. And they are calling the rest of us to a deeper engagement with God and new ways of thinking about church. Project Connect, an initiative of the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries (Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia) called a number of these young leaders together in February, 2012, to hear what they had to say about the challenges facing our church and world. The retreat was called, “Changing Church,” which we hope called to mind both the changes that are happening in the landscape of the church, and the ways in which they might change things for the sake of the mission of the gospel. They had the chance to serve together, to reflect, imagine, write, and dream. We hope the time was a gift to them. We know it was a gift to the church. We will also commission several young adult writers to capture both the ideas and the theology that emerged from our time together. Look for them soon.

32 PSSPRING 2012 Ltsp.edu MESSAGE FROMTHE DEAN CALENDAROFEVENTS continued from inside front cover The Philadelphia Weekend Visit Also this spring, we are offering a series of seminars on Friday, April 13, 2012 – Sunday, April 15, 2012, LTSP Campus “Educational Formation in Congregations” open for credit or Ltsp.edu/visit non-credit for our students and pastors (see details on our website Convocation — Social Ministry Ltsp.edu/non-credit). Tuesday, April 17, 2012, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm Since 2007, LTSP has pioneered the “Asian Theological The Brossman Learning Center, LTSP Campus Summer Institute” (ATSI), a national program supported by the Henry Luce Foundation, for Asian/Asian American doctoral 2012 Interfaith Prayer Breakfast: Hungry for Justice students from all across North America. Friday, April 20, 2012, 8:00 am – 10:00 am, The Brossman Center Over the years, LTSP has sought to offer a global, ecumenical, Ltsp.edu/prayerbreakfast interfaith, and multicultural education in preparing leaders for Prospective Student Event the church and society. These emphases, we hope, will continue Saturday, April 21, 2012, 10:00 am – Noon, LTSP Campus in the revised curriculum that the faculty is seeking to develop. Ltsp.edu/visit Our curriculum of the future will certainly add more emphasis in renewing/developing congregations in the current environment Earth Day Celebration of declining church membership. Tuesday, April 24, 2012, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm As our name indicates, LTSP is a “Lutheran” seminary, but our William Allen Plaza, LTSP Campus outlook is ecumenical, global, urban/metropolitan, multicultural, Muhlenberg 300 and inclusive. This outlook is represented by a distinguished Spring Convocation 2012 faculty who are not merely acclaimed academic scholars, estab- “A New Frontier: Mission Then, Mission Now” lished authors, and excellent teachers, but who are also deeply Tuesday and Wednesday, May 1-2, 2012, LTSP Campus committed to the future of the church and its renewal in a Ltsp.edu/convocation2012 challenging environment. Commencement Martin Luther once remarked, “Change is easy but improve- Friday, May 18, 2012, 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm, Trinity Lutheran Church, ment is difficult.” It seems the more we change our curriculum, 1000 West Main Street, Lansdale, PA, 19446 (at the intersection of the more it remains the same! The books LTSP students read Routes 63 and 363) these days and the issues they wrestle with are different. And yet, the mission of theological education remains by and large the African American Lutheran History Day same, though our emphases may change from time to time. As Saturday, May 26, 2012, 11:30 am – 3:30 pm, LTSP Campus dean of the seminary, I am confident that LTSP’s commitment Ltsp.edu/letitshine to the pursuit of quality in theological education and our Asian Theological Summer Institute at LTSP (ATSI) mission to “educate and form public leaders who are committed Tuesday, May 29 through Saturday, June 2, 2012, LTSP Campus to developing and nurturing individual believers and communities Ltsp.edu/atsi of faith for engagement in the world” will not be diminished or undermined. Prospective Student Event Thursday, June 14, 2012 and Thursday, July 12, 2012 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, LTSP Campus Ltsp.edu/visit

J. Paul Rajashekar Dean

SEMINARS ON EDUCATIONAL MINISTRY IN CONGREGATIONS Spring Semester 2012 • Open to Pastors and Congregational Leaders

LTSP is pleased to present a series of five one-day seminars/workshops exploring various facets of educational ministries in congregations. Each daylong seminar is taught by a qualified practitioner and aims to provide a concentrated focus on a theme. The seminars are open to students (for credit) 6and to interested pastors and congregational leaders (for non-credit or Continuing education credit). Please visit Ltsp.edu/non-credit for seminar descriptions, dates, and registration information, or contact: Kathie Afflerbach, Coordinator for Non-Credit Education, LTSP, [email protected]. 7301 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19119-1794 Ltsp.edu

HENRY MELCHIOR MUHLENBERG LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP

THE NEED To recognize the contribution Muhlenberg made to theological HOWYOU CAN HELP education, and on the occasion of the 300th anniversary of his Make a gift to endow the birth, LTSP has established the endowed Muhlenberg Legacy Muhlenberg Legacy Scholarship Scholarship, and we invite you to help build that endowment. and continue in the tradition of This scholarship will be awarded annually to an LTSP student Henry Melchior Muhlenberg. who embodies the characteristics that defined Muhlenberg: a Ensure that the Lutheran church commitment to academic excellence, strong leadership skills, will have leaders who have received and a distinct pioneering approach to ministry. These qualities the classroom and practical are intrinsic to the mission of LTSP as well as defining training needed to serve. characteristics of Muhlenberg, whose dedication to language and study made him the innovative leader we celebrate today.

Go to Ltsp.edu/muhlenberglegacy to donate online or call the Office for Philanthropy at 215.248.6316. Henry Melchior Muhlenberg Legacy Scholarship