To Reaffirm Residential Seminary Formation as Preferred Route for Pastoral Preparation

Official Workbook overture source text

6-43 
To Reaffirm Residential Seminary Formation  
as Preferred Route for Pastoral Preparation 
WHEREAS, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and Concordia 
Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, exist for the purpose of forming 
pastors through comprehensive residential education, communal 
life, faculty mentorship, and supervised pastoral formation; and 
W
HEREAS, The Synod has affirmed residential seminary 
formation as the most complete means of preparing men for the 
general responsibilities of the pastoral office; and 
W
HEREAS, The Synod has historically recognized residential 
formation as the normative path for preparation for the pastoral 
office, with alternative routes serving defined and limited purposes; 
and 
W
HEREAS, Holy Scripture emphasizes careful preparation for the 
ministry of Word and Sacrament (Acts 6:4; Titus 1:9); and 
WHEREAS, The Lutheran Confessions affirm the church’s 
responsibility to maintain good order in doctrine and practice 
through faithful oversight of the pastoral office (FC SD X); 
therefore be it 
Resolved, That the Synod reaffirm residential seminary 
formation as the preferred and normative route for preparing men 
for the pastoral office; and be it further 
Resolved, That district presidents, circuits, and congregations be 
encouraged to recommend and support qualified men for residential 
seminary study, including vocational encouragement and financial 
assistance; and be it further 
Resolved, That the seminaries be encouraged to continue 
addressing concerns regarding the accessibility and feasibility of 
residential formation; and be it finally 
Resolved, That the Synod pray for an increase in vocations to the 
pastoral office, trusting the Lord of the Church to provide faithful 
shepherds. 
Trinity (Decatur Rd) 
Fort Wayne, IN 
Ov.