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LCMS 2026 Convention Workbook: Reports and Overtures, PDF page 102
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2026 Convention Workbook 67
OFFICER, BOARD, AND COMMISSION REPORTS
CTSFW is deeply thankful for the generous and steadfast support of the church that makes our work possible. Our pastors, deaconesses, and missionaries must be determined to know in church and the world nothing but Christ in all His fullness (1 Cor.
2:2; John 1:15) so that in all His fullness, He may be grasped by you in faith (John 20:31).
For more information, visit our website: ctsfw.edu.
Jon S. Bruss, Pr esident • Annual student mission trips to sites including the Dominican Republic and Romania • Advanced graduate programs that support the development of Lutheran leaders • The Chemnitz Library Initiative, which provides support for seminary libraries throughout the world • Leadership in established international programs including the STM-Gothenburg program, Lutheran Leadership Development program, and Concordia Pastoral and Diaconal Training Program • A robust Continuing Education program, with over 40 theological short courses offered throughout the U.S. annually In 2023 and 2024, CTSFW conducted campus-wide scenario planning exercises about the future of pastoral and diaconal formation, gathered feedback from constituents, and engaged in institu - tional assessments. Identified strengths include clarity of mission, unity around our confession, top-notch faculty, demand from international partners for our theological education, and significant support from the church. The 2024–29 strategic plan was developed to maximize our strengths and take advantage of key opportunities to minimize our weaknesses and mitigate threats to successfully fulfill our mission.
Looking Ahead: Strategic Plan 2024–29 The Board of Regents of CTSFW has adopted an ambitious strategic plan to build on past strengths and to provide for future generations by forming exemplary pastors and deaconesses for faithful service in the LCMS and its mission fields. The plan has five main objectives:
1.
Recruit capable students for robust education and formation—men of faith in Christ, of character and integrity, of intelligence and commitment to the people of God (1 Tim.
3:1–7;
Titus 1:6–9). Our students will graduate with utter confidence in God’s Word and our Lutheran Confessions as they apply all they have learned in sacrificial service for Christ and His church.
2.
Cultivate a talented faculty. We will strengthen the teaching and mentoring provided to our students through ongoing faculty development focused on teaching the primary texts and critical thinking. Our faculty will ignite a passion for God’s Word and our Lutheran Confessions so CTSFW graduates may be courageous in mission and ministry.
3.
Shape a rigorous curriculum that forms Lutheran pastors and deaconesses prepared for service in today’s church. We will instill in our students an even deeper grounding in God’s Word and our Confessions so they leave prepared to lead their congregations in evangelistic outreach and to plant churches where they are needed.
4.
Create an inspiring campus and vibrant community. We will enhance our facilities to meet the needs of the 21st century, build new spaces, including new housing for students and a new food and clothing co-op, and update classroom buildings.
5.
Support this work with an efficient, well-funded operation.
CTSFW faithfully stewards the resources entrusted to us to maximize their impact both here and abroad. Thank you for your continued trust in us and the value you place on the faithful formation of your future pastors!
