Changes in the lutheran church

Over the past month, what we’ve seen happening for years in the church, has taken a more personal dimension for the ELCA. Our seminary in the south- Lutheran Southern Theological Seminary in Columbia, SC- has made a decision to close its campus and sell it. The faculty, at least some of them, will labor on, offering instruction on the campus of our ELCA college, Lenoir-Rhyne University, in Lenoir, NC.
 
Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the country, Pacific Lutheran Seminary, will soon suspend all in person instruction and focus only on online education for future rostered leaders of the church. Declining student bodies and higher costs have conspired to lead to these dramatic changes in preparing church leadership. Gettysburg Seminary, now part of the two campus United Lutheran Seminary, has sold most of its dormitories. They will be torn down to make room for a new Gettysburg Library. The few in person students who remain on campus will be housed in one of the remaining dorms.
 
The bishop has said repeatedly that the Covid pandemic only aggravated what we’ve seen for some time- fewer pastors, smaller congregations, young adults not returning to church.
 
The Easter Season has arrived. It is a time for new life. It is a time for us to consider our commitment to the church and to speaking on behalf of Christ to the world and our neighbor. As we live in this season of new life, prayerfully consider the opportunities you have to share the Good News with others. In a hurting world, among hurting neighbors and friends, the Good News of Christ’s victory over death shared through loving words and deeds is a powerful testimony to the faith of the Church and the power of a Christ like life!

Blessings!

Pastor Geib
​