Why Phoebe? Why Deaconesses?

I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints, and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well” (Romans 16:1–2).

Referenced in Scripture as a female servant of the church by the Apostle Paul (Romans 16:1-2), Phoebe has become an icon for the Deaconess Program at Concordia Theological Seminary (CTS). Phoebe, along with other women throughout history, dedicated themselves to lives of service to the poor and needy for the sake of the gospel. Deaconesses prepare people to hear, believe in, and be comforted by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, through acts of mercy. Many female saints embody diaconia (service). Their example shapes the training of our women, which employs the theology of service in The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod as they follow our chief servant, Jesus Christ. Come visit! You are always welcome.

"We love, because he first loved us." I John 4:19

Phoebe Academy College

Phoebe Academy College provides undergraduate women the opportunity to come and experience for themselves what Concordia Theological Seminary offers in theological and diaconal (deaconess) training. Hosted together with the pre-pastoral program, Christ Academy College, these retreats give college students the opportunity to worship with the seminary community, sit in on classes, meet professors and students, and become a part of the seminary community for a few days. Undergraduate women who are interested in the Masters of Arts in Religion, with or without deaconess certification, are welcome to attend and explore the opportunities for service in the Church.

Join us January 23--25, 2009, or arrive early and attend all of the 2009 Symposia as our guest (January 20–25). Come and experience Christ at the center of everything we do.

"Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality." Romans 12:13

Direction and Vocation FAQ’s

How do I know if deaconess studies are right for me?

What does a deaconess look like and do, since I’ve never met one?

Will I receive an internship and placement that I will like?

Will I receive and internship or placement period?

How much does seminary cost? What are the various routes that I can take to complete the program?

If these are familiar questions to you right now, don’t worry. You’re not alone! The Academy serves to give participants a better idea, not just about the education and training, but about the actual vocation, since you will be able to meet deaconesses face-to-face while there.

Also, PAC explores the many facets that diaconal ministry offers women and its application in the real world. The distinguishing aspect is that the focus is distinctly Lutheran. Opportunities for deaconesses to serve include, but are not limited to, environments such as hospitals, schools, missions, prisons, parishes, military, campus ministry, music, nursing homes, groups homes, and so on.

If you desire to serve others while simultaneously articulating the faith meaningfully, then the deaconess program may be right for you. Deaconesses of the LCMS have been carrying on a longstanding, biblical, and feminine tradition of service to reach, teach, and care for the needy. Their service is valuable. Come and see for yourselves!

Phoebe Academy College Includes

• Meeting other women interested in deaconess studies
• Housing on campus
• All meals in Katherine Luther Dining Hall
• Time for questions with current deaconesses
• A complimentary Phoebe Academy T-shirt
• A taste of seminary life in worship, classes, and community
• Optional: registration for any or all Symposia events (January 20-23)

Registration

Questions? Contact:

Melissa DeGroot
Melissa.DeGroot@ctsfw.edu