By Rev. Scott C. Klemsz, Director of Admissions

While serving a summer vicarage outside of London, England, I had the opportunity to spend some time at a small monastery. The monastery was in the middle of the English countryside and was a wonderful resource of theological books and art. During one of my journeys, I met an elderly monk who had lived there for many years. We reflected on his life, and, after a long pause, he commented, "you are on your pilgrimage."

You are on a pilgrimage, a pilgrimage that began on the day of your Baptism and will continue throughout your life. A pilgrimage that is centered on living a life that resides in the presence of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Who died on the cross and rose from the dead and now comes to you through His Baptismal Water, Sacred Word, and Body and Blood. Your pilgrimage may have made a turn from what you expected as you are now thinking about coming to Concordia Theological Seminary.

My pilgrimage may be similar to the one that you are on. I lived in a small town on the north shore of Lake Tahoe in Northern California. I was happy and successful at what I did. However, at the end of the day when the sun had set, I wanted to be a part of something different, something that had the power to change people’s lives. I knew I wanted to be a pastor. How could I become a pastor? How could I afford it? How would I do in the classroom? How was I going to move across the country? The Lord was gracious and provided for my needs. I look back at my past fondly, but I know I’m where I should be, doing the work the Lord has provided for me to do.

Concordia Theological Seminary is a place of pilgrimage. It is a place where men from all over the country come together to pray, study and reflect on God’s word as they contemplate becoming a pastor. The seminary is also a place of blessings. We are a community of professors, staff and students who come together several times a day in the chapel to be refreshed and renewed by the means our gracious Lord provides.

To assist you in becoming a part of this pilgrimage, this year we are introducing a new program called Project Andrew. Administered by Concordia Theological Seminary, Project Andrew is designed to give you additional support and help. Pastors throughout the country have committed themselves to serve as mentors, committed to help you on your pilgrimage. Equipped with information on the seminary, these pastors will be a local contact for you as you have questions and concerns. Project Andrew mentors will work closely with the admissions office, making your transition to the seminary as smooth and easy as possible.

We will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers as you make these important steps on your pilgrimage.

+ The Lord be with you +

From Volume 1, Issue 2, Summer 1997