Building in Faith for People of Faith

Since 1864 the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia has served the church preparing men and women for both ordained and lay ministry.  Several of the pastors and interns serving St. Paul Church have been Philadelphia graduates, including Pastor Petersen, Pastor Pfisterer, Pastor Jennifer Sweitzer, Pastor Blank, and Pastor Strockbine.  Over the years St. Paul has supported the seminary through their regular giving to Mission Support through the New Jersey Synod and through special offerings arranged by the Women of the ELCA.

Following the formation of the ELCA in 1987, a church-wide study of theological education determined that each of the eight existing seminaries were critical to the preparation of leaders for the future.  It encouraged seminaries to work together creatively in partnership.  Philadelphia shares with Gettysburg, also in Pennsylvania, and Southern in South Carolina.   However, to provide for dramatic growth, the Seminary has needed to update and expand its facilities.  First replaced was the 1888 dormitory.  Next the Seminary faced its inadequate classroom space.  Even with classes being held six days per week and five nights, classrooms were still overcrowded.  Since 1996, the Board of Trustees has been addressing this problem.  A new Learning Center has been planned and is now under construction.  Alumna and Alumni and various supporting Synods have joined in support of this project.  Now it is New Jersey’s turn and St. Paul is being asked to help.  The Congregational Council has committed to a $25,000 goal.

The steering committee for this appeal is made up of Karyn Auermuller, Ron Geiger, Steve Groh, David Leunig, Pastor Gordon Odmark, and Pastor Paul Strockbine.   Please watch for announcements in the Sunday Bulletin.