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This project emerged from trial applications of survey instruments designed to ascertain possibilities of increasing individual LCMS participation in supporting seminaries for assisting with seminarians’ tuition. A frequent response was “why has it become necessary to contribute directly to seminaries? For many years, we understood adequate funding was provided by Synod and related entities.” This triggered for us the need for some historical analyses to ascertain reasons for changes in source patterns of seminary and seminarian funding. The results of these analyses appear on this website. Brief reference to them will help enable a reader to grasp some of the key influential trends.
It was noted that in some other parts of our society individuals and philanthropic entities were experiencing good results by employing low thresholds for periodic (or single) contributions. We suggest $10.00, or more, per month. This can offer opportunities for greater member participation with beneficial outcomes beyond the area of enhancing financial support. Pastors interviewed in Wisconsin, and Minnesota as well as Michigan have strongly indicated satisfaction with this approach. We are grateful to individuals in the two seminaries and National Synod offices for responding to requests for a variety of data and other basic materials. In some cases we asked for background on derivations and interpretations. When possible, responses were promptly provided.. It is appropriate here to apply an old adage, “a picture is worth a thousand words” The discussions which follow may be more comprehensively grasped if one first views three charts: 1) The cost challenge s seminarians face; 2) Major shifts in flow of “work-at-large funds” after reaching churches and, 3) Drastic changes in the pattern of seminaries’ income sources. Please “click the following boxes and note the chart information:
It is appropriate here to draw on an adage, “a picture is worth a
thousand words”. The discussion which follows may be more
comprehensively grasped if you first have a look at three charts: 1)
The cost challenges facing students; 2) Major shifts in flow of
work-at-large funds after reaching churches; and 3) drastic changes in
the pattern of seminary income sources.
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From a survey among members in 10 mid-Michigan congregations it was clearly established that there was a general lack of awareness among members as to the extent and seriousness of seminary under-funding. It was further established that the most effective way to overcome these voids was by personal, oral presentations. To serve in this role it was concluded that one or more individuals from within congregations be identified and become known as Gabriel Messengers. This website could be the main source of information for their presentations. These presenters will find this role a comfortable self-satisfying endeavor. It will be God-Pleasing.
