Concordia Seminary is all about Jesus Christ, “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). “Yesterday” for Concordia Seminary covers 168 years of service to Him “who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood and made us a kingdom, priests to His God and father”  (Revelation 1:6). In the last academic year we began to implement a new faculty and administrative structure, began an ongoing strategic planning process, began building renovations, and worked to improve communications. None of this is for our praise. “We have only done what was our duty” (Luke 17:10).

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:7). At Concordia Seminary the Spirit of Jesus Christ calls us daily through worship gatherings, in academic studies, and in the conversations of people walking in His way. The Word of God is at the heart of every course described in the [academic] catalogue and is the motivation for our dedicated faculty and staff to provide theological education and leadership to the church and world.

And tomorrow? Dr. Lamar Vest, former chairman of the American Bible Society, once said, “Our interest is not just to take our history forward but to draw the desired future toward us.” That also describes our optimism at Concordia Seminary as we look to the future. Since “it is God who works in (us) both to will and to work for His good pleasure,” we are graced for a wonderful future. Here’s a thought to add to your energy for study at Concordia Seminary: In ten years, 2017, we will celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation. What an exhilarating prospect to approach that anniversary by studying the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the spirit of Luther and under the shadow of the magnificent tower that bears his name. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday and today and forever.” What a prospect!

Rev. Dr. Dale A. Meyer
President