When Simon Peter saw this, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Go away from me, because I am a sinful man, Lord.”...Jesus said to Simon, “Have no fear. From now on you will be catching people.” After they brought their boats to the shore, they left everything and followed him. Luke 5:8,10,11
What would it take for you to enter the ministry? Would you need to see a miracle of God to convince you that he was calling you? Would you need to hear the voice of God himself saying, “Come follow me”? Are you waiting for that kind of a lightning bolt moment?
Simon Peter wasn’t expecting anything out of the ordinary that day. Weary from a long night of fishing that had nothing to show for it, Simon Peter was listening to Jesus preach to the crowds when Jesus asked him to use his boat to put some distance between the crowds and himself. When Jesus finished preaching, he told Peter to go out further and “let down your nets for a catch.”
What happened next was exactly the miracle that Peter needed. This time they caught so many fish that even the other boat that they called over to help began to sink with the haul of fish. It was at that moment that Peter knew he was in the presence of greatness, “Go away from me, because I am a sinful man, Lord.” But Jesus responded, “Have no fear. From now on you will be catching people.” With that experience, Peter left his boat and followed Jesus.
I don’t know how many of our young people are waiting for that miraculous moment in their lives to convince them that they can dedicate their lives to gospel ministry. I’m sure that many of our MLS seniors especially wish that Jesus would do something to make it clear to them whether ministry was the right path. But, what happened to Peter is not what we can expect from our God.
While we might long for a direct divine revelation that parses through our uncertainty and doubt, what we receive is so much better. Daily reminders of God’s love and forgiveness from God’s Word continually fill us with the reason for considering ministry. Faithful service from God’s shepherds in Word and Sacrament model a life that has its priorities properly ordered. Loving compassion and encouragement from gospel-minded teachers equips God’s children to serve the Lord in a world that is desperate for something better, something more fulfilling.
MLS cultivates a culture of ministry so that our students have the opportunity and encouragement to consider the call to serve him in the public ministry of the gospel. It is our privilege and honor to be the tool the Lord uses to encourage and equip another generation to proclaim the forgiveness of our God. To that end, we ask for your prayers and trust in the Lord blessing our work.
Loving and serving Him,
Rev. Mark Luetzow, MLS President
CARDINAL CONNECTION WINTER 2025
Chief Editor Rev. Mark T. Luetzow
Graphic Design
Michael D. Priebe, MLS ‘94
www.mlsem.org
Cardinal Connection is published in winter and summer free of charge for MLS alumni and friends.
SUBMIT NEWS ITEMS TO: Michael Priebe, Public Relations mdp@mlsem.org
SUBMIT ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Cathy Rothfuss, Mission Advancement car@mlsem.org
FRESHMAN ENCOURAGEMENT GRANTS
Start the conversation. That’s what the Freshman Encouragement Grants are intended to do. Local pastors, teachers, and staff ministers are encouraged to nominate an incoming freshman from their congregation to receive a grant from MLS in the areas of Fine Arts, Leadership, or ministry potential. The MLS Admissions Department then selects several students to receive a grant to encourage them for ministry. But the conversation does not end there. Our hope is that, whether they are awarded a grant or not, the called worker who nominated them will then continue the conversation telling them why their gifts would serve well in ministry.
How can you help? If you are a called worker, start the conversation with your member and nominate them for a grant. If you want to support this effort, gifts for the Freshman Encouragement Grants are certainly welcome. But all of us, listen to Jesus’ encouragement to pray, “Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest field.”
TASTE OF MINISTRY
On the first weekend of October, all of the MLS seniors had the opportunity to shadow a called worker to get a taste of ministry. Twelve senior guys who have an interest in pastoral ministry experienced life as a mission pastor in WELS home mission setting. Three seniors had the opportunity to shadow staff ministers who fill a wide variety of roles in their congregation’s church and school ministries. The remaining seniors experienced the ministry of our Lutheran Elementary Schools and a glimpse of the teaching ministry. Taste of Ministry remains one of the most pivotal experiences in our students’ time on campus allowing them to see themselves serving the Lord as a called worker.
“Before my Taste of Ministry, I was sure I would attend MLC. However, being put into the classroom has made me even more excited. I loved seeing all the different songs and rhymes the teachers used to keep the kids engaged. I also loved seeing how the teachers bring everything back to God. Even in the youngest age groups, Jesus was the center of everything."
Berdie
Schroeder (St. Paul's, Livonia, MI)
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
This edition of the Cardinal Connection features two MLS alumni who serve in mirror roles as Admissions Counselors at Martin Luther College. Hannah (Stern) Scharf (MLS ’98) and Janet (Putz) Justice (MLS’ 15) take time during their busy recruitment travel schedules to answer a few questions for the MLS Family.
Hannah, please tell us about your life after MLS.
After graduation in the Spring of ‘98, I planned to go to the University of Michigan to major in Sports Journalism with the hopes of becoming the next “Hannah Storm” and interview the likes of Detroit Bad Boy Dennis Rodman and Lions running back Barry Sanders. Thanks to the encouragement of multiple tutors, deans, and professors at MLS I was guided to MLC and I left sports broadcasting behind. After getting my elementary education degree from MLC, I was blessed to work with amazing teachers, principals and students in Seminole, FL, Westminster, CO, Brown Deer, WI, and LPS.
How would you describe your calling at MLC?
I am a bit like a “Cruise Director” recruiter at MLC. Any time a high school group or individual comes for a visit, I spin them from place to place and show them all we have to offer. I take them on a memorable ride around our campus and the city of New Ulm. I introduce them to professors, coaches, directors and other students who are “All Aboard” on this ministry minded cruise ship.
Who inspired you to enter the ministry?
My parents, Jon & Pat Stern. As a pastor, when my dad preached the Gospel, he did so with a smile. What better job than getting to tell people the good news that they are forgiven because of Jesus? As a teacher, my mom had the best classroom management. She walked that amazingly fine balance of being strict but fun. The students were so well behaved because they loved their teacher and she loved them right back.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at MLS?
“Make your own Donut Day!” Sometimes it was hard to wake up to go down to breakfast before classes. There were a few regimented friends of ours who always woke up early and went down to the cafeteria no matter what. When they would come back up to brush their teeth and grab their backpacks we would ask them, “What was for breakfast? Anything good?” and if they said, “Make your own Donut Day.” We wouldn’t bother finishing our makeup or homeworkwe’d grab our backpack and rush down the stairs to find vats of warm white icing or chocolate icing for you to dunk your cake donut in and then
add sprinkles. It was the best 700-800 calorie way to start your day!
Can you describe a key decision or moment in your career that helped shape your path?
My creative, beautiful friend Molly Carne came to MLS from the East Coast and always talked about going back home after graduation to study art. After she signed my yearbook, she handed it back to me and at the very end she had written, “P.S You’re going to be a great teacher someday. I can’t wait to be at MLC with you.”
The positive peer pressure that MLS fosters about the ministry is a subtle but great blessing.
It is a well-known challenge in WELS that we are in need of more pastors and teachers. How can we be better encouragers for service to our Savior in the public ministry?
My encouragement is “If you see something, say something.” If a student or classmate of yours does an outstanding job with his Senior Chapel, tell them! Perhaps it’s a more subtle study hall peer session where a girl patiently listens to her struggling classmate sniff back tears through the quadratic equation, tell her she’s got the patience and teaching gifts to be a teacher!
Any final thoughts?
Interesting fact - my first call was to Divine Peace in Largo, Maryland, to replace Ruth Muehlenbeck, who was also an MLS graduate. A number of years later, Melissa (Leslie) Borchardt, another MLS graduate, also served at that school with me. A number of years after I left MD, another MLS graduate, Ryan Finkbiner, also served there.
Janet, how has the Lord blessed your life after MLS?
After graduating from MLC in May of 2019 in Elementary Education and a minor in Physical Education, I was assigned to Christ Lutheran School in Eagle River, WI. I taught grades K–2 and experienced one of life’s greatest blessings—meeting and marrying my husband, Matt, a dedicated member of the U.S. Army National Guard. In 2024, I accepted a call to MLC as an Admissions Counselor, where I have the privilege of connecting with high school students and sharing my passion for teaching and the ministry.
Who were some of the most influential professors, mentors, or peers during your time at MLS?
I was fortunate to be surrounded by many incredible professors, mentors, and peers who greatly influenced my personal and academic growth. Professor Lecker, took extra time to help me grasp the complexities of Algebra, boosting my confidence in tackling challenging subjects. Coach Kathy Kock pushed me to give my best in both cross country and track. Her encouragement, high expectations, and belief in my potential taught me the value of perseverance and discipline, lessons I carry with me to this day. Professor and Dean LaBair left a
lasting impression with their engaging teaching styles and genuine care for students. Finally, the tutors at MLS were a constant source of encouragement and guidance. Their willingness to invest their time in my success created a supportive learning environment that helped shape my experience at MLS.
It is a well-known challenge in WELS that we are in need of more pastors, teachers, and staff ministers. What are you hearing from our young people that makes them hesitant to enter the ministry?
One of the most common concerns is financial stability and compensation. There’s a perception that the public ministry doesn’t offer competitive salaries compared to public schools. However, this perspective often overlooks the full picture. WELS compensation, when factoring in housing allowances and other benefits, are much closer to public school salaries than many realize. While financial concerns are valid, the public ministry is also not about wealth. The apostle Paul wisely warned that a spiritual leader should not be a “lover of money” (1 Tim. 3:3). We want to encourage young people to see ministry as a calling to serve rather than a career motivated by earnings. Ministry is about the joy of sharing Christ’s love—and that is a
calling worth pursuing.
As an alumna, what encouragement can you give to other MLS alumni?
You can serve our Savior in so many unique ways—already now as high school students and in your future. If you are considering MLC, try it out! You won't regret being further encouraged in your faith, and you are allowed to change your mind if God leads you elsewhere.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently during your time at MLS?
Ha! I would definitely make better use of those study halls and work harder as a student. It didn’t really click for me until college that earning good grades can lead to scholarships! If I could do it again, I’d be more focused on academics while still enjoying all the great experiences MLS had to offer.
Thank you Hannah and Janet! Your alma mater is so proud to have both of you fine gospel servants encouraging the next generation to serve the Lord! We pray for God’s continued blessings in your ministry and with your families.
Do you have a suggestion for a future alumni spotlight, email Mike Priebe at mdp@mlsem.org.
CAMPUS NEWS
Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving designed to impact the world through the mission and efforts of nonprofits. Following Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday is a day where Cardinal supporters could come together to impact the MLS ministry of equipping and encouraging another generation of Cardinals to use their gifts in service to our Savior.
MLS set a one-day goal of raising $8,000 for 8 new digital pianos for our piano lab - the classroom where
NEW MATH CURRICULUM
The 2025-2026 school year will feature new options in the Math curriculum at MLS. After receiving feedback from parents and students alike, the following changes have been made to provide additional options for college credit for our Juniors and Seniors, as well as meeting state requirements for this year’s (and all following) freshmen regarding a required Personal Finance Credit:
• AP PreCalculus
• AP Calculus
• AP Computer Science (NEW to MLS!)
• Consumer Math/Personal Finance (NEW to MLS!)
• Dual Credit Statistics (NEW to MLS!)
We look forward to offering our students more variety and avenues to pursue as they look ahead for their college and future plans of lives of service to the Lord!
freshmen who have limited or no piano experience have the opportunity to be trained in piano with a goal of using that skill to serve the Lord in WELS congregations. It fits with our mission of equipping saints for service.
The MLS Student Council hosted a penny war with the Freshman class winning a Doughnut Day with the President. Local families contributed cans in the can drive. And Cardinals from across the nation gave online to support this effort. With many thanks to your generosity and the Lord’s blessing, we surpassed the goal with over $9,000 received in just one day! The piano lab now has 8 brand new digital pianos with headphones that will support our musical training for years to come! Thank you!
What? You missed Giving Tuesday? Plan to be a part of next year’s effort on December 2, 2025!
NOW HIRING - JOIN OUR TEAM!
Food Service Manager
This full time position is responsible for managing all MLS food service operations, including dining hall, vending, and special events, ensuring that our program follows policies and procedures, and meets governmental guidelines and requirements.
Business Manager
The Business Manager administers the business affairs of MLS, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and provides support for financial planning and analysis. He/ She serves as a key member of the MLS administration, reports to the MLS President, and is a key member of the Synod's advisory team for financial planning and analysis.
Interested individuals can see a full position description and fill out an application by visiting our website, www.mlsem.org.
ADMISSIONS UPDATE
NEW ADMISSIONS DIRECTOR!
Get ready to meet a new face! Pastor Jared Natsis was installed as Admissions Director in our first morning chapel service of the 2nd semester. Jared is an MLS alumnus from the class of 2011, along with his wife Alisa (nee. Retberg) from the class of 2009. They are currently getting settled into life in Saginaw with their two children, Cordelia (8) and Ezra (5), after serving at Rock of Ages Lutheran Church in Nashville, TN since 2019. Pastor Natsis’ responsibilities will take him all over our synod to visit elementary schools for recruitment, meet with individual families interested in sending children to MLS, and be the biggest supporter and encourager to the students on campus about continuing their ministry training at Martin Luther College. “It has been such a blessing to be back on campus,” he says. “Going from being a parish pastor into this new form of ministry has been quite the shift, but being in such a familiar place has made it so much more comfortable to settle into unfamiliar work.” If you see Pastor Natsis at an event on campus or he visits your school or congregation, please introduce yourself!
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SEEING OUR CAMPUS?
Admissions Director Jared Natsis and his team of student ambassadors would love to welcome you to our home here in Saginaw! Talking about all that Michigan Lutheran Seminary has to offer is great, but nothing beats seeing our campus with your own eyes. We are happy to host Student Shadow Visits on any normal school day. Live far away? No sweat! One of our student ambassadors would be glad to host you in their room for a night so you can experience dorm life first-hand.
Email jared.w.natsis@mlsem.org to set up your visit today!
Pastor & Mrs. Natsis
THANKS TO OUR GENEROUS DONORS
Tribute gifts given to MLS from July 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024. Gifts to the MLS Foundation are found on the Foundation website www.mls-foundation.org.
In Honor of...
DAVE AND VON MARTIN
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Martin
FRED P. ZIMMERMAN II
Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Winkler
JOSH, ANNA, & MADDOX WENDT
Ms. Barbara M. Hennig
MLS CLASS OF 1967
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Geyer
TRINITY, BAY CITY SCHOOL STAFF
Mr. Allan Ferrio
In Memory of...
BEVERLY J. BENDER
Ms. Ruth E. Westendorf
ELDEN & BEVERLY BENDER
Ms. Charmaine Lalande
FREDERICK & DORIS BOEHRINGER
Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Cereske
GEORGE D. BRADISH
Mrs. Christine L. Bradish
EARL E. BRASSOW
Mrs. Karen R. Brassow
Mr. and Mrs. Neil Lindemann
Ms. Tiffany Suttner
REV. JOHN F & RUTH BRENNER
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Herrmann
LARRY CROOK
Mrs. Eleanor A. Crook
KENNETH A. DRAHAIM
Mr. Thomas J. Schulz
DALE O. HENSLER
Ms. Bethany Engerer
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hensler
Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Hintz
JOANNE E. HUEBNER
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Beach
Mrs. Sally A. Hudeck
DAVID JANTOS
Ms. Dee A. Puckett
Ms. Kerie Hughes
EDITH A. KETTLER
Rev. and Mrs. David Clark
GERALD C. KOLB
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Kolb
DEBBIE KRAMP
Mr. Larry Kramp
EVELYN M. KRUEGER
Rev. and Mrs. Robert Krueger
MARLENE P. MARKS
Mr. Andrew Marks
DONNA C. MUELLER
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Borchard
RANDALL H. RATHJE
Lt Col Craig T. Patranc
WERNER & JOANNE ROSENBAUM
Rev. David A. Rosenbaum
KATHLEEN B. ROTHFUSS
Mr. and Mrs. Rusty Rothfuss
DORIS E. SCHMITZER
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Grant
JEANE E. SLANGOR
Mrs. Carol S. Krantz
DONNA E. SPAUDE
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Arguello
Mr. and Mrs. Brian Mowers
Rev. and Mrs. Philip Pitt
Rev. and Mrs. Philip Spaude
EVELYN J. TKALCAC
Emanuel Redeemer Lutheran Guild
JOHN F. VOSS
Mrs. Donna C. Mueller
Mr. Kenneth Palmreuter
Mr. Donald E. Weber
MEILAHN P. ZAHN
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Zahn
THOMAS E. ZIEROFF
Ms. Lisa K. McNish
Mrs. Kathleen Zieroff
MLS appreciates the many gifts given by people like you, our friends and alumni. Please consider supporting the work MLS does to train future pastors, teachers and staff ministers. Scan this QR code to support MLS through an online gift. Or go to our website at community.mlsem.org
The Cardinal Connection is also available digitally! If you or someone you know would prefer to receive an electronic version of the publication, please contact Michael Priebe at mdp@mlsem.org or by phone at 989-793-1010, ext 231 to make the change.
SEMINARY ATHLETICS
FOOTBALL AND CROSS COUNTRY EARN ACADEMIC ALL STATE RECOGNITION
We are proud to announce that our football and boys cross country teams have been recognized as Academic All-State for their outstanding achievements in the classroom during the past fall season!
This prestigious honor is awarded to teams that demonstrate excellence both on the field and in academics, showcasing the dedication and hard work of our student-athletes. Their commitment to success in both sports and studies is truly commendable.
The football team was also recognized as one of the 65 state winners of the prestigious 2024-25 National Football Foundation (NFF) National High School Academic Excellence Awards, presented by the Rose Bowl Legacy Foundation. This honor celebrates the team’s outstanding achievements in the classroom, on the field, and within the community.
Congratulations to our athletes and coaches for these incredible achievements!
HAWKINS AWARD
MLS senior Logan Broekhuizen was a finalist for the Saginaw County Hawkins Award, an award given to the best senior football athlete in Saginaw county. The finalists were chosen for their athletic ability, academics, and community service. Broekhuizen was a four year starter on the offensive line and was already awarded 1st team all-conference, Division 8 all-region, and all-state awards, and plans to attend MLC in the fall in the pre-seminary program. This is the second time in three years that MLS has had a finalist for this prestigious award.
SCHMUGGE GETS WIN 100
On October 18th, MLS Prof. Karl Schmugge reached the 100th win milestone as the MLS varsity football coach. Schmugge has been the head football coach since 2009 and has led his teams to 12 playoff appearances, 3 district championships, and 2 regional championships. More importantly, he has
modeled ministry in his leadership and encouraged many young men to lead humble, faithful, and godly lives here on earth and forever in eternity.
“There would not be 100 wins without all the players I’ve been privileged to coach, as well as my assistant coaches. And ultimately, all glory goes to God who has given me the strength to serve.”
