Spring 2015
In This Issue... Sharing the Gospel in Song 85 Years of Choir Tours 1995 Luther Court New Ulm, MN 56073
NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID ABERDEEN, SD PERMIT #200
The Path to the Pulpit
Address Service Requested
Ministry with Technology
InFocus Staff WRITER/EDITOR Laurie Gauger DMLC ’87
Live Boldly
PHOTOGRAPHERS William Pekrul DMLC ’80 Jonathan Witte MLC ’18 Shelby Pitt MLC ’19 Adam Marley MLC ’17
in the Power of Jesus’ Name!
STUDENT ASSISTANT Hope Werre MLC ’17
You remember the account. A man crippled from birth, begging at the Gate Beautiful (Acts 3). Peter and John on the way to prayer. The man asks for shekels. Peter responds, Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk. The man jumps up and goes with the apostles into the temple courtyards, praising the Savior God.
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lime Valley Advertising, Inc. Office of Mission Advancement VICE PRESIDENT Michael Otterstatter WLS ’94 PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR William Pekrul DMLC ’80 ALUMNI DIRECTOR Steve Balza DMLC ’93 College Administration PRESIDENT Mark Zarling WLS ’80 VP for ADMINISTRATION Steven Thiesfeldt DMLC ’74 VP for ACADEMICS Jeffery Wiechman DMLC ’90 VP for STUDENT LIFE Jeffrey Schone WLS ’87 VP for MISSION ADVANCEMENT Michael Otterstatter WLS ’94 Governing Board Chairman Michael Woldt WLS ’81 Vice Chairman Jonathan Kolander WLS ’91 Secretary Steven Rosenbaum DMLC ’86 Joe Archer DMLC ’77 Drew Kock MLC ’06 Dale Krause Timothy Petermann Barry Price Duane Schmeichel WLS ’91 Michael Seifert WLS ’03 Michael Valleau Steven Vasold MLC ’02 Mark Wessel WLS ’86
By MLC President Mark Zarling
The word gets out, and Peter and John are summoned before the high priest and his family. By what power or what name did you do this? Peter no longer displays a cowering fear like the recent past. The Spirit grants boldness and a clear testimony: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed.
There is power in that name. Peter continues: Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.
There is power in that name. At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
There is power in that name. True it is that the name of Jesus is omnipotent to save, to rescue, to sustain, to heal, to uphold. And the power is not in the proclaimer but in the saving name of the Christ of God. Friends, the precious grace of the living God allows that saving name to echo among us. It’s the name placed upon us at baptism. It’s the name we share in our ministries as public servants of the Word and as universal priests of the Savior God. It’s the name that invigorates Martin Luther College’s ministry, safeguarding this college and its people from the assaults of the evil one and the wiles of the wicked world. It is my prayer that all efforts on this campus clearly communicate the name of the Holy Trinity, the Savior God, revealed in the One who is our Easter Lord. May the Spirit bless our efforts to train up clear confessors of the Name that saves.
Advisory: Charles Degner WLS ’79 Randy Matter Paul Prange WLS ’88 Mark Schroeder WLS ’81 Mark Zarling WLS ’80
MLC InFocus is published by Martin Luther College Mission Advancement Office and is distributed free of charge to students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends. Owned and operated by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), Martin Luther College exists to serve the ministerial needs of the WELS. Comments are welcomed and should be directed to gaugerlf@mlc-wels.edu or Laurie Gauger, MLC InFocus, 1995 Luther Court, New Ulm MN 56073.
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On our cover: The Martin Luther College Choir sings at St. Paul-Howards Grove, Wisconsin, on its 2015 spring tour.
All InFocus magazines are online at mlc-wels.edu/publications. If you’d like to receive your magazine electronically ONLY, please let us know. Contact Tami at boardtl@mlc-wels.edu.
here on the
Thank You, Donors! By Alumni Director Steve Balza DMLC ’93 Training for ministry is hard work. Paying for it isn’t easy either. Still, MLC students have plenty of reasons to be thankful. Not only are they privileged to receive a Scripture-rich ministerial education, they also get it at a very reasonable rate. That’s because of you. Through your congregation’s support of WELS, as well as your direct gifts to MLC, you help reduce the financial burden on our students. Many would not be able to afford their ministerial training without your help.
Hailey Johnson (St. Paul-Green Bay WI) and Crystal Carmichael (Bloomington-Bloomington MN) sign the giant thank you cards.
On January 16, students gathered in the Luther Student Center to write notes, record videos, and express their appreciation. They wrote more than 400 notecards to MLC supporters. (See Rachel Nitz’s note below.)
of MLC, Dear friend ajor a double m d n a r io n a ju glish Hello! I’m condary En e s d n a y r a in element . n io to educat e right now r e h e b ld u cou out of I wish yo taking time le p o e p e th o write see all of ch hour t n lu d n a y ol da nd make their scho pictures a e k a t d n a tion s these card eir apprecia h t s s e r p to ex videos—all for you! this day ankful, and h t ly u r t ne—we are We are are not alo e w e e s witnesses helps us cloud of t a e r g a y know d b u. Please surrounde o y e k li le f peop unnoticed! made up o es not go o d n io t u rib your cont , r in Christ Your siste z MI) Rachel Nit Beaverton d r e h p e h (Good S
Visit https://vimeo.com/119763010 or scan the QR code to view a Day of Thanks video compilation.
Kirsten Kowitz (Crown of Life-West St. Paul MN), Sarah Frost (Mount Olive-Appleton WI), and Megan Melott (Ascension-Plymouth MN) pause to say thanks with a white board picture message.
Sam Lor (Grace Hmong-Kansas City KS), Joey Kasper (Sola Fide-Lawrenceville GA), and Max Kerr (Star of Bethlehem-Winston Salem NC) express their appreciation with a personal note of thanks.
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here on the Students Design
Easter Banners Three MLC students created winning Easter banner designs for the campus: Katherine Zietlow (St. John-Montello WI), Elizabeth Adelmeyer (St. Paul-Lomira WI), and Hailey Johnson (St. Paul-Green Bay WI). The Campus Beautification Committee gave students the theme “I Know that My Redeemer Lives” and selected these three designs from all submitted. John Ring, director of MLC graphic arts department, adapted and printed them on banners that will grace the campus mall from Easter to Pentecost.
Congratulations, Graduates!
We congratulate the 16 students who celebrated their commencement on December 18, 2014. President Mark Zarling WLS ’80 preached on Isaiah 30:21, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” Back row: Rachel Van Mun (Shepherd of the Valley-Menasha WI) Hannah Hackbarth (St. Paul-Lake Mills MN) Josiah Jahns (Redeemer-Fond du Lac WI) Molly Ulland (Christ-Big Bend WI) Aaron Luedtke (Our Savior-Blue Ridge VA) Luke Schwecke (St. Paul-Lake Mills WI) Douglas Peavy (Good Shepherd-West Allis WI) Adelmeyer design
Johnson design
Zietlow design
Front row: Carrie Fleischmann (Trinity-Austin MN) Lynn Marggraf (Faith-Sussex WI) Rachel Veith (Immanuel-Marshall WI) Kirsten Michael (Christ the King-Bremerton WA) Morgan Jacob (St. John-Saginaw MI) Brittany Rue (Trinity-Caledonia WI) Samuel Birner (Good Shepherd-Burton MI) Hannah Zabel (St. Peter-Fond du Lac WI) Not Pictured: Nathaniel Solofra (CrossWalk-Laveen AZ)
The alumni photos at the bottom of the pages are from the anniversary classes of MLC, NWC, and DMLC: ’40, ’45, ’50, ’55, ’60, ’65, ’70, ’75, ’80, ’85, ’90, ’95, ’00, ’05, and ’10. Thanks to Alumni Director Steve Balza DMLC ’93, who provided this random selection of alums.
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Correction: In our November 2014 issue, we listed the hometown of Beverly Arndt DMLC ’80 as Glenham SC. She actually hailed from Glenham SD. The “C” and the “D” are quite close on the keyboard, but South Carolina is quite far from South Dakota on the map, and so we sincerely apologize to this alumna.
Call for Submissions Ninth Annual Thalassa Prize: Martin Luther
As Posted on Facebook By Public Relations Director Bill Pekrul DMLC ‘80 It’s called social media for a reason. On the MLC Facebook page (facebook.com/mlcwels) we’ve witnessed many social interactions between students and parents, former teachers and students, grandparents and grandchildren, MLC supporters and their WELS College of Ministry. Social media is a bridge spanning years and miles, allowing those who care to express their support in real time. We thank all of you who follow, share, and (yes) like us!
College has now begun accepting submissions for the ninth annual Thalassa Prize. This $1000 award is given to the best photo-and-essay submission from an MLC student or graduate who has served in an international ministry. The deadline is April 30, 2015. Thalassa Prize winners: 2007 Kristina Wessel, Dominican Republic 2008 Rachel Kionka, Malawi 2009 Rachel Meyer, Southeast Asia 2010 Gretchen Schmiege, Southeast Asia 2011 Amber Schlomer, Southeast Asia 2012 Paul Kelm, Czech Republic 2013 Maria Reese, Malawi 2014 Chris Pluger, Zambia For submission guidelines, go to mlc-wels.edu/thalassa. Winning photos and essays may be found at mlc-wels.edu/thalassa/past-winners
2014 WINNER: CHRIS PLUGER “Jesus Speaks My Language”
Amy G Schmidt MLC 2000 Saginaw MI
Donald Grummert NWC 1940 Plymouth NE
Dawn Aswege DMLC 1980 Longmont CO
Brian M Gephart MLC 2010 Saint Joseph MI
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Anchor: Saving the World One Bible at a Time One spring evening in April, hundreds of MLC students will don their finest formalwear for A Night on the Town, a sophisticated evening of music, dancing, and games sponsored by Anchor, a student service organization. It’s not just about fun, though. It’s also a fundraiser, with monies this year going to Lutheran Bible Translators. In keeping with the project, the night will be themed “007: Saving the World One Bible at a Time.” Anchor holds at least two large fundraisers a year. Last fall, they raised about $700 for the Lutheran Church in Portugal at their Fall Hoedown. They also volunteer at the nursing home every Tuesday night and do lawn care for New Ulm senior citizens one day in May. “Our guiding passage,” says Anchor President Ben Haferman (St. JohnWauwatosa WI, pictured), is 1 Peter 4:10: ‘Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.’ Though we’re a small organization in a small college in a small town, we can still let our light shine. If people wonder why we’re doing this, we’ll say it’s to glorify God and to thank him for the gifts he’s given us.” Abby Fischer (St. John-Watertown WI), Tutor Matt Scharf WLS ’13, and Emily Schank (Grace-St. Joseph MI) give Night on the Town a thumbs-up.
Take Our New
Virtual Tour!
Haven’t been to campus lately—or ever? Why not make a cyber-visit? Walk the sidewalks, explore Chapel of the Christ, see the new Early Childhood Learning Center—without ever leaving your seat. Check it out at mlc-wels.edu/virtual-tour. Parents, grandparent, pastors, and teachers: This is a great tool to share with prospective students!
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Kathleen E Kruse MLC 2000 Marshall MN
Douglas Meyer NWC 1990 Phoenix AZ
Joyce M Geiger DMLC 1970 Roscoe SD
Adam E Zimpelmann MLC 2000 Eagle River WI
“Ambassadors for Christ” Evangelism Day 2015 By Hope Werre MLC ’17 Forty speakers came from all over the world to encourage and inspire MLC students on Evangelism Day. The focus was 2 Corinthians 5:14-21, where Paul says: “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”
The day opened with worship in Chapel of the Christ at which guest preacher Pastor Edward Schuppe WLS ’77 spoke.
Together with MLC profs and select students, the speakers presented 30 different seminars on everything from mission work in Russia to sharing the gospel with Mormons to evangelism “flops.” The seminars were a blessing to students. One first-year student said: “A+! It helped me so much, giving me more tools and confidence to talk about Christ to strangers. It was a great and exciting day, and I can’t wait till next year.”
Lauren Ewings (Bethlehem-Lakeville MN) and Michael Koester (Peace-Granger IN) discuss a presentation.
Carol Frassetto DMLC 1955 Kimberly WI
Loyal L Schroeder NWC 1945 Whitehall WI
Cheree L Koenig MLC 2010 Anchorage AK
Gaylord Gartman NWC 1965 Poynette WI
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College Choir Wraps Up Midwestern Tour By Hope Werre MLC ’17 In a packed 10-day experience, the MLC College Choir performed 16 concerts throughout the Midwest. Beginning February 27, the 58 choir members and their conductor, Dr. Kermit Moldenhauer, traveled by bus to churches in Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois. The choir sang up to three concerts daily and performed 19 works, including two newly commissioned pieces by Paul Mealor and Matthew Culloton. “The best thing about choir tour,” said Tristan Paustian (First-Racine WI), “is getting to know fellow Christians all around the United States and encouraging them by singing the gospel while they also encourage us. It’s well worth the effort!” Watch the MLC College Choir singing in the Wisconsin State Capitol on MLC’s Facebook page!
The choir enjoyed some free time in Chicago, which was where PR Director Bill Pekrul DMLC ’80 took this photo, which shows four singers reflected in the sculpture Cloud Gate (aka The Bean) at Millennium Park.
Wind Symphony Heads to Washington The MLC Wind Symphony will head west this spring with stops in South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Plan to attend a concert near you or follow along with daily pics and posts on the MLC Facebook page. Sat, April 18
Martin Luther College-New Ulm MN
Sun, May 17
*Bethel Lutheran Church-Sioux Falls SD
Mon, May 18
St. Paul Lutheran School-Rapid City SD Apostles Lutheran Church-Billings MT
9:00 am 7:30 pm
Wed, May 20
Peace in Jesus Vietnamese Ministry-Boise ID
7:30 pm
Thu, May 21
Grace Lutheran School-Yakima WA
2:00 pm
Fri, May 22
Evergreen Lutheran High School-Tacoma WA Holy Trinity Lutheran School-Des Moines WA
9:45 am 2:00 pm
Sat, May 23
Loucks Auditorium: Central Library-Salem OR
4:00 pm
Sun, May 24
*Immanuel Lutheran Church-Salem OR *Grace Lutheran Church-Portland OR *Peace Lutheran Church-Vancouver WA
8:00 am 9:30 am 9:30 am
*Ensembles to accompany worship
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7:30 pm 10:30 am
Attention: Early Childhood EDUCATORS! You told us what you need, and we heard you! In surveys, you told us you’d like additional instruction in God’s Word, techniques for teaching preprimary children, outreach strategies, affordability, and convenience. So we now offer three professional development strands to meet your needs. Choose the one that fits!
IF THIS IS YOU:
THEN THIS IS YOUR PROGRAM:
I have no college degree. OR I have a college degree, but it’s not in early childhood education.
Early Childhood EDUCATOR
I’m a licensed/qualified ECE teacher in my state, but I want to be certified to teach in WELS schools. OR I’ve been called to be a WELS early childhood ministry teacher, but I’m not synod-certified.
Early Childhood TEACHER
I’m a state-licensed and synod-certified early childhood teacher who wants to maximize the outreach potential of my preschool.
Early Childhood OUTREACH ESSENTIALS
All courses are offered both online and face to face at your location! For course schedule and costs, visit mlc-wels.edu/go/ECE-schedule.
SERIES
11 short courses (almost all 1-credit) that develop a basic understanding of early childhood education: spiritual, intellectual, physical, and emotional
SYNOD CERTIFICATION
12 courses (1- and 3-credit) plus a five-week practical experience that train teachers to meet WELS ministry needs and to proclaim the Word of God faithfully
5 short courses (all 1-credit) that provide outreach tools to connect students and families to Christ and the local congregation
“
The classes have given me a world of wisdom and confidence! The instructors challenge me, and other students are very willing to share their experiences—what works, what doesn’t. My self-confidence has increased, and I feel more prepared and excited to implement ideas I’ve learned. I want to make my preschoolers’ learning experiences positive and engaging so they can continue to prosper as children of God.
”
Jennifer Semanko
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Ministry with Technology By Professor James Carlovsky MLC ’02 YouTube. Both the faculty and students continue to learn ways to naturally incorporate the collaborative aspects of the Google suite into the process of learning. In that regard, Martin Luther College faces some of the same challenges as WELS elementary and high schools. Wireless internet access for the campus requires financing, management, and support. Changing technologies require an ongoing emphasis on faculty and student training. MLC is thankful to both the Antioch Foundation and the MLC Ladies’ Auxiliary, which have donated funds to help push the technology goals of the college forward.
As the landscape of the WELS classroom changes, technology is difficult to avoid. Technology is not a novel concept, as computers appeared in many WELS classrooms by the 80s. However, with widespread use of affordable mobile devices and the move of data creation, collaboration, and storage to the cloud with tools like Google Drive, more feasible, viable technology options are available for WELS schools than ever before. More WELS schools, at all levels, are moving to a one device for one student (1:1) model. At MLC, the vast majority of students now have their own internet-ready devices for educational purposes and no longer need to rely on school-provided hardware.
MLC is positioned to prepare students to minister in the ever-changing world of 21st-century technology. Technology in education allows for new tasks to be completed that were previously inconceivable. Two launches in technology circles pushed the technology movement forward: the Google Chrome browser beginning in November 2009 and Chromebooks in June 2011. Chromebooks are at a reasonable price point for many WELS schools. Martin Luther College is a Google Apps for Education (GAFE) School, allowing faculty and students access to the full suite of Google tools, including Gmail, Calendar, Drive, Sites, and
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Joyce Varnum DMLC 1975 Davenport IA
Randy McBain DMLC 1975 Antioch IL
An exciting new course for Martin Luther College is entitled “Teaching with Technology.” This course reboot moves away from a focus on the details of applications like the Microsoft Office suite, instead emphasizing ways to naturally integrate technology into instruction to extend the discovery and learning process. Some of the highlights of this course include . . . • Working with tools for digital communication with parents, students, and congregations. • Practicing “flipped” instruction. A flipped classroom is a form of blended learning in which students learn content online by watching videos, usually at home. Homework or other assessments are done in class, with teachers and students discussing and solving questions. • Providing opportunities to wisely use the capabilities of iPads and Chromebooks to meet the diverse needs of their future students. By doing this, MLC students will think outside the box about ways to manage their classrooms while moving the learning experiences forward. • Training with Web 2.0 tools, various presentation software, video editing, and interactive whiteboard technologies. • Building a personal learning network (PLN) while on the campus of MLC. The course will be updated annually as learning technologies change. As the ministry opportunities of our synod change due to technology, Martin Luther College students are trained to lead the way in their future schools.
Jennifer D Baeckl DMLC 1995 Bay City MI
Norman E Pommeranz NWC 1950 Toledo OH
MLC Library: 21st-Century Resources for 21st-Century Needs By Linda Kramer, MLC Director of Library Services For students, finding a good place to study on campus can be a challenge. Dorm rooms are filled with the activity of college life, and other lounge areas and classrooms can be unreliable for providing quiet space. The library at Martin Luther College provides a study refuge and so much more. Walk around the library on any given day and you’ll find students engaged in a variety of tasks related to their preparation for vocations as pastors and teachers. Some will be studying in natural light at tables and carrels near main-floor windows, while others will be grouped in conference rooms or collaborative interactive spaces where they can practice a presentation complete with a computer, video screen, and teaming table. Others will be researching, writing papers, or working on projects at the library’s computer stations. Power outlets are provided for those students who bring their own laptops to use, and library staff are on hand to assist library users in finding what they need. Gone are the days when the only way to gather information was by going to the library, using the card catalog, and leaving the building with a stack of books. Today’s students, including those in graduate and continuing education programs across the US and the world, can log in to the library’s resources from the comfort of their dorm rooms or homes and access the full text of journals through databases and other digital resources. They can check the library’s catalog from their smartphones and stop in after class to get the books they need. As part of the library’s connection with the Traverse des Sioux Library Cooperative and other consortia, with a few clicks of the mouse and a few days’ wait, they can borrow inter-library loan materials from public libraries in neighboring communities, elsewhere in Minnesota, and worldwide. That’s not to say our own books aren’t important. In fact, the vast majority of the time, students will find what they need for their classes right within the walls of MLC’s library. That’s because books and other library materials are purchased with MLC’s curriculum in mind. The library, while welcoming members of the greater community to use its resources, has at its heart the mission to provide a collection that suits the needs of its campus community, whether for a first-year history class
Michelle Ewart DMLC 1990 Broken Arrow OK
Joel Sauer NWC 1995 Temple TX
assignment, a preseminary theological paper, a “kid lit” picture book analysis, or a student-teaching lesson plan. Many library purchases stem from faculty recommendations for materials that will support the classes they’re teaching. The library isn’t all-work-no-play, however. While certain areas are kept quiet for studying, the library is also a social center. Comfortable lounge areas offer a place to visit with friends, and there’s even free coffee available in the evening. Though times may change and library resources may look different, the focus of the MLC library remains on providing students with the space and materials they need to complete their studies.
By the Numbers
180,000 23,500 200 400 175
items in collection children’s literature books patrons daily, year-round items loaned out monthly to other libraries items borrowed monthly from other libraries
MLC Student Survey Results 97% have a laptop computer 76% have a smartphone 76% study in the MLC library 79% visit the library weekly or more often 58% search for resources from homes or dorms
Irmgard Lawrenz DMLC 1940 Lomira WI
Aaron J West MLC 2005 Indian Ridge TN
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A Year on the Stage MLC students are busy. They juggle academics, sports, choirs, bands, clubs, and jobs—and try to get a little social life in too. Every year, four MLC students add one more task to their already long list: directing a stage production. MLC shows are completely student-led. A faculty advisor provides oversight, but the students choose the shows and take them from auditions to performance. So to call directing just another task is an understatement. For a few months late in their college careers, it’s all-consuming. But, oh, the rewards—for them, their college, and their future ministries!
November 2014 Musical: The Music Man Rachel Brokmeier (Our Savior-Brookings SD) directed the biggest show of the year— and one of the best known in America— Meredith Willson’s The Music Man. The first words she utters is that this was a team effort. “I led the charge, but I could never have done it alone.” She cites the many hours given by the choreographer, music director, and producers. “I worked on being a leader who works with team members rather than just dictating what I wanted. It was important to view the production staff as a team rather than as a group carrying out one person’s vision.” Her agenda included set, costume, and choreography planning sessions; auditions and cast selection; scene blocking; and schedule-making—which is no small task with a big cast (pictured page 13, top). To keep morale up—and stress down—during the many weeks of rehearsal, Rachel introduced theme practices. “One of my favorites was our pajama practice,” she says. “I showed up in a pair of zebra footie pajamas. We also had Halloween costume day, crayon day, ‘80s day, and sweatpants day. It was great for cast bonding.”
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Ronald Martinson DMLC 1990 Marshall WI
Leah Fein DMLC 1990 Bay City MI
Are all the hours worth it—especially when you’re carrying a triple-major in elementary ed, choral music, and instrumental music? Of course. No matter where the Lord of the Church decides to place Rachel, this learning will transfer: “I’ll need to have mastery of my schedule and maintain flexibility to adjust my teaching to fit my students’ needs. The teamwork and communication skills I gained during the show will definitely be beneficial as I work with the faculty at my school.”
December 2014 Readers’ Theater: Campfire Stories Patrick Loroff (St. Paul-Lake Mills WI) directed a show in one of the more unique theatrical genres: readers’ theater (RT). In RT the set, costumes, and props are minimal. Cast members may read from scripts, although in Patrick’s show, a narrator read the stories from a big book as the characters played their roles. Another difference is that instead of buying an RT script, MLC students write the scripts themselves. “The producer and I worked together to produce the script,” Patrick says. “That’s a particularly challenging and very rewarding task! Our main sources were ‘The Boarded Window’ by Ambrose Bierce, ‘The Monkey’s Paw’ by W.W. Jacobs, and ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’ by Edgar Allan Poe. Although costumes aren’t a mainstay of RT, Campfire Stories did use some. “One of the best memories I have is dressing one of our actors up like a panther. We had to experiment with different makeup designs and costume choices, but the actor threw himself into the role and gave us 110%. Sometimes he got a little too into his role and would pounce on the other actors between scenes.” Like Rachel, Patrick quickly learned that collaboration was the key to achieving his vision. “You need to be willing to work with people so you can put on the best show possible.”
Jon Guenther NWC 1975 Morton Grove IL
Jennifer E Kolb MLC 2000 Prairie City SD
And he too sees the connection to ministry. He’ll graduate this May with his elementary ed degree. “Collaboration plays a huge part in any form of the public ministry. If you’re a teacher, you need to work with the other teachers, your pastor, the board, and the parents. The public ministry is a partnership between those called to serve and those being served with the gospel.”
February 2015 Play: Tartuffe Jacob Limpert (Christ Our Rock-Rochester MN) directed the spring play, Moliere’s comedy Tartuffe. Jacob repeats the list of his fellow directors: “plan and lead practices, do stage design, approve costuming and make-up, and in general oversee the creative aspects of the show.” He too credits his producer, who “helps get a lot of the behind-the-scenes people together to make the on-stage ideas happen.” Unique to this production was the use of French accents. “We had a French accent workshop the first week of practice,” Limpert says. “After going over the basics, I had the cast get in a circle, and we read tongue twisters in French accents. It was a lot of fun, and I think it helped.” Jacob says his directorship helped him improve both his time management and his people skills—both of which will be crucial when he’s a pastor. “Pastors always have busy schedules, so being able to carefully manage my time will be very important. They also have to work with people, so any chance I get to work on people skills is good. Since I’ll be in a leadership position at my future congregation and I’ll have to work with different teams and committees, being director of a play has given me good experience.”
David Schmiel DMLC 1985 Hiram OH
Martha J Paasch DMLC 1970 Clinton IA
April/May 2015 Children’s Theater: The Ugly Duckling Katie Kobs (Emanuel-Tawas City MI) is directing the most-attended show of the year, the children’s theater production. The cast will present their show to more than 5,000 children, first on the road at St. Croix LHS on April 24 and then on campus April 30-May 2. Children’s Theater is not just a show, it’s an event. It includes preshow entertainment, interactive performances, and even reader response packets with Ugly Duckling classroom activities and project ideas. Along with her “proDUCKion staff,” as she affectionately calls them, Katie is in charge of it all. Fifty students auditioned for the 16 parts, and with her help they’ll develop their characters, get fitted for cool costumes, and put themselves out there in ways that will fully engage fidgety little kids. Katie’s finishing her fourth of five years at MLC and triple-majoring in elementary ed, vocal music, and instrumental music. Directing the show and doing her homework fill every waking hour. But she wouldn’t trade it for the world. “It’s an amazing opportunity to glorify God with the gifts and talents of everyone working on this production!” she says. “And I hope directing this show will have direct transfer into my future ministry. Many music teachers are also in charge of their schools’ drama programs, so it’s very likely I could end up directing other shows someday. As the director of Children’s Theater, I want to create an environment that is safe, fun, and highly creative for my cast—all qualities I want to have in my future classroom!”
Paul Schossow NWC 1990 Belvidere IL
Deborah Hahn DMLC 1975 Dallas TX
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The Path to the Pulpit
C O L L E G E . . . S E M I N A RY . . .
Eight years. That’s how much training a young man undertakes before offering himself to the church for service in the pastoral ministry. Eight years. That’s what 29 preseminary first-year students at MLC have just begun. It may sound like a long time, but it’s filled with an invigorating blend of classroom learning and practical ministry experiences—all of it keyed on the Scriptures.
Ross Chartrand MLC ’13 is a middler, or second-year student, at the seminary. “I want the guys to know that it seems like a really long road,” he said, “but it’ll go quickly. And it’s important that they don’t just work hard but that they also enjoy it along the way.” Mark Voss MLC ’13, also a middler, agreed. “I remember when I was their age, and Professor Keith Wessel said, ‘You only have 7-1/2 years until you get a call.’ We laughed a little, but he wasn’t joking. There’s so much to learn before becoming a pastor, and it starts here at MLC. I want the guys to know that every day, every class, is important.” In addition to the class presentation, Aaron Voss MLC ’11, a seminary senior, also preached to the student body at chapel Friday night. College students, as well as a large group of visiting high school students, listened carefully as he encouraged them with Paul’s words to Timothy: “Continue in what you have learned” (2 Timothy 3:14-17).
And those young men at MLC, finishing the first half of the journey, are encouraged every step of the way by those who have gone before them. This February, 14 MLC graduates now at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary traveled back to MLC to encourage these young preseminary students. Three of them—Aaron Voss, Mark Voss, and Ross Chartrand (pictured above)—stopped in at Professor John Schmidt’s Elementary Classical Greek class to speak to these young men from the heart.
The Eight-Year Path to the Pulpit Years 1-4
Martin Luther College
Bible, doctrine, Greek and Hebrew, along with at least one non-biblical language, history, English, science, math, music, PE Years 5-6,8
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary
Further in-depth study of Old and New Testament, doctrine, church history, liturgics, homiletics (preaching), teaching, Early Field Training in local congregations, and other practical skills Year 7
Vicaring in congregations across US
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“I want to encourage the college students preparing to be pastors and teachers, as well as the visiting high school students who are just thinking about these vocations,” he said. “I want them to keep learning the Word, because that’s how they will become ‘equipped for every good work,’ as Paul says— including the public ministry if that’s what they choose.” Aaron remembers what it was like to have seminary students visit MLC when he was just 18. “The maturity level struck me. They were personable. They were focused. They were faithful. It impressed me.” Now he is one of those older students, making an impression on the young guys at MLC. “Sometimes I do feel overwhelmed by the idea of eight years of school,” said first-year MLC student Nathan Wong (St. Paul-North Mankato MN). “It really helped to hear the sem guys. They encouraged us to stick with our studies because of how rewarding it will be to share the gospel in the future.”
M I N I S T RY
Daniel Schmidt (St John-Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada) offers a Scripture reading at the MLC World Mission Service.
The MLC-WLS Student Connection By Professor John Schmidt WLS ’74 Each year Martin Luther College and Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary sponsor recruitment activities to help keep MLC’s preseminary students focused on their preparation for entrance into the seminary and eventually into the public ministry.
MLC
→ WLS
MLC juniors visit WLS for Mission and Ministry • Welcome by President Wendland and seminary students • Classroom visits • Campus tour • “Fireside Chat” with the vicars • Visit to Grace Ev. Lutheran Church • Mission and Ministry Seminar • Visit to the WELS Center for Mission and Ministry MLC seniors visit WLS for Eisodos (“Welcome”) • Welcome by President Wendland • Presentations on financial aid, academic expectations, campus life • Welcoming banquet • Evening entertainment and social gathering • Worship at Garden Homes Ev. Lutheran Church
WLS
→ MLC
WLS students visit MLC • Homecoming • Winter Carnival • “Rain or Shine” Softball Tournament • Presentations to MLC classes on value of language study • Devotions at gatherings of MLC preseminary students and faculty • Participation in various MLC intramural sporting events
Aaron Platzer (Shepherd of the Hills-Lansing MI) and Nathanael Plocher (St. Luke-Vassar MI) lead the procession at the MLC World Mission Service.
Our Best Recruiters and Encouragers: YOU! Caleb King (St. John-Lomira WI) is a first-year preseminary student at MLC. He remembers clearly the encouragement he received in high school: “In my freshman religion class, my teacher at Winnebago Lutheran Academy, Randy Westphal DMLC ’71, wrote on a paper I handed in, ‘Pastor King. Hmmm. That has a nice ring to it.’ “I thought he was crazy. But Mr. Westphal encouraged me through all four years at WLA. He really loved working in the full-time ministry, and he made it very appealing for me to spend my life doing the same. He has a model faith, and I hope to touch as many lives in my ministry someday as he did in his ministry.” We invite all of you—pastors, teachers, staff ministers, parents, grandparents, friends—to consider yourself a recruiter for the ministry! Your words and actions could make all the difference to a young man considering the pastoral ministry. • Pray for our current preseminary students. • Send a note of appreciation and encouragement to an MLC or seminary student you know. Tell him how much you appreciate the many years he’s putting into this preparation. Maybe even send a little gift. • Pray for additional students. Ask the Spirit to inspire more young men to encourage the public ministry of the gospel. • Watch for gifted young men in your congregation and encourage them to consider the pastoral ministry.
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Emily Neeb
Arizona Luth Academy | Sophomore in Education Studies She came 1500 miles, knowing hardly a soul here. But she says she’s made some of the best friendships of her life thanks to MLC. Now, as a student ambassador, she loves helping others realize MLC could be the place for them too. People skills are ministry skills: Coming from Arizona with barely anyone I knew was a daunting start to college. But I’ve made so many friends. Ministry requires people skills, and maybe starting out alone and being forced to make friends was God’s way of helping me grow in that area.
Major: early childhood ed Activities: volleyball, basketball, Chorale, piano, organ, intramurals Jobs: MLC student ambassador Hobbies: playing sports, reading, watching cat videos, having a good time with friends
Samuel Lor
“ Hey, ALA!” Make the most of your high school
Two influential people: My mom is the biggest reason I’m here. She was a teacher, and I’ve always looked up to her as a role model. And Professor Loomis has positively impacted me because she always has such enthusiasm in her early childhood classes. She makes me even more excited to teach.
experience! It really will fly by. Don’t be afraid of what the future holds for you. God is by your side every step of the way. Prayerfully consider what plans God may have for your future. Whether it is ministry or any other career, serve and glorify God wherever you end up.
Maybe someday: I’d love to teach 3-5 year olds and watch them grow physically, mentally, and in their faith. Minnesota’s a long way from Arizona, but Emily Neeb (second from left) feels right at home.
Sumner Academy of Arts & Science | First-year in Preseminary Studies His parents were born in Laos, and, like many Hmong and Mien, they fled to Thailand for refuge after the Vietnam War. When they received passage to America, they brought their Christian faith with them. His father and three uncles are now WELS pastors, and Sam is following in their footsteps.
Major: biblical languages Emphasis: Chinese for pastors Activities: Oriental Culture Club, piano, organ, Männerchor, intramurals Jobs: MLC cafeteria, fast food restaurant in town Hobbies: watching sports with friends, listening to Taylor Swift music 16 mlc-wels.edu 16
Gratitude to his father: My father was very patient with me when I was undecided about my career. When I told him I wanted to be a pastor, he pointed me to MLC and guided me through the process. He still guides and instructs me! More importantly, he provided a loving Christian home so that my family and I may know and receive instruction from the Bible. Gratitude to Professor Tingting: Professor Tingting Zhang Schwartz has made a unique impact on me. She’s a very good Chinese language professor. She’s taught me much about Chinese culture because she just submerges you in it. It’s helped me discover a love for the people I previously hadn’t known. They need Christ too.
“ Hey, Grace Lutheran”—specifically my youth! Don’t forget youth service is at 4 pm every first and third Saturday!
Samuel Lor started at the University of Kansas, working toward a degree in medicine. But then he realized it was ministry, not medicine, that was calling his name.
Kelsey Beagle
Rocky Mountain LHS | Sophomore in Education Studies
Tattooed on her shoulder is 2 Timothy 4:17: “But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength.” Those words sustained her after a drunk driver hit her car the summer after high school graduation. She endured six hours of facial reconstructive surgery, and doctors told her she’d need to delay college for a semester. But they didn’t know Kelsey. To her doctor’s surprise she went on her planned immersion trip to Costa Rica that summer and enrolled at MLC in the fall!
Majors: elementary ed, secondary Spanish ed Activities: choir, piano, intramurals Jobs: admissions department assistant, grade school volleyball coach Hobbies: watching movies, painting my nails, sipping on hot coffee
God gave her strength: I know God has a plan for me, so I live every day willing to do anything he has in store for me. Through my recovery from the accident, I was able to help other people realize God has everything under control. We need to let him rule our lives rather than letting our worries rule our lives. God is still “reconstructing” her: At MLC, I’ve noticed some drastic changes. I have more of a servant-like attitude. I’m more willing to go out of my way in order to encourage, help, or chat with someone.
Kelsey Beagle’s positive attitude shows in her work as an assistant in the admissions department.
Bet you didn’t know: I played on the boys’ baseball team in high school. We didn’t have a softball team, so I just joined the guys’ team.
“ Hey, Rocky Mountain!” Keep an eye on Dylan for me! P.S. I hope to see some of you up here in the next few years!
Collin Wenzel
Fox Valley LHS | First-year in Preseminary Studies
An unapologetic scholar, he was eager to dive into Greek, Hebrew, and Latin. He’ll have to wait until junior year for Hebrew, but he’s already memorizing Latin and Greek vocab a couple hours a night—and loving it. One of the coolest things about Greek . . . is when you see why God chose a specific New Testament word. In English, it seems to be just an ordinary definition, but the specific Greek translation gives more insight into what God is telling us. Scholars and friends: The people I’m sitting in class with will be my co-workers in the ministry. I enjoy building these friendships because we’ll be encouraging each other for the next eight years. Major: biblical languages Emphasis: Latin Activities: Student Senate, Chorale, organ, Ultimate Frisbee Club, intramurals Hobbies: disc golfing, running, listening to music, playing piano and guitar, World War II history
After just one semester: I can already tell I’m more excited for the ministry. MLC is a great place to be. I’m constantly reminded of my purpose for being here.
“ Hey, FVL!” Seniors, as you think about your plans for
next year, prayerfully consider where you can best serve God. Don’t worry about making the wrong decision—God already has a plan for you and promises to bless your studies. When he’s not out running or discussing an issue at a Student Senate meeting, you might find Collin Wenzel studying. He likes the challenge of foreign language—especially “when everything clicks and comes together.”
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Sarah Hackbarth
Lakeside LHS | Sophomore in Education Studies
A successful three-season athlete, she knows what training is all about. She had considered becoming a sports trainer but then decided to “train up children in the way they should go”—providing an education for the mind, body, and soul. She’s learning how at MLC. The training never stops: I hope no matter what road God takes me down, I’ll continually be improving as a teacher and helping my students accomplish their academic goals and grow stronger in their faith.
Major: elementary ed Minor: communication arts & lit Activities: Chorale, piano, cross country, basketball, track, intramurals Jobs: tutor at Lutheran grade school, MLC gym supervisor Hobbies: spending time with friends, playing sports, running, eating
A physical trainer too: I hope I’ll get to coach either track, cross country, or basketball, so that I can help young athletes improve in the sports I love. We’re all a team: Being part of the same family of believers and sharing the goal of spreading God’s Word to the world gives you a special bond between all the MLC faculty and students that can’t be found anywhere else.
“ Hey, Lakeside!” I miss all the teachers and coaches who were
always pushing me to do my best, my amazing friends and teammates, and salad bar day. Good luck, Moriah, Abby, and the rest of the Lakeside girls’ basketball team as you finish up this season! Sarah Hackbarth loves cross country because the team is such a tight-knit group and they get to see a lot of beautiful scenery.
Zachary Scharlemann
Minnesota Valley LHS | Sophomore in Education Studies
He was studying computer science at a Minnesota college for only a couple weeks when the doubts started: Did he really want to stare at a computer every day for the rest of his life? After a lot of praying and weighing of options, he made the switch to MLC. Teaching combines everything he loves: I’ve always had a passion for both music and math, and I can’t think of anything better than sharing that passion with others for the rest of my life! And if someone were to not have saving faith, I would get to share even more things I love with them!
Majors: secondary instrumental music ed, secondary math Activities: Wind Symphony, Jazz Band, percussion ensemble, College Choir, pit orchestra, piano, marimba, drum Jobs: teaching percussion, washing dishes at restaurant Hobbies: playing drums, running, hanging out with friends, playing League of Legends
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First-year Early Field Experience: EFE last year was a huge success! I taught a lesson on rhythm using different types of fruit to some fourth and fifth graders, and by the end of it they had mastered triplets and dotted figures! Loving every minute: What a blessing it was for the Lord to bring me here! I’ve been loving every minute since I’ve come to MLC, and I’m especially looking forward to all the wonderful adventures I’m going to have in my future ministry.
“ Hey, MVL!” Pep Band, keep rocking. Students, keep screaming your heads off at sporting events. And cross country, adventure is out there!
Zack Scharlemann enjoys all things musical at MLC, from the sacred Christmas concert to the pit orchestra for the musical.
Yaffet Gabayehu
Luther Prep | Sophomore in Preseminary Studies
Like most high school students, he struggled with his college and career choice. But he credits LPS professors, tutors, and friends—as well as the MLC admissions team—for guiding him to MLC. Thank you, LPS family . . . for showing me how I can serve the Lord through the gifts and abilities he’s given me. I knew I wanted to help people, and what better way than to help strengthen their spiritual lives as a pastor through the Word and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Major: biblical languages Emphasis: Spanish for pastors Activities: football, tennis, Chorale, intramurals Jobs: admissions department student ambassador, public school tutor Hobbies: spending time with friends, playing pickup basketball, working out in the fitness center
Since he first stepped on campus . . . everything changed. I feel like I’m learning and growing spiritually each day. It’s also great to know that all those around you share in your faith and are encouraging you as well. A new favorite: Greek was one of my favorite classes last semester, because I learned something new each day. It was amazing to translate certain portions of the Christmas story this year. And it’s great to see how everything we are learning can be used and how it makes so much sense when we apply it.
“ Hey, Luther Prep!” I hope to see a lot of you seniors next year here, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your senior year!
As an MLC student ambassador, Yaffet Gabayehu now gives tours and encouragement to visiting high schoolers, some who are as confused about their futures as he was.
Elizabeth Bergemann
Wisconsin LHS | First-year in Education Studies
She has a passion for special education. So when MLC established a special education major, she turned down a substantial scholarship to another college and immediately enrolled here. She sees the need: I’ve had personal experiences that made me aware of our synod’s need for special education. Students often have to go to public schools to get the help they need. I was so excited when I heard about the new major open here at MLC, and I’m so thankful to be here. Majors: early childhood ed, special ed Activities: Chorale, Forum (the musical), violin, piano Job: waitress at vineyard outside town Hobbies: knitting, reading, working out in MLC Fitness Center; “I’m also obsessed with mac ‘n’ cheese, chocolate, and rom-coms”
She wants to fill it: I’d like to be placed wherever God needs me so I can help those with special needs. After her first semester: I’m one semester closer to becoming a teacher! It’s such a blessing that I’ll be fully prepared to teach in the public ministry someday.
“ Hey, WISCO!” I miss the WISCO family and
everything from chapel to the teachers, sports, choirs, and all the concerts. Get out there and enjoy all that WISCO has to offer. Never take it for granted, and enjoy every minute of it. Elizabeth Bergemann made the dance chorus for The Music Man, MLC’s 2014 musical. She says the musical combined all the things she enjoys and let her use her talents to serve God.
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Sharing the MLC Message When MLC Admissions Counselor Josh Danell MLC ’13 talks to high school juniors and seniors, his message is a little different from that of other college recruiters. He spends less time talking up MLC and more time listening to the students sitting in front of him. “I’m more concerned about the students’ futures and how they can use their God-given gifts in their future vocations—which may or may not mean MLC,” he says. “I certainly take a look at what gifts and abilities the student has for the public ministry, as well as how each student can take what they have and learn and grow in those skills. I do encourage them to consider MLC and the public ministry. That’s why I’m there. But first, I listen.” Danell says he lets the conversation go wherever the student wants to take it. “Both of us know that sooner or later we’ll discuss: ‘What are your thoughts about college and MLC?’ “But getting to know them first as a friend is the biggest step. Then they get to know me and trust me, and the conversation about MLC comes naturally.” If the students are from a Lutheran high school, they usually know quite a bit about MLC already. The admissions counselors talk to all freshman and sophomore religion classes, so it’s safe to say almost all of the 5,000+ students in WELS high schools have heard the MLC message and been encouraged to prayerfully consider the public ministry.
Josh is one of four official counselors, plus a director and administrative assistant, dedicated to sharing the MLC message. But the admissions department has dozens, even hundreds, of satellite counselors: WELS teachers, pastors, parents, grandparents, and friends. “We count on the students getting good counsel from others in their lives, especially their high school teachers,” Josh says. “So even though we only see them a couple times a year, they’re getting guidance from others too. We’re grateful for that.” Are you a high school student who would like to know more about MLC? Josh encourages you to explore our website: mlc-wels.edu and take a virtual tour of campus there. Or you can call us at 507.354.8221 to talk to a counselor, to schedule a campus visit, or to request that a counselor visit you. “We’ll make arrangements to meet you wherever you are,” Josh says. “If you schedule a campus visit, we’ll be here. If we’re in Josh Danell talks with hundreds of high school students every year about their possible future at MLC.
“Many already know the basics,” Josh says. “They know we train pastors and teachers and staff ministers. What they ask about is certain aspects of college life, like sports and music and clubs—how hard it is to balance those things with academics, for instance. “But what they ask about most of all is cost. How much is tuition, room and board? What scholarships might they be eligible for?” Knowing that cost can be a big factor in the decision-making process, Danell is happy to tell them how MLC works hard to keep costs low. Often Josh will have the opportunity to tell them about his own journey to MLC. “I was on the fence,” he says. “I wasn’t sure what to do, and that’s true of so many high school students—and some college students too!” What helped him decide? There was no stroke of lightning. “I just decided to give MLC a try. I thought this was a good college to start out at, and I was right. Hopefully these high school students will think the same.”
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Lyle E Albrecht NWC 1955 Two Rivers WI
Betty Mumm DMLC 1950 Sanborn MN
David J Salinas MLC 2000 North Hollywood CA
Emily Priour DMLC 1980 Edna TX
Lutheran High School
Tip-off Tourney @ MLC your area, we’ll stop in to see you—whatever is most convenient for you!” There’s something more important though than talking to an admissions counselor. “Talk to God,” Josh says. “Pray that God will guide you in your decision making. And also know that his plans for you might not line up with whatever you are currently thinking. Then relax and trust that whatever decision you make, you can still serve your Savior.”
By Hope Werre MLC ’17 Students from eight WELS high schools joined the MLC campus family December 11-13 for a weekend of basketball and fun, some to play in the tournament and others just to watch. All students got to experience a taste of life on the hill, including staying in the dorms with MLC students. When they weren’t playing basketball, students went swimming, bowling, and shopping at the Mall of America. They also danced and did karaoke, watched college basketball games, toured campus, and attended services in the Chapel of the Christ. “We thank our God for the opportunity to share MLC with all who attended,” said Admissions Director Mark Stein DMLC ‘92, “especially the high school students. This was a great opportunity for them to consider ministry and to enjoy MLC. We praise our Lord for this tremendous blessing, and we encourage all high school students to keep thinking and praying about the possibility of becoming a part of the MLC student body someday!”
Tip-off Tournament & Focus on Ministry Visitors Mark Stein
Ross Stelljes
Admissions Director
Admissions Counselor
Lori Unke
Josh Danell
Admissions Counselor
Admissions Counselor
David Starr
Anne Starr
Admissions Counselor
Admissions Administrative Assistant
Shawn Swafford NWC 1985 Pensacola FL
Arizona Luth Academy Evergreen LHS Illinois LHS
Minnesota Valley LHS Nebraska LHS Northland LHS
St. Croix LHS West LHS
Large School Champs:
Round Robin Champs:
Boys: St. Croix LHS Girls: St. Croix LHS
Boys: Illinois LHS Girls: Northland LHS
The St. Croix LHS girls took home the Large School Championship trophy.
Ruth Wilch DMLC 1945 Jenera OH
John A Marten DMLC 1970 Tomah WI
Laura Schaper DMLC 1995 Milwaukee WI
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Sharing the Gospel in So
ng
“Some choruses travel. If they can do it, why can’t we?”
Here are a few highlights:
Thus wrote Armin E. Albrecht DMLC ’30 in the June 1929 DMLC Messenger. “Other schools smaller than we take their choir to musical centers like the Twin Cities, Duluth, and La Crosse.
1948: Several concerts in the Saginaw, Michigan, area had to
“Choir tours would create a friendlier spirit between the school and its supporters. If they see and hear what we are accomplishing here at New Ulm, perhaps they will send their sons and daughters to DMLC to receive their high school and college training.”
half of the planned tour because six congregations west of the flooded Missouri River were inaccessible.
be canceled due to flooding.
1952: The choir had to return home after completing only
Albrecht made a convincing argument, and the following spring Professor Emil D. Backer DMLC 1914 took the DMLC Choir on a short tour to proclaim the gospel in song to a number of congregations near New Ulm. In fall he chose a select choir of 49 voices to go on an extended tour the following spring, May 1931. Professor Edwin H. Sauer, choir manager, made the necessary arrangements, and the choir traveled to congregations in Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, presenting the “splendid program” Professor Backer and the choir had prepared. The Messenger reported that “they were well-received everywhere, and cooks at the various places were experts at their trade.” So began a tradition of choir tours that continues to the present. For several decades the choir was made up of singers from the high school senior class and the three college classes. Most years the choir would take a tour, often a longer tour one year and a shorter one to local congregations the next.
1954 Tour program excerpt 1959: Now under the direction of Professor Martin Albrecht DMLC ‘29, the choir took two tours, one in fall and the other in spring, to commemorate the diamond jubilee year of DMLC. They sang to an estimated 15,000 people in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Michigan.
1967: Professor Meilahn Zahn DMLC ’32, director, and Professor Delmar Brick WLS ’43, manager, took the choir on a tour to mark the 450th anniversary of the Reformation. Sixty-two singers proclaimed the gospel in 31 concerts, traveling 3200 miles through the Midwest. 1974: Professors Zahn and Brick took the choir to the Southwest, singing in congregations in Colorado, Arizona, and Nebraska. In the 30s, the choir used a Greyhound bus and drivers for tour.
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Todd Krueger NWC 1995 Milwaukee WI
Sarah R Moak MLC 2005 Appleton WI
Nathan P Sievert DMLC 1995 Sioux City IA
Deborah Sprain DMLC Madison WI
85 Years of Choir Tours 1976: The choir traveled to the East Coast via Ottawa and Montreal, Canada. They made history when they sang on the steps of the Capitol in Washington DC.
By Clarice Fastenau DMLC ’60
From the Messenger
1929: Through the courtesy of the New Ulm Business
1978: Professor James Engel directed the choir of 45 voices that traveled to Texas, enjoying sightseeing, barbecues, and the wonderful hospitality of the Texans.
1984, 1986: Professor Roger Hermanson took the choir to 13 western states (’84) and to Florida (’86).
1991: The choir had some exciting moments as it sang a concert in Wisconsin during a tornado warning and sang another in a church with a hole in the roof from a tornado.
1948: Art Schulz [Professor Emeritus Arthur Schulz] and his friend, Don Sebald, hitchhiked to Michigan following the choir, supposedly to visit Don’s parents, who lived in Saginaw. They also had a special interest in two of the female members of the choir, Joyce Hanke and Alice Reek, whom they ended up marrying in due time. Joyce took this photo. Art is in the center back.
1997: The choir sang concerts for 12 congregations in California.
Roger Lunzman DMLC 1965 St. Paul MN
and Industrial Firms, the college mixed choir of 160 voices had the privilege to broadcast over the Gold Medal radio station, WCCO, Saturday evening, December 7, 1929. The private long distance telephone wire of the Eagle Roller Mill Co. of New Ulm was used to transmit the program from the DMLC auditorium to Minneapolis. Many comments have been received by Prof. Emil D. Backer congratulating him and the choir. The singing was even heard in Saskatchewan, Canada, according to a message received from Mr. F.H. Retzlaff, a member of our college board of directors, who was on a business trip in Canada at that time.
Stephanie L Buege MLC 2010 Crete IL
Mark A Cordes NWC 1980 Bend OR
Ashley D Mozak MLC 2010 Saint Albert, Alberta
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Today’s Choir Dr. Kermit Moldenhauer DMLC ’71 inherited the baton in 2003. Under his direction, the choir has traveled further than ever before. In 2008, the group traveled to Mexico, with concerts in Monterrey and Torreon, including a mini-concert at a WELS-affiliated new mission start in Torreon. “I remember bringing home a bus full of missionaries from Mexico,” Moldenhauer said. “There was more discussion about mission work on the bus on that tour than any other.” 2006 saw concerts along the West Coast, from San Diego north to Bremerton, Washington. In 2012, the choir traveled even further northwest, visiting Alaska and singing in Anchorage, Kenai, Eagle River, and Wasilla. Moldenhauer is hard-pressed to choose favorites in the choir’s repertoire, but some works have risen to the top for him: • “Requiem” by Brahms • “Alleluia” by Randall Thompson • “I Will Rise” by Craig Courtney • “Magnificat” by René Clausen • “Behold, I Tell You a Mystery” by J. Aaron McDermid (a work commissioned by the choir) • “Jesus, Priceless Treasure” by J.S. Bach He also carries some cherished memories in his heart. “I remember singing a concert in Colorado where a Jesus Cares group was present. The choir sang the Bach motet, ‘Jesus, Priceless Treasure.’ During the motet one of the members of the Jesus Cares group became so excited and made so much noise that they had to take him out of the sanctuary for a while. We never know how the Spirit might do his work!”
Wider audiences have also been introduced to the choir through social media. Moldenhauer notes that family members are particularly appreciative of being able to follow their sons and daughters on the tours through Facebook. “Social media has allowed the gospel in song to reach some ears that would not have heard without the technology. I still get email and comments about the song ‘I Will Rise,’ which we sang on last year’s tour.” The post of that song received over 50,000 views. Sharing the gospel in song through wireless devices—that’s certainly one change the choirs of the 1930s never could have envisioned. But much of the choir’s ministry has not changed a bit over the last 85 years. “Every era and every director might have produced a choir with a different sound and a different repertoire,” Moldenhauer says. “However, the central message of the choir—to proclaim the gospel in song—has remained the same throughout the years.”
The College Choir Legacy Of today’s 58 College Choir members . . . 40% have a parent who sang in the College Choir 15% have a grandparent who sang in the College Choir 40% have another relative who sang in the College Choir
This year he was moved by the singing of “God So Loved the World” by Paul Mealor at the Wisconsin State Capitol. “The acoustics were fabulous,” he said, “and we gathered a considerable crowd and were able to talk to a number of people we would otherwise never have met.”
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Steven Persons NWC 1970 Appleton WI
Linda Gustafson DMLC 1985 Yakima WA
John T Fields MLC 2010 Bradenton FL
Emily E Gebert MLC 2005 Georgetown TX
Meet the
Presidents
Dr. Martin Luther College
President John P. Meyer Pastor John P. Meyer (1873-1964), fourth president of Dr. Martin Luther College, was born to Pastor Johannes Meyer and Anna Meta nee Behnken in Zittau, Wisconsin. His father had trained for ministry at Hermannsburg Mission in Germany. In 1893 John graduated from Northwestern College in Watertown and in 1896 from the Theological Seminary in Wauwatosa. As his first assignment, he served St. Stephen-Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, for nine years.
Northwestern College 1865-1869 Adam Martin 1869-1870 Lewis O. Thompson 1871-1919 Dr. August F. Ernst 1919-1959 Erwin E. Kowalke 1959-1987 Carleton Toppe 1987-1993 Robert J. Voss 1993-1995 John Braun
In 1902 Pastor Meyer was called to become professor and dean of men at his alma mater, Northwestern College. But his talents lay elsewhere than in dormitory supervision. The next year he moved to Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm to teach Latin and Greek. “Nixie,” as the white-haired professor became affectionately known, wed Lydia Reinke, a marriage blessed with four children.
Dr. Martin Luther College 1884-1885 Christian J. Albrecht
Service to the college was interrupted in 1915 for pastoral reasons. Meyer accepted an assignment to settle problems at a congregation in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Three years later, in 1918, he was called back to become professor of education and president of Dr. Martin Luther College.
1885-1893 Otto Hoyer
The Meyer presidency was short, as just two years later he was called to succeed his untimely-deceased brother Hermann as professor at the synod’s Wauwatosa seminary. His assignment to teach Doctrine and New Testament was later amplified to include Genesis, Ancient Church History, and Lutheran Confessional Writings. For 16 of his 44 seminary years, he also served as president.
1918-1920 John P. Meyer
Professor Meyer’s service had a major impact on the church at large. The New Ulm years gave insights for his service on the synod’s Board of Education. Known for his theological clarity and writing ability, Meyer used the letter “M” to identify himself as author in over 250 articles in the seminary Quarterly and the synod’s magazine, the Northwestern Lutheran.
1966-1980 Conrad Frey
1893-1908 John Schaller 1908-1918 Adolph Ackermann
1920-1936 Edmund Bliefernicht 1936-1966 Carl Schweppe 1980-1993 Lloyd O. Huebner 1993-1995 John Lawrenz
Professor Meyer died on November 10, 1964, at age 91. Just two weeks earlier, he had preached his last sermon at St. Marcus in Milwaukee, where he had been pulpit assistant for 37 years. On the previous Friday he had taught his full schedule of seminary classes. Our gratitude to Professor Emeritus Arnold Koelpin for writing this biography and to Professor Emeritus Arthur Schulz for his research on the DMLC presidents.
Gerald P Arnold MLC 2005 Woodstock GA
Joyce Rueckheim DMLC 1965 Ontario WI
Martin Luther College 1995-2007 Theodore Olsen 2007-present Mark Zarling
Patrick Bell NWC 1970 Milwaukee WI
James Frey NWC 1975 Detroit MI
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Focus On By Alumni Director Steve Balza DMLC ‘93
Time to Reunite? Has it been 25, 40, or 50 years since you and your classmates turned your tassels? If your class is celebrating a milestone anniversary, we encourage you to come together here on the hill to reminisce, celebrate, and encourage one another. The alumni relations office is here to help: • General event planning • Tracking down classmates • “Save the Date” cards and invitations • On-campus meals, tours, and activities • Remembrance booklets
DMLC Class of 1964 had a great time at their reunion last year!
Classes already planning a reunion:
DMLC Class of 1955
DMLHS Class of 1960
May 15 at MLC Contact Otto Schenk omschenk@gmail.com or 507-354-4246
June 13 at MLC Contact John Micheel micheeljn@mlc-wels.edu or 507-354-4722
DMLC Class of 1965 September 17-19 at MLC Contact Ronald Schultz ronaldschultz@msn.com or 262-547-1518 DMLHS Class of 1964 remembrance book
HOOPS in Watertown Alumni, parents, and prospective students came together in Watertown, Wisconsin, to cheer on the MLC Knights as they took on the Maranatha Sabercats in November. The event began with a pregame meal at nearby Luther Prep and a presentation on MLC athletics by Athletic Director Jim Unke DMLC ’80. Over 350 MLC fans packed Maranatha’s gym in support of our Knights. The women prevailed, while the men fell short in their season opening efforts.
Luke Rothe (St. Matthew-Oconomowoc WI) drives the hoop.
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Professor Jim Unke DMLC ’80 promotes MLC athletics.
Mariah Schoof (St. Paul-New Ulm MN) puts it up.
Join Us for the 2015 Alumni Commencement Dinner Friday, May 15, 2015, 4 pm Luther Student Center Cafeteria Enjoy a delicious meal . . . good fellowship . . . presentations by professors . . . and then attend the 7:30 concert in Chapel of the Christ.
This year’s presenters:
Professor
Athletic Director
Jim Unke
Tom Hunter
Urban Ministry
The Role of MLC Athletics in Ministerial Education
International Students at MLC and Overseas Opportunities for Our Graduates
Ben Clemons
Professor
Only $5.00 - payable on arrival Reservations are required: Call the alumni office at 507-354-8221 x387 Register online at mlcdinner15.eventbrite.com
All alumni and families welcome!
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Advancing the Mission By Michael Otterstatter WLS ‘94 MLC VP for Mission Advancement
“So what exactly do you do at MLC?” During my travels on behalf of the college I frequently hear that question. My short answer has been, “The Mission Advancement Office serves as the voice of MLC to share its mission and message with the members of WELS.” My long answer goes something like this: “Our office has been asked to facilitate public and community relations, alumni relations, donor relations, campus events, and general advancement efforts at MLC. We provide information about the college in a variety of formats to make others aware of our needs and of ways they can support their college of ministry.” Although it’s difficult to quantify all the blessings God bestows to and through this office, we can share with you the following, which represent the period of July 2014 to February 2015:
Thank You, Antioch II Foundation The Antioch II Foundation generously funded grant requests for these 2015-16 projects:
iPads and Chromebooks – $10,000 Gives education majors additional experience in using technology to enhance their teaching.
DayLight USA – $10,000 Allows additional students to offer summer ministry assistance in Colorado and the North Atlantic.
Caribbean PE Professional Development – $10,000 Funds physical education curriculum training for St. John’s-Antigua, Trinity-St. Lucia, and Grace-Granada; MLC Professors John Gronholz (emeritus) and Daniel Gawrisch will conduct training October 17-20, 2015.
New Teacher Induction – $40,000 Funds training of 30 instructional mentors and two mentor trainers; trained mentors support new teachers during their first two years of service.
Leadership Grants – $12,000 Provides renewable grants to selected incoming first-year students who show exceptional ability to influence other students to begin and complete their ministry training at MLC.
Spanish Immersion – $15,000 Provides financial assistance to students who participate in a Spanish immersion experience in South America.
• We have received $1,259,651 in gifts. • This figure represents 77% of our fiscal year goal of $1,635,400. • Those gifts were received from 1,301 donors. • President Mark Zarling, Kate Tohal, Jim Hahn, and I conducted 210 face-to-face visits in AZ, CA, DE, FL, MN, MI, ND, NY, OR, PA, SC, VA, WA, and WI. • President Zarling and I conducted 24 MLC Sundays, providing a sermon, Bible study, and MLC presentations. I consider it a privilege to serve MLC in this way, and I want to convey my deepest thanks to all of you who support the WELS College of Ministry with your prayers, your encouragement, and your gifts. May the Lord Jesus continue to bless our partnership in the gospel.
Santiago Botero (St. Paul-Saginaw MI) speaks for all MLC students in thanking the Antioch II Foundation, as well as all our generous donors.
The Shepherd Society Founded in 2008, the Shepherd Society is comprised of called workers who have been recognized for making a difference in people’s lives through their ministries.
Rev. Ste KeitvhenBD. B owe ode
Anyone may nominate a pastor, teacher, or staff minister for the Shepherd Society by filling out a form (see below) and sending it to Martin Luther College along with a gift of gratitude. In so doing, you support the training of future called workers at MLC and express your gratitude to Jesus the Good Shepherd and to the specific called worker who has shepherded you in a special way.
wit
hith grgr atat ititu udde e fo shwep hisswwork forr hi herd shep ining G ork of of herd g God To od’s’spepe tra fu opop train tu Martin To le le re in ca fu lle Luther Coture called worke Martin Luther Co llege in d workers , a ft his hono rs, a gi ha llege in gi ft ha r by Ro ss be his hono been en gi givenn to r by Mbearrt an to Lucive k & dCo lle La lette Zaret linscgh “As ou r shephe rd he alon increase g with the Sp has, of God d our love an irit, ’s Word d and will knowledge .” (Bob
and Lucie
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The called workers nominated for the Shepherd Society receive a commemorative plaque with a personal Certificate of Appreciation. The following 77 people have been nominated for the Shepherd Society as of January 2015. Some have been nominated two (2) or three (3) times. Bruce Backer Richard & Lois Balge Siegbert Becker Forrest & Sue Bivens Steven D. Bode Keith Bowe Paul Bowe John & Irene Brug Ronald Brutlag Norman Burger, Jr. Paul Eckert Don & Clarice Fastenau (2) Arthur Frenz Verlyn Fuhrmann Richard Gibson Barbara Green
Gene Gronholz Jimmy Groth Robert Guenther Beverlee Haar Harold Hagedorn Jon & Linda Hahm Don & Harriet Hartwig (2) Michael Hein Richard Hennig Greg Hermanson Marilyn Jonas Dennis Kempf David Kuehl (3) Timothy Kujath Lyle Lange Mark Lenz
Barb Leopold Cheryl Loomis Phil Leyrer Steve Loehr Daniel Malchow (2) Carla Melendy (2) Armin & Virginia Panning (2) Paul Patterson Peggy Pekrul Jackson Petrie Herb & Char Prahl Rob Raasch Darvin Raddatz Wendy Ristow Dave & Sande Sauer Doug Scherschel
Edmund Schulz Richard Schwerin Joel & Carly Seifert Martin Sponholz John & Carrie Steinbrenner William Steinbrenner Burton Stensberg Doug Stindt Steve Strieter Earle Treptow David & Janice Valleskey Kathy Walz Chad White Kenneth White Erin E. Williams Mark Zarling David Zietlow
If you would like to thank a called worker who has made a difference in your life, please send us the following form with your gift. It’s a great way to help MLC, thank a special person, and glorify the Good Shepherd! Your Name_________________________________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________ City ____________________ State ______ Zip ____________ Phone _____________________________________ Email (opt) ____________________________________________ My gift of gratitude to MLC: $ ____ $100
$150
$200
$250 $_____
I’m giving this gift in honor of_________________________________________________________________________ (Name of WELS pastor, teacher, or staff minister)
Congregation and/or school where called worker serves/served:_____________________________________________ My Words of Gratitude: “I’m grateful to this called worker because_________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please remit to The Shepherd Society, Martin Luther College, New Ulm MN 56073 mlc-wels.edu 29
Adjunct Instructor Bethel Balge earned her Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Minnesota in December 2014. Her emphasis was piano performance, and she studied under renowned pianist Lydia Artymiw.
Professor Emeritus Barb Leopold DMLC ’74 presented
Adjunct Instructor Dr. Paul R. Boehlke DMLC ‘61 presented “The Christian’s Perspective on Evolution” at Kettle Moraine LHSJackson WI in February.
Dr. John Meyer DMLC ’87, director of graduate studies and
Professor James Carlovsky MLC ’02, ’10 completed certified Google Educator status and was accepted as a PhD student in STEM Education at the University of Minnesota.
Professor Rebecca Cox DMLC ’89 is serving a three-year term on the NCAA DIII Women’s Volleyball Regional Advisory Committee. She also serves on the steering committee for the WELS National Physical Education Conference, which recently won a Citation Award from WHPE (Wisconsin Health and Physical Education). Professor Gregory Diersen MLC ’96
“Developing a Physical Education Curriculum Concentrating on Locomotor Movements for Grades 1-4” at the Lake Lutheran Teachers’ Conference at Faith-Antioch IL in February. continuing education, presented “Educational Leadership and Cognitive Change: A Transdisciplinary (Education, Cognitive Psychology, Neuroscience) Model” at the Spring Leadership Institute at St. Cloud State University-MN in April. He also presented education topics at two February conferences: “Making WELS Teaching Standards Useful” and “Pursuing Excellence through Continuing Education” at the GROW Conference at Abiding Word-Houston and “A Common-Sense Approach to the Common Core” at the Western Wisconsin Lutheran Teachers’ Conference at St. Peter-Schofield WI.
Dr. Kermit Moldenhauer DMLC ’71 was commissioned by Our Redeemer-Madison WI to compose a new setting of the Common Service for congregation, piano, and flute.
presented “Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus: A Background of My Research Field” at Bethany Lutheran College Science Symposium in February.
Dr. Lawrence Olson WLS ’83 presented “Christ’s Church and
Dr. James Grunwald DMLC ’76 chaired
conferences in February: “Navigating Trends in Education” at the Western Wisconsin Lutheran Teachers’ Conference in Schofield WI, “Fitting the Pieces Together-A Balanced Literacy Curriculum” at the Northern Wisconsin Lutheran Teachers’ Conference in Manitowoc WI, and “Teaching Religion Revisited” at the Northern California Lutheran Teachers’ Conference in Redding CA.
the Commission on IT & Distance Learning meeting for the National Council for Private School Accreditation in Orlando in January. He also continues to serve as superintendent of ALHS Online, which facilitates the offering of online courses to WELS high school students.
Dr. Robert Klindworth DMLC ‘70 presented “The 21st- Century Learner,” “Brain-Based Learning/What We Know,” and “Brain-Based Learning/What We Can Do with It” at the GROW Conference-Houston TX in February. Adjunct Instructor Kenn Kremer DMLC ‘69 has published his fifth book with Northwestern Publishing House: A Heart at Peace: Biblical Strategies for Christians in Conflict.
Her Ministry,” a seminar in the Congregational Assistant Program, at Shepherd of the Valley-Westminster CO in January.
Professor Jon Roux MLC ’95 presented at three teachers’
Professor Jonathan Schaefer MLC ‘02 presented “Growing Your Ministry Using the WELS Teaching Standards” and “New Teacher Induction” at the Pacific Northwest District Spring Teachers’ Conference at Bethany-Port Orchard WA in March.
Professor Lyle Lange WLS ’69 presented a paper on Pietism to the Minnesota River Valley Pastoral Conference at Zion-Morton MN in March.
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Richard Warnecke NWC 1980 Hokah MN
Keturah E Garbow MLC 2005 Saginaw MI
John Beyer DMLC 1980 Van Nuys CA
Silas Roy Krueger NWC 1960 Kawkawlin MI
Professor David Sellnow WLS ’86 presented the keynote address “Teaching the Faith” at the Western Wisconsin Lutheran Teachers’ Conference in Schofield WI in February. This presentation will be available this summer as an MLC webinar. He also led two sectionals at the same conference: “Clearing Up Confusion about Prayer” and “Prayer Is Personal and Powerful.” Dr. Cindy Whaley DMLC ’76 is conducting inservices at St. John-Redwood Falls MN and at New Ulm public schools in various aspects of reading instruction and assessment. She’s also facilitating a reading iTutoring program that connects MLC education majors electronically with third graders at Jefferson Elementary-New Ulm.
Professor Emeritus Frederick Wulff has self-published Visiting Black America: History and Sites (Outskirts Press). This is his fifth book.
Dr. Alan Spurgin
Aaron Duve
Adjunct Instructor Kathryn Wurster is performing the role of Nettie in Carousel with the Bloomington Theater and Art Center in Bloomington MN April 24 – May 17.
President Mark Zarling WLS ’80 gave the opening devotion and served on a conference panel at the 2015 Christian Leadership Council in Scottsdale AZ in January. In February he presented the opening day presentation and workshops for the GROW Conference, a gathering of pastors, teachers, and lay leaders of the South Central District at Abiding Word-Houston. He also led a Hebrew reading workshop for pastors attending the conference.
STAFF NOTES: Kate Tohal, resource development counselor, served as a panelist on the topic “The Christian Woman in Leadership” at the 2015 Christian Leadership Conference in Scottsdale AZ in January.
Dr. Alan Spurgin DMLC ’71 served as advisor to Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary student Aaron Duve MLC ’11 on his senior thesis, “Evangelizing the Deaf Community by Overcoming the Obstacle of the Spoken Word.”
Perhaps few professors have experienced as many different aspects of educational life on this campus as Professor Emeritus John Micheel. He shares a brief history of his 55 years on campus here. Just for fun, we’ll use all acronyms.
Spurgin, who teaches special education courses at MLC, shares Aaron’s interest in ministry to the deaf and hard of hearing. He comments: “Aaron fulfilled his non-biblical language requirement at MLC with American Sign Language. He serves on the board of the WELS Mission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and often speaks at WELS events about this ministry. Aaron is on fire to raise awareness about this ministry. Only about 10% of people who are deaf attend church, making this a prime opportunity for evangelism to the deaf or hard of hearing.”
1956-1960 DMLHS student 1960-1961 DMLC student 1965-1967 DMLHS teacher 1967-1970 MLA teacher 1970-1995 DMLC professor 1995-2008 MLC professor 2008-2015 MLC sports equipment manager 2009-2014 MLC adjunct math instructor
Robert Meyer DMLC 1960 Thiensville WI
John Fromm NWC 1985 Sapporo, Japan
John Micheel
Yes, there were a few years off campus. He attended South Dakota State University from 1961 to 1965, earning his degree in math.
Sandra Carlson DMLC 1965 Spokane WA
Russell Schmidt NWC 1965 Lake Benton MN
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It’s the “social” event of the year! With an emphasis on social media, MLC Day will allow supporters across the globe to celebrate God’s blessings to MLC! We invite you to follow our celebration activities online, PRAY for our mission and ministry, SHARE our message with friends, and GIVE to support that work. Want more information? Want to help spread the word? Visit our website and watch for MLC Day posts on our Facebook page. Or contact us at mlcday@mlc-wels.edu.
MLC Day—it’s the start of something big!