Life Together Magazine Spring 2009

SPRING 2009 WARTBURG THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Committed ToValued LeadersCampaignPAGE 4

SustainableWartburgPAGE 6

CommencementHighlightsPAGE 8

2 LifeTogether | Spring 2009 www.wartburgseminary.edu

Commencement Sunday, May 17, 2009, was an inspiration. Again, a full house ofwitnesses celebrated the sending of over 50 degreed and certified new valued leaders into God’s mission in Jesus Christ. The graduates chose as their class themethe popular verse from Micah 6:8; “and what does the Lord require of you, but todo justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”. As each

graduate walked across the stage toreceive her or his diploma, “walking”indeed was an apt metaphor for thelong life of service that lay ahead ofeach new valued leader. As I said to thegraduates in the class charge, their walkof faithfulness and service would be awitness to the abundant and deep lifewith God that God so desires with allpeople. And it will take a tempered andcompassionate walk so to beckon people to the better life and life eternalthat God offers.

Quoting Lily Tomlin (“The problemwith the rat race is that the winner isstill a rat.”), I said further: “I think Ms.Tomlin got the ‘sinner’ part of what itmeans to be human. And I think sheintuited that there is an alternative.Walking humbly offers a divine alterna-tive to the rat race. It will mean a lifededicated to others. It will mean a life

that loves Jesus and creatively loves Jesus’s brothers and sisters without your havingto hyperventilate or impose your self. There is genius in your verse. Go with it. Youhave walked. Now walk on, with God, looking always into justice and mercy. Howbeautiful it will be when the world see us, all of us, so walking with you.”

As I shook each hand and delivered each diploma, I quietly thanked God for eachnew graduate who would go on to serve as a pastor, diaconal minister, associate inministry or another vocation as God’s baptized. I thanked God too for all the peoplefrom around the world who gave of their love, time, talent and money to see thesenew leaders through. And I thanked God, as I do every day, for leading this seminaryand all places of theological education and leadership formation through toughtimes so to see this day, and so to see many more such days in years to come.

Last fall, as you the reader most likely know, Wartburg committed to restructur-ing in light of the economic malaise that has so affected our nation. Our endowmentwas hurt badly and our expenses were high. So we pared programs and released dearcolleagues to reposition ourselves for the long-term future. We also announced anew campaign to shore up our foundations and to secure our vocation as the singular “Life Together” seminary with routinely full enrollment. The Board ofDirectors, Administration, Faculty and Staff are together newly energized to see ussucceed. We have renewed energy and amplified commitment to Wartburg’s place asa vibrant seminary and for the vibrancy of all theological education. All so thatstudents can and will continue to “walk,” to be God’s feet and hands for peoplearound the globe.

President’s Perspective

President Larson presents diploma to Masterof Divinity graduate Adam Barnhart.

“You have walked. Nowwalk on, with God, lookingalways into justice andmercy. How beautiful itwill be when the world seeus, all of us, so walkingwith you.”

www.wartburgseminary.edu LifeTogether | Spring 2009 3

Wartburg has come a long way already since last Fall. Hundreds of new friendsalready have come to Wartburg’s side to walk with us. We have met a deficit budgetthis year, when last Fall we thought we’d be much worse off. We expect to celebratea balanced budget next year and regularly thereafter. We expect to continue to serveas an exemplary community-based leadership formation under the gospel of JesusChrist. But we can only do so when you also walk with us. We have a goal of grow-ing our friendship by another 2600 such “daily walkers” who give Wartburg at least$25 per month for unrestricted operations. Would you please prayerfully considersuch a commitment? And would you please introduce others to this unique seminary,others who also would walk daily with us in prayer and commit $25 monthly?

There are other goals in Wartburg’s Committed to Valued Leaders Campaign thatwe hope you will also consider. But a key priority is to grow our circle of friends.When we reach our goal of 5000 such monthly gifts on average we will not onlyhave a field of walkers, we will celebrate a parade that ensures Wartburg’s mission.And we will thank God and you for the parades that will continue annually acrossthe commencement stage into new service for Jesus Christ in God’s mission places.

Your brother in Christ,DUANE LARSON, PRESIDENTWartburg Theological Seminary

TogetherSpring 2009, Vol. 14 No.1Wartburg Theological Seminary333 Wartburg PlacePO Box 5004Dubuque, IA 52004-5004Phone: 563-589-0200FAX: 563-589-0229www.wartburgseminary.edu

The Rev. Dr. Duane H. Larson, President

Beth Nelson Chase, Vice President forMission Support

Janelle Koepke, EditorPrinciple Gifts Director, Mission Support

Amy Heitman, DesignIndigo Design Company

Life Together is a publication ofWartburg Theological Seminary for ouralumni and friends. Permission is grantedfor additional use in congregations.

Founded in 1854 and located in Dubuque,Iowa since 1889, Wartburg TheologicalSeminary is one of 8 seminaries of theEvangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Mission StatementWartburg Theological Seminary serves themission of the Evangelical Lutheran Churchin America by being a worship-centered community of critical theological reflectionwhere learning leads to mission and mission informs learning. Within this community, Wartburg educates women andmen to serve the church's mission asordained and lay leaders. This mission isto proclaim and interpret the gospel ofJesus Christ to a world created for communion with God and in need of personal and social healing.

inside this issue

on the coverLauren Carlson, middler Master of Divinity student, is originally from NorthCarolina. During the next academic year Lauren will be serving as an internin La Crosse, Wisconsin.

2 President’s Perspective

3 Inside This Issue

4 Committed to Valued Leaders Campaign

6 Sustainable Wartburg

7 Path of Internship

8 Commencement 2009

10 Alumni In The News

12 Faculty and Staff News

14 Class Notes

18 Upcoming WTS Events


Wartburg Theological SeminaryAnnounces Committed to ValuedLeaders Campaign

Wartburg Theological Seminary Board of Directors recommended and enthusiastically approved the $20 million campaign for 2008-2013, at the NovemberBoard meeting last fall. This campaign renews the commitment of our mission and vision in forming valuedleaders for God’s mission in the world as we meet thecurrent and future needs of financial support for theolog-ical education at Wartburg Theological Seminary. Thisrenewed commitment is outlined on the following page.

Annual Fund $7.5 millionWartburg Seminary seeks to strengthen and increase the base of support by invitingothers to join current alumni and donors of theological education over these nextyears. An increasingly diverse donor base will raise awareness for the importance oftheological education for the present and future of the whole church and will bringstrength in conveying the message of the vital need for valued leaders in our congre-gations. We will ask new individuals, families, congregations and communities toadd their voices and resources as we attain a strong annual fund goal of $1.5 millioneach year and increase the base of donors to 5,000.

Debt Reduction $4 millionWartburg Theological Seminary has “invested” in the future of the seminary bycompleting capital projects in these last years for updated student housing and classrooms that were essential to provide. This “good investment” has resulted in apositive increase in enrollment at Wartburg Theological Seminary and an ability toprovide “green technology and ecology” in our living environment through ourgeothermal practices. Despite all of the improvements that have come from this“good investment”, we now must focus on reducing this debt.

Student Scholarships $4 millionStudent Scholarship addresses current student need and focuses our scope and abilityto provide the quality education that is valued in our Lutheran tradition. It is also anacknowledgement of the true costs of theological education and invites greater con-versation throughout the church. We also believe this campaign goal can be a topicfor every ELCA congregation whether in direct support of a current seminarian orthe hope of this in the future.

Endowed Faculty Chairs $3 million ($1.5 million each) Endowed chairs produce the ability of honoring the esteemed past and current faculty of Wartburg Theological Seminary by providing for these teaching positionsin a new way and thus ensuring a strong cash flow for personnel costs. The Frankand Joyce Benz Endowed Chair in Scripture was announced at commencement,2008, with the other chair yet to be established.

Technology $1.5 millionTechnology upgrades and campus wide integration for internet and other capacitiesare the vision of this campaign success. Our current and future relies on our abilityto anticipate on-line and other modes of education that supplement our uniquecommunitarian, residential practice and values. Upgrades to technology will alsoenhance our mission of stewarding God’s creation by allowing the campus to movetoward a zero-waste initiative that will significantly reduce our paper waste in theclassroom as well as offices throughout campus.


Please contact the Office of Mission Support by calling (563)589-0336 or

email [email protected] if you would like to receive our

campaign booklet which further details the campaign and mission of Wartburg

Theological Seminary.

Strengtheningthe Base

As part of the Committed to

Valued Leaders Campaign,

Wartburg is striving to build our

base to 5,000 donors giving at

least $25 per month or $300

per year for the next five years.

This would result in a total

of $1.5 million toward the annual

fund each year. Help us reach

this goal by being a part of the

Strengthening the Base Initiative

and sharing the Wartburg story

with those who value

theological education.

Goal:300 new donors by

9/30/09


While orange and black are the proud colors of theWartburg Seminary community, “green” is getting plentyof attention. It is more than a trend, more than rhetoricthrown around to earn votes, and definitely more thanjust a way to save money (though it might do that, too).“Green” is the color of Wartburg’s growing commitmentto stewardship of God’s creation, thinking critically,reflectively, and theologically in community about ourresponsibility for the things which God gifts us.

Sustainable Wartburg

Wartburg has been a leader in taking stepsto make our physical plant more sustainableand to reduce our carbon footprint. Wartburgis celebrating its 155th year and our maincampus buildings were built in 1912. Evenworking with Wartburg’s signature old lime-stone buildings, we have transitioned ourmain physical plant (classrooms, communityspace, offices, and dormitory) to:

• More efficient lighting (T8 bulbs with elec-tronic ballast).

• Geothermal heating and cooling in 2001with the new construction, including

• Variable Frequency Drives on the main cir-culation pumps to reduce energy use and

• Energy Recovery Units, which with a smallelectronic motor re-circulates exhaust airwith incoming air allowing us to use noauxiliary heat sources when the outdoortemperature is above 40F.

• High Pressure Sodium lighting for all ofour outdoor lighting to reduce energyconsumption.

• High efficiency furnaces and energy efficientrefrigerators in our student housing.

• Front load, low water consumption washingmachines with the energy star.

Wartburg is committed to recycling.• Campus-wide we have been committed to

recycling since the early 1990’s, reducingthe amount of waste sent to the landfill byat least 50%.

• There is a Federal Work Study student ded-icated to campus recycling.

• Through our Maintenance Shop, we recycleappliances, steel, aluminum, and copper.

Wartburg is committed to reducing wasteand using environmentally friendly products.• Wartburg faculty members have made the

decision to move towards zero-waste in theclassrooms by eliminating the use andneed for handouts, etc.

• Wireless computer connections have beeninstalled in many of the classrooms tofacilitate the faculty’s zero-waste initiative.

• Wartburg food service has begun tocompost kitchen waste.

• Housekeeping is committed to using“green” cleaning products.

Wartburg is committed to reducing energyconsumption across campus:• IT has moved to switching off computers

and monitors at the end of the workday –desktop computers are programmed toturn on and perform updates automaticallyprior to the workday.

• IT is transitioning to energy efficient flatscreen LCD monitors.

This commitment is experienced bystudents who find included in theircourses on ethics, theology, preaching,and mission, issues of environmentalismposed in light of stewardship and God’sfaithfulness to creation. This commit-ment is strived for by the staff, faculty,and board of directors as they discovernew and exciting ways for a sustainablecampus. This commitment is enteredinto by partnering with others ventur-

ing toward sustainable living such asthe City of Dubuque, Dubuque AreaCampus Sustainability Network, andthe Green Seminary Initiative. TheWartburg Seminary Community seesthe commitment to reduce its carbonfootprint and conserve its resources asethically, theologically, communally,and financially responsible, as well asdoxologically, giving thanks to Godwho gifts us with all we need.

Wartburg TheologicalSeminary is “going green”in the following areas:


Rick Brenton is currently serving asintern at Zion Lutheran Church inRockford, Illinois. He is only a fewmonths away from ending his intern-ship and comments, “It has all been achallenge but very rewarding and trulya growth experience for me.”

Rick came to Wartburg Seminarythree years ago and is thankful for howwell he was academically prepared forinternship. He is constantly able todraw on the knowledge he learned fromfaculty and his fellow classmates. Nowthat he is on internship, he’s learningabout ministry in the best way possible,by being immersed on a day-to-day basis.

Zion Lutheran Church is a largecongregation worshipping an average of350 each week, with a full-time staff of10, including 2 interim pastors. Over25 years ago, Zion Lutheran Churchformed an organization called ZionDevelopment Corporation as the resultof outreach programs at the church.Since 1982, ZDC has been a goodneighbor to thousands of people wholive, work, worship, and play inMidtown, including seniors, peoplecoming out of homelessness, families,employees, business customers, andchurchgoers. Over the past 25 years,ZDC has invested more than

$25 million in housing and economicdevelopment projects in the area.

Because of this unique partnershipbetween Zion Lutheran Church andZion Development Corporation, Rick’sinternship experience has been an eyeopening experience. The highlight ofRick’s week is working with kids in theWOW (Worship on Wednesdays) pro-gram. This is a community programwhich incorporates after-school pro-gramming with a half-hour of worshipand a hot meal. Rick said, “Many ofthese kids come from difficult homesand this may be the only hot meal theyreceive all week. What a blessing tospend time with them planting seeds ofhope and love in Christ.”

Throughout his internship experi-ence Rick has felt an affirmation in hiscall to ministry. He reflects, “Comingback to school at the age of 53 was noeasy task. I had great apprehensioneven though I felt God calling me.After college, I always felt like I wassearching for something to fulfill mebut up until this point I have neverfound anything as fulfilling as the min-istry here at Zion. Now I have confi-dence and assurance that this is exactlywhat God has called me to do.”

Wartburg TheologicalSeminary InternshipSpotlight

Intern: Rick Brenton

Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri

Previous Careers: Semi-professionalfootball player in Manitowoc andDelavan, Wisconsin, as well as inKansas City, MO, food and beverageindustry worker, and bus operator forthe Kansas City Area TransportationAuthority.

Internship Site: Zion LutheranChurch in Rockford, IL


Wartburg Theological Seminary’s 155th Commencementwas held May 17, 2009 at St. Joseph the Worker Church.Dr. Martin E. Marty delivered the commencementaddress titled “The Faces of Ministry: ‘In-Your-Face,’‘About Face,’ and ‘Face to Face.’”

CommencementWeekend 2009

Fifty-one Wartburg TheologicalSeminary students were awarded thefollowing degrees or certificates:Master of Divinity Degree (27), Masterof Arts Degree (5), Master of Arts inTheology, Development andEvangelism (7), Master of Sacred

Theology Degree (1), and TEEMCertificates (11). Honorary Doctor ofDivinity Degrees were awarded to Rev.Dr. Charles H. Maahs ‘62, Rev. Dr.Hong-ki Kim ’83, and Dr. Martin E.Marty, commencement speaker.


Class of 1959: Front row left to right: William Behrens, Paul Baehmann, Eric Schulze, HowardBuenting, John Dienes, Glen Gronlund, Allan Sager, Robert Grendahl, Roger Fjeld, Gerald Brown.Back row left to right: David Redman, Walter Hed, Donald Beckman, Marvin Mueller, Robert Adix,William Rosenow, Al Koeneman, Thomas Loftus, Edward Paape, Calvin Goerdel, Reuben Schnaidt.

Class of 1969: Front row left to right: Stanley Eckermann, Charles Ager, David H. Andreae,Leonard B. Ellison, James E. Reents, Carroll D Lang. Back row left to right: Ronald Koplitz, JayKamrath, Curtiss Pedder, Bennet Henrickson.

40/50 Year ReunionMembers from the classes of 1969and 1959 celebrated their forty andfifty-year reunions over commence-ment weekend. Classmates and spouses gathered on Saturday for a time ofreacquainting and reminiscing and werehonored during the commencementexercises on Sunday.

Senior Class Gift

The Class of 2009 has chosen tocontinue a long-standing traditionat Wartburg Theological Seminaryby committing over $15,000 inpledges and gifts toward the semi-nary. Members of the class havechosen to designate their gifttoward providing new picnic tableson campus and also supportingone of Wartburg’s greatest needs,the annual fund. This gift truly is acommitment to the life of the sem-inary. Thank you Class of 2009!


The Rev. A. Duane Manson, a 1958graduate of Wartburg TheologicalSeminary, has created a lasting legacyfor students at the seminary through ascholarship program designed to sendas many as five students per year to theInstitute of Liturgical Studies held atValparaiso University in Indiana.

Rev. Manson began attending theInstitute when he was a student atWartburg Seminary and in the sixty-one year history of the Institute he hasattended forty-seven times. His passionand dedication for furthering educationabout liturgy in the church led him tocreate this scholarship. Rev. Mansonsaid, “It is not the outward amenities ofthe worship alone, such as a beautifulchurch, but the liturgy, hymns, andsacraments that create a meaningfulworship setting. The worship life of acongregation is a balanced integrationof both.”

At this year’s Institute of LiturgicalStudies, held April 20 - April 22, 2009,Rev. Manson was awarded the MentorAward after recommendation fromtheir advisory committee under thedirection of Dr. Lorraine Brugh,Director of the Institute and ChapelMusic at Valparaiso University. Duanewas the first recipient of the MentorAward, which he received for his con-tribution to worship renewal and theliturgical scholarship program.

Rev. Manson believes that by offer-ing opportunities for WartburgSeminary students to attend theInstitute they will be able to furtherexplore the concepts of the Lutheranworship service from the many variedtheological lectures and worship experi-ences that are available at the Instituteeach year. He said, “Students areexposed not only in traditional ways of

worship but in creative ways as well andthis sets forth a foundation on which tobuild their pastoral careers in helpingintegrate sound liturgical practices intocongregations or other settings.”

Dr. Thomas Schattauer, Professor ofLiturgics, Dean of the Chapel atWartburg Theological Seminary andmember of the Institute’s advisory committee said, “I am delighted that somany of our students, thanks to DuaneManson's commitment; have theopportunity to attend the Institute eachyear. The plenary speakers, topicalworkshops, and richly musical and well-crafted liturgies contribute to anexpanded liturgical imagination thatwill shape them in their own leadershipof a congregation in its worship life. I am pleased to see so many of ourgraduates returning to the Institute ona regular basis after first attending during their seminary years. Like everyinvestment in our students, Duane'ssupport for scholarships to the Instituteis a gift that multiplies in its effect upontheir ministry and the congregationsthey serve.”

Prior to retirement in 1998, Rev.Manson served congregations in Alvordand Ossian, Iowa and later served aschaplain for Luther Manor NursingHome, Dubuque, Iowa, along withbeing an adjunct instructor at WartburgSeminary and the University ofDubuque Theological Seminary. Afterretirement he continued to serve ininterim parish ministry as well as serveas a cruise chaplain for NorwegianCruise Line until 2008. Rev. Mansoncelebrated the 50th anniversary of hisordination in 2008 at Holy TrinityLutheran Church in Dubuque, Iowa,where he is a member.

Rev. A. Duane Manson Recognized forEstablishment of Scholarship Programfor Wartburg Seminary Students

“Students are exposed not only in traditionalways of worship but in creative ways as well andthis sets forth a foundationon which to build theirpastoral careers in helpingintegrate sound liturgicalpractices into congrega-tions or other settings.”

Rev. A. DuaneManson; photocirca 1980.

REV. A DUANE MANSON

In the midst of going to print with thisissue of Life Together, the seminaryreceived word that The Rev. A. DuaneManson passed away on May 25 at theUniversity of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.Services in celebration of his life wereheld at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church onMay 30, 2009. We are grateful for hislife and ministry, remembering his familyin our prayers.


ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (ELCA)For more than 40 years the Rev. LorenF. Bliese, a pastor of the EvangelicalLutheran Church in America (ELCA),worked in Ethiopia – planting churches,helping to educate future pastors andoverseeing the translation of the Bibleinto more than 20 Ethiopian languages.

His service to the EthiopianEvangelical Church Mekane Yesus(EECMY) was recognized here duringthe church's 50th anniversary celebra-tion Jan 17-18. The church's seminarywhere Bliese taught awarded him anhonorary doctorate in languagedevelopment.

Bliese, 73, retired to Harrisburg,Ore., in 2006 after 44 years of servicein Ethiopia. He still serves as a part-time volunteer missionary here throughELCA Global Mission, spending up tofive months a year here, he said.

After he earned degrees at TexasLutheran College (now University),Seguin, and Wartburg TheologicalSeminary, Dubuque, Iowa, Bliese wentto Ethiopia in 1960 as an evangelist ofthe former American Lutheran Church. “At that time there was a lot of publici-ty about Ethiopia, and that's how Iended up here. I liked the idea of serv-ing God in a way that (God) openedthe door for me. I've developed manyfond friendships with students andcoworkers over the years,” he told theELCA News Service in an interview.Texas Lutheran University is one of 28ELCA colleges and universities;Wartburg is one of eight ELCAseminaries.

Bible translation was a significantpart of Bliese's contribution inEthiopia. For 27 years he was theUnited Bible Societies' translation con-sultant for Ethiopia and Djibouti. Bliese

helped “train the translators,” he said,including review of their work andadministering projects related to theBible Society of Ethiopia. During hiscareer in Ethiopia, Bliese learned theAmharic and Afar languages.

Bliese began his ministry as a churchplanter, helping to start EECMY con-gregations in Waldia, Worgesa,Wuchale and surrounding areas. Hestarted an EECMY outreach to theAfar ethnic group in 1963, includingservice through a mobile clinic in thenomadic area and building a literacyschool. He initiated literacy work in

the Wuchale area and by 1976 wasadministering 70 literacy centers ofEECMY. A famine in the early 1970sresulted in relief feeding programs con-nected to many of the literacy centers,organized by Bliese and his wife Edith,who are parents of four adult children.

Bliese served as the principal of theMekane Yesus Theological Seminaryfor two years. After completing coursework in 1977 for a doctorate in linguis-tics at the University of Texas, Austin,Bliese returned to Ethiopia to write adissertation on Afar grammar. He wroteand published articles, and for nearly 20years Bliese taught courses in OldTestament at the seminary.

His career in Ethiopia includedmany difficult years. Following theoverthrow of Emperor Haile Selassie I,Ethiopia was under the control of aMarxist regime from 1977 to 1991.

“During that time there was alwaystension,” Bliese recalled. “Travel wasdangerous, and you never knew if youwere going to get thrown out.” Somechurches were closed, and it was diffi-cult for church leaders and members to

talk with one another, he said. Morethan once, Bliese said, he was heldtemporarily at gunpoint for one reasonor another.

Bliese was one of four people hon-ored. Other honorary degree recipientswere Ato Emanuel Abraham, presidentemeritus, EECMY; the Rev. TesgaraHirpo for translation work in theOromo language; and the Rev. NeilsReimer, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),for translation work in the Anuak lan-guage. Ethiopian President Girma W.Giyorgis, and leaders of the EECMYand the Mekane Yesus Seminary pre-sented the honorary degrees.

Ethiopian Church Honors Loren Bliese ’60ELCA NEWS SERVICE

“At that time there was a lot of publicity about Ethiopia,and that's how I ended up here. I liked the idea of serv-ing God in a way that (God) opened the door for me.”

Loren Bliese, Wartburg Seminary Alumni ’60accepts an honorary doctorate from theEthiopian Church for over 40 years of serviceto the country as pastor, bible teacher, andtranslator. Photo: ELCA News Service


James L. Bailey, ProfessorEmeritus of New Testament,together with his wife Judy,participated in a study tourto Israel, West Bank, andJordan led by ProfessorsEsther Menn and Barbara

Rossing of the Lutheran School of Theologyin Chicago. The trip occurred January 6-20,2009, and involved visits to archaeologicaland traditional sites as well as presentationsby Israelis and Palestinians working to createa just and peaceful future for the Holy Land.Jim and Judy are willing to show photos andspeak about their recent trip. Early year Jimled a bible study on 1 Corinthians with agroup at Grandview Methodist Church inDubuque. He led a similar study with staffmembers and guests at Holden Village nearChelan, Washington, during the two and one-half weeks prior to Easter. He used the text"Community at Risk: I Corinthians," theAugsburg Adult Bible Study he authored in2006.

Norma Cook Everist,Professor of ChurchAdministration andEducational Ministry, led aplenary session on"Integrative TheologicalFormation" at a global con-

sultation of Lutheran World Federation,"Theology in the Life of Lutheran Churches"March 25-31 in Augsburg, Germany. Shealso presented a paper "Doing Theology inthe Languages of People's Daily Lives."Everist has launched a new blog"Conversations on the Church's Vocation inthe Public World" (http://normacookeverist.blogspot.com) presenting regular commentaryon such issues as American Civil Religion,Church and State, Collaborative Leadership,Theology and Ecclesiology, Power andPartnership, The Priesthood of all Believers,Gender, Race and Class, Educational Ministry,Church Conflict. She welcomes posting ofreaders' comments and encourages sharingthe blog with others.

Nate Frambach, AssociateProfessor of Youth, Cultureand Mission, led a work-shop and facilitated conver-sation with members fromLincoln, Nebraska ELCAcongregations based on his

recent book Emerging Ministry: Being ChurchToday (Augsburg Fortress, 2007), April 4-5,2009. Frambach served as the keynotespeaker for the Arkansas-Oklahoma Synodassembly April 24-26 in Tulsa, OK.

Frambach’s three presentations were basedon the assembly theme this year, “God’sWork, Our Hands: Throughout All Generations.”He also continues to serve on the Board ofDirectors of the ELCA Youth Ministry Networkand currently coordinates the Vision 2.0team. The purpose of the Vision 2.0 team isto help the network become a more diverseand inclusive culture that welcomes and hon-ors the voices and gifts of all people.

Samuel D. Giere, ’97,Assistant Professor ofHomiletics, is a contributorto WorkingPreacher.org, anonline resource for preach-ers. He supplied the"Preaching Helps" for Holy

Week through Pentecost in the Spring 2009issue of Currents in Theology in Mission.Giere also contributed to the Lutheran StudyBible (Augsburg Fortress, 2009), writing theintroduction and notes for Ezekiel and, co-authoring an article on the origins of Canonwith fellow professor, Duane Priebe.

David Lull, Professor ofNew Testament, will be lec-turing at the 2009 LutherAcademy of the Rockies,June 22 – July 2, 2009,where he will connect NewTestament texts with tem-

ples, theaters, monuments, and inscriptionsin and around cities of Paul’s missionary jour-neys in what is now modern day Turkey.

Craig Nessan, ’78,Academic Dean andProfessor of ContextualTheology, gave a presenta-tion on TransformingLeadership and theEvangelizing Church in

Phoenix, Arizona on Feb 14, 2009 and at theCongregations Together in Mission event inCedar Rapids, Iowa on March 14. Nessanwas a Hein-Fry Lecturer on InterpretingScripture Lutheranly: Between the Undertowand a Tsunami, Florida-Bahama Synod/California Lutheran University, and PacificLutheran Theological Seminary in March andApril. He published a foreword to the book,Paul Schneider: Witness of Buchenwald(2008), a chapter in the book, Wilhelm Loehe(1808-1872): "Loehe in America: TwoHistorical Trajectories in the Missouri andIowa Synods" (2008), and the journal article:“Lernendes Begleiten: Die Arbeit der IowaSynode unter Indianern im 19.Jahrhundert.“Confessio Augustana: SpecialEdition for Loehe Year 2008.

Thomas Schattauer,Professor of Liturgics andDean of the Chapel, pub-lished "The MissionalShape of Worship" inEvangelical LutheranWorship, (Summer 2008).

He also attended the second triennial confer-ence of the International Loehe Society,Neuendettelsau, Germany, July 22-26, 2008;and gave a paper entitled "Reclaiming theChristian Assembly as Communio: TheSignificance of the Lord's Supper in the Workof Wilhelm Löhe." He served as an ecumeni-cal participant/consultant at the annualmeeting of the Association for Reformed andLiturgical Worship, Columbia TheologicalSeminary, Decatur, Georgia, July 30-August 1,2008, on the formation of liturgical leaders;consultation will continue through summer2009. The Historical Research Seminar,North American Academy of Liturgy held inBaltimore, Maryland, January 2-5, 2009,devoted a session to the discussion ofSchattauer's 2007 article on liturgical studiespublished in the International Journal ofPractical Theology. Schattauer was a keynotespeaker and preacher at the annual liturgicalconference "Liturgy and Hospitality" at MountOlive Lutheran Church, January 9-11, 2009,his presentations included: "In Search ofWelcome: Some Biblical-Liturgical Reflectionson Hospitality." He also presented the paper"God's Mission in the Practice of Assembly"at the Lutheran World FederationConsultation held in Augsburg, Germany,March 25-31, 2009; he was also principalplanner of conference worship.

Kristine Stache, AssistantProfessor of Youth & YoungAdult Ministries, will be lec-turing at the 2009 LutherAcademy of the Rockies,June 22 – July 2, 2009,where she will present

“Participating in God’s Life in the World:Implications for Congregational Ministry.”

Rev. Ginger Anderson-Larson, ’84, Acting Directorfor Contextual Educationand Director for Candidacy,served as retreat leader forthe Western Iowa SynodSpirituality Retreat in

January, using the theme, “SpiritualFormation in the Parish.” The April 2009issue of Lutheran Woman Today, included anarticle by her, “God’s Clues,” in an editionfocused on God’s plans for our life.

Faculty/Staff Updates


Janelle KoepkeThe Office of Mission Support welcomesJanelle Koepke, Principle Gifts Director.Janelle’s development experience includesDevelopment Director for Area ResidentialCare in Dubuque as well as most recentlyserving as Director for Annual Giving at theUniversity of Dubuque. Janelle and her husband Shane moved to Dubuque when her husband accepted a call to ministry andbecame a student at Wartburg TheologicalSeminary. Shane is now ordained and serving an area parish, and likewise Janelleis now called to serve Wartburg in the role of building relationships with alumni anddonors.

Karla K. WildbergerThe Admissions Department WelcomesReverend Karla K. Wildberger, AssociateDirector of Admissions. Karla was ordainedin 1993 and has served in parishes in SouthDakota, California, and Virginia. She alsohad the privilege of doing work for theLutheran Church in Great Britain and theLutheran Church in Australia while living over-seas with her husband, Dean Boles, when hewas in the US Air Force. Before coming toWartburg, she was called to social ministry inTucson, AZ. Welcome Karla!

Wartburg Seminary TransitionsAs this semester draws to an end, there are many who are making transitions in relation to their work at Wartburg Seminary. Some are leaving, some have alreadydeparted, and some will continue in different capacities. The Wartburg communitygives thanks for the many contributions of these people and will pray for God’sblessing upon them in the transition they make.

StaffLorice Amlin, Admissions Assistant, previously Front DeskAnnie Barnhart, Technical Services AssistantJennifer Carnahan, Enrollment Services CoordinatorShelli Koester, TEEM & Online Learning CoordnatorChristy Martin, Front DeskDiane Lampe, Grant/Foundation Research & Life-Long Learning CoordinatorEllen Gukeisen, Program & Events Coordinator, CYMKathy Teig, Adminstrative Assistant. to the President & Human ResourcesGinger Anderson-Larson, Director of Candidacy & Acting Director of Contextual

Education, previously Spiritual Director

FacultyPaul Baglyos, Assistant Professor of Rural Ministry & Director for the Center of Theology

and LandPaul Chung, Assistant Professor of Lutheran Confessions and World Christianity, who

takes up a new position at Luther SeminaryFritz Lampe, Assistant Professor of Community Development & Witness & Director of the

Master of Arts in Theology, Development, and EvangelismBeth Leeper, Associate Professor of Church HistoryNorma Cook Everist, Professor of Church Administration & Educational Ministry,

whose position has been changed to Distinguished Senior FacultyKris Stache, Assistant Professor of Youth and Young Adult Ministries & Director of the

Center for Youth Ministry, whose position has been changed to Director of TEEM & Adjunct Professor of Distributed Education

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’38Rev. Bruno Schlachtenhaufen died March31, 2009 in Sun Prairie, WI. He previouslyserved American and St Paul, Rockwell City,IA; St Paul, Ottumwa, IA; Firth, Waterloo, IA;Decorah, Decorah, IA; Bishop in Iowa Districtof the American Lutheran Church, DesMoines, IA; Trinity, Loyal, WI; Church Directorfor the Seminary Appeal for the T.A.L.CSeminaries.

’39Rev. Edward W. Kasten died August 9, 2008in Seattle, WA. He was Lutheran Minister formany years at churches in ID, OR and WA.

’40Rev. William E. Riekert died March 23, heserved at Emmanuel and Christ, Biggar SKand Kindersly, Haultain, SK from 1940-1943;Zion, Winnipeg, MB from 1943-1947;Christ/St. John, Neudorf, SK and St. John,Killaly, SK from 1947-1957; Trinity, Regina,SK from 1957-1972; Faith, Nepean, ON from1972-1983 when he retired.

’44Rev. Erwin Chell died July 31, 2008 in CanonCity, CO. After graduation he lived an extraor-dinary life of service with 12 years of mis-sionary work in India, followed by 25 years ofwork for the Good Samaritan Society, a non-profit organization providing housing and carefor the elderly around the United States. Heworked for Good Samaritan Society until heretired.Rev. Allan D Hansen died in Silverton, OR.

’45Rev. Warren Ralph Graham died January 27,2009. He served the U.S. Federal Bureau ofPrisons as a Chaplain in FL, NY, OK, CO & INfor 30 years and service as Administrator ofReligious Services of the S.E. Region. Rev.Graham was a member of the faculty of theIliff School of Theology , served St Paul’s,Denver, CO; on faculty of the AndersonSchool of Theology in Anderson, IN; Trinity,Terre Haute, IN; Supervising Pastor in ClinicalPastoral Education at Wartburg Seminary,Executive Project Director of the AmericanProtestant Correctional Chaplains Associationand served the Southeastern Synod as aninterim pastor for several years following hisofficial retirement.

’46Dr. Victor Gold died September 17, 2008 inOakland, CA. He served St. Paul’s Freer, TX;Immanuel, Alice, TX; St Paul’s, Baltimore, MD;Supply Pastor in the Maryland Synod;Assistant Professor of Old Testament atHamma Divinity School, Springfield, OH;Trinity, Kalamazoo, MI; Professor of OldTestament at Pacific Lutheran Seminary,Berkeley, CA.

’47Rev. Edward P. Gabel died last June 22 atGood Samaritan Home, Flanagan, IL. Duringhis ministry he was pastor of St. Peter’s,Coatsburg, St. Paul’s, Streator, St. Paul’sEvangelical, Peoria, Cross and Crown,Arlington Heights, St. John’s, Danforth, all inIllinois and chaplain at Good SamaritanHome, Flanagan. He served on several dis-trict and community organization board ofdirectors.Rev. Oscar Johnson, Trinity, Blair died August17, 2008 in Iowa City, IA. He served Salem,Brooklyn, NY; English, Avoca, IA; NorthwestTrinity, Detroit, MI; Immanuel, Harlen, IA; St.John, Carnegie, PA and Cedar Falls LutheranHome, Cedar Falls, IA.

’50Rev. Gottfried H. Hoffman died last Januaryin La Mesa, CA. A veteran of World War II,Rev. Hoffman was founding pastor of St.Luke’s, La Mesa and served his entire min-istry there.

’51Rev. Richard E. Burrack died August 17,2008 in Carroll, IA. In ministry he servedAmerican, Grundy Center, St. John, Plainfieldand Immanuel, Ionia, all in Iowa; St. John,Fort Wayne, IN; Christ, Stockton, IL.Survivors include sister Marilyn and RogerFjeld, president of Wartburg Seminary 1983-1999.

’52Our sympathies to Rev. Edwin Schmidt onthe death of his wife Jean.

’54Our sympathies to Rev. Daniel L.Zimmermann on the death of his wife Eveylnin February 2008.

’55Our sympathies to Rev. Kenneth Pohlmannon the death of his wife Katharine.

’58Rev. Russell P. Jensen died September 27,2008. He served Zion, Ithaca, NE; Nazareth,Davey, NE; Chaplain, WI Correction Institution,Fox Lake, WI; Bethany Kimballton, IA; St Paul,Thornton, IA; chaplain, LSS of MN; LSS NorthRidge Care Center, Minneapolis, MN.A. Duane Manson was honored on the 50thanniversary of his ordination in a special wor-ship service with dinner and program follow-ing on October 25, 2008 at Holy Trinity,Dubuque, IA where Manson is a member.Rev. Darrell Gerrietts, Assistant to theBishop, Northeastern Iowa Synod was thepreacher for the occasion.

’59Rev. Ronald Retzlaff died December 22,2008. During his ministry he served StMatthew, Galena, IL; Trinity, Waterloo, IA andHoly Redeemer, Warren, MI and as chaplainat Providence Hospital, Southfield, MI. Hewas retired in Rochester, MN where spouseLaVern now resides.Rev. William A Roesler died November 2006in Calgary, AB Canada. He moved to Canadain 1968 where he pastored Redeemer,Saskatoon, Canada until 1989; LutheranChurch of Our Saviour, Calgary, Canada until1999, when he died at 72 _ he was servingFirst, Calgary, Canada as a part time assis-tant pastor.Rev. Roger Tellock died September 25, 2008in Clintonville, WI. He served in Selkirk,Manitoba, Canada; St. Pauls’s, Curtiss andOur Savior’s, Holway (Medford); St. Luke’s,Sheboygan Falls, WI; St. John’s, Stone Bank(Oconomowoc), WI. He semi-retired in 1991and became a member of St. John’s inMarion where he served as a Sunday Supplyand Visitation Pastor. Another strong interestto Rev. Tellock was serving as a police chap-lain. He served for Clark County, SheboyganCounty, Waukesha County and WaupacaCounty. Rev. Dr. Alton Zenker died November 12,2008 in Hot Springs Village, AR. He servedFlasher/Carson, ND; Linton, ND andThomasboro, before becoming assistant tothe bishop in Illinois district ALC and assis-tant to the bishop in Springfield. He laterserved as the bishop for six years inCentral/Southern Illinois Synod, Springfield,IL. He also served as an officer for variouspastoral-conference groups, including: confer-ence chair faculty for Bible camps and leader-ship training schools, advisor for SoilConservation District, board of directors at

Wartburg TheologicalSeminary Class Notes


Linton Hospital, youth advisor for KEMElectric Cooperative, the ALC representativeto the Colloquium of the Church in FutureSociety and ALC fact-finding tour to CentralAmerica.

’60Rev. Loren F. Bliese, February 4, 2009 ELCANews Service: Bliese, retired in 2006 after44 years of service in Ethiopia. He stillserves as a part-time volunteer missionarythere through ELCA Global Mission. Bliese'sservice to the Ethiopian Evangelical ChurchMekane Yesus (EECMY) was recognized inEthiopia during the church's 50th anniversarycelebration January 17-18, 2008. MekaneYesTheological Seminary awarded him anhonorary doctorate in language development. Dr Walter Pilgrim died October 27, 2008 inSteilacoom, WA. He was retired from hisposition as professor of religion at PacificLutheran University, Tacoma, WA. He was theauthor of numerous theological books andarticles.

’61We thank God for the improvement throughtreatment for Rev. LeRoy Remmers paralyzedvocal chord. Also we would like to extend oursympathies to LeRoy and Janet on the deathof their son, Paul.

’63Dr. Naaman Laiser died October 12, 2008 inTanzania.

’65Rev. Jim Cherry was named the NationalSmokejumper Association Volunteer of theYear in 2008. Cherry led three trail andstructure rehabilitation projects in 2008alone; rehab of a bunkhouse and lookout atSeeley Lake, MT and a trails project inMinnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe AreaWilderness. He has also served on the NSAboard since 2000, is a dedicated fundraiserfor the Trail Project, raising over $10,000,and has driven over 15,000 miles in supportof NSA activities in the last year. Cherryretired from the ministry in 1996 but com-ments that his volunteer work, “infuses mewith life, with energy”.Our sympathies to Rev. Charles Eckert onthe death of his wife, Nita.Rev. Donald D. Lehmann retired November30, 2008 and was honored at a special con-gregational celebration on Sunday, November16th. Pastor Lehmann most recently servedOur Savior’s, Sioux Falls, SD.

’66Rev. Clyde “Joe” Beissel retired fromAugustana Home, Minneapolis, MN.Rev. Donald M. Schoeppler died January 15,2009 in Albert Lea, MN. He served First,McGregor, IA; Christ, Pickrell; Immanuel andColeridge in Fulda, MN; St. Luke, Traer, IA.He retired in June 1995.

’67Rev. David E. Brunscheen died October 4,2008 in Anamosa, IA. He served sevenparishes and retired after serving at LutheranChurch of the Cross, Evergreen, CO.Elroy H. Dannewitz died August 13, 2008 inOttawa, IL. Elroy farmed, was an auctioneerand owned a Chrysler Plymouth Dealership inSomonuak. He was a member of ChristianMen’s Group, Prison Ministry, and GoldenKiwanis Club of Ottawa. He was named aDistinguished and honored Citizen by an actof congress December 1970.Our sympathies to Rev Duane R Everson onthe death of his wife Barbara.Rev. Ralph Marquardt has retired and accept-ed a position at as Chaplain at a NursingHome. He previously served Dallas/NewScandavia, Dallas, WI.Rev. Michael L. Sherer and spouse Kathynow reside in Waverly, IA. Michael was hon-ored with the “Pen and Quill” Award of theMetro Lutheran, the pan-Lutheran newspaperof the metropolitan Twin Cities, Minneapolisand St. Paul. Michael was publisher of theMetro Lutheran for 11 years, having retired inlate 2007.

’68Dr Phillip Baker retired from LutheranTheological Southern Seminary.

’69Rev. Alfred Kruse retired. Most recently hewas pastor of St. Matthew, Readlyn, IA. Rev. Donald S. Schumacher died July 9,2008 in Badger, SD. He served at Immanuel,Zap, ND; Zion, Elgin, ND; Trinity, Steele, ND;Dawson, Dawson, ND; St. John, Dimock, ND;Badger and Trinity both in SD.

’70Linda Peterson, wife of Rev. Terry Peterson,died September 21, 2008.Rev. Larry Rehlander retired to Minnesota,he previously served Zion, Rake, IA.Pastor Larry Trachte will retire in May after35 years in Campus Ministry at WartburgCollege. The Trachte family has establishedthe Pastor Trachte Thanksgiving Scholarshipto commemorate his career at Wartburg, andseveral events throughout the year will cele-brate his ministry, including a Homecomingreunion of persons he has married and bap-tized. Anyone may attend the reunion.

’71Mr. David O. Solberg “unretired” on October14, 2008 and returned to the FargoVA asProgram Supervisor of Stubstance AbuseServices.

’72Rev. Richard C. Salge retired November 1,2008. His last parish served was St. John,Mapleton, MN for almost 26 years.

’73Rev. Mark Becker has accepted a call at St.Paul, Stillwater, MN. He previously servedLutheran Church of Peace, Maplewood, MN.Rev. David E. Hughes died January 2009 inRichfield, MN.

’74Rev. Steven M. Hanson died August 26,2008 in Bakersfield, CA. He was servingEmmanuel, Bakersfield, CA as much as possi-ble during the past 18 months as he under-went surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapytreatments for the cancer. Prior toBakersfield, he served First, Orland, CA;Interim Pastor at Faith, Murphys, CA andAtonement, Sacramento, CA, Lutheran Churchof the Cross, Sacramento, CA; Interim Pastorat St Timothy, Lakewood, CA; Pastor of athree point parish, McVille, Center Mapes,and Our Savior in Kloten, ND; two pointparish, Salem and Union American, Freeman,SD; Assistant Pastor of Trinity in Vermillion, SD.

’76Rev. Dr. Connie Kleingartner died August 21,2008 in Chicago after an 18 month long bat-tle with cancer. She served 18 years as aparish minister and as Assistant to theBishop of Iowa for the ELCA, she then joinedthe staff at Lutheran School of Theology,Chicago, IL, she eventually became Directorof Field Education and Coordinator ofCandidacy and Logos Associate Professor ofEvangelism and Church Ministries.

’77Bishop Andrea DeGroot-Nesdahl has accept-ed a call at the ELCA, Office of the Bishop.Rev. Ronald Nelson has accepted a call at StPaul, Sheldon, IA. He previously servedEmmanuel, Shenandoah, IA.

’78April Ulring Larson has been named pastorof First, Duluth, MN. She completed her termas bishop of the La Crosse Area Synod onSeptember 30, 2008.

’79Rev. Dr. Denver W. Bitner, was recentlynamed the new president and CEO ofLutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI).Bitner formerly served as the senior pastor ofZion Lutheran Church in Rockford.

’80Rev. James Hilleson has accepted a call asDirector of Pastoral Care, Ball MemorialHospital, Muncie, IN. He previously servedLutheran Church of the Cross, Muncie, IN.Rev. David Miller has accepted a call asSenior Pastor to St. Timothy, Naperville, IL.

’81Lt Col Timothy Eggleston was reassigned inJune 2008 to the Office of the Army Chief ofChaplains to serve as the Personnel ActionsOfficer.


Rev. Bill Gruenstern has accepted a call toChurch of Our Saviour, Fond du Lac, WI.Our sympathies to Donald Johnson on thedeath of his daughter Laurel Johnson. Rev. Paul Leslie accepted a call at Zion,Grand Rapids, MN. He previously servedVoyagers Lutheran Ministry, Cook, MN.

’84Maj. Rev. Larry Lee Handeland diedSeptember 10, 2008 in Lincoln, NE. Heserved at Wausau Regional Medical Center,Wausau, WI; St. Luke’s Medical Center, SiouxRapids, IA; Director of hospital Ministry atYokota Air Force Base in Japan. He retiredfrom the United States Air Force on May 16,2005, after serving 38 years as a Chaplainand Medic in the Navy, Marines and Air Force.Throughout his pastoral career, he servedcongregations in NE, TX, IA, CA, Japan andGermany.Dr. James R. Nieman recently published hisfourth book, Knowing the Context in FortressPress’s Elements of Preaching Series. In thebook Nieman offers practical and insightfulways for preachers to be more deliberate andsystematic in their study of the context inwhich they preach. James is professor ofpractical theology at Hartford Seminary-Hartford Institute for Religion Research,Hartford, CT.

’85Rev. Patrick R. Appleget is now chaplain atthe Citadel and pastor of St. Barnabas,Charleston, SC. He previously served at Ft.Knox, KY.Rev. Jerry Olson retired summer 2008.Chaplain Lt Cdr John O. Reitz diedSeptember 13, 2008 in Seattle, WA followinga liver transplant. He served St Stephen’s,Shreveport, LA. He soon was commissionedas a Naval Officer and served 20 yearsincluding duty at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba,Camp Lejeune, NC, Naval HospitalBremerton, CREDO Pacific NW and NavalSubmarine Base Bangor as well as beingdeployed on the USS Roanoke, USS Camdenand USS Carl Vinson.

’86Our sympathies go to Rev. Dr. PatriciaJohnson, on the death of her husband, J.Theodore.Our sympathies go to Rev. Tom McFarland,on the death of this father, Harvey.Rev. Norman Paskowsky has accepted a callat Peace, Burlington, ND and Saron, Minot,ND. Norman has also served as a memberof the Western ND Synod’s Worship Teamwhich introduced the ELW into his Synod. Wealso would like to send our sympathy toNorman on the death of his wife DaNae.David R. Weiss has published To the Tune ofa Weloming God, a collection of his essaysand hymns written over the past decade asan ally fervently working for a church that wel-comes all. The book, published by LangdonStreet Press, has received strong advancepraise from a number of professors, bishops,

and GLBT pastors. It has been endorsed aswell by Lutherans Concerned/North America,Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries, Soulforce,The Institute for Welcoming Resources of theNational Gay & Lesbian Task Force, MoreLight Presbyterians, and The Catholic PastoralCommittee on Sexual Minorities. It can befound online at www.davidrweiss.com. Davidworks in campus ministry and is an adjunctinstructor in Theology at the College of St.Catherine, St. Paul, MN.

’87Rev. Dennis Andersen, Pastor of Bethany,Seattle, WA, has been appointed to theVestry of St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral. Hehas returned from a sabbatical in Europefunded by the Lilly Endowment ClergyRenewal Program.Rev. Beth Olson, Waverly, IA has two essayspublished in Sundays and Seasons, 2009.She wrote “Celebrating the Time afterEpiphany with Children”, as well as“Celebrating November with Children.”Additionally, she has crafted a month’s worthof prayers for Bread for the Day 2007-2009.Pastor Olson continues on family leavethough she is active as a supply pastor, sub-stitute teacher, sixth grade confirmation classteacher and homemaker.Our sympathies go to Rev. Joe BrownThunder on the death of his wife Shirley. Rev. Gary Veit has accepted a call at St.Paul, Taylor, TX.

’88Rev. Terrie Rae Anderson retired from Familyof Grace, Auburn, WA.Rev. Bruce Falksen has accepted a call atGood Shepherd, Princeton, MN. He previous-ly served Red Oak Grove, Austin, MN.Our sympathies go to Rev. Gary Froseth, onthe death of his father, Laverne.

’89Rev. Lowell Halverson retired last July. Hemost recently was pastor of the Belmond, IAparish of St. Olaf, St John and TrinityLutheran Churches. Pastor Halverson nowresides in Eau Claire, WI.

’91Rev. Alan W. Buresh now serves UniversityLutheran Church and Lutheran CampusMinistry at the University of Wisconsin, EauClaire, WI. He previously served First, NewRichmond, WI.Rev. Norma J Vander Meer has accepted acall to Christ the King, St. Peters, MO. She“semi-retired” in Dec, 2006 and served acontracted Interim position at Atonement,Florissant, MO.

’92Rev. Gloria Keiser Dovre has been called asan assistant to Bishop Michael L. Burk, ’86of the Southeastern Iowa Synod. Mostrecently she was co-pastor of Palestine,Huxley, IA with spouse Donald Keiser Dovre.

’93Rev. JoAnn Fabie retired from Peace,Waunakee, WI.Rev. Mary Jo Maass will tutor English atUsangi Leadership and Training College andteach Bible at Usangi Girls’ SecondarySchool in the Para Diocese, Tanzania for thespring term beginning in January 2009. PareDiocese is the companion synod of theSoutheastern Iowa Synod.Rev William Wrieden, Jr retired May 1, 2008.He served Prince of Peace, Lincoln, NE;Grace, Elroy, WI; Bethesda, Bayfield, WI;Immanuel, Cornucopia, WI. Internship sitewas Immanuel, Seattle, WA.

’94Ms Barbara Zeller died October 4, 2007from a brain tumor.

’95Rev. Kenneth Gibson has accepted a call atGrace, Woodstock, IL. He previously servedas Vice President for Development atHillcrest Family Services in Dubuque, IA.

’96Rev. Julie K. Higgs has been called to thestaff of the Southeastern Iowa Synod as anassistant to Bishop Michael L. Burk, ’86. Forthe past 6 years she has been the pastor atTrinity, Pleasant Valley, IA.Rev. M DeWayne Teig has accepted a call toOur Savior, Radcliffe, IA. Previously he wasWartburg’s Dean of Students and Director ofCandidacy.

’97Rev Margaret M. Pfaff retired in August2008 from Grace, Round Rock, TX.

’98Rev. Chad E. Brucklacher now serves withLutheran Campus ministry at the University ofNorth Dakota, Grand Forks, ND. He previous-ly served with spouse Rev. Sonja Brucklacherat Prince of Peace, Gillette, WY.Our sympathies to Ms. Gayla Crosmer on thedeath of her father-in-law.Rev. Mark K. Johnson has accepted a call atFamily of Grace, Auburn, WA. He previouslyserved Highland, San Bernadino, CA.

’99Rev. Scott Schmidt now serves All Saints,Byron, IL after serving for nine years at Trinity,Manlius, IL.Rev. G. Kim Wills has accepted a call as pas-tor of Zion St. John, Sheffield, IA. Mostrecently he was pastor of Peace, Pella, IA.

’02Rev Tony Haglund has accepted a new call toserve as Senior Pastor of Canton, Canton,SD. He previously served Holy Cross,Abberdeen, SD.


’05Chaplain Lori Kleppe is currently serving as achaplain in the US Navy Chaplain Corps atthe United States Coast Guard Academy.She was promoted to LT on January 2, 2009.

’06Our sympathies to Rev. Cynthia Johnson onthe death of her mother.Rev. Jeremy Walloch has accepted a call atMartin Luther, Giddings, TX. He previouslyTrinity, Moorhead, MN.

’07Rev. Sandra Burroughs accepted a call at StJohn, Sumner, IA and St Peter, Oran, IA. Shepreviously served Living Saviour, Charlotte, NC.Rev. Deena Laird died April 20, 2008 due tocomplications from surgery. She was servingSt. Peter LC, Arenzville, IL and St. John,Bluffs, IL.Rev. Ryan Radtke was ordained August 24,2008. He accepted a call at American,Worthington, MN.Rev. Elizabeth Retz was ordained September18, 2008 at Peace, Ryan, IA. She hasaccepted a call to Edgewood, Fruitport, MI.

’08Rev. Benjamin Ahles-Iverson was ordainedDecember 20, 2008. He has accepted a callat Trinity Peace, Taylor, WI.Rev. Leta Behrens was ordained August 3,2008. She has accepted a call at First,Longmont, CO.Rev. Jacob DeBoer was ordained August 16,2008. He has accepted a call at TrinityLutheran, Steele, ND.Rev. Judy Gelinske was ordained November13, 2008. She has accepted a call atKongsvinger and St. John’s, Donnelly, MN.Rev. Ruth Kaden has accepted a call at StJohn’s, Jamestown, ND.Rev. Ted Mosher was ordained August 16,2008. He has accepted a call at GoodShepherd, Lawrence, KS. Rev. Beth Schultz Byrnes was ordainedNovember 16, 2008 at Trinity, Cedarburg, WI. Rev. Scott Stolberg was ordained August 27,2008 at Grace, Loves Park, IL. He hasaccepted a call at First Lutheran, Fargo, ND.Hanne Tommelstad is interning at UnitedLutheran, Eugene, OR.Rev. James Wendt was ordained onNovember 16, 2008. He has accepted a callat Our Savior, Marinette, WI.Rev. Kendra Wilde was ordained July 12,2008 at Queen Anne, Seattle, WA. She hasaccepted a call at Our Redeemer, Helena, MT.Rev. Kathleen Wohlers has accepted a callat Meridean, Mondovi, WI.

Is there someone you knowwho may be thinking abouta vocation in ministry?

Do you recognize gifts for ministry insomeone you know or in a member ofyour congregation? Tell them aboutWartburg Seminary’s “ConsideringYour Call”, Conference on Ministryweekend. The weekend is designed tohelp individuals explore a call to life inministry. Wartburg wants to be a partof their discernment process. As westrengthen our base, plant a seed!

Contact Admissions at (563)589-0203 or 1-800-225-5987 or email [email protected] to schedule a campus visit.

Upcoming VisitWeekends:

2009November 14-16

2010March 13-15

November 13-15

JUNE 22 – JULY 2, 2009

Luther Academy of theRockiesThe annual Luther Academy of theRockies is held in Allenspark, Coloradoat the Meeker Park Lodge. WartburgSeminary faculty presenters for thisyear’s continuing education event areDr. Paul Chung, Assistant Professor ofLutheran Confessions and WorldChristianity, Dr. David Lull, Professorof New Testament, and Dr. KristineStache, Assistant Professor of Youth &Young Adult Ministries.

JULY 15 – 29, 2009

WYLS – Wartburg’s YouthLeadership School(WYLS) participants consider the ques-tions “The Ultimate You: Who claimsyou? Who Calls You? Who sends you?”Through the setting of intentionalChristian community, high school stu-dents are challenged to live out thegospel and ask themselves, “How am Ibeing called to lead?” 24 youth willgather this summer for this ultimatefaith journey as they share in a high

ropes adventure, service, and communi-ty life-including biblical and theologicalstudy, and dynamic worship and music.This year’s WYLS will include a trip toNew Orleans to provide leadership atthe ELCA National Youth Gathering.Seminary faculty and students serve asguides, walking alongside youth in thisjourney. Nominations are still beingaccepted. Call 563-589-0220 orwww.wartburgseminary.edu for moreinformation.

OCTOBER 14 – 15, 2009

WTS Homecoming – Savethe Date!Just because we don’t have a footballteam doesn’t mean we can’t celebrateHomecoming! This year’s WartburgTheological Seminary Reunions willcelebrate the class years ending in 4 and 9 (i.e. 1979, 1984, 1989, etc.) This fall event will replace the previ-ously held Summer Reunions and willinclude events for the entire family.Materials will be sent during the summermonths with more details.

OCTOBER 16, 2009

Scholarship LuncheonThe Annual Scholarship Luncheonhonors donors who have contributedscholarships for students during thecurrent academic year. This is anopportunity for students to meet andthank those who are providing financialsupport for their seminary education.

NOVEMBER 14 – 16, 2009

Considering Your Call –Conference on MinistryThe Conference on Ministry is anopportunity to experience Wartburg’scampus life, connect with others in thediscernment process, meet current stu-dents, faculty and staff, discuss yourgifts and call to ministry with othersand learn more about the ELCACandidacy Process. We invite you toexplore your call to ministry and expe-rience the community at WartburgSeminary.


Upcoming WTS Events

SEPTEMBER 17, 2009

Kathryn Koob“Love Your Enemies,

Expect Nothing In Return”

OCTOBER 15, 2009

Marcus Borg“Name here”

NOVEMBER 12, 2009

Tom Long“Preaching Advent and Christmas”


Leave a Legacy at Wartburg Theological Seminary

By including Wartburg in your will today, the impactof your gift will live on through generations of studentsanswering God's call to ministry.

For more information about providing for the future of Wartburg Seminary, please contact:Office of Mission Support, Beth Nelson Chase, Vice President for Mission Support (563) 589-0321 or [email protected]

Theological Education forEmerging Ministries (TEEM) is a program of the EvangelicalLutheran Church in America toprepare candidates for ordainedministry in ethnic-specific, multi-cultural, rural, inner-city or deafcommunity contexts. Studentsenrolled in the TEEM programtake a combination of online andintensive on-campus classes.Wartburg Theological Seminaryawarded 11 certificates to TEEMcandidates at 2009 Commencement.

FALL 2009 ONLINE COURSES FORCEU AND CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS:

ENGAGING THE LETTERS OF PAULDr. Ray Pickett

GOD AND THE WORLD IN CHRIST: THE

CHRISTIAN NARRATIVE Dr. Duane Priebe

HEBREW BIBLE 1 Rev. Kristine Ruffatto

For more information please contact:Kristine Stache, Adjunct Professor ofDistributed EducationDirector of WTS TEEM Program(563) [email protected]

ONLINE MASTERS SEMINARY COURSES for 2009-2010

Do you know someone who would be a good candidate for ministry and would suggest take a Masters course or two to get started in seminary? Is this someonewho can’t leave home to come to Dubuque yet? If so, suggest to them that theyconsider taking one or more of the following online courses:

FALL SEMESTER 2009:

Early and Medieval Christianity, Dr. Elizabeth Leeper (3 semester hours)

Belief Systems: Religion, Anthropology, and the Human World, Dr. Fritz Lampe (3 semester hours)

SPRING SEMESTER 2010:

Systematic Theology, Dr. Duane Priebe (3 semester hours)

Lutheran Confessions, Dr. Ralph Quere (3 semester hours)

All these courses meet requirements in Wartburg Seminary’s various Master of Arts and Masterof Divinity degree program. For more information about these courses (including more aboutwhat the course covers and cost), visit www.wartburgseminary.edu or contact the Registrar, KevinAnderson, at [email protected]

Certification SchoolsScheduleNOVEMBER 2-20, 2009Week 1: LUTHEROCK, Newland, NCWeeks 2 & 3: LUTHERIDGE, Ashville, NC

JANUARY 11 - 29, 2010First Half: Vero Beach, FLSecond Half: Luther Springs, Hawthorne, FL

MAY 3 - 21, 2010Wartburg Theological Seminary

NOV 1 - 19, 2010Rainbow Trail, Colorado

Youth & Family MinistryCertification School is a 15-daytraining opportunity providingBiblical and theological foundationsfor youth workers, as well as hundredsof practical ideas for connecting withchildren, youth, parents, and othercaring adults.

For more information: Center for Youth Ministries, 563-589-0220, [email protected]

333 Wartburg PlacePO Box 5004Dubuque, IA 52004-5004

JUNE 22 – JULY 2, 2009

Luther Academy of theRockies

JULY 15 – 29, 2009

WYLS

SEPTEMBER 17, 2009

Tri-State ForumKathyrn Koob

OCTOBER 14 – 15, 2009

WTS HomecomingClasses ending in 4 & 9

(i.e. 1979, 1984, 1989, etc.)

Calendar Of Events

OCTOBER 15, 2009

Tri-State ForumMarcus Borg

OCTOBER 16, 2009

Scholarship Luncheon

NOVEMBER 12, 2009

Tri-State ForumTom Long

NOVEMBER 14 – 16, 2009

Considering Your Call –Conference on Ministry

www.wartburgseminary.edu

Non-ProfitUS Postage

PAIDPermit #24Dubuque, IA

Life Together Magazine Spring 2009

Documents

Transcript of Life Together Magazine Spring 2009