ST. LOUIS –- The Centennial for Black Higher Education within The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod will be recognized with a special celebration in conjunction with the 2006 Black Ministry Family Convocation, according to a resolution adopted by the delegates attending the 62nd LCMS Regular Convention.
Resolution 5-07, introduced by the higher education floor committee, was adopted July 13 by 1,103-13 following a brief discussion. The celebration reflects the history of what is now Concordia College, Selma, Ala., and its predecessors.
Luther College, New Orleans was opened in 1903 and closed in 1932, and Immanuel Lutheran College, Greensboro, N.C., also opened in 1903, was closed in 1961. They were relocated to the Selma college, which was founded in 1921.
“This is a celebration for us all,” said Rev. Ralph E. Laufer, Renault, Ill., as he reminded the convention that the centennial celebration is to be for the whole Synod, not only for the 2006 Black ministry convocation.
In a separate action, delegates adopted Resolution 504-A, permitting graduates of a “Director of Family Life Ministry” program to be placed on the official roster for commissioned ministers of religion. The vote to adopt was 849-319.
Speaking in favor of the resolution, Rev. David A. Elseroad, Flushing, N.Y., said the resolution addresses a need for qualified people trained in family life ministry. “This provides another direct avenue from the Concordia University System to service in the church,” he said.
Posted July 14, 2004
