As some of you may know, Prof. Elton has diligently been pursuing ordination in the ELCA for the past 5 years. It is my pleasure to announce that yesterday Lutheran Church of Peace in Maplewood, MN voted to call her as the pastor of hybrid ministry.
God’s timing for Dr. Elton’s call is as remarkable as it is faithful. Prof. Elton’s position at Lutheran Church of Peace is quarter-time, the minimum number of hours required for an ELCA call. Prof. Elton’s responsibilities at Luther Seminary will not change. The new design for supporting the academic affairs office and new hires in Faith+Lead make it possible to delegate several daily functions and responsibilities our strategic plan requires to free up the time required for her call.
What is even more exciting are the ways in which Prof. Elton will be living out the realities of ministry that continue to shape our mission, vision and values here at Luther. Her experiences in bi-vocational ministry will shape the way she leads as dean of academic affairs, and likewise, her practices here at Luther will form her ministry at Lutheran Church of Peace.
Dr. Elton said, “It is with humility and joy that I step into this call. I am so excited to join the Lutheran Church of Peace community and to see where the Spirit leads us. I believe serving God’s church in this way will enhance my leadership at both Luther Seminary and Lutheran Church of Peace.”
Prof. Elton will begin her position as pastor of hybrid ministry October 1. Her ordination will be Saturday, October 8th at Luther Seminary. More information will be available as it becomes available. Please join me in praying for Prof. Elton as she begins this new call for the sake of the gospel, the church and God’s world.
Peace,
Robin Steinke
President