Archives for November 17, 2022

In this devotion, Tim Stoa ’81 M.Div. reflects on God’s love that appears on the cross. Read today’s God Pause.

Speaker: Kathryn Schifferdecker, professor and Elva B. Lovell Chair of Old Testament

11 a.m.–12 p.m. Free lunch in OCC Dining Room! Or join by Zoom (see email for link)

“Why Jesus” is a series of talks designed to help build community here at Luther and to model the practice of Christian testimony. Speakers (faculty, staff, and students) focus on two questions: “Why am I a Christian?” and “What difference does Jesus make in my life?” Lunch is provided.

After a comprehensive review of all candidates and an enhanced, thorough interview process of our three final candidates, Luther Seminary is excited to announce that Samuel Zalanga, Ph.D., has been offered and accepted our new position of Director of Inclusion and Belonging. Dr. Zalanga will start on January 3, 2023.

Dr. Zalanga, who was a Fulbright Scholar, brings 22 years of higher education experience to Luther Seminary with a comprehensive background in undergraduate and graduate teaching and scholarship in sociology, diversity and social work. As a tenured professor at Bethel University, he led teaching abroad experiences and served as Department Chair in the Department of Sociology and Reconciliation Studies.

He is deeply committed to learning and reflecting “ … on how the mission of Jesus and the Church can transform society.” Dr. Zalanga further stated, “I will dedicate myself in the spirit of collaboration, faith, hope, love, charity and humility to pursue [Inclusion and Belonging at Luther Seminary] with all deliberate speed.”

Please join me in welcoming him to campus, and I ask for your support and prayers as he faithfully accepts this important call. I extend special appreciation to the entire Seminary community, faculty, staff and students, for their involvement, encouragement and support during the recruitment and hiring process. In particular, please join me in thanking members of the interview team, including Ken Reynhout (co-chair), Jeni Grangaard, Marie Hayes, Cameron Howard, Dan Sassenberg, and Peter Susag.

Please contact me with any questions.

Dr. Leon Rodrigues, Vice President for Inclusion and Belonging, Dean of Students

Fruit & Grain Bakery, whose pastry and meals are produced right here at Luther Seminary, is offering a Thanksgiving pie menu, with pickup taking place on Wednesday, November 23 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at Wild Flyer Coffeeshop in south Minneapolis. Details and ordering for the event can be found on their website: fruit-grain-bakery.square.site

Feel free to reach out to fruit and grain bakery owner Emily at fruitandgrainbakery@gmail.com.

To maximize the efforts of our boilers, please be sure your windows are closed from the top and bottom, as well as the outside screen, each night when you leave your office. Click here for video instructions if you’re unfamiliar with sash-style windows. If you have any problems, just scan the nearest QR code to submit a maintenance request for help!