Announcements

The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the University of Saint Thomas has announced it is hosting the 2026 Institute on Theology and Disability, from June 15–17, 2026. They invite interested persons to join them in Saint Paul for three days of deep learning, community-building, and practice-based sharing. This unique conference brings together leading scholars, faith leaders, and community members—both disabled and non-disabled—to explore disability at the intersection of faith and theology. Discounts are offered for Luther Seminary staff and students: staff can attend the entire conference for $400, students for $250 (discount code LUTHERFULL). Daily rates for students are $125 for Monday and $75 for Tuesday and Wednesday (discount code LUTHERDAILY). Learn more and register here.

In this devotion, Gabriella Conklin ’21 M.Div., writes that the prophet Hosea helps us remember that God does not turn away from us even when our own faith slips away. Read today’s God Pause.

Two important June holidays—beyond Father’s Day—commemorate Juneteenth on June 19 and World Refugee Day on June 20. See our new The Border and Immigration: Theology and Ministry bibliography for an article from Minneapolis-based IAFR about World Refugee Day. And see our Justice and Social issues guide for a webinar on Why Juneteenth Should Matter to the Church.

To support students who may be facing food insecurity, Luther Seminary operates a direct-order grocery process for the seminary community. Luther Seminary’s Grocery Assistance Program is a lifeline for students facing food insecurity. Started during the pandemic, this vital program continues to provide essential groceries to an average of 25 students each week. Through the program, students can request necessary food items that are then carefully processed, purchased, and delivered to campus by dedicated volunteers. This initiative helps students meet their nutritional needs and fosters a sense of community and support within the seminary. Your generous donation will ensure that this program can continue to make a real difference in the lives of Luther Seminary students. On the Grocery Assistance Program webpage, you can make a one-time or recurring gift to support this important ministry.

Congratulations to our colleagues celebrating work anniversaries in June!

• Kurty Darling, 1 year – Faculty, Leadership
• Tony Herrera, 12 years – Business Office
• Timothy Larson, 7 years – Seminary Relations
• Benjamin McDonald Coltvet, 15 years – Faith+Lead
• Kristofer Phan Coffman, 4 years – Faculty, New Testament
• Robin Steinke, 12 years – President

Check out this week’s blog post from Dean of the Chapel Steve Thomason—Of Endings and Blessings.