In this devotion, Melissa Pickering ’22 M.Div., says that our purpose, as part of the “royal priesthood,” isn’t to boast but to live a life that reflects God’s mercy and light. Read today’s God Pause.
Announcements
Campus Fire Drill [In-Person]
As part of our ongoing commitment to campus safety, Luther Seminary will be conducting a scheduled fire drill affecting the following buildings: Olson Campus Center (OCC), Bockman Hall, Gullixson Hall. The drill will take place on Wednesday, April 29 at 1 p.m. When the fire alarm sounds, all students, faculty, staff, and visitors are required to exit the buildings promptly, calmly, and in an orderly manner. Please follow all posted exit signs and instructions from safety personnel. Use only stairwells as elevators are disabled during emergencies. After exiting, proceed to the southernmost point of campus near the Luther Seminary sign on Como Avenue (see map below). If you are exiting from the Olson Campus Center, use the walkway to the west, routed around Bockman Hall, to maintain a safe distance in the event of an emergency affecting that building. This drill is an important opportunity for our community to practice emergency preparedness procedures. Thank you for your cooperation and attentiveness in helping ensure the safety of all members of the Luther Seminary community.

Free Financial Wellness Courses for Church Leaders
Confused about clergy taxes? Not sure how to negotiate your compensation? Faith+Lead Academy’s new financial wellness mini courses are designed just for you! In 1-2 hours per course, we’ll walk you through the basics with informative videos and activities that help you put what you’ve learned into practice. These courses are a great resource whether you’re just starting your seminary education or almost at the finish line. Plus, you can come back to them as often as you like as you work through the call process. Both courses are available free of charge to any ministry leader who needs them—Luther Seminary students and everyone else—so feel free to share this content with anyone who could benefit from it.
Financial Wellness for Church Leaders: Clergy Tax Basics
Financial Wellness for Church Leaders: Compensation Negotiation
Working or Visiting a Camp This Summer?
Students, staff, faculty—Are you visiting or working at a camp in summer 2026? If so, we would love to know about it and send you with some Luther swag to share with fellow staff and friends. Reach out to Jen Gruendler in Admissions (jgruendler001@luthersem.edu) to let her know.
God Pause for April 28: Psalm 31
In this devotion, Melissa Pickering ’22 M.Div., reminds us that, when we are anxious, in conflict, or feel as if the ground is slipping out from under us, we are not alone. Read today’s God Pause.
Tuesday Chapel: Contemplative Practice [Hybrid]
We gather at 11 a.m. CT in the OCC Meditation Chapel and on Zoom (link in email) for contemplative practice of your choice—mindful sketching, centering prayer, or however you choose to engage silence. Facilitated by Dean of the Chapel Steve Thomason, we read the text and then practice in silence for 15 minutes. Afterward, you are welcome to sit in fellowship or go about your day. Share your prayer requests.