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In this devotion, Michael DeKraai ’90 M.Div., says that, while today’s busyness and our own biases can cloud our vision, we are called to see the worth of everyone God loves. Read today’s God Pause.

Join us today in the OCC Dining Room at 11 a.m. CT for Lunch Church.
We will be dwelling in the Gospel text during a Lunch Church hosted by Dean of the Chapel Steve Thomason. Lunch is provided. Share your prayer requests.

Interested in participating in Word & World as a student member of the editorial board? Word & World is the quarterly journal of Theology for Christian Ministry published by the faculty of the seminary. Its work is guided by the staff and an editorial board made up of seven members of the Luther faculty and two students. The students are full voting members of the board. Two student positions are open for the 2026–2027 academic year, starting September 1, 2026. Membership on the board is voluntary and unsalaried, but students do get the opportunity to participate in the life of a significant theological journal. Duties include regular attendance at board meetings (perhaps two or three per year) and thoughtful contribution to the board’s work, including bringing ideas for issues and authors. All students, in any program, are eligible. If you would like to be a student board member for 2026–2027, reply both to Jennifer Pietz, board chair (jpietz002@luthersem.edu) and Mark Granquist, editor (mgranquist001@luthersem.edu) with a note that spells out your interest in the position, your qualifications, and your availability to attend meetings on campus during regular business hours on weekdays (in-person attendance is greatly preferred). Include also your year, program, and anticipated graduation date. To be considered, your statement of interest must be received by Friday, May 8, 2026. Let us know if you have any questions.

Help out at the Minneapolis Area Synod Assembly. Candidates, interns, and recent graduates are invited to join us at Synod Assembly by serving as a Floor Team member (a non-voting volunteer). This team assists with training on the Assembly app, bringing information or treats to attendees, and anything else that might come up. If you choose to be a member of the Floor Team, there is no fee to attend Synod Assembly. Volunteering includes lunch and snacks. Floor Team Volunteers will be needed on Friday and Saturday. If you are able to attend only some of the time, you can still sign up and indicate your availability. Sign up now or reach out to Jeni Huff with questions.

On Tuesday May 5 from 11 a.m.–12:20 p.m. in the OCC Dining Room, join the ABIDE Inclusive Campus Climate Committee for a Lunch & Learn celebrating LGBTQ-inclusive ministries, and learning from the wisdom of a panel of LGBTQ+ pastors. In an era when LGBTQ+ rights and wellbeing are under increasing attack, the commitment of faith communities to practice inclusivity, care, and justice for and with LGBTQ+ people is a lifeline to many. This event will help you imagine what those ministries look like in specific communities now and in the days to come. Lunch is provided. All are welcome to attend. If you have questions, please contact Cody Sanders (csanders001@luthersem.edu).

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