These past weeks have been times of uncertainty and anxiety. Like all of us, the students of the NALS struggle with the changes mandated by the current pandemic. Several students have family members or friends impacted by COVID-19. Our students, faculty, and staff continue to work together. Classes continue, but they are taught online. We share prayer requests and meet online to support each other. Commencement has been canceled, though the 2020 graduates will have the option to be recognized next May along with the class of 2021. June Interterm classes have all been moved online. Staff and faculty are still hard at work, though remotely as the office has been closed for weeks. As the North American Lutheran Seminary is located on the campus of Trinity School for Ministry our response to the pandemic restrictions has been in direct line with the response of Trinity. All of us share in the disruption of life during these strange and stressful times.
In every circumstance, the Gospel of Jesus Christ speaks words of comfort and hope. It is that Gospel which the students in the NALS are preparing to proclaim. The Gospel of God’s love revealed to us in Jesus Christ is the power that saves us.
In the midst of these difficulties, I want to say thank you to all who continue to remember the seminary in your giving. Even in these trying times, the needs of the seminary also continue. Gifts like yours make certain that the students continue to meet and connect even if it’s online. Your gifts also provide much needed scholarship support to ease the financial burden.
Please remember the seminary in your prayers. Pray that God the Holy Spirit would renew the Church and that our students would be part of that renewal. Pray for the health and well being of all those who are ill, and for the families who have lost loved ones.
