Sending Forth

The Need

Identifying and nurturing church leaders within congregations is crucial to the future of the church. The Lutheran church faces a shortage of ordained clergy, especially in rural areas. Most seminary graduates must borrow money to complete their education, which leaves them with debt that prohibits them from considering calls to rural or poor congregations.

The Opportunity...

For eligible candidates, Normandale’s Sending Forth ministry provides financial support for up to three years of seminary study. The goal is to underwrite up to 50% of the cost of seminary study and provide emotional and spiritual support as students proceed through the candidacy process.

Eligibility

Sending Forth is a ministry to people who have been members of Normandale Lutheran Church for at least one year and who feel called to congregational ministry as their life’s work. Candidates must have demonstrated leadership ability and expect to devote 20 or more years to ministry. Priority will be given to students attending Lutheran and accredited seminaries.