Wartburg Seminary’s core curriculum centers on the formation of leaders who demonstrate the Twelve Pastoral-Diaconal practices for the life and mission of the church. These practices guide the faculty and shape the ongoing innovation of Wartburg’s curriculum, ensuring graduates are faithful, wise, and compassionate leaders grounded in the gospel.
Explore The Practices
Wartburg Theological Seminary
Articulates the gospel in a way that is heard as gospel is publicly Lutheran and gospel-centered.
Grounded in Word and Sacrament as the means by which God creates and forms community (koinonia) for God’s mission (diakonia) in the world. Pastors exercise faithful worship preparation, evangelical preaching, and sacramental leadership. Deacons and deaconesses serve as a strategic bridge between church and world.
Interprets reality theologically and biblically as a habit. Holds a core set of theological concepts interpreted with flexibility across different contexts.
Displays a healthy sense of connectedness with the whole church. Fosters partnership with the ELCA and maintains ecumenical openness.
Demonstrates the ability to carefully examine complex social, economic, scientific, and religious issues without oversimplification. Views relationships from a systems perspective and remains non-anxious in the face of ambiguity.
Embodies curiosity and creativity in thought and language. Remains open to growth beyond current perspectives and pursues learning with intellectual depth.
Loves God’s people with a pastor’s heart, showing generosity of spirit and relational care. Maintains a clear pastoral identity and a desire for excellence in ministry.
Lives as a person of faith, grounded in prayer and study. Is self-aware, proclaims hope, and upholds healthy boundaries.
Leads responsively and collaboratively, fostering teamwork and building collegial communities within and beyond the church.
Listens deeply to guide others into meaningful faith questions. Engages in thoughtful witness to the Christian message, particularly with youth and those outside the faith.
Listens to and engages with the local community, interpreting texts and contexts with insight and compassion.
Demonstrates sensitivity to multicultural issues and religious pluralism within a globalized world. Recognizes and proclaims the inclusive nature of the Christian Gospel.
Get the full set of the twelve Pastoral-Diaconal Practices in one PDF.