“It means a lot to know others are supporting my journey into church work, even those I have not met. Thanks a ton for your generosity!” These appreciative words were expressed by Jack, a current church work student at Concordia University Ann Arbor. Jack received a scholarship from the Michigan District to help offset his costs as he studies and prepares to be a next-generation church worker.
Jack is one of 101 students attending a Concordia University System School or Seminary who received a scholarship for the 2018-19 school year from the Michigan District. When Jack said, “even those I have not met,” he is referring to the hundreds and hundreds of individuals and congregations who have given generously to the Here We Stand (HWS) campaign and designated some, or all, of their contribution to help support future Kingdom workers like himself. Perhaps as you read this Jack is speaking directly to you and thanking you personally for investing in his future. I would also like to thank you on behalf of Jack and the 100 other students who were blessed by your generosity.
Professional Church Worker Scholarships is one of four initiatives of the HWS campaign. To date, over $1.24 million has been given and committed to this vital initiative of the campaign. Our goal is to significantly increase the number of dollars given for scholarship purposes so we can continue to assist students for many years to come as they strive to meet the rising costs of their education. These are students that you may know personally as members of your congregation or your family.
Professional Church Work Scholarship recipients of the Michigan District must be members of an LCMS congregation in the Michigan District, and must be preparing for a career in professional church work. These careers include serving the church as pastor, teacher, DCE, Director of Music or Worship, Deaconess, Family Life, and others.
Please prayerfully consider how you can help. Your one-time gift or multi-year commitment of any size or duration will make a difference for someone. For more information on how to respond, please call the Development Department of the Michigan District at 734.213.4265 or visit the campaign website at herewestand.michigandistrict.org and locate the Donate button.
“I really appreciate all the generosity and support you’ve shown me. Without it, my dream of becoming a Lutheran teacher wouldn’t be coming true” (Hannah, a Professional Church Work Student at Concordia University Ann Arbor).
Photo by Elisa Schulz/Michigan District, LCMS
