For the past 20 years Denise had worked as an executive recruiter for several large architectural design firms. For many reasons it was not feasible to move to attend a Lutheran seminary. Now what? With a little networking she found several Lutheran “second-career” pastors and chaplains in Sioux Falls who had traveled an arduous path of seminary studies through a combination of Sioux Falls Seminary and Luther and/or Wartburg Seminaries. It could be done. But what was most surprising to learn was that the Luther House of Study was a means of facilitating such a journey for students that are also tied geographically to this area, and who would not otherwise attend seminary. According to Denise, both she and Bill “felt as though it was a God- given bridge for us as well as others who will receive future calls from ELCA congregations. It is quite exciting to be participating in the early years of LHOS.”
Q: What do you most appreciate about being a student at LHOS?
A: Entering seminary studies is a challenging and yet rewarding venture. I am so thankful for the intimate community of LHOS students, the hands-on teaching community of SFS and a well-balanced curriculum which incorporates Lutheran seminary classes on-line. I also appreciate Dr. Croghan’s mentoring and teaching.
Q: What advice would you give people considering becoming a LHOS student?
A: Take one of the LHOS classes, get to know fellow LHOS students through frequent “round table” type discussions and experience a very personal learning environment that just may change… everything.
When Don Reiffenberger left Luther Seminary after attending during the 2002-2003 academic year, he thought his hopes for ordination in the ELCA were over. Don and his wife had tried living in St. Paul but found his family and other concerns compelled him to leave seminary and return to Sioux Falls. Don resumed his 20 year teaching career in the Sioux Falls School District and resigned himself to never completing his M.Div. and never being ordained in the ELCA.
To Don’s surprise, the door to ordination hadn’t closed and a pastor who knew about LHOS encouraged Don to continue his studies through LHOS. After much prayer, Don did just that and is now the first LHOS student to complete his M.Div. degree. Don has completed his internship and graduated in May 2011. He is in the call process, and has been assigned to the South Dakota Synod. He reports that he enjoyed the opportunity to participate in classes at Sioux Falls Seminary and the online opportunities offered by ELCA seminaries. According to Don, LHOS is filling a need that no other program would – he was able to stay in Sioux Falls and provide a stable home for his family, while enjoying the collegiality of other LHOS students experiencing the same challenges and rewards as Don - as they, too, pursue their education.