Vicarage is a very important step in a seminary student’s formation towards the pastoral ministry—the opportunity to spend a whole year working in a congregation to put their theological education into practice. The annual vicars’ dinner, hosted by the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League–Canada (LWMLC), opens the door a crack to see what they’re getting into. It’s one of those occasions when the students realise just how much love and support the church offers them as they prepare for their high calling.
Like so many events in these unusual times, however, the normal Vicars’ Dinner had to be cancelled. But LWMLC President Linda Long didn’t want this year’s vicar, David Zakel, to miss out on the opportunity to learn about this vital church auxiliary and to receive their support. President Long and Ontario District President Diana Grant joined with the Zakel family, Seminary President Dr Thomas Winger, and Director of Placement, Dr Harold Ristau, in an online video-conference on Thursday, 7 May.
The upcoming vicar introduced his wife Stephanie, and children Kaleb, Ethan, Hannah, and Nathaniel to the LWMLC hosts. After an introduction by President Grant, President Long presented a video and slideshow that illustrated the wide-reaching role the organisation plays in supporting the mission of Lutheran Church–Canada. There was a lot of reminiscing about the role LWML ladies have played everyone’s lives!
After the “Virtual Vicars’ Dinner” concluded with prayer, the Zakel family brought in Thai takeaway, courtesy of the hosts. We look forward to returning to the face-to-face dinners next year, with thanks to the faithful support of the LWMLC.
Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary 
Congratulations David ! God’s blessings to you as you take the next step in your ministerial studies. Love, Judy Zastrow