Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary is embarking on an exciting new venture that will bring opportunities for its future growth and success.
For four decades, the seminary has enjoyed a fruitful partnership with Brock University, whereby the university has conferred Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies degrees on its graduates. This partnership has been a tremendous blessing, with over 225 graduates receiving their degrees from Brock.
However, as the seminary navigates a changing environment and recognizes its unique administrative, ecclesiastical, and academic needs, it has become clear that a new path is necessary. In response to the university’s desire to wind down the degree-granting arrangement, Concordia, with full support from the university administration, is now pursuing independent degree-granting authority from the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities.
Dr Thomas Winger, CLTS president commented, “This significant milestone will enable the seminary to grant degrees under its own name to future graduates.” He continued, “obtaining ministerial consent for granting the MDiv and MTS degrees in our own name brings exciting prospects. The seminary will maintain complete control over its curriculum and can explore the possibility of introducing new degrees and programmes that cater to the evolving needs of the church in the near future.”
While Brock University will no longer confer degrees on behalf of the seminary, our ongoing relationship will remain mutually advantageous. We deeply appreciate the invaluable benefits brought by our enduring 40-year partnership. The seminary building is situated on the Brock campus, and our land lease for 100 years at a nominal rate ensures our continued presence. The university provides essential services such as internet infrastructure, security, and student services. The seminary will continue to share its acoustically splendid chapel for music faculty recitals and chamber concerts. Additionally, the CLTS library, one of the largest reference sources for Lutheran material in Canada, will continue to be available to Brock students; and the seminary will continue to welcome the Brock community to join in daily chapel services.
Through this transition, Concordia stands committed to upholding the academic standards set by Brock University while embracing a structure that gives us independence. Our dedicated faculty are fully engaged in the application process, aiming to obtain ministerial consent by the summer of 2024.
Since 1976, CLTS has served Lutheran Church–Canada through the formation of pastors, education for the laity of the church, and support of the national and international mission of LCC. This new chapter brings optimism and excitement for the future of Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary. As we forge this new path, we are confident in our ability to shape theological education in a way that meets the evolving needs of the church and society.
Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary 