A Noble Task: Pastoral Formation in the LCMS

July 15-16, 2025

Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Carlisle, Iowa

The question of pastoral formation has received increased attention recently - especially in view of sociological and demographic challenges. In light of these challenges, how does the church faithfully and intentionally bring up men "trained in the words of the faith and of the good doctrine..."? (1 Timothy 4:6) How we answer the question has significant implications for our life together as a synod. Please join us for our 2025 conference as we explore the issues, and pray with us that our conversations bear fruit.

• History of Pastoral Formation – Rev. Willie Grills, Zion Lutheran Church, Avilla, AR

• Challenges to the Church Today – Rev. Adam Moline, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Lincoln, NE

• Pastoral Formation: Seminary Perspectives – Rev. Dr. Jon Bruss, President, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne

• Solutions for the future – Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Oakmont, PA

• Reflecting on a Career in the Pastoral Office – Rev. Rolf Preus, Banquet Speaker

Speaker bios coming soon!

Conference Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport. It has a shuttle to/from the airport from 4 a.m.-8 p.m. and is 12 minutes from Holy Cross Lutheran Church. The conference room rate, $156 for 1 king or 2 queens, includes breakfast. The cutoff date for this rate is one month in advance, i.e., June 14, 2025. To book online, use this link: Available Rooms - Hilton Garden Inn Des Moines Airport - ACELC Conference. Be sure to Edit/Update the stay for the nights you need. It automatically preloads the 13th-17th and most people will not need all those nights. 515-285-7777 is the local phone number for the hotel.