Future churchworkers ready to go but waiting for the Lord’s timing

by Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel

The Iglesia Luterana Sínodo de Nicaragua (ILSN) has developed an interesting method to help seminary candidates prepare for their theological studies. During one year or more before they start the program, the lectores (seminary candidates) are involved in congregational and mission outreach activities. They assist their pastors as readers, conduct lay-led worship services, visit homes, participate in missionary programs and other activities.

Seventeen lectores or candidates considering the pastoral ministry studied with Rev. Leonardo Neitzel.

Currently, there are seventeen lectores or candidates considering the pastoral ministry in the ILSN. They come from several congregations and backgrounds and gather for special seminars at the mission centre whenever arranged by the Synod. Recently they had two special seminars: basic introduction to the study of Scriptures, liturgy and preaching, presented by Rev. Dr. Ralph Mayan and basic introduction to the study of theology (propaedeutics), which I taught.

The previous source for funding the seminary program is not currently available due to economic conditions. So LCC and the ILSN are asking the Lord God to encourage His people to provide financial resources to start the third seminary program with these candidates in 2012.

The regular seminary program normally has four intensive courses taught yearly during two years, plus the practical activities of students and the continuing education which follows. We pray and trust that the Lord will provide the means for this to happen as He is growing His church in Nicaragua and other countries in Central America, and as the ILSN is beginning to see a shortage of church workers.

If you feel the Lord God speaking to your heart in regards to assisting His church in Nicaragua especially in supporting the theological education for the formation of more pastors and missionaries, you may contact the mission coordinator Rev. Ralph Mayan, ralph.mayan@lutheranchurch.ca  or Rev. Leonardo Neitzel, missions@lutheranchurch.ca

The Saviour Jesus Christ teaches us when He says, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field” (Matthew 9:37-38). And He Himself as the true God has not left His church without His promises as He says, “I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding” (Jeremiah 3:15).