Luther and Education (Keynote -- All Levels)

It has been said that the Lutheran Reformation was, essentially, an education movement. Luther's reform necessitated correct and proper teaching of Scripture's theology. Teachers involved in Lutheran education today are working to frame sense of stability and identity that focuses on Christ. How does the Lutheran school reflect the continuing relevance of the Lutheran Reformation? What is the purpose for the Lutheran school in the ministry and mission plans of the 21st-century Lutheran church? What distinguishes a Lutheran church and Lutheran school from the general milieu of Protestantism in our world? As we commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, we have an opportunity to contemplate the issue of our Lutheran identity in our contemporary world. We do well to remember that our identity rests in the hands of a changeless God. Lutheran education must retain its commitment to teaching and modeling the critically vital message of repentance and faith.

About the presenter - Prof. Paul Koelpin has served at Martin Luther College since 1995, teaching courses in history (Western Civilization) and theology. He also coaches the men's soccer team. Prior to serving at MLC, Prof. Koelpin was assigned to an exploratory mission in Columbia, Maryland. He and his wife Becca have four children: two girls (Kristi and Abby) are MLC graduates and are married, two boys (Josh and Joel) are attending MLC. Prof. Koelpin also served on the synod's Reformation 500 committee, along with his father, Prof. em. Arnold Koelpin. He has "teamed up" a number of times to do presentations with his father, including one titled "Luther and Education."