TestimoniesChurch Relations and Community Engagement

DARRELL JODOCK, Martin E. Marty Regents Chair in Religion and the Academy, St. Olaf College; St. Olaf College 1962

In our day, many of the questions with which the church wrestles have to do with God and creation. Included here are questions of religion and science, of ecology, of climate change, of human sexuality, of inter-religious relations, of politics and economics, and the like. The ELCA colleges can provide valuable help to the church as it considers these issues. Gustavus Church Relations is the crucial link in connecting the resources of the college to the church and the resources of the church to the college.

SARAH HAUSKEN, Youth Ministry Coordinator, Southwestern Minnesota Synod ELCA; Concordia College 1998

Gustavus Church Relations has been the face of the college for youth and many adults in our synod. I am grateful that through their involvement in our Lutheran Youth Organization, Companion Synod Program and events tailored to assist the church in equipping youth and engaging them in mission, countless young Lutheran leaders have been mentored and empowered for lives of service in our church and world.

MARK WILHELM, Program Director for Schools, Congregational and Synodical Mission, ELCA; St. Olaf College 1973

All involved with Gustavus Adolphus College can take pride in the work done by the college to lift up church relations as a living and vital activity. The college has created a model for how to truly align a college of the church with the church. The mission of church relations for the twenty-first century at Gustavus deserves the support of all who care about church-related higher education in the Lutheran tradition.

BISHOP JON ANDERSON, Bishop Southwestern Minnesota Synod ELCA; St. Olaf College 1981

We are thankful for our partners in the Gospel who serve in the office of Gustavus Church Relations. In our partnership in the Pastor-to-Pastor clergy wellness program we see a large group of our rostered leaders supported and experience deep ongoing formation. In their support and engagement with local congregations a conduit into the rich life of Gustavus Adolphus College's life is opened and gifts flow in both directions. We are grateful for our partnership.

HEATHER WIGDAHL, Senior Pastor, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Menomonie, Wisc.; Gustavus Adolphus College 1995

Over 20 years ago, Gustavus Church Relations helped to steer me on a completely new path of vocational discernment. The staff identified gifts in me that I hadn't fully realized myself, and I truly believe I am a pastor today as much because of that influence as any other. I am grateful for the work that Church Relations does to nurture a network of connections between the church and the college. I am grateful for the hand Church Relations plays in forming and developing future leaders - both lay and ordained - of our church.