The Theological Training of Institutional Missionaries

Abstract

Frederic E. Blume outlines the theological and pastoral preparation provided at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary for future institutional missionaries, emphasizing the importance of pastoral counseling and individualized care. He distinguishes the Seminary’s theoretical focus from practical training, aiming to instill foundational attitudes and insights rather than specific techniques. Blume stresses the need for evangelical tact, understanding of human personality, and familiarity with relevant psychological literature. He highlights four key doctrines—man, priesthood of believers, Christian liberty, and the Church—as essential for counseling. The essay describes the Seminary’s curriculum structure, including seminar-style classes, student-led presentations, sick-call demonstrations, and field trips to institutions like Bethesda Lutheran Home and mental hospitals. Blume advocates for “proxy experience” to prepare students for real-world ministry and concludes with a call for humility and lifelong learning in service to Christ. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)