In response to 2009 synod convention resolutions, the Board for Ministerial Education began exploring two important issues—student financial assistance and Mandarin language study—at its meeting Oct. 7-8.

Two study committees, made up of representatives from all four ministerial education schools, will be studying the issues and bringing recommendations. The financial study committee will examine student costs at each school, study how financial assistance is distributed, and determine a consistent financial philosophy for the entire system. The Mandarin study committee will look into how to add Mandarin language study to the curriculums at the high schools, college, and seminary.

"In our circles, by the grace of God, we have the gift of the unconditional gospel in remarkable clarity," says Rev. Paul Prange, administrator of the Board for Ministerial Education. "We want to pass that gift on to the next generation with excellent stewardship of our present resources. These committees are being formed with the goal of doing exactly that, always asking themselves, 'What is best for the church?' "

To help congregations better understand the value of the ministerial education system and how this ministry impacts every WELS member, materials for a Ministerial Education Sunday were mailed to all congregations last week for use in a service in November. Materials include a video; a resource disk containing Sunday worship materials, text study, and bulletin inserts; three color posters; and ideas for hosting the service.

Materials are also available for download through the synod's new private Intranet, Connect; a username and password are required. If you don't have a Connect account, sign up today.