Pre-Seminary Topics

The LCMS has need of pastors, both now and in the future. Learn the latest assessment of the current need for pastors and the latest projections for the future need of pastors in the Synod.

The Present Need

The LCMS has more than 800 pastoral vacancies at this time, but roughly half of these vacancies are "non-calling vacancies" (congregations that are not actively seeking a pastor at this time). The most recent pastoral vacancy report submitted by the LCMS Council of Presidents provides current vacancy data.

The Lord of the Harvest raises-up workers for His harvest, even as His church prays that He would. Learn about activities and resources available in the LCMS to assist in the process of identifying, informing and encouraging appropriate candidates for the pastoral ministry.

During the next ten years, approximately 50% of our pastors will be eligible for retirement.  Therefore, encouraging men to explore a church vocation is an ongoing activity, vital to the future of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in carrying out the Great Commission!  Confirmation classes, young adult groups, and other lay activities provide pastors and congregations with an opportunity to identify and encourage men to prayerfully consider serving our Lord in the pastoral ministry.

Since seminary study is graduate-level in nature, an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university is ordinarily required for admission to the residential programs of study (but not for several distance education programs). Learn the options in undergraduate education that are available to those contemplating enrollment in one of the two LCMS seminaries.