First Call Theological Education

First Call Theological Education (FCTE) is a three-year structured program of theological education designed to assist newly called leaders in the transition to rostered ministry. One of the most dramatic transitions in the life of a newly rostered person is the transistion from seminary or non-rostered status to the first call to public ministry. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has prescribed standards and expectations for continuing theological education during the first three years of rostered service under call.

Theological education doesn't end with graduation ceremonies at our seminaries. Rather, theological education is a process of lifelong learning which addresses ministry in our changing community and societal contexts. This requires faithful leaders with abundant gifts and special qualities such as:

† depth in faith

† practical congregational skills

† competence to communicate across cultures

† capacity to reach out to unchurched people

† ability to make connections between faith and every day life

Maggie Cummings, Mary Glade, Christian Muellerleile, Matt Williams