Best Concordia Seminary, St. Louis Podcasts (2025)

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Christ Speaks the Psalms â Dr. Adam Hensley 34:59

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2d ago34:59

34:59

“The book of Psalms is not just about Christ, but also on his own lips; his own prayers, praises, and thanksgivings.” said Dr. Adam Hensley, professor of Exegetical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. This thought-provoking episode will give you a fresh perspective of the book of Psalms. Join us as Hensley goes on to explore the Psalms with …

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Unearthing King David 33:46

17d ago33:46

33:46

Join us in a conversation about the purpose of archaeology and what recent discoveries have unearthed concerning King David. Dr. Yosef Garfinkel, professor of biblical archaeology at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Dr. David Adams, professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Seminary St. Louis, discuss the role of archaeology and its relev…

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The Quiet Ambition â Dr. Ryan Tinetti 35:29

1M ago35:29

35:29

“Whether by desperate busyness or desperate surrender, hope keeps leaking from the hearts of people,” writes Dr. Ryan Tinetti, professor of practical theology at Concordia Seminary. Join the conversation as we get a sneak peek at his soon-to-be released book, The Quiet Ambition. Insightful and engaging, this book explores the restlessness we are of…

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The Theology of the LCMS Youth Gathering â Dr. Michael Zeigler and Dr. Peter Nafzger 35:56

2M ago35:56

35:56

When 20,000 members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod gather in the same city for five days, we can’t help but notice. What happens at the LCMS Youth Gatherings and what is the theology behind it? Join Dr. Michael Zeigler, speaker of “The Lutheran Hour,” and Dr. Peter Nafzger, associate professor of Practical Theology, as they discuss the 2025 …

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Theology of the Cross - We Really Mean It â Dr. Robert Kolb and Dr. Joel Okamoto 32:48

2M ago32:48

32:48

Christians are not immune to horrible circumstances; bad things happen to all people. Where is God when we are hurting? Join Dr. Robert Kolb, professor emeritus of systematic theology, and Dr. Joel Okamoto, professor of systematic theology as they engage in a conversation that leads students and laity to a deeper understanding of the theology of th…

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Children and Musical Faith Formation â Dr. Samuel and Lois Eatherton 34:59

3M ago34:59

34:59

In which ways does music inform the spiritual development of children? Concordia Seminary, St. Louis has received a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help establish the Children in Worship Initiative. “We learn things as children, especially musically because it gets inside of us,” said Dr. Samuel Eatherton, professor of practical theology and Kan…

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Does Greek Really Matter? - Dr. James Voelz and Dr. David Lewis 34:21

3M ago34:21

34:21

What is the significance of Greek for English-speaking Christians? Greek linguist Dr. James Voelz and Dr. David Lewis, professor of exegetical theology, make a case for studying the Bible in its original languages. “Reading the Greek is like going to a ball game instead of watching it on television,” said Voelz, “it was so amazing being at the game…

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Why You Should Read Flannery OâConnor - Dr. David Schmitt and Dr. Joel Biermann 34:55

4M ago34:55

34:55

Flannery O’Connor’s perspective as a devout Catholic writing in mid-century Georgia is observant and powerful. The theology intertwined into the narratives of her stories set her apart as an author. Dr. David Schmitt, professor of practical theology, and Dr. Joel Biermann, professor of systematic theology, discuss her influence and make a case for …

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The Spoken Word: We Really Mean It â Dr. Robert Kolb and Dr. Joel Okamoto 35:50

4M ago35:50

35:50

Does God speak to us today? Dr. Robert Kolb, professor emeritus of systematic theology, and Dr. Joel Okamoto, professor of systematic theology, discuss the practical significance of Theology of the Spoken Word. The unique format of this episode allows Kolb and Okamoto the opportunity to make a challenging concept come alive for students and laity.…

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Special Feature â Meditation Exercise read in Spanish by Dr. Douglas Rutt 23:39

5M ago23:39

23:39

This is a special feature of the episode Mindfulness, Meditation, and Martin Luther. Dr. Douglas Rutt reads a Scripture-based meditation in Spanish. The meditation is from William Hulme’s book Let the Spirit In: Practicing Christian Devotional Meditation. Enjoy!By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Holistic Wellness- Dr. Rick Marrs and Dr. Tim Saleska 35:39

5M ago35:39

35:39

Holistic wellness includes multiple areas of health. Dr. Rick Marrs, professor of Practical Theology, speaks with Dr. Tim Saleska, dean of Ministerial Formation, discuss the concept of holistic wellness. Marr’s new Bible study, “The Wholeness Wheel” explores seven aspects of health. Tune in for a discussion about how to care for and use God’s embod…

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Raising Kids Who Ask Questions â Dr. Ron Mudge and Isaiah Mudge 35:52

5M ago35:52

35:52

The Mudge family is striving to build a grace-focused home where kids aren’t afraid to ask questions. This family of 8 have lived in multiple cultures, both in the United States and in Africa. Join in this conversation between Dr. Ron Mudge, provost at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and his son Isaiah, as they describe living as a Christian family …

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Tolkienâs Way â Dr. Charles Arand and Dr. Kent Burreson 30:09

6M ago30:09

30:09

J.R.R. Tolkien is best known for his fantasy novels “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. While not allegories, the narratives are thick with theology. Join Dr. Charles Arand and Dr. Kent Burreson as they discuss the ways Tolkien weaves eternal truths into his fairy stories.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Day 7 for Work, Rest or Play â Dr. Joel Biermann and Dr. Joel Okamoto 35:09

6M ago35:09

35:09

Join us in a discussion about the Sabbath with systematic professors Dr. Joel Biermann and Dr. Joel Okamoto. Biermann’s newly published book, Day 7: for Work, Rest, or Play, has a unique take on the seventh day and what it means to keep the Sabbath. Don’t miss it!By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Ecclesiastes and Job: Together at Last â Dr. Tim Saleska 32:13

7M ago32:13

32:13

Dr. Tim Saleska, Old Testament scholar and professor of exegetical theology, explores the book of Ecclesiastes. He presents the idea that Job and Ecclesiastes are better understood in light of each other. “Job asks for an answer to suffering. Ecclesiastes puts us on the edge of meaninglessness,” said Saleska. “They inform each other, both deal with…

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Under the Fig Tree: Connecting music and ministry with Dr. Samuel Eatherton 24:29

7M ago24:29

24:29

Join hosts Rev. Tom Schlund and Kati Gaschler in a conversation with Dr. Samuel Eatherton, the new kantor at Concordia Seminary. In addition to directing music for chapel, concerts and leading the various music groups, Eatherton is an associate professor of practical theology, teaching worship courses as the Kreft Professor of Music Arts. "Music co…

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Genesis, Giants, and Jesus â Dr. Thomas Egger 35:27

7M ago35:27

35:27

The first few chapters of Genesis are ancient history, yet they reveal essential truths about our present and future. Join us as Dr. Thomas Egger, president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis answers questions about Genesis 1 – 11. He shares the significance of primeval history in the understanding of Christ. “Does God have the power to raise my love…

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Faith Alone: We Really Mean It â Dr. Robert Kolb and Dr. Joel Okamoto 36:15

8M ago36:15

36:15

“I think our students would all agree that we are justified by faith, but it doesn't look like they actually believe that,” said Dr. Joel Okamoto, professor of systematic theology. “The critical question is, why does God like me today? Our students are having a particularly hard time, struggling to get there,” said Dr. Robert Kolb, professor emerit…

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Jobâs Platitudes â Dr. Tim Saleska 35:57

8M ago35:57

35:57

The wisdom in the book of Job often gets tangled with platitudes of our own making. Which is which? “Job is dealing with the idea of a kind of a suffering that's incomprehensible and he gives us permission to speak very differently to and about God,” said Dr. Tim Saleska, professor of exegetical theology. Join us as Dr. Saleska faces Job head-on.…

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Under the Fig Tree: Saying 'Yes' to ministry with Dr. Jason Lane 36:52

9M ago36:52

36:52

In this episode, hosts Rev. Tom Schlund and Katie Gaschler sit down with Dr. Jason Lane, associate professor of Historical Theology. Through various life experiences, Lane shares how he said "Yes" to the opportunities and encouragements given to him on his journey to Seminary, graduate school, the parish and professorship. Whether someone attends a…

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Literature and Theology: â'My Ãntoniaâ and âBabetteâs Feastââ- Dr. Kent Burreson and Dr. Ryan Tinetti 33:31

9M ago33:31

33:31

In this new series of episodes, professors explore the theological impact of their favorite pieces of literature. “Literature can help us to see the transcendent truths of the gospel anew,” said Dr. Ryan Tinetti, professor of Practical Theology. “It can help us deepen our experience, our understanding and our sympathy for folks from all walks of li…

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The Vocatio experience with first year students Alex Uttley and Michael Conroy 26:05

9M ago26:05

26:05

You may have heard about the Seminary's visit event Vocatio: High School. In this episode, hear first-hand how this retreat impacted two current students. If you've thought about attending Vocatio, or you know a high school student who might be interested, this is an episode you don't want to miss! Listen as hosts Rev. Tom Schlund and Kati Gaschler…

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The Holy Spirit in the Gospel of Luke â Dr. Leopoldo A. SÃ¡nchez and Dr. Jeffrey Oschwald 34:33

9M ago34:33

34:33

Dr. Leopoldo Sánchez, professor of systematic theology and Dr. Jeff Oschwald, professor of exegetical theology, discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in the Gospel of Luke. “You’ve got to ‘land the dove,’ listening to what the Spirit was doing in the life of Jesus and in our lives,” said Sánchez. “The presence of God is in Jesus in a completely uniqu…

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Under the Fig Tree: Serving Students and the Campus Community with Mike Broberg 30:17

10M ago30:17

30:17

A new episode of "Under the Fig Tree" has dropped! Join hosts Rev. Tom Schlund and Katie Gaschler "behind the scenes" as they chat with Michael "Mike" Broberg, administrator of Residential Services at Concordia Seminary. Mike shares how he helps single and married students navigate on-campus housing and talks about the Food Bank and Re-Sell It Shop…

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Resilient Witness in Dark Times â Dr. Chad Lakies and President Emeritus Dr. Dale A. Meyer 35:57

10M ago35:57

35:57

How should the church respond to its declining influence in today’s culture? Join Dr. Chad Lakies and President Emeritus Dr. Dale A. Meyer as they continue the discussion about Lakies’s new book How the Light Shines Through: Resilient Witness in Dark Times.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Under the Fig Tree: Doubt, discernment and the path to ministry with Dr. James Fickenscher 40:13

11M ago40:13

40:13

In this episode, join hosts Rev. Tom Schlund and KatieGaschler as they get to know one of Concordia Seminary's newest exegetical professors, Dr. James Fickenscher. From studying mathematics as an undergraduate student, to attending seminary and getting a graduate degree, toserving seven years in a Texas parish, Fickenscher shares how God led him on…

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The Luther That Lutherans Never Knew - Dr. Stephen Pietsch and Dr. Jason Lane 32:22

11M ago32:22

32:22

“I’ve been reading Luther’s mail for a long time now,” said Dr. Stephen Pietsch, associate professor of Practical Theology. “Martin Luther was not only a bull-headed reformer — but also a gentle, wise correspondent.” Join Pietsch and Dr. Jason Lane, associate professor of Historical Theology, as they discuss Pietsch’s research into the letters that…

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Under the Fig Tree: Following God's Call with Dr. Ryan Tinetti 31:19

11M ago31:19

31:19

In this episode, hosts Rev. Tom Schlund and Katie Gaschler are joined by one of Concordia Seminary's newest professors, Dr. Ryan Tinetti. While studying journalism during his undergraduate years at Michigan State University, Tinetti felt a call toward ministry. After graduation, he followed God's call with a few different stops along the way. He sa…

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Never Let Issues Prevent Relationships â Dr. Chad Lakies and President Emeritus Dr. Dale A. Meyer 35:03

11M ago35:03

35:03

Join Dr. Chad Lakies and President Emeritus Dr. Dale A. Meyer as they discuss “insider versus outsider” mentality and explore some ways to build positive relationships with those on the other side of the fence.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Jerusalem at the Time of Jesus â Dr. Jodi Magness and Dr. David Adams 34:53

12M ago34:53

34:53

World-renowned archeologist Dr. Jodi Magness shares her findings from decades of excavations in Israel. “The world of Jesus 2000 years ago was as alien to us as life on Mars. It was a completely different world,” said Magness in this discussion with Professor of Exegetical Theology Dr. David Adams.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Under the Fig Tree: Campus Updates with President Dr. Thomas Egger 34:19

12M ago34:19

34:19

In this episode, Rev. Tom Schlund and Kati Gaschler sit down with President Dr. Thomas J. Egger who gives some updates about things around Concordia Seminary. They discuss with Egger the excitement and joy of starting a new school year, looking back on Orientation and looking forward to the year ahead. They reflect on the impact of having these new…

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Raising Kids in a World of Digital Sexuality - DCE Caitlin Dinger, Dr. Rick Marrs, and Dr. Joel Oesch 35:06

1y ago35:06

35:06

Is social media changing the factors that contribute to the formation of sexual identity? Join this discussion between three church workers as they share their experiences working with tech-savvy youth.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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We're back! New year, new host and a new academic year theme with guest Dr. Thomas Egger 39:27

1y ago39:27

39:27

After a summer off, Under the Fig Tree is back! In this episode, Rev. Tom Schlund joins Kati Gaschler as a new host of the podcast. They sit down with President Thomas J. Egger and take a deep dive into the 2024-25 academic year theme "Let Us Fix Our Eyes on Jesus," based on Heb. 12:2. Egger shares some behind-the-scenes about the selection process…

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Technologyâs Influence on the Church: Past, Present and Future â Dr. Bernard Bull and Dr. David Maxwell 35:44

1y ago35:44

35:44

Technology is an apparent force in the world, but it’s nothing new. From scrolls to screens, innovations have shaped how we interact with God’s Word and each other. How will technology influence the church in the future? Listen to Dr. Bernard Bull and Dr. David Maxwell as they discuss their research and experience.…

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Living Hosea â Dr. Kevin Golden and Dr. David Lewis 34:58

1y ago34:58

34:58

Hosea lived out God’s message of redemption in a very tangible way. What does this minor prophet from the eighth century BC have to say to us today? Dr. Kevin Golden shares his research discoveries in a discussion with Dr. David Lewis about the incredibly relevant book of Hosea.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Mindfulness, Meditation, and Martin Luther â Dr. Rick Marrs 28:25

1y ago28:25

28:25

Widespread anxiety and high stress levels among Americans has led many mental health professionals to recommend mindfulness exercises. How should Christians respond? LCMS pastor, seminary professor, and clinical psychologist, Dr. Rick Marrs shares his experience and research about the use of meditation.…

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Special Feature â Meditation Exercise read by Dr. Rick Marrs 24:17

1y ago24:17

24:17

This is a special feature of the episode Mindfulness, Meditation, and Martin Luther. Dr. Rick Marrs reads a Scripture-based meditation that he modified from William Hulme’s book Let the Spirit In: Practicing Christian Devotional Meditation. Enjoy!By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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The Churchâs Response to Immigration â Dr. Leo SÃ¡nchez and Dr. Douglas Rutt 34:02

1y ago34:02

34:02

There are currently 300 million people migrating in the world. The ways in which Christians respond to these immigrants can change the church forever. “We have a unique opportunity to embody Yahweh’s own concern for the strangers among us. Even today.” says Dr. Leo Sánchez. Tune in to this conversation between Dr. Leo Sánchez and Dr. Douglas Rutt a…

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Good Grief â Deaconess Dorothy Glenn and Rev. Micah Glenn 35:20

1+ y ago35:20

35:20

Grief comes during times of transition, even when the change is a good one. Deaconess Dorothy Glenn and Rev. Micah Glenn share their experience moving their family to follow a new call. Tune in to this transparent conversation about mourning good-byes while welcoming hellos.By Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

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Christian Nationalism, Part 2 - Dr. Joel Biermann and Dr. Joel Okamoto 34:35

1+ y ago34:35

34:35

In part two of this series, Dr. Joel Biermann and Dr. Joel Okamoto discuss the role of the church vs. the role of individual Christians in political engagement. They don’t offer a list of directions, but a framework in which to make the choices for yourself. Tune in! Their conversation will challenge you to think beyond the easy answers.…

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Lutherâs View of Reality - Dr. Robert Kolb 34:30

1+ y ago34:30

34:30

Face to Face: Martin Luther’s View of Reality is a culmination of Dr. Robert Kolb’s years of research and in-depth study. Kolb’s newly published book looks at Luther’s theology from a new perspective. “Luther’s insights into the nature of what it means to be human as a relational being and to understand God, who is always in relationship, helps wit…

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Under the Fig Tree: Sharing God’s free gift of grace 1:07:26

1+ y ago1:07:26

1:07:26

In this episode of “Under the Fig Tree,” hosts Rev. Micah Glenn and Kati Gaschler sit down with Concordia Seminary alum (’96, ’05) Rev. W. Max Mons, who is pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Chapel and University Center in Iowa City, Iowa, and also chairman of the Seminary’s Board of Regents. During the episode, Max shares what led him to go into minist…

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Under the Fig Tree: Farewell to Ben and Micah 1:27:55

1+ y ago1:27:55

1:27:55

In this episode of “Under the Fig Tree,” hosts Rev. Micah Glenn and Kati Gaschler welcome back Dr. Benjamin Haupt, the former podcast host and founder who has been on sabbatical during the spring semester. The two men share big announcements that they both are moving on to other calls: Ben as global executive director of PLI and Micah as head of sc…

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The Churchâs Response to Retirement - Dr. Robert Kolb and Dr. Dale Meyer 38:28

1+ y ago38:28

38:28

The next three years mark the largest number of retirement-age Americans in history. “The church didn’t prepare me for it,” said Dr. Dale Meyer as he and Dr. Robert Kolb discuss the difficulties and surprises of retirement in the 21st century.By Concordia Seminary

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What I Learned at the Coffee Shop â Drew Oswald and Dr. Ely Prieto 35:04

1+ y ago35:04

35:04

For a year, seminary student Drew Oswald spent 10 hours a week sitting in a coffee shop. He said the people he met have enriched his ministry and his life. Dr. Ely Prieto joins the conversation to discuss the vocation of shared spaces.By Concordia Seminary

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Under the Fig Tree: Short Pastoral Case Studies with Rev. Mark Renner 1:13:54

1+ y ago1:13:54

1:13:54

In this episode of “Under the Fig Tree,” hosts Rev. Micah Glenn and Kati Gaschler sit down with Concordia Seminary alum Rev. Mark Renner (M.Div. ’20), one of the pastors at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Janesville, Wis. During the episode, Mark shares what led him to go into ministry as a pastor and discusses his recently published book, Curious Case…

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Unforgivable? â Dr. Mark Rockenbach and Ted Kober 37:36

1+ y ago37:36

37:36

Coping with hurt by ignoring it or reliving it can lead us to sink deeper into bitterness. Ted Kober and Dr. Mark Rockenbach share the radically different approach that Jesus offers. Their new book “Unforgivable?” explores the psychological and spiritual impact of forgiveness.By Concordia Seminary

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Under the Fig Tree: Discern God’s direction with Rev. Will Hanke 1:03:04

1+ y ago1:03:04

1:03:04

In this episode of “Under the Fig Tree,” hosts Rev. Micah Glenn and Kati Gaschler sit down with Concordia Seminary alum Rev. Will Hanke (M.Div. ’07), who shares some highlights from his time serving as a student recruitment ambassador for the Seminary. As he thinks of creative ways to connect prospective students to the Seminary and help them disce…

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Under the Fig Tree: The path to chaplaincy with alum Rev. Chaplain Kyle Mietzner 1:29:48

1+ y ago1:29:48

1:29:48

In this episode of “Under the Fig Tree,” host Rev. Micah Glenn and fill-in host Kati Gaschler sit down with Concordia Seminary alum Rev. Chaplain Kyle Mietzner (M.Div. ’10), who shares his path to chaplaincy. He shares how he discovered that chaplaincy is a beautiful ministry standing where chaplains serve alongside soldiers and provide religious s…

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Do you Have Good Theology? â Dr. Joel Okamoto and Dr. Charles Arand 35:35

1+ y ago35:35

35:35

Dr. Joel Okamoto and Dr. Charles Arand, professors of systematic theology, discuss the difference between knowing a lot of theology and having good theology. Their conclusion might surprise you.By Concordia Seminary