Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital University is leaning into its new tagline, “Small Seminary. Big Impact.” and living it out in meaningful ways. On Saturday, May 24, twelve leaders in Christ’s Church graduated with seminary degrees. Of those twelve, six already serve as pastors (some with nearly 30 years of ministry experience), two serve as ministers, one is the Librarian at Hamma Library, one a servant leader, and two are awaiting their first calls. This graduating class exemplifies the depth and breadth of Trinity’s formation, faithful, thoughtful, and Spirit-led.
“Small Seminary. Big Impact.” is more than a slogan. It’s a lived reality.
A Word for This Moment: Pastor Battle's Powerful Challenge
This year’s Commencement Speaker, The Rev. Karen L. Battle, a 1986 Trinity alumna, offered a powerful testament to the enduring witness of the Spirit and the ongoing work of God in the world. She began her address with gratitude and a memory, one she has carried with her for nearly four decades. At her own final worship service as a Trinity student, The Rev. Dr. Nelson W. Trout preached on Esther 4:1–14, declaring:
“Just like Esther, you have been called to the Kingdom for such a time as this. And I pray that your diplomas explode in your hands if you refuse to work for justice for those whom God has a preferential option.”
Pastor Battle encouraged the graduates to remember that “your work is not synonymous with your productivity.” She challenged them to move from being merely “busy pastors” to becoming “contemplative” pastors, grounded in daily time with the Word and guided by prayerful discernment. You can watch Pastor Battle's commencement address here.
Trinity’s Calling in a Changing Church
This is the kind of leadership Trinity fosters: leaders for Christ’s Church at work in the world, anchored in the Gospel, committed to justice, and shaped for lifelong ministry.
As Trinity looks to the future, we, too, are in a season of discernment. With Capital University preparing to welcome a new president and Trinity entering a new chapter under interim leadership, we trust that God is at work. We are stepping boldly into this new day, a day the Lord has made, confident in our mission and vision.
Partner with Us: Your Gift Makes a Big Impact
We invite you to step into this new day with us by making a gift to the Trinity Fund. Your gift to the Trinity Fund supports the ongoing formation of leaders like those we celebrated this spring. Every gift, large or small, makes a big impact at this small seminary.
Support Trinity. Make an impact.
Peace be with you,
Rev. Mary Ann Siefke
Director of Congregational Engagement & Advancement
Trinity Lutheran Seminary & Capital University
Upcoming Events
October 23-24, 2025 Trinity Days
November 2025 Kristallnacht Commemoration
January 19, 2026 Capital University MLK Jr. Day of Learning
March 2026 Capital University Nelson Lecture Series
April 2026 Nelson W. Trout Lectures.