The LCMS Almost Lost This Pastor...

Lead Time

What happens when the traditional path to ministry isn't an option? For Pastor Eli Thomas, the journey to becoming an LCMS pastor meant navigating uncharted waters through the colloquy process while balancing family responsibilities, work, and education over eleven challenging years.

What began as a winding path through different denominations ultimately led him back to Lutheran theology through his rediscovery of the real presence of Christ in the sacraments.
• Taking 11 years to complete undergraduate and seminary education while working and raising a family
• Navigating the challenging colloquy process to become an LCMS pastor
• Finding joy in interactive Bible study that transforms both teacher and students
• Serving two congregations simultaneously, including one with an average age of 80
• Moving from lecture-style teaching to dialogue that helps people experience Scripture
• Reflecting on convention experiences and hopes for the future of pastoral formation
• Discovering God's faithfulness when facing unexpected challenges
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Chapters

1. Meet Pastor Eli Thomas (00:00:00)

2. Finding the Lutheran Path (00:04:47)

3. The Colloquy Journey (00:10:37)

4. The Power of the Real Presence (00:16:50)

5. Experiencing God in Worship (00:27:42)

6. Convention Reflections and Pastoral Formation (00:39:49)

7. Looking to Our Future as LCMS (00:49:46)