Update from Melissa Pflug

Update from our adopted deaconess student, Melissa Pflug, studying at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, Indiana

Dear St. John: Thank you so much for your incredibly generous support; it brings me much encouragement. I am truly humbled when I think of you all sending such love and support because of how much you value and recognize the necessity for church workers in our synod. 

I will be writing my first exegetical paper on the Apostolic Ministry in Matthew and I grow to love the following verse (9:37-38) more and more: “Then he said to his disciples, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Thank you for your prayers and support!

I think I am starting to get into the groove with classes, field work and all the events and seminars that are happening here. It has been a challenge adjusting to so many changes so quickly, especially after such a long time out of school and the country. God is good and he is answering prayers! This quarter I am taking Gospels 1, Ministry to the Sick and Dying, Confess Christ in Today’s World, and the History of the Office of the Deaconess. I quite enjoy the Confess Christ class on missions in the LCMS work but more importantly how it is important for each Christian to remember that we also have been called to share the Good News and that “mission” shouldn’t only be seen as the role of missionaries working overseas. 

Last week all the first year seminarians were assigned their field work churches where we will attend and serve for the next two years. I was assigned to Holy Cross here in Fort Wayne. I believe it is the largest congregation here, which is quite a change to what I am used to. They have four services – Saturday, a contemporary service, Sunday an early morning traditional service and a 10:30am “teaching” service, and Monday a simplified service. This weekend the pastor introduced us to the church and it had been lovely meeting and greeting the members. I was also able to go to the children’s chapel service last Wednesday. Apart from studies and the new church, I am also working a few hours a week on campus as well as off campus tutoring adults working to obtain the GED or high school diploma. Time is flying by and I am learning every day. 

You are all in my thoughts and prayers and I give thanks to the Lord for you and all the kindness you show me. I pray that the Lord keeps you all strong and well in body and soul, especially as you continue to gather together.

Wishing you a very joyful Fall season!

In Christ,
Melissa