New French-Language Lutheran Theological Training Program to Launch This September

Former des pasteurs qualifiés et confessionnels pour l’Église francophone

National—September 2026 marks the launch of an exciting new opportunity for French-speaking Lutherans seeking theological education and pastoral formation.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church – Synod of France (EEL-SF) is launching the Online Theological Training Center (Centre de Formation Théologique Luthérienne – CFTL), a new hybrid theological training program designed to prepare faithful pastors for Lutheran churches throughout the French-speaking world, including Lutheran Church Canada.

Inspired by the Apostle Paul’s encouragement in 2 Timothy 2:2—”What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others also”—the program responds to the growing need for pastors who are equipped to faithfully proclaim the Gospel and administer the means of Grace. As Lutheran Church Canada does not currently offer theological training in French, this initiative provides an important opportunity for French-speaking individuals who are discerning a call to pastoral ministry or who wish to pursue confessional Lutheran theological education in their own language.

The new program represents a significant step toward strengthening French-language ministry and preparing future servants of the Church in Canada and around the world. Approved by the EEL-SF General Assembly in May 2024, the CFTL combines rigorous theological education with a strong confessional Lutheran foundation. Through the flexible hybrid model, students will participate in live online classes, self-paced learning, and intensive in-person sessions, while also benefiting from a unique mentorship structure involving professors, tutors, local mentors, and internship supervisors.

Although the program does not currently confer a state-recognized degree, it operates in partnership with Concordia Seminary in Buenos Aires, providing certification recognized by churches in communion with the EEL-SF. It is the sole French-language program in the world that’s academically recognized by ILC-related seminaries.

The Missionary-at-Large for Lutheran Church–Canada’s French Ministries and founder of the Institut liturgique luthérien francophone, Rev. Dr. David Somers is serving on a multi-agency international working group. The group examines the implementation of this and other potential francophone Lutheran theological training initiatives.

Those interested in learning more about the program or September enrolment may visit the website: https://cftl.eelsf.fr/ and are encouraged to contact info@egliselutherienne.ca.

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