CLTS Celebrates 50 Years of Theological Formation with Historic Joint Conference

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St. Catharines, Ontario—Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) in St. Catharines, Ontario, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a landmark gathering that brought together pastors, church workers, alumni, and laity from Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) and The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS).

Held October 19–21, 2026, at the Americana Resort & Spa in Niagara Falls, the conference marked the first joint gathering of the East Region pastors’ and deacons’ conferences of LCC and the Eastern District of the LCMS. More than 180 participants gathered under the theme “Respectful Theological Dialogue in the Digital Age,” exploring how Christians can confess their faith with both conviction and grace in an increasingly digital world.

The program included presentations, panel discussions, daily prayer and worship, and opportunities for fellowship. Speakers and contributors from both church bodies took part, while a special banquet brought approximately 200 guests together to celebrate the seminary’s milestone.

“Reaching 50 years is a testament to the Lord’s unswerving faithfulness to our seminary and to Lutheran Church–Canada,” said CLTS President Dr. Thomas Winger, reflecting on the significance of the anniversary and the opportunity to gather with LCMS brothers in ministry. LCMS Eastern District President Rev. John Pingel likewise affirmed the enduring relationship between the two church bodies, as a gift to the Church.

Founded in 1976, CLTS began with just eight students meeting in the basement of Resurrection Lutheran Church in St. Catharines. Over five decades, it has grown into a multinational institution, welcoming students from 25 countries and preparing servants for the Church in Canada and around the world.

More information about this celebration will be shared in the next issue of The Canadian Lutheran. For more information about CLTS and its 50th-anniversary events during the 2026–2027 academic year, visit concordia-seminary.ca.

Our thanks to Rev. Dr. Tom Korcok for his contribution to this report.

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