Lutheran Education—A Part of Our Heritage

by Jacob Quast

Would it surprise you to learn that Lutherans have a long and rich history of education? Not just for our clergy, but for all people. Dr. Martin Luther was both a pastor and a teacher who taught extensively at the University of Wittenberg. He was a tireless advocate for the education of all people—especially children. His catechisms (both Large and Small) are still used today to teach the Christian faith to children and adults.

The early tradition of Lutheranism in North America consisted of people gathering together first around the Lord in His Word and Sacraments in the church, but then also constructing a school where children would learn not only the Biblical faith, but also language, mathematics, history, etc., so they could be productive and good citizens. I was blessed to attend Lutheran schools for most of my personal education journey (only missing out from Grades 6-9). Both of my parents served the church as Lutheran School teachers. Both my wife and I are trained teachers, who have a great love of teaching—especially our Lutheran confession of faith.

While it has become difficult in recent years for Lutheran schools to exist and survive in an increasingly hostile and secularized society, our Lutheran schools that do remain endeavour to serve God’s people and our greater communities. Places like First Lutheran Christian Academy (FLCA) (Windsor, ON), or my former school of St. Matthew Lutheran Christian Academy (Stony Plain, AB) are sanctuaries where the Word of God is taught in its purity, and children are actively challenged and encouraged to see the work of God in the world around them, and within their own lives.

On a recent trip to Windsor, I personally witnessed the Juniour Choir of FLCA practicing a hymn of praise to our God. What sweet joy it is to hear the praises of God pouring forth from the lips of children (Matthew 21:16 and Psalm 8:2)! The teachers spoke of the great joy they have in being able to freely teach the children about the love of God in Christ Jesus. Beautiful Saviour Lutheran School (Winnipeg, MB) has recently embarked upon an expansion project to eventually extend the education of children from grades K-12.

Our Lutheran grade schools serve as rich places of learning based upon a sound understanding of God’s Word and the natural world that He has created. They produce well-grounded Lutherans, both eager and capable of serving the Lord and His church. They are places of evangelism where faith in Christ is both planted and nurtured, often leading to whole families becoming Christians as the children who learn about Jesus are then excited to share the love of Jesus within their own families.

This is WHY Lutheran education matters. Yes, we want to provide a solid education for our children who will one day grow up to be good productive citizens in our society. However, our primary goal as Christians is to see people brought into the Lord’s church through faith in Jesus. So that they may join us in the everlasting Kingdom of God by His grace and mercy.

“But what if there are no local Lutheran schools in my community? How can my congregation promote sound Christian education to reach out to people where I live?” Perhaps, the answer comes through offering some other form of education, depending on the needs in your community, and the resources in your congregation. Many congregations in LCC are using English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to reach out to immigrants (like Windsor Essex County Lutheran Outreach in Windsor). These programs teach people English (a real need for newcomers to Canada); while they do that, they also teach them about Jesus through Bible Study and devotion, where the focus is on Christ Jesus and all that He has done to save us from our sin.

The opportunities for fruitful mission and ministry through local education programs are endless! Speak to your pastor and congregational leadership about how your congregation could implement some sort of outreach program through sound education. By opening our doors and our hearts to the needs of those around us, the Lord will provide ample opportunity for sharing His Word of Truth and Life in Jesus, “schooling” us with His love.

Rev. Jacob Quast is the Director of Domestic Missions for Lutheran Church–Canada, served as a parish pastor for over two decades, and is a trained educator.

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