An enthusiastic group of 175 graduates, spouses and guests attended the Concordia Seminary Alumni Reunions held May 29 - June 1 on the campus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. This year's reunions included classes whose graduating years end in a "1" or a "6" with 1991 being the most recent graduating class invited.

"I am delighted with the large turnout and the wonderful demonstration of Christian fellowship we experienced these past few days," commented Rev. John E. Meyer, Concordia Seminary's director of alumni activities. "Judging by the evaluations submitted and the comments received, participants had a wonderful time and are looking forward to their next class reunion."

The theme for this year's reunions was "New Challenges in a New Century," and activities included presentations by members of the various reunion classes. Rev. Bryant Clancy (class of 1961), executive director of the Board for Black Ministry Services of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS), offered the first presentation titled "Renewed Compassion for All People." Rev. Ellis T. Rottmann (class of 1956), project director of rural/small town congregations for the Evangelism Department of the LCMS, presented "Timely Challenges in Our Congregations." Rev. Wray Offermann (class of 1971), pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Decatur, Ill., presented "The Constant, Yet Ever-Changing Mission." Rev. Thomas Zehnder (class of 1961), pastor of King of Glory Lutheran Church, Williamsburg, Va., presented "Worship in the Life of Our Congregation."

A special vespers worship service was held May 31 to celebrate "The Visitation" by the Virgin Mary of her cousin Elizabeth. Dr. John F. Johnson, president of Concordia Seminary, served as preacher. The offering at the service was dedicated to the Alumni Book Fund, a fund established to assist Concordia Seminary students with the purchase of textbooks.

Special activities for women included a May 30 breakfast hosted by Ruth Ann Johnson and a trip to the Missouri History Museum in nearby Forest Park. On May 31, women attended a special brunch hosted by the Concordia Seminary Guild. The brunch featured a musical presentation by the group, "Glad Tidings," a vocal group comprised of women who work at the LCMS International Center.

Reunion activities culminated with a May 31 banquet held in the Seminary's Wartburg Hall. At the banquet, Rev. Lothar Braeunig (class of 1931) was honored with the Erwin T. Koch Award, an award given to the oldest reunion attendee. Rev. Braeunig received a standing ovation from all in attendance after a summary of his extensive service in the pastoral ministry was read.

Class reunions planned for May 28-31, 2002 will include classes whose graduating years end in a "2" or a "7" with 1992 being the most recent class invited to participate.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting: Alumni Activities, Concordia Seminary, 801 DeMun Ave., St. Louis, MO 63105; 314-505-7370; alumni@csl.edu.