Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, will host its ninth annual Shepherds of God’s Flock retreat Jan. 11-13, 2007. This retreat is designed for men college age or older, who are contemplating service as a parish pastor, missionary or chaplain, and their guests. The focus of this retreat is on the spiritual and personal aspects of the discernment process.

While on campus, participants will study the Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions concerning the Office of the Pastoral Ministry, worship with the Seminary community in daily chapel services and attend Seminary classes. In addition, they will hear from pastors in a variety of ministries about the joys and challenges of their service and from current Seminary students about their decisions to prepare for such service.

Suggestions from past participants have led to additional sessions to cover the “nuts and bolts topics” related to Seminary enrollment, such as financial aid, housing and the admission process. The presenters at the retreat will address the questions that many prospective students ask: “How can I know for sure whether or not I should be a pastor?”; “What does the Bible say about being a pastor?”; “What do the Lutheran Confessions say?” and “What does a pastor, missionary or chaplain do?”

Wives, fiancées and girlfriends of those considering Seminary preparation also are encouraged to attend, with some special sessions planned for them. Dress is casual for all activities, and there is no charge to attend. All meals and on-campus lodging are provided free of charge. Travel assistance is also available. Round-trip transportation to Concordia Seminary from the airport is provided.

Those interested in registering may contact the Admissions Office of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, at 801 Seminary Place, St. Louis, MO 63105; 1-800-822-9545; admissions@csl.edu.