Rev. Dr. Joel Biermann, professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, has received a grant from the Kern Family Foundation to present seminars related to Christian character formation based on his book A Case for Character.

Half- or full-day seminars, presented by Biermann in churches and circuits around the country, are designed to encourage people and congregations to practice deliberate and intentional efforts to shape Christian character in individuals.

“As our culture shifts, the need for formation in outstanding character is becoming more important,” says Biermann. “However, it’s less likely to ‘happen’ without a more directly conscious effort to encourage growth in Christian character. This seminar seeks to present a foundation for the work of inculcating character in Christian people, and also explores concrete and practical ways this work is accomplished in ordinary lives. Such training is a lifelong enterprise of learning to conform more to the will of God, and leading others, especially children, to do the same.”

The seminars were proposed by the Kern Family Foundation, which counts investing in the character formation of the rising generations of Americans among its most important work, as a way to present the ideas in Biermann’s book to as wide an audience as possible.

Congregations and pastors are invited to host seminars for congregations, communities, circuits, or districts. The grant will cover all costs associated with travel and lodging for Biermann. Hosting congregations would be responsible only for local costs associated with such things as refreshments served or facility rental.

To schedule a seminar, or to receive more information, contact Dr. Biermann at biermannj@csl.edu.
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About Concordia Seminary
Concordia Seminary provides Gospel-centered graduate-level theological education for pastors, missionaries, deaconesses, scholars, and other leaders in the name of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). Since its founding in 1839, Concordia Seminary has equipped more than 12,000 graduates to serve Church and world. Today, a world-renowned faculty teaches more than 600 students in the classroom, off-campus, and online. Learn more at www.csl.edu.