More than a quarter of the U.S. population includes first-generation or foreign-born immigrants and their children — also known as the 1.5 and 2.0 generations. But who are the people behind the numbers? That’s the thematic emphasis of the 2023 Multiethnic Symposium, “Hope for the Church, Hope for the Future: 1.5 and 2.0 Generation Immigrants,” set for May 2-3 on the campus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.

Participants will explore the challenges of 1.5 and 2.0 generation neighbors and embrace their contributions to the life of the church today — and for generations to come.

“Immigration is an ongoing reality in the United States. The children of immigrants, who have either been raised or born here, think of themselves as Americans even though they may struggle with the new culture,” said Dr. Ely Prieto, associate professor of Practical Theology, associate dean of urban and cross-cultural ministry and the Lutheran Foundation Professor of Urban and Cross-Cultural Ministry. “What are the challenges and opportunities in terms of mission to these unique generations? How can we reach them with the message of the Gospel and Lutheran theology? These are some of the questions we will explore in the Multiethnic Symposium. Reserve the date and join the conversation.”

The annual symposium brings together missional leaders including pastors, congregational lay leaders and others from across The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). The symposium explores what it means and what it will take to become a truly multiethnic church.

Plenary speakers include:

• Dr. Joel Okamoto, the Waldemar and Mary Griesbach Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary
• Dr. Tesfai Tesema, pastor of Addis Kidan Lutheran Church in San Francisco, Calif.

In addition, sectional speakers will share their perspectives and the multiethnic impact of their respective fields of ministry.

The symposium also includes the 17th Annual Lecture in Hispanic/Latino Theology and Missions, presented by Dr. Daniel Rodriguez, divisional dean and professor of religion and Hispanic studies at Pepperdine University, Malibu, Calif. The lecture, sponsored by the Seminary’s Center for Hispanic Studies, is free and open to the public.

Participants are encouraged to extend their stay and attend the Multi Asian Gathering, set for May 3-4 on the Seminary campus. Registration is $25.

Registration closes April 17. For more information, visit csl.edu/multiethnic or contact Continuing Education at 314-505-7286 or ce@csl.edu.

About Concordia Seminary

Concordia Seminary, St. Louis 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). To learn more, visit csl.edu.