Spouses and Families
At Concordia Seminary, St. Louis we understand the unique and challenging situations that couples and families face in ministry today. Our Families in Transition team supports and encourages spouses of seminarians during their time here while preparing them for post-seminary life by offering spiritual growth opportunities, formative educational experiences, mentoring and community connections.
“The classes and events offered are about getting plugged into a supportive community that wants to make the many transitions of Sem life manageable and fun, at the same time preparing us for life after Sem.”
— Anna Otterman, wife of seminarian
Formative Education
An intentional curriculum is designed to encourage and equip women for life during and after the Seminary. Free classes are offered Tuesday evenings during the fall, winter and spring. Additional half-day Saturday seminars occur throughout the year, including marriage seminars, a pastor’s wife panel and more.
Spiritual growth is an important part of life at the Seminary. Additional offerings include campus Bible studies, an annual women’s retreat and a weekly prayer group.
“The classes prepared me well for what our real life in the church looks like: the ups and downs, the joys and sorrows.”
— Lisa Troxel, former Seminary wife
Personal and Emotional Wellness
- The Sonshine program provides meals and aid to those who have serious illnesses or hospitalizations while at the Seminary.
- Grace Place Wellness offers seminars that teach skills in spiritual, physical, emotional, relational, vocational, financial and intellectual well-being.
- All new Seminary wives are matched with a “Big Sister” who helps connect them to all the opportunities the Seminary offers. Big Sisters are women who have been at the Seminary at least one year.
- Mentoring and counseling resources are available through our Women’s Coordinator.
Community
The Seminary Women’s Association (SWA) offers Christian fellowship and service within the Seminary community and beyond. Events include a wine and cheese night, faculty Advent home tours, game nights, craft events, a formal ball in the spring and homeless outreach.
Additional community events are offered by the Student Association, including Oktoberfest, Prof ’n Stein and Springfest.
Children
Concordia Seminary is a wonderful and welcoming place for children. Special events such as Field Day, the Easter egg hunt and Slide the Sem that are especially child- and family-friendly. In addition, St. Louis has much to offer children of all ages. Within three miles of the Seminary, families can find seven playgrounds, Forest Park, the Saint Louis Zoo, museums and so much more.