The instrumental part that Miriam played in helping Moses and the Israelites to the Promise Land, Cana, is a beautiful metaphor for what we experience today in the edification of the Church. God chose Moses to be the pastor to His chosen people, and lead them through the wilderness. Likewise, both Aaron and Miriam were chosen to serve Moses and the Isaelites. “I brought you up out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. I sent Moses to lead you, also Aaron and Miriam” (Micah 6:4). As many of you know, Miriam and Aaron weren’t perfect, but God knew that their assistance was what Moses and Isreal needed. Much can be learned from this today as we, the chosen people of God, endeavor the building up of the Church with the help of women in our present Deaconess training and vocation.

Deaconesses have a tradition that extends throughout history, with biblical precedent (Rom. 16:2). Further, our synod has had deaconesses since its inception 150 years ago, with formal training beginning in the 1940’s. Concordia Theological Seminary has earnestly taken up the charge of forming women with the desire and dedication to learn how best to care for God’s people in 2003. Outside of the liturgy, women are upholding the Office of the Holy Ministry, bringing the suffering and needy the comfort of the Gospel with spiritual and practical care, and responding to God’s command (Rom. 12:13, Gal. 2) with His help.

Pastors and deaconesses alike at Concordia Theological Seminary are formed to have the proper understanding and expression of the Gospel. This is taught through rigorous Scriptural and doctrinal examination, interaction with professors and seminarians, and hands on field work and internship experience in various churches and institutions. Pastors, like Moses, have been chosen to be the mouthpiece of Jesus Christ, our Savior, to lead people to the comfort of the Promised Land, heaven. Men are therefore called to preach God’s Word in its truth and purity, and dispense His gifts in the Sacraments. Like Miriam, female leadership in Word and deed is essential, too. God enables women to direct people to the Divine Service, declaring all His benefits there provided.

A servant’s heart is what our women are formed to have. Helping a pastor and congregation with visitations and outreach, instructing other women and children in the faith, and abiding with the sick and suffering, is what a deaconess is all about. Theologians of the cross mark these women as they fare forth into spiritual warfare. Women have been doing this since creation; Ruth, Deborah, Mary Magdalene, Phoebe and Anna, just to name a few. Concordia Theological Seminary opens its doors to the apt women who desire to learn and discern the work of the Kingdom. They represent the Church and Christ’s mercy to those who are struggling and needy. For those who do not yet know and believe in Him, deaconesses are as conduits to the nave and our Lord’s holy presence