Annual Meeting (of the LDC)
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The Lutheran Deaconess Conference (the community of LDA deaconesses and students) meets annually as a community for worship, business and growth. These are typically four-day events. The location of the annual meeting changes each year, in order to allow participation by those who live farther away from the Center for Diaconal Ministry in Valparaiso, Indiana. |
| Area Conference |
LDA deaconesses and deacons meet regularly with others in their geographic or special area for personal sharing, prayer, study, and support. |
| Clinical Pastoral Education |
CPE is nationally recognized as a program that teaches pastoral care skills. CPE is typically offered in hospital settings, where students serve with professional chaplains. CPE provides intensive self-reflection and group process in a clinical setting. (VU students may enroll in Theo 453, Clinical Education for Ministry, in lieu of CPE.) |
| Community |
A sustaining group that gathers in large and small groups for worship, prayer, discernment and sharing mutual concerns. Within community members are nurtured, supported and challenged. Community is a sign that unity is truly a gift of God's Holy Spirit. The LDA’s diaconal communities grow from the shared commitment to follow Christ’s call to service. |
| Deaconess |
A Lutheran woman, formed in community, educated in Lutheran theology, consecrated to serve people in church and society. |
| Deacon |
A Lutheran man, formed in community, educated in Lutheran theology, consecrated to serve people in church and society. |
| Diaconate |
The diaconate is made up of those people the Christian church has set apart for diaconal service. Deaconesses and deacons of the LDA Diaconate, formed and educated in the Lutheran tradition, share the same faith, call, and values. |
| Diakonia |
A Greek word that means “service.” It is used to describe “waiting on tables.” Diakonia is servanthood for the sake of others that gives dignity to others without demeaning oneself. It’s the kind of service that Jesus showed us how to do. |
| Discernment |
A lifelong process of seeking God’s guidance. Discernment can lead to decision-making. Discernment is also used to support personal and spiritual growth in a deepening relationship with God. |
| Distance-learning |
The distance-learning option is available to both non-traditional
students and traditional students pursuing studies at a college or
university other than Valparaiso. Students may find theology courses and
work/ministry experiences convenient to their location, as approved by
the LDA. Distance-learning students are still required to attend annual
seminar in Valparaiso once a year. |
| Education |
The LDA’s education and formation process does not require any academic degree, and the LDA is not a degree-granting organization. However, theological study is required and ordinarily, students will be encouraged to work toward at least a bachelor’s degree. |
Field Work
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Supervised volunteer activities during a student's first year in formation to practice ministry skills and develop a diaconal identity. A relationship with a supervisor offers time for reflection on personal and professional goals, and for feedback on the student's progress.
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Final Interview
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The final step before consecration by a special committee to indicate the student’s readiness for diaconal ministry and life in community. The student presents a portfolio compiled during Phase II to demonstrate her competency in four areas of formation: spiritual life, theology, work/ministry, and diaconal community.
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| Formation |
Formation includes self-reflection and experiences that help students grow in their diaconal identity and service. |
Individual Formation Covenant
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An Individual Formation Covenant (IFC) is developed by the student and the LDA to guide the process, taking into account the student's particular education, experience, and goals.
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| Internship |
Internship is a one year experience in a paid position as the student engages in professional ministry and reflection. |
| Mentor |
The deaconess or deacon who is assigned by the LDA to support a specific student during the education/formation process. |
| Roster |
Each church body sets standards for specific “rosters” (lists of trained and approved workers). While on a roster, church workers are accountable to church body leaders to maintain standards of ministry. |
Seminar
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Student seminars are annual weeklong parts of the education and formation process centered in prayer and worship, theology study, learning about diaconal ministry, building community with other students, individual meetings with the LDA staff, and time for personal reflection.
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| Spiritual Director |
A spiritual director accompanies one who seeks a deeper relationship with God and who desires to become more aware of the movement of God in one's life. Spiritual directors often have experience and training in discernment and the disciplines of prayer. |
| Sponsor |
A deaconess or deacon of the inquirer’s choice who assists with discernment. The sponsor might answer as well as ask questions, and may provide a reference for the applicant’s admission portfolio. |
| Theology |
Students complete college, university, or seminary classes to fulfill these requirements: Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures), New Testament, Church History, World Religions, Lutheran Doctrine/Lutheran Confessions, and Theology of Diaconal Ministry. Other courses may be added, depending on the student’s area of focus. |
