In his 1963 history of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Pastor Immanuel P. Frey declared, “It is not too much to say that what our Synod is today can largely be traced back to our Seminary.” The link between the Wisconsin Synod and her seminary can hardly be overstated. They have fit together in their singular purpose and pursuit, like hand in glove.

While it can be argued that a seminary and its graduates are not absolutely necessary to the life of the Church and a synod, God’s people are right to understand and appreciate just how important a seminary, its graduates, its professors, and its leaders are to the earthly well-being of the Church and a synod. Indeed it is not too much to say that what our Wisconsin Synod is today—and will be in the years to come—can and will be traced back to our Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary and to the men who have learned, taught, and led there.

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Carefully consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. —Hebrews 13:7

But the history of those men also demonstrates that any and all achievements are of no credit to them or our synod’s humble and often-stumbling work. The credit belongs entirely to our gracious Lord and Savior. To him alone be the glory now and forever.