Descriptions of Mission Training Center/L.A.P. Courses

The students who are taking Old Testament, New Testament or Doctrine Summary in any educational format will be required to pass competency exams for the Board for Higher Education of synod before continuing with training for ordination.

Mission Training Center/L.A.P. offers the courses listed below. Most of the courses are known also by the title in parenthesis.
Old Testament Bible (The Literature and History of the Old Testament)
This study of the Old Testament explores its relationship with the New Testament, and its meaning for Christian Faith today.
New Testament Bible (The Literature and History of the New Testament)
This is a study of the New Testament with focus on Jesus Christ and the early church and how that historical background relates to Christians today.
Christian Doctrine Summary (The Christian Faith)
Emphasis in this course is on the meaning and application of faith to the individual in the contemporary world. It includes Holy Scripture and the church's doctrine as is summarized in the catechism of Martin Luther.
Mission Outreach in Context (Leadership in a Missionary Age)
This course gives an introduction to missions, its history, theology, and current application. This is a hands-on course designed to help students who are serious about doing mission in a local congregation or in a new mission site.
Interpreting the Bible in Translation (same)
This course teaches principles of studying Biblical texts in the vernacular texts of the student to discover the meaning intended by the original author. Students will also learn to use vernacular (i.e. English, Spanish, Russian) computer software and other resources.
Basic Preaching (Proclaiming the Faith)
During this course students will be directed in writing three sermons. This is a "how to" course on preparing and writing sermons and devotions.
Lutheran Worship I (Leading Worship)
This course teaches the purpose of worship, the basics of traditional Lutheran Worship, its biblical roots, and ways to creatively apply Biblical principles to worship today. As part of this class students will learn about administering the sacraments in public worship services.
Fundamental Pastoral Care (Pastoral Care)
This course teaches listening skills, how to deal with others in crisis such as hospital call, shut-in calls, and how to refer to professional care-givers when needed.
Church History I (Early Church History to 1500 AD)
The course covers the history of the Christian church from the time of Christ to 1500 A.D.
Teaching the Faith (same)
This course trains students in effective ways of teaching the basics of the Christian faith to others.