Trinity Lutheran Church established the Pastor Karen Niemeyer Second Career Seminarian Scholarship Fund to encourage gifted candidates who are currently working in a different career to prepare for service in Christ’s name as an ordained pastor.
A total of $6,000 will be awarded each year. This amount may be divided between two or more applicants. Recipients may also apply for this grant in subsequent years. The grant is for tuition and will be equally divided and sent directly to the recipient’s seminary at the beginning of each semester.
This Scholarship is available to those who:
- Are a confirmed member of an ELCA congregation.
- Have a solid sense of being called by God to pastoral ministry.
- Intend to pursue the ministry of Word and Sacrament as a second career in an ELCA congregation.
- Have begun the process of endorsement by the Synod Candidacy Committee.
- Have been accepted into a Master of Divinity program at a qualified seminary.
- Can demonstrate strong academic performance.
- Have a financial need.
In order for the Scholarship Committee to get to know applicants better, we ask that you
- Fill out the Application Form.
- Attach a description of your current and past involvement within the church (congregation, synod) and community.
- Attach a description of financial need.
- Attach a paragraph explaining why/how you decided to become a pastor OR what expectations or hopes you have for your future as a pastor.
- Provide a letter of recommendation.
- Interview with the Scholarship Committee in person, via Zoom, or by phone.
- Sign a declaration of intent.
Return the Application and attachments via email to office@tlcgr.org or mail to:
Scholarship Committee
Trinity Lutheran Church
2700 East Fulton Street
Grand Rapids, MI 49506