Lutheran High Schools – Growing up in Christ

We may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.  Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.  Ephesians 4:14-15

The purpose of Lutheran high schools are not that different than Lutheran elementary schools.  However, the temptations and challenges take on different forms.  The unholy trinity of the devil, the world and our sinful flesh attack young people around every corner.  This is why Lutheran schools are so critical for high school age disciples.  They need to learn in an environment that encourages them in the faith, not that attacks them.  They continue to need spiritual maturity and growth that Christ-centered education provides.

Paul compares the lives of Christians facing temptation and false teaching are like children being tossed by the waves.  The gale force winds of deceit crash against Christians and those who are not yet spiritually mature can be shipwrecked.  Lutheran high schools are intended to be the safe harbor where students are equipped to give a defense against the false teaching lies of the world.  Sexuality, dating and marriage are all topics where young people need the guidance of God’s Word to combat the devil’s schemes.  Approximately 2,000 students are growing up into Christ this year at ten Lutheran high schools across Missouri.  For many of you, there is a Lutheran high school that can serve the young people in your congregation.  Even if there is not a Lutheran high school nearby, Saint Paul Lutheran High School in Concordia  has been a residential high school since 1883 and serves students from all over Missouri, the United States, and from 18 countries around the world.

Lutheran high school enrollment in Missouri has been increasing since 2020.  There are many reasons why families are choosing Lutheran schools for their high school children.  Our schools will provide a safe harbor for young people to mature and grow up in Christ as they are prepared to be sent to serve in a hostile world.  If you would like to learn more about a Lutheran high school, contact Missouri District Director of Schools, Josh Swartz (josh.swartz@mo.lcms.org).  May God continue to bless our schools as they serve students and families by helping them grow in Christ!

Prayer – Divine Wisdom from on high, be with those who teach and learn in our Lutheran high schools.  Inspire our instructors with true wisdom that those who listen may learn to see the full glory of Christ, our Lord.  Lead many young men and women to serve in the Church and all to understand how they can serve you in any vocation where they serve their neighbor in love; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen.

Fraternally in Christ,

President Lee Hagan