LDA Expands Pathways to Christian Service and Chaplaincy
The Lutheran Diaconal Association (LDA) has announced two developments for Lutherans discerning or deepening a call to service: a new formation pathway for people with previous diaconal ministry preparation and recognition allowing the LDA to endorse eligible members pursuing professional chaplain certification.
The LDA is an independent organization serving Lutherans across multiple denominations. Its work reflects a Lutheran understanding of vocation: God calls us to serve our neighbors through our work, relationships, congregations, and communities.
Its formation program now offers two pathways:
Traditional Pathway: Prepares people to become LDA deaconesses or deacons without requiring a career change or church employment. Participants may live out their calling through their existing work, congregation, volunteer service, or other areas of daily life.
Rostered Minister Pathway: Offers a more direct route for Lutheran rostered Ministers of Word and Service and others who have completed recognized preparation for diaconal ministry. Participants focus on joining the LDA community and integrating their previous preparation with its approach to service.
Both pathways lead toward consecration as an LDA deaconess or deacon—public recognition of a lifelong commitment to Christian service—and membership in the LDA community.
The Board of Chaplaincy Certification Inc. (BCCI®) has also recognized the LDA as an endorsing faith organization. Eligible LDA deaconesses and deacons in good standing can now receive faith-community endorsement directly from the LDA when pursuing board certification as professional chaplains. Endorsement is one requirement; candidates must still meet the education, professional experience, and other certification requirements.
For Grand Canyon Synod members, these developments offer opportunities to explore service in daily life, build on existing ministry preparation, or pursue chaplaincy.
Learn more at theLDA.org or contact Deaconess Deb Lennox at debra.lennox@valpo.edu or 219-464-6925. Share this invitation with someone discerning a call to serve.
