At the 2025 Synod Assembly, we announced that through The Planting Hope Campaign, we were able to offer a measure of seminary debt relief to 16 of our pastors and deacons. The $200,000 raised by donors like you paid off the entire loan for six rostered ministers and allowed us to reduce the principal of 10 other loans by $15,945 for each recipient.
Pictured above are Pastor Wes Kimball (All Saints, Cottage Grove) and Pastor Sarah Fike (Prince of Peace, Burnsville), who each addressed the assembly, saying how much it meant to have their seminary debt removed. Here is a sampling of words of gratitude from others who received these payments:
- “Honestly, ‘thank you’ doesn’t seem like enough of an expression of how grateful I truly am.”
- “My spouse and I both hope that after we complete the repayment of the remainder of our educational debt, we can focus on living with the same spirit of generosity that is inherent in this campaign.”
- “I am truly grateful for this gift that has lowered the amount of loans I now carry.”
- “I so appreciate the support and care offered through this gift, as we continue to be the church together in many and various ways. Thank you!”
- “This contribution toward paying off my student loans means that the load on my shoulders feels much lighter.”
To honor the work done by all our pastors and deacons, we found a way to lessen the debt burden for those still paying off seminary loans. Contributions to additional work of The Planting Hope Campaign can be made by sending a check made out to “Saint Paul Area Synod” to the attention of David Roinas, 105 University Ave., St. Paul MN 55103 or by clicking here to give online.
