Parish Education in the WELS and its Growing Importance Today

Abstract

Steve Arndt’s essay explores the historical development and contemporary significance of parish education within the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), focusing on Christian day schools and Sunday schools. Beginning with the Synod’s founding in 1849, Arndt traces the growth of its educational system, highlighting key milestones such as the repeal of the Bennett Law and the establishment of structured oversight through district boards and executive leadership. He contrasts the strengths and limitations of day schools and Sunday schools, ultimately advocating for a “both-and” approach rather than “either-or.” Drawing on historical data and educational surveys, Arndt emphasizes the urgent need for Christian education in light of societal decline and moral challenges facing youth. The essay concludes with a call to action, encouraging continued investment in both educational formats as vital tools for spiritual formation and outreach. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)