Welcome to SAMs

LSTC SAM Development Program for Synods

Equipping Synod Authorized Ministers for Faithful Leadership

The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) offers a dynamic and accessible Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAM) Development Program through Project Starling. This program provides ELCA synods and individual learners with cutting-edge theological education and ministry training tailored to diverse contexts and leadership needs.

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Overview

The SAM Development Program is designed to train lay leaders authorized by their synods to serve congregations where ordained pastoral leadership is unavailable. LSTC’s faculty-developed resources focus on building the core competencies required of SAMs in the ELCA, equipping leaders with practical skills, theological grounding, and cultural adaptability.

The program offers two flexible pathways:

Instructor-Led Training for Synods – Guided learning with local facilitators for group settings.
Individual Learner Licensing – Self-paced learning modules for independent learners.

Benefits for Synods and Individual Learners

For Synods:

Access to a robust library of theological learning resources tailored to local ministry needs.
Options to customize training with scalable licensing models.

For Learners:

Affordable access to high-quality theological education.
The ability to learn at their own pace, accommodating personal schedules.
Digital certification to demonstrate program completion and readiness for ministry.

Pathway 1: Facilitator-Led Training for Synods

Designed for synods that prefer guided learning experiences, this pathway provides both facilitator and learner resources to ensure effective training.

What’s Included?

Facilitator Resources:
- A comprehensive Facilitator’s Guide with lesson plans, discussion prompts, and assessment tools.
Learner Materials:
- Access to 6 learning resources.

Contact LSTC for Licensing Options & Pricing for Facilitator-Led Training. Customized licensing options allow synods to select specific resources aligned with their ministry goals.

Pathway 2: Individual Learners

This pathway provides individual learners access to self-paced modules, offering flexibility and autonomy in their theological education.

What’s Included?

Self-Paced Learning Modules:
- Individual access 6 core resources.
- Digital certificates upon completion of each module.
Support for Synods:
- Synods can purchase licenses for learners and track progress through LSTC’s systems.

Key Partnerships & Financial Aid Opportunities

LSTC is committed to making theological education affordable. Synods and learners can benefit from generous scholarship opportunities. For more information, contact Keisha.Dyson@lstc.edu.

Why Choose LSTC’s SAM Development Program?

Flexible Learning Options: Tailored pathways to meet the unique needs of synods and individuals.
High-Quality Resources: Faculty-designed modules grounded in Lutheran theology.
Customizable Licensing: Synods can license resources that align with their ministry goals.
Affordable Tuition with Scholarships: Significant financial support is available to reduce costs.
Digital Credentials: Learners receive certificates to validate their ministry training.

By partnering with LSTC’s Project Starling, synods can invest in the development of effective and faithful leaders to support congregational vitality across diverse contexts.

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