The LCMS Pastor Pipeline Problem

In this episode of Lead Time, Tim Ahlman talks with Jim Simpson, a retired higher education leader with decades of experience in curriculum development, administration, accreditation, and student success. Together, they explore what higher education has learned about adult learners, hybrid models, mentorship, internships, and competency-based formation — and what those lessons might mean for Concordia seminaries and pastoral training in the LCMS.

This conversation touches on residential seminary, SMP, hybrid learning, accreditation, prior approval, faculty development, and the need for local churches to identify, develop, and deploy leaders for mission.

This is not about cutting corners. It is about asking whether the LCMS can adapt faithfully so more people are formed, equipped, and sent to proclaim the Gospel.