First graduate of LCC’s PAT program

Assefa Aredo

WINNIPEG – Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) is excited to announce the upcoming ordination of the first graduate from its Pastors with Alternate Training (PAT) program. Assefa Nega Aredo will be awarded his theological diploma at a mixed English-Oromo language service at Winnipeg’s Lutheran Church of the Redeemer (59 Academy Road) on Sunday, April 15 at 2:00 p.m.

As Canada’s ethnic diversity continues to increase, churches face new challenges in providing pastoral ministry to immigrant populations in a language and context they understand. Acknowledging this reality, LCC approved in 2002 the creation of the PAT program—a program designed to prepare candidates for culture-specific or site-specific pastoral ministry. PAT candidates remain in their particular cultural communities while studying, serving there while continuing their education through one-on-one instruction, online courses, and short-term class modules. Many continue to work full-time while in the program.

Assefa Aredo is the first student to complete the PAT program, and so his graduation is particularly eventful. Following his ordination, Mr. Aredo will continue to serve the Lutheran Oromo community in Winnipeg. Other students in the PAT program are members of congregations with cultural roots in Africa, South America, and the Middle East.

“I am proud of Assefa Aredo. He has worked hard many years preparing to serve the Oromo community in Winnipeg,” said Rev. Dr. Leonardo Neitzel, LCC’s Executive for Mission and Social Ministry, and PAT program coordinator. “I thank God for his commitment to the PAT program, to his congregation, and most especially to our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Dr. Neitzel continued: “We are indeed pleased and grateful to the Lord for the way He leads His church in Canada in reaching out with His Gospel to the nations. Assefa’s missionary work will be of great blessing, especially to people coming from Ethiopia, Kenya and other parts of the Horn of Africa.”

While the ordination service April 15 begins at 2:00 p.m., English speakers may wish to join at 2:30 p.m. (as much of the early part of the service will be completely in Oromo). Following the ordination, a meal will be served at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church (600 Minto Street).

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