CLS installs new president

President James R. Gimbel.

EDMONTON – On February 2, Rev. Dr. James Gimbel was installed as the sixth President of Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS). The service took place at 7:00 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Lutheran Church–Canada’s President Robert Bugbee performed the installation, while First Vice-President Nolan Astley preached. Rev. Daryl Solie, Chairman of CLS’ Board of Regents, served as officiant. The event saw Rev. Lorne Manweiler serve as organist, with special music by the Concordia Community Chorus and strings ensemeble La Folia. Lectors included ABC District President Don Schiemann, CLS Academic Dean Stephen Chambers, and Dr. Gimbel’s son, Rev. Andy Gimbel.

Following the service, a number of dignitaries brought greetings, including the local MLA, neighbouring academic institutions, and synod itself. At the end of this, Dr. Gimbel offered a response to the many well-wishes.

Earlier in the Winter 2014 issue of CLS’ newsletter, Dr. Gimbel reflected upon his call to serve as president of the institution. “I’m excited to serve as the new President of the seminary, as a partner in the mission of Christ within Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC), supporting the seminary’s wonderful, highly talented, deeply committed faculty and staff,” he wrote.

“Although I believe that God has equipped me for my role and has clearly called me here,” he continued, “I see my faults and weaknesses and frailties far too clearly. For that reason, I absolutely love the CLS theme of the year, ‘Christ our Cornerstone.’”

“If things in ministry depended upon me, or the faculty, or the staff, or the students, or the rest of the pastors and people of LCC, we would miss the mark,” he explained. “With Christ our Cornerstone, we are partners in the gospel of Christ that brings light and life to the world. Upon this rock Christ still builds His church.”

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