Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care & Pastoral Theology

Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital University invites applications for a tenure-track position in Pastoral Theology at the rank of assistant professor or higher. This person will teach introductory and advanced courses in pastoral care and other areas of practical theology. A secondary competence in either an academic subfield or an administrative specialty is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to engage and equip students for ministry in diverse ecumenical contexts.

In addition to teaching, the position includes responsibilities in academic advising, scholarly activity, service to the university, and service to the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). The teaching load is 18 credits annually across Fall Term, January Term, and Spring Term (with the potential to teach occasionally during the summer). While most instruction is face-to-face, the successful candidate will also teach some online, hybrid, and/or intensive courses, as programmatic needs require. Preference will be given to candidates whose scholarship and service engage both the academy and the life of the church.

Trinity Lutheran Seminary is one of the oldest seminaries of the ELCA and one of three ELCA seminaries embedded within a university. Trinity's mission is forming leaders for Christ's church at work in the world, with a long tradition of preparing leaders who are both academically rigorous and grounded in practical ministry.

Trinity Lutheran Seminary is located in Columbus, Ohio, the state capital and most populous city, known for its cultural diversity, vibrant arts community, and strong civic and economic life.

Qualifications

• Earned Ph.D. or Th.D. in relevant field preferred; exceptional ABD candidates may be considered.
• Demonstrated ability or potential for excellent seminary-level teaching.
• Demonstrated ability or potential to meet expectations for scholarly activity and professional development
• Demonstrated ability or potential to engage in ecclesial presentations (e.g., synods, congregations, camping ministries; successful candidates must demonstrate experience or willingness to engage deeply in the ELCA context).
• Professional expertise in parish ministry or its equivalent; experience within ELCA contexts appreciated but not required.
• Demonstrated commitment to collaborative, team-based work and to fostering a healthy, collegial, and supportive academic and ecclesial environment.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

1. A cover letter addressing their interest in the position and how they would support the mission of the institution
2. A curriculum vitae
3. Three letters of recommendation

All requested materials should be uploaded to the resume drop box on the application.

Review of applications will begin immediately. For full consideration, all materials must be received by April 30, 2026.

Inquiries should be directed to:

Rev. Dr. Rachel Wrenn Interim Dean, Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital University trinitydean@capital.edu

Capital University is currently unable to sponsor employment Visas or consider candidates who will require Visa sponsorship.

For more information on Capital University, visit our website at www.capital.edu.

Capital University offers a rich benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement, family education benefits, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance and free parking.

Capital University is an equal opportunity employer. Capital University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, religion, sex, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by the law.