In November 2023, Prof. Souksamay Phetsanghane from Luther Preparatory School (LPS) received an award for his translation of August Pieper’s “Hitler and the Protestant Church of Germany.” It relays the sentiments of Prof. Pieper on what was happening in their German homeland seven years before the United States joined World War II. In receiving the award, Prof. Phetsanghane stated, “A deep debt of gratitude is due to the high school German students at LPS. Their willingness to take a theological German elective helps make translations like this possible. May this award also honor their contribution.” In these theological German electives, the students and professor also study other historic European and American Lutheran writings from authors such as Quenstedt, Harms, and Hoenecke.

While high school seniors and a Lao refugee (Prof. Phetsanghane) studying old German writings might seem unique, this presentation will show its relevance for today in the training of our future called workers and the church today. Immediately following this presentation, the WELS Historical Institute will hold its annual meeting.

Location: Luther Preparatory School Chapel—1300 Western Ave., Watertown, Wis.