Staff ministry gives men and women an opportunity to pursue full-time ministry in an area where their gifts can be best used to further God’s kingdom in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). While pastors are trained for the broadest scope of ministry and for theological leadership, and teachers are trained in Christian classroom education, staff ministers receive basic theological training and practical skills to equip them to serve in other specific areas of parish and institutional ministry.

The specific responsibilities of a staff minister are defined by their call at the local congregation, but frequently they assist with evangelism programs, youth and family ministry, member care, music ministries, congregational administration, and/or multicultural ministries. Staff ministers have also been called to work in non-parish organizations such as pregnancy counseling centers, institutional ministry, synod and school administration, and The Lutheran Home.