“… that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life.” 1Tim. 2:2b
The ELS military monument was first proposed to the ELS in 2012 and conceptually adopted by the synod in 2017. The site chosen for this monument is on the BLC campus positioned in the area east of Division Street and west of the dormitory Edgewood Place (see campus map below). Jason Jasperson has developed two bronze statues depicting a Reformation age and modern day warriors. As Christian warriors, while readied for battle, they are reading from the Holy Scriptures. In addition to erecting this military monument, the ELS Museum will participate with Christ in Media Institute in developing and hosting a programmable kiosk to recognize ELS veterans and provide their information for further reflection and research.
The committee will also be working with local contractors to engineer the site. At this point, it would appear that for 7’6” statues the cost would be about $270,000 (6’- about $190,000). Groundbreaking for this site will take place on Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, 2019.
In addition to straight-out individual donations, we plan to offer, as an enhanced fund-raising effort, engraved pavers and granite benches given in memory and in honor of veterans who have served and are serving in the military. General gifts for this project can be made through the ELS website. Forms for specific gifts (pavers, benches, etc.) will also be made available in the near future.
Military Monument Rationale:
- To honor past and current veterans in ELS congregations, BLC Alumni and friends of BLC and the ELS.
- To value military vocations in our midst according to our Lutheran understanding as taught in the Fourth & Fifth Commandments, First Article, Fourth Petition, and Table of Duties. To contribute to a clear confession of the Biblical role of government power in the world under God. To encourage the consideration and pursuit of military service among young Christian men and women in our midst.
- To show support to BLC and BLTS students who also serve in the Reserves/Guard/National Guard.
- To have a place for programs of recognition and services of prayer on or around Memorial Day, Veterans Day and other appropriate occasions.
- To establish a military/veteran page on ELS/BLC websites with pertinent information collected both in the ELS Archives and Museum for recognition and research.
- To have a rallying point of encouragement for any future ROTC students that may eventually be enrolled at BLC.
- To encourage the consideration and pursuit of military service among young Christian men and women in our midst.
- To show support to BLC and BLTS students who also serve in the Reserves/Guard/National Guard.
- To have a place for programs of recognition and services of prayer on or around Memorial Day, Veterans Day and other appropriate occasions.
- To establish a military/veteran page on ELS/BLC websites with pertinent information collected both in the ELS Archives and Museum for recognition and research.
- To have a rallying point of encouragement for any future ROTC students that may eventually be enrolled at BLC.
