In partnership, Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) and Concordia Seminary (CSL) in St. Louis are proud to offer a comprehensive continuing education course addressing critical bioethical issues through a biblical and confessional framework.
This unique offering, led by two distinguished experts in bioethics, provides pastors and other church leaders with the tools to navigate complex moral challenges while remaining rooted in Scripture.
Course Overview
The course explores vital topics such as gender dysphoria, abortion, end-of-life care, physician-assisted suicide, and genetic and assisted reproductive technologies. Each unit is designed to present understandable scientific insights alongside a biblical response, equipping attendees to provide compassionate and informed guidance to their congregations and communities.
Course Units
1. Gender Dysphoria
Human Sexual Identity: Mask Uncovered—Adam and Eve Are AWOL
Dr. Robert W. Weise will address the rise of neo-gnostic transgender ideologies and their impact on families and pastoral care. He will evaluate current trends denying biblical and biological human sexuality, offering practical guidance for church leaders to respond with clarity and compassion.
2. Abortion
Abortion: Ripping Off the Bandage!
Dr. Kevin E. Voss will provide a clear understanding of abortion procedures, from early to late-term, and examine the deceptive narratives surrounding this issue. Attendees will learn how to apply biblical and confessional principles to one of the most contentious ethical debates of our time.
3. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (Part I)
Where God’s Word Meets ART: Children – Begotten or Made?
Dr. Weise will review trends in assisted reproductive technologies, including in vitro fertilization, surrogacy, and embryo freezing. Attendees will explore these practices in light of the First Article of the Apostles’ Creed and the biblical view of procreation.
4. End-of-Life Problems
Caring for Loved Ones at Life’s End
Dr. Voss will address one of the most emotionally charged decisions families face: when to forgo life-sustaining treatments. Drawing from experts like Richard Eyer and Gilbert Meilaender, as well as LCMS resources, this unit includes case studies to foster practical application.
5. Physician-Assisted Suicide
If Not Legal in Your State, It Likely Will Be!
As physician-assisted suicide becomes more prevalent, Dr. Voss will explore the procedures and laws surrounding it. He will contrast secular arguments for autonomy and mercy with a robust biblical response, offering church leaders the resources to support their congregations.
6. Genetic ART (Part II)
Children by Design: Setting Limits?
Dr. Weise will lead discussions on genetic technologies, including sex selection and gene therapy. The session will examine the role of parents in procreation and ethical boundaries, as well as pastoral concerns regarding birth control.
Meet the Presenters
Dr. Kevin E. Voss, DVM, PhD, FCA
Dr. Voss brings decades of experience as a veterinarian, pastor, and professor of philosophy and bioethics. Having served as the Director of the Concordia Center for Bioethics for over 20 years, he is a published author and respected speaker on bioethical issues. His expertise includes reproductive counseling, end-of-life care, and the sanctity of human life.
Dr. Robert W. Weise
Dr. Weise’s extensive background spans zoology, pastoral ministry, and bioethics. A Senior Emeritus Professor at Concordia Seminary, he has published numerous works on biotechnology and bioethics. His writings include Bible studies on embryonic stem cell research and transgender identity. Dr. Weise is an experienced seminar leader and has testified before national and state ethics boards.
Why Attend?
This course equips church leaders with:
- A deeper understanding of cutting-edge biological technologies.
- A biblical framework for addressing complex moral and ethical issues.
- Practical tools for providing compassionate guidance to individuals and families.
Enrollment Information
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from two of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod’s foremost bioethics experts. Gain insights that will empower you to lead with confidence and clarity in today’s challenging moral landscape.
Click below for more information and to register for this course!