Reflection Unfinished Business with Jerry Kieschnick
Mar 11, 2026
Rev. Dr. Jerry Kieschnick, former president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and longtime pastor and leader, reflects on a life formed in Texas, unexpected vocational turns, and mentoring others into ministry. He discusses starting new congregations, creating flexible pastoral training models like SMP and PLI, leading large church initiatives, and encouraging families to inspire future pastors.
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Failed Course Led To A Calling
- Jerry Kieschnick failed embryology at Texas A&M and pivoted from veterinary school into teaching fourth grade at a Lutheran school for $200/month.
- That move led him to meet his wife Terry, attend seminary, and begin a lifelong pastoral vocation that shaped his career.
Planting A Church During Hard Times
- Jerry was ordained in June 1970 and served three years in Biloxi before moving to Beaumont and later planting a new mission in Georgetown in 1981.
- The Georgetown mission started with five acres, 18% interest rates, and Terry returning to work to help financially while they built the church.
Unexpected National Leadership
- After service in district leadership, Jerry was elected LCMS president in 2001 despite not seeking the office and served three terms before being unelected in 2010.
- He described putting a card from Tom Seidel in his pocket the morning of the election that promised a place at Concordia if unelected.
