A Message from Dr. Michael Thomas

As we approach the upcoming national elections in the United States, our society is marked by deep divisions, rising anger, and frayed relationships. As citizens, we long for constructive dialogue rooted in grace, forgiveness, and civility.

At Concordia University Irvine, we believe that fostering viewpoint diversity and modeling civil discourse are essential to bridging these divides and nurturing a more harmonious society. Our mission is rooted in the Lutheran educational tradition, as exemplified by Martin Luther’s call for education that produces “wise, honorable, and cultivated citizens.”

Through exposure to diverse ideas, we develop our students intellectually, spiritually, and civically, shaping them into “wise, honorable, and cultivated citizens.” When we encounter perspectives that challenge our own, we become more aware of our positions and better able to articulate them. Sometimes, we may even discover that we are wrong. In both cases, a fundamental purpose of the university is accomplished: forming individuals who think critically and deeply about ideas, even one’s own.

While exposure to diverse viewpoints can be disorienting and emotionally challenging, we believe it is crucial for preparing individuals to live fully in our globalized world. At Concordia, we critique ideas but resist the temptation to critique those who hold them.

As members of the Concordia community, we commit to thoughtfully consider, discuss, debate, critique, and explore all ideas in accordance with the pursuit of truth, which is a foundational characteristic of the Lutheran intellectual tradition. And we endeavor to approach all inquiries with humility, acknowledging our own imperfections. And we commit to the care and hospitality of our peers, especially those with differing convictions, maintaining civility and measured speech in all dialogues. And we know that difficult dialogues sometimes produce unintended offenses, which need gentle correction, patience, confession, and forgiveness.

So as we approach this coming election, let us remember that we are called by our Lord to a different standard of care, respect, civility, and love of our neighbor. Let us during this time prove worthy of this calling as His ambassadors, knowing ultimately that our citizenship is in a kingdom not of this world.

For His Students,

Michael A. Thomas, Ph.D