Seminary students and professors will immediately recognize the opening words of Luther’s explanation of the first article of the Apostles’ Creed, words that highlight the importance of spiritual and physical
health. The school’s rigorous theological curriculum is designed to cultivate the former, but what about the latter? What does Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary do to encourage faithful stewardship of the bodies God has given us?

In addition to having a gymnasium and well-appointed fitness center for individual and group exercise, the Special Events Committee invites a fitness consultant onto campus in the opening weeks of the fall semester every school year. A 1986 graduate of Dr. Martin Luther College, Dwight Sandvold holds degrees in education and athletic training, and he has worked in the sports performance and general health and wellness fields for four decades. After giving a morning presentation to the entire student body, he spends the rest of the day meeting with students, professors, and staff members who sign up for one-on-one consultations.

As a former teacher, Dwight understands the unique challenges that confront future and current called workers. “Being a student or pastor is an honorable but largely sedentary task. After-school activities and meetings often leave little time to exercise and prepare whole foods for meals, and fast food or processed foods end up being a quick fix.”

Dwight is grateful for the opportunity to address all the students, but he especially looks forward to his sessions with individuals. “Each consultation allows me to assist people who want to create a plan for improved health. The students and professors often open up to me about their struggles with time management, stress, and trying to juggle all the balls. We are able to help them create a plan to move the fitness needle in the right direction. This process is truly rewarding for me.”

Dwight’s visits to the seminary campus are also a blessing for those who meet with him, whether they are already physically active or just looking for some ideas to get started. “I had a consistent workout routine when I talked to Dwight,” said seminary student Malachi Mortensen, “so I was interested in learning more about new workouts to diversify my options. He showed me some different upper and lower body workouts that I could add to my routine, and he also explained the benefits of incorporating some cardio exercises as well. The more I’ve done them, the more I’ve learned to enjoy them!”

Married student Jacob Borgwardt also expressed appreciation for Dwight’s expertise. “My wife and I had always heard that lap swimming is a great way to exercise without over stressing your joints, but we had never officially learned to swim. Dwight was the perfect person to ask for help. In twenty minutes, he gave us a crash course in freestyle that we have been able to use at the community pool in the mornings before we go off to work or school.”

Professor Brad Wordell signed up for a personal consultation with Dwight last year, in part because he recognized that establishing a consistent exercise routine has spiritual implications. “Physical fitness is a stewardship issue. I want to take care of the body that the Lord has given me. This in turn will help me serve in my callings as husband, father, grandfather, professor, colleague, and church member.”

We give thanks for Dwight’s partnership with Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and we thank the Lord for working through our physical exercise to strengthen us so that we can carryout the important spiritual work he has given us to do.

Steven Pagels teaches systematic theology and preaching at the seminary.