Emmanuel Academies rebrands as Emmanuel Lutheran Global Seminary

Emmanuel Academies, a Naples based nonprofit organization, proudly announces its rebranding as Emmanuel Lutheran Global Seminary (ELGS). The strategic change reflects a renewed identity to reflect global mission and the Lutheran Foundation and commitment to forming faithful Lutheran pastors equipped to lead congregations in a rapidly changing, globalized world.
“Our rebranding as Emmanuel Lutheran Global Seminary is a significant milestone in our journey,” says Rev. Dr. Richard Bliese, President of the Seminary. “This new name affirms our unwavering loyalty to the Lutheran tradition while clarifying our global mission to serve wherever the Spirit calls.”

Emmanuel Lutheran Global Seminary is an innovative institution dedicated to equipping Christian pastors through flexible, context-based theological education. With global partnerships and a commitment to academic excellence, ELGS prepares leaders to serve with conviction, compassion, and Christ-centered purpose. The seminary is rooted in the confessional Lutheran faith—centered on Scripture, grace, and Christ alone. The new name reflects Emmanuel Lutheran’s growing global impact and mission. The new name better represents the global partnerships, diverse student body, and contextual learning model that define our seminary.

The faculty and staff are united by a shared mission to provide affordable, relevant, and accessible theological education that empowers adult learners to fulfill their callings without sacrificing their careers or financial security. The Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry programs are tailored for church leaders called to ordained service, offering flexible, high-quality formation that leverages the wisdom of local churches, pastors, and communities.

Emmanuel Academies/ELGS, led by Rev. Dr. Richard Bliese and Howard Isaacson, is a Florida-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2017 to address the urgent need for accessible, relevant, and sustainable pastoral education.
“Students, alumni, congregations, and partners are invited to join us in this exciting new chapter for ELGS,” added Isaacson. “Together, we are forming the pastors of today and tomorrow, strengthening the Church for generations to come.”
For more information, please visit www.ELGS.org or emailTeam@ELGS.org

ELGS Graduation: Emmanuel Academies/ELGS President – Rev. Dr. Richard Bliese, MDiv Graduate – Pr. Ruhinda Theoniste, MDiv Graduate – Pr. Edward Makara, Academic Dean and Professor Rev. Dr. Clay Schmit, Bishop Emeritus Mugabo, DMin at a recent ELGS graduation in Kigali, Rwanda, Africa at the Lutheran Church in Rwanda.

Gift of Thanks: Emmanuel Academies/ELGSCEO – Howard Isaacson, President – Rev. Dr. Richard Bliese, Academic Dean and Professor – Rev. Dr. Clay Schmit, Lutheran Church in Rwanda Bishop Emeritus Rev. Dr. Mugabo, and Lutheran Church in Rwanda General Secretary Rev. Prince Kalisa receiving a gift of thanks for their work in Rwanda.