Luther Seminary to Sell St. Paul Campus, Expand Online

Luther Seminary, the largest seminary in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, will sell its historic St. Paul campus after more than 120 years and relocate to a smaller, more flexible space in the Twin Cities. The decision, following a unanimous board vote, reflects a shift to online and hybrid education, with about 70% of its nearly 600 students now primarily studying online. The lower campus is under contract to be sold to Lifestyle Communities, with the sale expected to close in 2026, while the upper campus will stay in use through at least the 2026-2027 school year. The seminary is also reducing staff and reorganizing to better serve a global student body and sustain long-term viability. Seminary leaders reaffirm their commitment to preparing Christian leaders, now reaching millions through expanded online resources. The transition marks a significant adaptation to changing educational and ministry needs.