April 28, 2025
An Interview with Dr. Chris Croghan
Kairos Affiliate Professor; CAO, Luther House of Study
What inspired you to pursue your field of study?
I was a bio and pre-med student at Augustana College. I was the congregational president of the campus ministry, and both the pastor there and Don Niedringhaus told me that I had to go to seminary. I hadn’t ever entertained the idea, but I went to Luther Seminary, graduated, and became a parish pastor.
I hadn’t planned on becoming a scholar, but my experiences in pastoral ministry and my growing interest in Reformation history led me back to academia. After serving as a parish pastor for five years, I returned to Luther Seminary to pursue a Ph.D. in church history.
How did your academic journey lead you to Kairos University?
My return to Sioux Falls in 2003 marked the beginning of what would become the Luther House of Study. Augustana offered me a two-year sabbatical replacement position. They hadn’t had anyone to teach Luther in over 20 years. They didn’t have a faculty position open for me, but community members and supporters saw the need for that voice.
This collaboration between Sioux Falls Seminary, Augustana College, and the South Dakota Synod laid the foundation for the Luther House of Study. By 2006, I was a full-time faculty member, integrating seminary students into my courses, which was an early effort to hybridize theological education and make it more accessible and affordable.
What excites you most about your discipline?
Theology is not about building an institution but about meeting the needs of congregations and people in the pews. For me, teaching theology is not just an academic exercise but a way of equipping future pastors with the ability to proclaim the Gospel effectively.
One of the greatest joys of my work is hearing from those who have encountered LHOS-trained pastors or used their resources. It delights me to hear how our students’ presence in congregations nurtures and encourages people.
What books, theologians, or resources have influenced your work the most?
As a Reformation scholar, my work is deeply influenced by Martin Luther. His theological framework is built on the same foundational concerns that drove the Reformation: the proclamation of the Gospel and the care of souls.
Beyond Luther, my work is shaped by a commitment to consistency in theological teaching. What has made the Luther House of Study successful is that we haven’t changed what we’ve taught or said—we’ve just changed how people access it. My approach to education ensures that theological truths remain steady while adapting to new learning formats.
What do you hope students take away from your teaching?
The need in ministry is always the same: the Gospel. While institutions and education models may evolve, my hope is that students leave the Luther House of Study with a firm foundation in the Gospel’s power and relevance.
Looking Ahead
Dr. Croghan’s commitment to accessible theological education and faithful ministry has shaped the mission of the Luther House of Study from the beginning. His journey—from an unexpected seminary call to leading a transformative theological initiative—reminds us that sometimes, the most impactful paths are the ones we never planned to take.
Stay tuned for our next faculty interview as we continue exploring the stories, passions, and insights of Kairos University’s educators.