Support Scholarships that Open Doors to Concordia Texas
Support scholarships that help students of all backgrounds take the next step toward a Concordia Texas education.
Concordia University Texas works to reduce barriers to higher education. The Rev. John H. Kieschnick, affectionately known as Pastor K, understood firsthand how financial support can change a student’s future. Scholarships help ensure a family’s finances do not prevent a student from starting their college journey
Give to the Pastor K Endowment
Scholarships That Reduce Barriers
Scholarships are one of the most direct ways to help students start and stay in college. For many families, even a small financial gap can delay or prevent enrollment. The Pastor K Endowment exists to close that gap, supporting students of unique potential who may not otherwise have the financial resources to attend Concordia Texas and pursue their calling.
From Personal Story to Purpose
When Pastor K was nearing his final trimester at Concordia in River Forest, finances were extremely tight and finishing his degree felt uncertain. He was unexpectedly called into the president’s office and informed that extended family had paid the remaining balance of his expenses. That unexpected generosity made completion possible and shaped a lifelong commitment to help other students experience the same opportunity.
About Rev. John H. Kieschnick (Pastor K)
A Life Rooted in Faith, Education, and Leadership
The Rev. John H. Kieschnick (Pastor K) was born in Walburg, Texas, on March 5, 1942. He attended Lutheran parochial schools in Walburg and San Antonio, then studied at the Lutheran Concordia College of Texas (now Concordia University Texas) from 1956–1962.
-
Education & Early Service
- Bachelor of Science in Education, Concordia Teachers College (now Concordia University Chicago), 1964
- Teacher, principal, and youth director at Calvary Lutheran Church and Day School in Havertown, Pennsylvania
-
Called to the Ministry
- Entered Concordia Theological Seminary, Springfield, Illinois, 1966
- Bachelor of Divinity, 1970
- Master of Divinity, 1985
- First pastoral call: Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Irving, Texas
- Ordained and installed August 9, 1970
-
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Nassau Bay
- Senior pastor for 33 years
- Congregation grew from 400 to more than 3,300 baptized members
- Average weekend attendance exceeded 1,600
- Led multiple capital campaigns and building programs
-
Leadership, Stewardship, and Writing
- Served in district and national stewardship leadership roles
- Author of The Best Is Yet to Come — 7 Doors of Spiritual Growth (2006)
- Author of Staggering Love – Forging Real Relationships in a Fractured World (2012)
- Consultant to pastors and congregations on planning, leadership, and stewardship
-
Family
Pastor K married Elaine Trimble on July 4, 1970. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Jonathan, Kimberly, and Jason. Elaine passed away on September 21, 2020. Pastor K enjoys dreaming dreams, seeing visions, and playing at golf.
What Your Gift Supports
The Reverend John H. Kieschnick Endowment helps students of unique potential who do not have the financial resources to attend Concordia Texas. Preference is given to students who plan to enter church work.
Why Pastor K Established It
Pastor K experienced firsthand how one unexpected gift can change a student’s future. This endowment exists so more students can receive that same kind of support and opportunity.
KR, English Major
"My finances are tight; I appreciate you tenfold. As an intern and a lab assistant, I support research at the intersection of technology and humanities. I plan to go into the Master’s School of Education to be a professor and researcher and shoot for a PhD as well. The funds that have been provided to me have made the financial struggles I face a little easier.”
CH, Elementary Education and LTD Major
“This scholarship made it possible for me to go to Concordia Texas and learn how to share the love of Jesus with my future students. I plan on teaching second grade at a Lutheran school.”
LK, Criminal Justice and Religious Education Major
“This scholarship has extremely helped me get through this year of college and has allowed me to continue my degree here at Concordia. After college, I plan to give my time to a church, leading the next generation to Christ.”
Help a Student Take the Next Step
Your gift to the Pastor K Endowment supports scholarships that reduce barriers and invest in students preparing to serve through church work and leadership.
Make a Gift to the Pastor K Endowment