“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it; for he has founded it on the seas and established it on the rivers." (Psalm 24:1-2)
Trinity Lutheran Seminary and Capital University stand on sacred ground—the ancestral and contemporary homeland of the Ofo, Myaamia (Miami), Shawandasse Tula (Shawnee), Hopewell, Kaskaskia, and many other Indigenous peoples. Long before our institutions were built, these communities lovingly cared for this land.
As people of faith, we lament the history of forced displacement while rejoicing in the resilience, wisdom, and stewardship of Indigenous peoples. We pray that our presence here on Main Street may be one of honor, respect, and reconciliation.
The story of Main Street is multifaceted.
The City of Columbus, named after Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus, was founded in 1812. By 1816, the state capital had moved from Chillicothe to Columbus. Not long after, the nearby settlement of Franklinton—known as "the Bottoms" due to its flood-prone location along the Scioto River—was incorporated into the city. These histories stand side by side yet are worlds apart. One is the history of Indigenous presence and care. The other is the history of ambition and expansion.
Yet together, they shape the land we now call home.
This commitment to learning from history and fostering meaningful dialogue is at the heart of Capital University’s mission. In 1971, Connie Nelson-Wise graduated from Capital University. Her time at the university opened her eyes to the realities of race, religion, and the world beyond her own experience. Her legacy gift established the Nelson Lecture Series, dedicated to exploring critical issues through open and thoughtful conversation.
On March 18 and 20, we will welcome Vance Blackfox, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and founder and director of Other+Wise, as part of the Nelson Lecture Series. Vance will preach during seminary worship, engage in classroom discussions, and lead two public evening events.
We invite you to join us as we listen, learn, and honor the voices of our Indigenous siblings, embracing the truth that the earth and all who dwell in it belong to God.
The Rev. Mary Ann Siefke
Director of Congregational Engagement & Advancement
Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital University