James Edward Engel (1925-1989) served at Dr. Martin Luther College from 1975 to 1989, where he directed the College Choir, taught music theory, and composed many choral works, including an arrangement of “O God, Our Help in Ages Past,” commissioned for the 1984 Centennial celebration. He also served at Fox Valley LHS-Appleton, Wisconsin; Bethlehem-Milwaukee (LCMS); St. John-Racine, Wisconsin (LCMS); and Concordia College-Milwaukee. “[James Engel] sought to glorify the God whom he feared, loved, and trusted above all things with the very best his intense labor could produce,” said his former colleague at DMLC, Rev. Bruce Backer, in 1990. “In this way our friend allowed music to achieve its highest purpose. Not only does it glorify the God who made it and gave it to us, not only does it give us pleasure, but it also reaches out to us, calls us with its gospel message, strengthens us and keeps us with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.”
Scholarship winners have demonstrated special talent and a potential for serving in the music ministry of WELS churches and schools.
