This scholarship fund was established in 2017 by Manfred Tiedemann in honor of his parents, Olga A. Tiedemann (1934-2016) and Manfred E. Tiedemann (1936-1991). Manfred’s father came from Germany and worked as a factory worker. His mother worked as an administrative assistant in lower Manhattan. They were faithful members of St. Jacobus and later Sure Foundation Lutheran Church in Queens for their entire lives.
“They were amazing people who literally came from nothing and grew into something larger than life in every way,” said their son, Manfred. “They had contagious smiles and were passionate about enjoying life together. This came out of their deep faith.” Having been orphaned at birth, Manfred is especially grateful to them. “I could have wound up anywhere,” he said. “I am eternally grateful they adopted me and instilled a faith founded in Lutheran principles within me. I want them to be remembered in a way that enhances the faith, love, and charity their lives articulated so well. I would like as many as possible to experience their benevolence and for this to enhance the church’s ministry of spreading the good news.”
Income from this fund is distributed to preseminary students who have financial need.
