These were busy years. Rev. Strauss was a diligent, dedicated shepherd to his flock. And his flock grew.

    During this period of time, there were 60 christenings including 4 done in Elm Mott for the Neumann family (Herbert remembers the day). The parents and sponsors promised to "bring the child up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." There were 51 confirmands, 17 marriages, and 19 deaths.

    In addition to his duties as Pastor of St. John, Professor Strauss was kept busy with the Academy.

    The words of Reverend Frank Horak, Jr. give us insight into the importance of the Academy: "The role of the Academy in the life of the Texas District of the Evangelical Synod should never be forgotten. The lifeblood of a church rests solidly on the ministry of the church. Robinson Academy was the training center for several ministers who became leaders in the denomination. Public school education usually went up to the 8th grade in rural communities. Continued education had to come from elsewhere.

    Robinson Academy was accessible and available to many central Texas communities and Robinson residents made rooms available to students from surrounding communities.

    Because of his long tenure as professor and pastor, most central Texas Evangelical Churches were touched by his leadership."

    In the year 1922 the operation of the Academy was taken over by the Evangelical Synod of North America.