By Pastor Randy Freund
LCCC Steering Committee Chair
It is in vogue these days to wonder what the church looks like in a post-denominational world. Much can be said here about what one means by “post-denominational.” For the purposes of this article, perhaps a way to answer this is to lift up some of the questions those of us interested in the newly formed association of churches, the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession, are asking.
• What do local churches most need to carry out their missions?
• What do local churches most fear?
• What happens when the institutional expression of a denomination loses its theological rudder?
• What occurs when constituents of a denomination sense their beliefs don’t count?
• What happens when belonging to a denomination becomes meaningless?
We are aware that historical trends in institutional expressions of denominations repeat themselves. Some of these trends were articulated by Dr. Cynthia Jurisson at WordAlone’s Fall Theological Conference. As different phases of church governance evolve, there are implications worth noting. For instance, Jurisson noted that when church governance moves from a “corporation” model to a “regulatory agency” model some of the notable changes that tend to follow are these:
• The local church is less able to answer its particular calling or see its importance apart from expectations of the national, institutional expression of the denomination.
• As local member’s loyalty to the denomination (and thus funding) are strained, decisions by the constituents are made less by consensus and more by coercion from national leaders.
• Denominational departments and divisions for ministry and mission (centralized nationally) are put in the position of competing for the shrinking dollar.
• Global missions and youth organizations are impacted in a negative way financially.
Because these are current concerns, many association churches will give them primary focus. The expectation is that association churches will begin their work locally and regionally to address these concerns. WordAlone initiated this process of “re-thinking church” through the association.
With its solid theology of the church and theology of the Word, WordAlone can help provide the theological rudder to guide this association. This is the reason churches in the association are asked to first adopt The Common Confession. Once that is adopted, questions naturally follow about what an “association church” looks like or seeks to accomplish.
The particular look will vary from region to region. The churches will differ in size, worship styles, priorities, settings (rural, urban, suburban) and proximity to one another. For at the heart of this association is the conviction that churches who come into relationship with each other will discover both the support they need and the gifts they have in terms of mission and faithful witness.
Some are looking to set strategies and promote global mission efforts that will be characteriscally Lutheran and evangelical in emphasis. Some will focus on supporting new mission starts. Others will work with the newly formed reform coalition, called "Lutheran CoRe." Still other association churches will share resources and staff with neighboring churches to enhance each other’s ministry and mission.
These are just a few examples of what we hope will happen when churches commit themselves to a Christian witness grounded on a Lutheran theology that is founded on the authority of the Word of God. With these theological convictions, we hope to prepare a new generation of well-grounded Lutheran Christians.
With these long-term goals in mind, there are some concrete things we ask you to do as you consider joining Lutheran Churches of The Common Confession:
• Become familiar with The Common Confession and introduce it to your Lutheran neighbors, your pastor and a council member.
• Go to commonconfession.blogspot.com to learn more about the association.
• Join this association by covenanting with other churches around The Common Confession and our mission partners and renewal efforts.
• Pray for association leaders who are bold in their witness.
• Contact the steering committee representative in your region to begin shaping the association in your area.
By taking these first steps, we begin a journey not unlike those of faithful disciples who have gone before us. Our goal is the same: To boldly and faithfully proclaim the name of Jesus Christ to a hungry world until He comes again. We hope and pray you’ll join us!
Friday, December 30, 2005
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Lutheran CoRe Report
December 2005
Dear Friends,
On November 6-8 members of the WordAlone Network and others gathered at Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, for the WordAlone theological conference. As a part of that conference, two groups were formed in partnership with WordAlone. One group, presently called "Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession," seeks to gather congregations, WordAlone and many others, together for the purpose of congregational renewal and ministry.
A second group was formed with and within the WordAlone Network. We are now calling this group "Lutheran CoRe," Lutheran Coalition for Reform. It is a coalition of pastors, laypeople, congregations, and reforming movements within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Our goal is the reform of our church under the Word of God and according to the Lutheran Confessions.
Both groups work with the WordAlone Network, but each has its own purpose. The Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession is a gathering for congregational renewal. CoRe intends to be a coalition for congregations, individuals and other reforming groups, for the sake of the reform of the ELCA.
This letter is an invitation to prayer - for the ELCA, for our bishops and other leaders, and for ourselves and the ministry of CoRe. We want to surround our call for reform with all the spiritual resources of God's people: word and sacrament, prayer, the reading of Scripture, and the mutual conversation among the brothers and sisters.
This letter is an invitation to reaffirm our participation within the church, God's people and Christ's body. We cherish our communion within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and we are resolved to remain within our church body. The ELCA is our spiritual home. The Lutheran Confessions are the lens through which we read the Scriptures, and we seek to be God's faithful people today.
This letter is an invitation that calls us to place ourselves and our church under the authority of the Word. That Word is alive in Christ; it speaks in the church's proclamation; it is the authoritative center of the Scriptures. The goal of CoRe is the reform of our church under the Word of God and under the authority of Scripture.
We are calling ourselves a coalition for reform (CoRe), because we believe that our church is in need of reform. This letter is your invitation to participate with us in this reforming, confessing movement within the ELCA. Among our chief concerns are the threat to Biblical authority in the ELCA, leadership within our church, the election of churchwide assembly voting members at our synodical assemblies, and the
church's ongoing conversation regarding marriage and sexuality.
We are grateful that God's Spirit has raised up numerous other reforming movements within out church today. Part of our goal as CoRe is to support and affirm these various movements. We desire to serve as a connecting link for all these groups and to strengthen them. CoRe is a coalition of reforming movements - and of individuals and congregations - who are committed to the reform of the ELCA.
Next month you will receive a second letter, in which we will provide you with the opportunity to join us in CoRe.
For now, we ask that you speak with others about our coalition. If you know of others who may be interested in CoRe, we need to know who they are. We will be asking some of you to serve as synodical contacts for our ministry. We also ask that you reserve the dates of April 30-May 2, 2006, so that you may attend out initial gathering as a coalition.
Most of all, we ask for your prayerful support and encouragement. We believe that God's Spirit is at work through our church. We know that God has not left us, nor has he abandoned us. Rather, he calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies us for our ministry as his people.
We pray for God's Spirit on what we have begun, even as we pray for you during this holy season.
Steering Committee for Lutheran CoRe:
Mark Graham, Roanoke, Virginia
Scott Grorud, Redwood Falls, Minnesota
Ken Kimball, Waterville, Iowa
Eric Midthun, Bloomington, Minnesota
Russ Saltzman, Kansas City, Missouri
W. Stevens Shipman, Watsontown, Pennsylvania
Paull Spring, State College, Pennsylvania, chair
Paul Ulring, Columbus, Ohio
Erma Wolf, Brandon, South Dakota
Dear Friends,
On November 6-8 members of the WordAlone Network and others gathered at Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, for the WordAlone theological conference. As a part of that conference, two groups were formed in partnership with WordAlone. One group, presently called "Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession," seeks to gather congregations, WordAlone and many others, together for the purpose of congregational renewal and ministry.
A second group was formed with and within the WordAlone Network. We are now calling this group "Lutheran CoRe," Lutheran Coalition for Reform. It is a coalition of pastors, laypeople, congregations, and reforming movements within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Our goal is the reform of our church under the Word of God and according to the Lutheran Confessions.
Both groups work with the WordAlone Network, but each has its own purpose. The Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession is a gathering for congregational renewal. CoRe intends to be a coalition for congregations, individuals and other reforming groups, for the sake of the reform of the ELCA.
This letter is an invitation to prayer - for the ELCA, for our bishops and other leaders, and for ourselves and the ministry of CoRe. We want to surround our call for reform with all the spiritual resources of God's people: word and sacrament, prayer, the reading of Scripture, and the mutual conversation among the brothers and sisters.
This letter is an invitation to reaffirm our participation within the church, God's people and Christ's body. We cherish our communion within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and we are resolved to remain within our church body. The ELCA is our spiritual home. The Lutheran Confessions are the lens through which we read the Scriptures, and we seek to be God's faithful people today.
This letter is an invitation that calls us to place ourselves and our church under the authority of the Word. That Word is alive in Christ; it speaks in the church's proclamation; it is the authoritative center of the Scriptures. The goal of CoRe is the reform of our church under the Word of God and under the authority of Scripture.
We are calling ourselves a coalition for reform (CoRe), because we believe that our church is in need of reform. This letter is your invitation to participate with us in this reforming, confessing movement within the ELCA. Among our chief concerns are the threat to Biblical authority in the ELCA, leadership within our church, the election of churchwide assembly voting members at our synodical assemblies, and the
church's ongoing conversation regarding marriage and sexuality.
We are grateful that God's Spirit has raised up numerous other reforming movements within out church today. Part of our goal as CoRe is to support and affirm these various movements. We desire to serve as a connecting link for all these groups and to strengthen them. CoRe is a coalition of reforming movements - and of individuals and congregations - who are committed to the reform of the ELCA.
Next month you will receive a second letter, in which we will provide you with the opportunity to join us in CoRe.
For now, we ask that you speak with others about our coalition. If you know of others who may be interested in CoRe, we need to know who they are. We will be asking some of you to serve as synodical contacts for our ministry. We also ask that you reserve the dates of April 30-May 2, 2006, so that you may attend out initial gathering as a coalition.
Most of all, we ask for your prayerful support and encouragement. We believe that God's Spirit is at work through our church. We know that God has not left us, nor has he abandoned us. Rather, he calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies us for our ministry as his people.
We pray for God's Spirit on what we have begun, even as we pray for you during this holy season.
Steering Committee for Lutheran CoRe:
Mark Graham, Roanoke, Virginia
Scott Grorud, Redwood Falls, Minnesota
Ken Kimball, Waterville, Iowa
Eric Midthun, Bloomington, Minnesota
Russ Saltzman, Kansas City, Missouri
W. Stevens Shipman, Watsontown, Pennsylvania
Paull Spring, State College, Pennsylvania, chair
Paul Ulring, Columbus, Ohio
Erma Wolf, Brandon, South Dakota
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
What the Association is Not
The Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession has been described as an “association” of biblical, evangelical, and confessional Lutheran congregations who seek to work together in the mission of proclaiming Jesus Christ. United by a common witness to God’s Word of law and gospel, they cooperate in doing the work of the Church in ways that they could not do alone.
But in saying what the LCCC is, it may also be helpful to say what it is not:
● The LCCC is not a new denomination. No one is asked to leave their present denominational affiliation or join a new one. While a majority of LCCC member-congregations will be part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the association will be broad enough to work both within and across denominational structures, as well as with Lutherans who are not affiliated with the ELCA.
● The LCCC is not a non-geographic synod. While such an idea was considered in the early planning of the association, that is not the present intention. Congregations are not being asked to alter their participation within geographical synods, districts, or conferences.
● The LCCC is not a duplicate of the WordAlone Network, or any other organization. While WordAlone has been one of the major advocates of the LCCC, many other reform groups have participated in the planning and shown their support as well. To join the association, a church does not have to be a member of WordAlone (or vice versa). The association will be governed by the representatives of its own member churches.
We have continued to refer to the LCCC as an “association” to be clear that it is meant to be defined functionally -- by what it does. As individual congregations choose to work with one another, they will begin to shape their own local goals and projects, engaging in the ministry of God’s kingdom together.
But in saying what the LCCC is, it may also be helpful to say what it is not:
● The LCCC is not a new denomination. No one is asked to leave their present denominational affiliation or join a new one. While a majority of LCCC member-congregations will be part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the association will be broad enough to work both within and across denominational structures, as well as with Lutherans who are not affiliated with the ELCA.
● The LCCC is not a non-geographic synod. While such an idea was considered in the early planning of the association, that is not the present intention. Congregations are not being asked to alter their participation within geographical synods, districts, or conferences.
● The LCCC is not a duplicate of the WordAlone Network, or any other organization. While WordAlone has been one of the major advocates of the LCCC, many other reform groups have participated in the planning and shown their support as well. To join the association, a church does not have to be a member of WordAlone (or vice versa). The association will be governed by the representatives of its own member churches.
We have continued to refer to the LCCC as an “association” to be clear that it is meant to be defined functionally -- by what it does. As individual congregations choose to work with one another, they will begin to shape their own local goals and projects, engaging in the ministry of God’s kingdom together.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Can 'Evangelical Catholics' and 'Lutheran Evangelicals' Work Together?
One of the things that the LCCC wants to help make possible, is for biblical and confessional Lutherans of various pieties and worship styles to work together toward common goals. Prof. Roy Harrisville III, director of Solid Rock Lutherans, Inc., referred to two of the more significant confessional groups as Evangelical Catholics and Lutheran Evangelicals. The former tends to have a more "high church" practice of worship, and a more hierarchical view of ministry. The latter tends to come from a more "low church" pietist tradition, with a more congregational view of church polity. While the two groups have had disagreements in the past, many have seen encouraging signs in recent cooperative efforts, and hope that the LCCC will be able to build on that mutual respect and collaboration.
Here are some thoughts from a few ELCA pastors in support of this new effort:
"One of the good things that came out of Orlando [ELCA Churchwide Assembly] is that some Evangelical Catholics and some WordAlone folks came to realize that they have more in common than they previously supposed, and that when they get to know each other, they actually like each other. (Some of us have been hoping and praying for years that this would eventually happen!) Also, because Solid Rock Lutherans, Inc. was destined to go out of existence after Orlando, it was felt that some organizational structure was needed to continue the work begun by Solid Rock. So making the association the successor seemed like an appropriate step."
"If the orthodox, evangelical, confessional folks in the ELCA can get their act together and work together, we can make a much greater difference in the future of the church than if we all go off and do our own thing. That is why the association and coalition are needed. I'm not sure why they have to be separate, but we need to find a way to bring people together who should be friends and allies. I hope that together we can make it happen: a united broad-based confessional movement that can make a strong witness in the ELCA."
- Pastor Jim Culver, Indiana
"The association was always intended to be for churches, not individuals or other groups. Almost immediately, however, it became clear that there are lots of individuals and reform groups made up of individuals who want to be part of the reform/renewal movement, but belong to churches that are highly unlikely to join the association in the foreseeable future, if ever. Some of those folks were part of Solid Rock, particularly Evangelical Catholics, for whom that was their first effort at working in tandem with Lutheran Evangelicals or WordAlone."
"A key theme at the conference in Brooklyn Park was that in both LCCC and the 'coalition', we will discuss our differences, openly and without apology, both to understand one another better and to be clear on the common ground we share. We're not trying to change one another, but learn from each other in a common quest for Scriptural and confessional integrity."
- Pastor Scott Grorud, Minnesota
"At both Kansas City and Brooklyn Park, one of the things we did was speak frankly of issues on which we have disagreement. We asked each other, must these prevent us from banding together now on the several issues in which we are in agreement? Or can we set those issues aside, for now, and work for a common cause?"
"Lutheran Evangelicals and Evangelical Catholics, while our images of a Confessional Church do not line up perfectly, both know that Liberal Protestantism is not where the Confessions lead us. But it is where the ELCA's leadership is eagerly taking us, thus far with little effective resistance… Working together, we made a difference in Orlando. I'm willing to build upon that."
- Pastor Steven Tibbetts, Illinois
Here are some thoughts from a few ELCA pastors in support of this new effort:
"One of the good things that came out of Orlando [ELCA Churchwide Assembly] is that some Evangelical Catholics and some WordAlone folks came to realize that they have more in common than they previously supposed, and that when they get to know each other, they actually like each other. (Some of us have been hoping and praying for years that this would eventually happen!) Also, because Solid Rock Lutherans, Inc. was destined to go out of existence after Orlando, it was felt that some organizational structure was needed to continue the work begun by Solid Rock. So making the association the successor seemed like an appropriate step."
"If the orthodox, evangelical, confessional folks in the ELCA can get their act together and work together, we can make a much greater difference in the future of the church than if we all go off and do our own thing. That is why the association and coalition are needed. I'm not sure why they have to be separate, but we need to find a way to bring people together who should be friends and allies. I hope that together we can make it happen: a united broad-based confessional movement that can make a strong witness in the ELCA."
- Pastor Jim Culver, Indiana
"The association was always intended to be for churches, not individuals or other groups. Almost immediately, however, it became clear that there are lots of individuals and reform groups made up of individuals who want to be part of the reform/renewal movement, but belong to churches that are highly unlikely to join the association in the foreseeable future, if ever. Some of those folks were part of Solid Rock, particularly Evangelical Catholics, for whom that was their first effort at working in tandem with Lutheran Evangelicals or WordAlone."
"A key theme at the conference in Brooklyn Park was that in both LCCC and the 'coalition', we will discuss our differences, openly and without apology, both to understand one another better and to be clear on the common ground we share. We're not trying to change one another, but learn from each other in a common quest for Scriptural and confessional integrity."
- Pastor Scott Grorud, Minnesota
"At both Kansas City and Brooklyn Park, one of the things we did was speak frankly of issues on which we have disagreement. We asked each other, must these prevent us from banding together now on the several issues in which we are in agreement? Or can we set those issues aside, for now, and work for a common cause?"
"Lutheran Evangelicals and Evangelical Catholics, while our images of a Confessional Church do not line up perfectly, both know that Liberal Protestantism is not where the Confessions lead us. But it is where the ELCA's leadership is eagerly taking us, thus far with little effective resistance… Working together, we made a difference in Orlando. I'm willing to build upon that."
- Pastor Steven Tibbetts, Illinois
Monday, December 12, 2005
Contributions
In this season of budgeting, a number of people have asked how contributions can be made to the work of the new association. Since neither the LCCC nor the ‘coalition for reform’ are formally incorporated at this point, for the time being our friends at the WordAlone Network will be overseeing financial contributions on our behalf. Donations can be sent to the WordAlone Network office at: 2299 Palmer Drive, Suite 220, New Brighton, MN 55112. Please designate “for LCCC” in the notes of the check.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Questions and Comments?
This preliminary website for the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession was intended to provide some initial information on the association until a permanent site can be constructed. It also allows for some feedback to what we’re doing, as we work together to shape what this association will become. If you have questions of your own that you would like to ask, or comments you would like to make, please share them with us. All you need to do is click on the word “comments” at the end of a post, and a screen will prompt you with a place to type in your message.
You may respond to this post (“Questions and Comments?”) if there is a issue or question that you would like to hear more about, but has not yet been addressed by any other posts on the website.
(Note: The administrators of this site will be working hard to keep the dialog here constructive, respectful, and informative, rather than divisive and antagonistic. Your help is appreciated.)
You may respond to this post (“Questions and Comments?”) if there is a issue or question that you would like to hear more about, but has not yet been addressed by any other posts on the website.
(Note: The administrators of this site will be working hard to keep the dialog here constructive, respectful, and informative, rather than divisive and antagonistic. Your help is appreciated.)
Thursday, December 08, 2005
LCCC Logo
This is an image of the proposed logo for the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession. It incorporates the pages of an open Bible into the letter L, from which come the three letters C in a figure reminiscent of the symbol of the Trinity. We of the LCCC believe that God’s Word reveals his nature and his will, as God speaks to us in Law and Gospel. Likewise, we believe that God uses our own biblical confession, so that others come to hear his Word and to trust in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.“Just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture -- "I believe and so I spoke" -- we also believe and so we speak..." (2 Corinthians 4:13)
Friday, December 02, 2005
What is Our Vision?
Picture an association of Lutheran churches that share a common confession of the orthodox Lutheran Christian faith, trusting in each other as fellow travelers walking down the same road, in the same direction. Picture an association of churches where the Word of God is central, actively engaging people's lives and beliefs. Picture a group of churches that treasure their heritage as Lutherans, and are willing to work together for renewal, reform, and theological reflection. Picture an association of churches that you could be proud to belong to. That is what the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession seeks to be.
Here are some opportunities for mission and ministry that the associated congregations might choose to do together:
Global Mission
Churches of the Common Confession could join together locally to support the mission of Christ through: sponsorship missionaries at home and abroad, the development of new mission starts, and making connections with existing mission organizations already doing the work of God across the globe. Ecumenically, confessional Lutherans have many friends and supporters in Canada, Europe, Asia, Indonesia, Africa and beyond that could be fostered through such an association.
Church-to-Church Cooperation
Churches of the Common Confession could relate to one another not as competitors but as partners in preaching and teaching the Gospel of our Lord on the same terms. Based on the trust of their common faith perspective, such an association could serve to build two-way relationships between congregations of the same area who could benefit from the resources they have to share. This might include pastoral assistance, office help, mutual educational offerings and so on. All could learn from each other, serve concertedly, and follow the Lord Jesus together in the same direction.
Connecting With Ministry Partners
Churches of the Common Confession could foster and support relationships with the many Lutheran agencies that serve in many specialized ministries. Many organizations are already seeking closer ties to confessional churches as they work with: youth, seniors, the physically and mentally challenged, and engage in ministries of wellness and education throughout the world. Some build on cooperative ministries that exist with our brothers and sisters in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. These not-for-profit Lutheran agencies, through their faithful outreach and fiduciary responsibility, have engaged in their mission and ministry in efficient and exciting ways, effectively carrying out work that no single congregation could do alone.
Improving Church Governance
Churches of the Common Confession would be in a position to work together for "reform" of the denominational structure and witness, building on existing relationships and the efforts of reform movements in their own areas. Help with parliamentary procedure and the nomination candidates for synodical and churchwide offices -- not to mention, simply keeping each other informed -- could allow local churches opportunity to participate more fully in the governance and direction of the denomination. The Coalition for Renewal is being formed to bring together people from many existing reform movements on a national level.
Support for the Call Process
Churches of the Common Confession could provide a network of contacts in bringing together discerning congregations with biblical and confessional pastors. A list of pastors who subscribe to the Common Confession could be made available to churches in the Call Process, and congregations seeking qualified candidates could post their openings in a single place.
Accessible Teaching
Churches of the Common Confession could join together in theological reflection and shared learning by sponsoring theological conferences and continuing education events that would be Word-based and relevant to the church of the 21st century and beyond. They could work together to support development of new resources, including: Bible studies, website programs, DVD's, or the creation of an interactive sermon preparation site, to name a few examples.
Worship Resources
Churches of the Common Confession could offer mutual support in the area of worship resources -- in developing materials faithful to our tradition, as well as in providing advice for evaluating materials on the market. For example, association congregations might take a look at the new "Lutheran Hymnal for Church and Home" being developed by the WordAlone Network. Association congregations could also share recommendations and guidance on the appropriate use of materials available through the ELCA's "Renewing Worship" initiatives.
Here are some opportunities for mission and ministry that the associated congregations might choose to do together:
Global Mission
Churches of the Common Confession could join together locally to support the mission of Christ through: sponsorship missionaries at home and abroad, the development of new mission starts, and making connections with existing mission organizations already doing the work of God across the globe. Ecumenically, confessional Lutherans have many friends and supporters in Canada, Europe, Asia, Indonesia, Africa and beyond that could be fostered through such an association.
Church-to-Church Cooperation
Churches of the Common Confession could relate to one another not as competitors but as partners in preaching and teaching the Gospel of our Lord on the same terms. Based on the trust of their common faith perspective, such an association could serve to build two-way relationships between congregations of the same area who could benefit from the resources they have to share. This might include pastoral assistance, office help, mutual educational offerings and so on. All could learn from each other, serve concertedly, and follow the Lord Jesus together in the same direction.
Connecting With Ministry Partners
Churches of the Common Confession could foster and support relationships with the many Lutheran agencies that serve in many specialized ministries. Many organizations are already seeking closer ties to confessional churches as they work with: youth, seniors, the physically and mentally challenged, and engage in ministries of wellness and education throughout the world. Some build on cooperative ministries that exist with our brothers and sisters in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. These not-for-profit Lutheran agencies, through their faithful outreach and fiduciary responsibility, have engaged in their mission and ministry in efficient and exciting ways, effectively carrying out work that no single congregation could do alone.
Improving Church Governance
Churches of the Common Confession would be in a position to work together for "reform" of the denominational structure and witness, building on existing relationships and the efforts of reform movements in their own areas. Help with parliamentary procedure and the nomination candidates for synodical and churchwide offices -- not to mention, simply keeping each other informed -- could allow local churches opportunity to participate more fully in the governance and direction of the denomination. The Coalition for Renewal is being formed to bring together people from many existing reform movements on a national level.
Support for the Call Process
Churches of the Common Confession could provide a network of contacts in bringing together discerning congregations with biblical and confessional pastors. A list of pastors who subscribe to the Common Confession could be made available to churches in the Call Process, and congregations seeking qualified candidates could post their openings in a single place.
Accessible Teaching
Churches of the Common Confession could join together in theological reflection and shared learning by sponsoring theological conferences and continuing education events that would be Word-based and relevant to the church of the 21st century and beyond. They could work together to support development of new resources, including: Bible studies, website programs, DVD's, or the creation of an interactive sermon preparation site, to name a few examples.
Worship Resources
Churches of the Common Confession could offer mutual support in the area of worship resources -- in developing materials faithful to our tradition, as well as in providing advice for evaluating materials on the market. For example, association congregations might take a look at the new "Lutheran Hymnal for Church and Home" being developed by the WordAlone Network. Association congregations could also share recommendations and guidance on the appropriate use of materials available through the ELCA's "Renewing Worship" initiatives.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Opening Thoughts....
A Two-Winged Effort
Think of what we're doing as building one big new House of Reform. For the time being, in order to welcome as many as we can into this new house, we have assembled two porches on the side (two "entry platforms" so to speak -- ie. the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession and the Coalition for Reform). All of us who come to the house are people who subscribe to the Common Confession, and want to work for reform and renewal of the Church. But for the time being, as people enter, they will generally come in through one or the other porch. The LCCC was intended to take in congregations, the CFR was primarily intended to take in individuals and organizations.
Of course, there may be some overlap or exceptions, at least for a while (I'm sure someone will try to sneak in the through the windows instead). But I am convinced that we are all still after the same goal of one big house. That house will have many rooms, dedicated to: church governance reform, mutual ministry, missions, youth, theological education, etc. -- but eventually, it will allow us to coordinate our efforts as one.
A Report from the Theological Conference in Brooklyn Park:
(Brooklyn Park Lutheran Church, November 6-8, 2005)
All the presenters and preachers were very good. The conference was on the topic of "ecclesiology" and what it means to be the church. It led very well to the discussion of the association of confessing congregations, and our cooperative work of reform. On that, Jaynan Egland did an excellent job of setting a vision for the future.
The basic description of our direction is to gather our single witness with two "arms" of cooperative reform (below). The individuals, congregations, or organizations within both will be united in their subscription to the Common Confession. Both elected their own steering committee, which will meet independently, but in cooperation with each other.
1) The "Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession" is the name of the association of congregations, working together primary in the area of mutual/cooperative ministry, but also in grass-roots and local reform. The primary areas of concern identified by the participants of this group were: the authority of scripture, seminary education, and concern over the re-definition of gospel. This group will focus on bringing together congregations from the ground up, and promoting cooperative mission and ministry.
2) The "Coalition for Renewal" is the tentative title of a group of individuals and reform groups, that will work primarily in the area of church reform/politics (on the broader scale). Bringing together many of the WA and Solid Rock allies, this group will be looking ahead toward coming assemblies, and the actions of the national ELCA. The chairperson for this group is Paull Spring.
All in all, there was good conversation between diverse groups (WA and non-WA). I felt a genuine willingness to work together, and a sensible and measured desire not to go too slow or too fast in making that happen.
The Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession
The group that I was a part of was the one representing congregations in association. This group spilt into smaller regional groups for discussion, and met as well in one large group. We talked about needs, goals, and direction for the association.
After presenting a number of suggestions (and having a night to think about it), the participants settled with a strong consensus on the name: "Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession" as the 'working title' of the association (able to be changed later if we wish).
A steering committee for the LCCC was elected from people across the country, roughly corresponding to various regions and synods (listed below in parentheses). Some of these committee members have already been designated with specific area of responsibility; all have been asked to serve as a contact person for their geographical area. They include:
Randy Freund (At Large) - Committee Chairperson
Eric Swensson (Regions 7 & 8) - Webmaster/External Communication
Steve King (Greater Minnesota) - Internal Communication
Lou Hesse (Regions 1 & 2) - Mission Strategies
Mick Lee (Metro Twin Cities) - Cooperative Ministry
Rob Buechler (N. Dakota)
Jerry Merkoris (S. Dakota)
Bryan Anderson (Region 5)
Kurt Borows (Region 6)
Mark Braaten (Regions 4 & 9)
Committee members will be pulling together the list of names and prospects from their area. Eric S. intends to have a website up as soon as possible -- one that will not only provide information on the association, but will allow for communication from the inside and outside.
The Committee met only briefly, but one point on which we were all in agreement was that the LCCC should be advertised/presented independently -- not directly 'under the auspices' of any single organization. We will however, remain in full cooperation (and net-linked) to other reform and renewal groups (particularly those of the 'Coalition for Renewal', above).
Anyway ... that's what I have for now. I hope it gets you all thinking -- and talking!
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Steven King
Maple Lake, Minnesota
LCCC Steering Committee
The "Coalition for Reform"
Dear Friends in Christ,
From November 6 through November 8, 2005, the WordAloneNetwork sponsored a theological conference in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. A significant element of that conference was the approval of a resolution on forming a "coalition for renewal." The resolution, as amended, is as follows:
A "coalition for renewal" will be formed, for the purpose of supporting the various renewal movements within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and for addressing selected synodical and churchwide issues.
1. Purpose. More specifically, the purpose of the coalition will be to 1) encourage individual reform-minded congregations, laypersons, and pastors; 2) support and offer coordination for the various renewal groups within the ELCA; and 3) address significant synodical and churchwide issues. Such issues may include, but are not limited to, leadership in the ELCA, global missions and pioneer evangelism, marriage and sexuality, the orthodox naming of God, and ELCA polity matters (quotas, three-expressions, delegation/representation).
2. Common Confession. The Common Confession (exclusive of the footnotes) will be accepted as a summary of important teachings that are otherwise affirmed in the Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church.
3. Membership. Membership in the coalition will be open to reforming movements, congregations and individual members of the ELCA, who share The Common Confession and are supportive of the purposes of the coalition.
4. Relationship with WordAlone. The coalition will coordinate its ministry within the WordAlone Network (WA) and with the "association of congregations." A serious and intentional effort will be made to integrate the coalition within WA. A representative from the coalition will be invited to attend WA board meetings; in April 2006, a member of the coalition will be elected as a member of the WA board. The implications of this relationship, and the necessary processes for this relationship will be a subject of conversation between the steering committee (see below) and the WA board. This relationship will apply for two years and will be reviewed by the coalition and the WA board following the 2007 churchwide assembly.
5. Steering Committee: A steering committee of seven* persons will be elected. The purpose of the steering committee will be to follow through on any actions taken on the November 2005 gathering, set priorities for the coalition, develop strategies for implementing the priorities, plan an organizing gathering for the coalition, consider a fiscal proposal, select a name for the coalition, develop initial strategies regarding the 2007 churchwide assembly, and arrange for other organizational and structural matters.
*After adopting the resolution, the gathering decided later in the meeting to elect by unanimous consent all ninenominees to serve on the steering committee.
I personally believe that the formation of this coalition within the WordAlone Network fulfills the intention to organize a broad-based confessing movement for renewal. The purpose of the coalition is to support the various renewal
movements within our church and to address various issues that are still facing our church. Working within the WordAlone Network, the coalition will itself achieve a certain stability and will still have the freedom to advocate for its own concerns.
A steering committee of nine persons was elected to move the coalition process forward. The resolution indicates the important responsibilities that have been given to this group. On the steering committee are Mark Graham, Scott Grorud, Kenneth Kimball, Eric Midthun, Russell Saltzman, Stephens Shipman, Paull Spring, Paul Ulring, and Erma Wolf.
For the next five to six months the steering committee will work on the tasks that have been given them and will prepare for an organizing gathering that will officially launch the coalition into being.
A particularly urgent need now is to begin planning for the 2007 churchwide assembly in Chicago. You will be hearing more about this after the steering committee meeting in December. In the meantime, if your synod's process for nominating churchwide assembly members begins this fall or early in the new year at conference meetings, let's be sure that we have good people being nominated. It would be helpful to coordinate our efforts with WordAlone's synod
point of contacts, who are already at work on this in some synods. Contact Mark Chavez (wordalone@popp.net) for more information about this.
I am very pleased with what we have achieved thus far in forming this coalition. The goal is to renew and re-focus our church about the Word of God and the Confessions of our church, for the sake of the mission of the Gospel. I ask
you to surround this effort with your earnest prayer and with your encouragement and support. I also invite you to be in contact with me, if you have questions and comments.
In Christ,
Paull E. Spring,
Steering Committee Chair
956 Stratford Court
State College, PA 16801
814-235-9769
pastorspring@pennswoods.net
Think of what we're doing as building one big new House of Reform. For the time being, in order to welcome as many as we can into this new house, we have assembled two porches on the side (two "entry platforms" so to speak -- ie. the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession and the Coalition for Reform). All of us who come to the house are people who subscribe to the Common Confession, and want to work for reform and renewal of the Church. But for the time being, as people enter, they will generally come in through one or the other porch. The LCCC was intended to take in congregations, the CFR was primarily intended to take in individuals and organizations.
Of course, there may be some overlap or exceptions, at least for a while (I'm sure someone will try to sneak in the through the windows instead). But I am convinced that we are all still after the same goal of one big house. That house will have many rooms, dedicated to: church governance reform, mutual ministry, missions, youth, theological education, etc. -- but eventually, it will allow us to coordinate our efforts as one.
A Report from the Theological Conference in Brooklyn Park:
(Brooklyn Park Lutheran Church, November 6-8, 2005)
All the presenters and preachers were very good. The conference was on the topic of "ecclesiology" and what it means to be the church. It led very well to the discussion of the association of confessing congregations, and our cooperative work of reform. On that, Jaynan Egland did an excellent job of setting a vision for the future.
The basic description of our direction is to gather our single witness with two "arms" of cooperative reform (below). The individuals, congregations, or organizations within both will be united in their subscription to the Common Confession. Both elected their own steering committee, which will meet independently, but in cooperation with each other.
1) The "Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession" is the name of the association of congregations, working together primary in the area of mutual/cooperative ministry, but also in grass-roots and local reform. The primary areas of concern identified by the participants of this group were: the authority of scripture, seminary education, and concern over the re-definition of gospel. This group will focus on bringing together congregations from the ground up, and promoting cooperative mission and ministry.
2) The "Coalition for Renewal" is the tentative title of a group of individuals and reform groups, that will work primarily in the area of church reform/politics (on the broader scale). Bringing together many of the WA and Solid Rock allies, this group will be looking ahead toward coming assemblies, and the actions of the national ELCA. The chairperson for this group is Paull Spring.
All in all, there was good conversation between diverse groups (WA and non-WA). I felt a genuine willingness to work together, and a sensible and measured desire not to go too slow or too fast in making that happen.
The Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession
The group that I was a part of was the one representing congregations in association. This group spilt into smaller regional groups for discussion, and met as well in one large group. We talked about needs, goals, and direction for the association.
After presenting a number of suggestions (and having a night to think about it), the participants settled with a strong consensus on the name: "Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession" as the 'working title' of the association (able to be changed later if we wish).
A steering committee for the LCCC was elected from people across the country, roughly corresponding to various regions and synods (listed below in parentheses). Some of these committee members have already been designated with specific area of responsibility; all have been asked to serve as a contact person for their geographical area. They include:
Randy Freund (At Large) - Committee Chairperson
Eric Swensson (Regions 7 & 8) - Webmaster/External Communication
Steve King (Greater Minnesota) - Internal Communication
Lou Hesse (Regions 1 & 2) - Mission Strategies
Mick Lee (Metro Twin Cities) - Cooperative Ministry
Rob Buechler (N. Dakota)
Jerry Merkoris (S. Dakota)
Bryan Anderson (Region 5)
Kurt Borows (Region 6)
Mark Braaten (Regions 4 & 9)
Committee members will be pulling together the list of names and prospects from their area. Eric S. intends to have a website up as soon as possible -- one that will not only provide information on the association, but will allow for communication from the inside and outside.
The Committee met only briefly, but one point on which we were all in agreement was that the LCCC should be advertised/presented independently -- not directly 'under the auspices' of any single organization. We will however, remain in full cooperation (and net-linked) to other reform and renewal groups (particularly those of the 'Coalition for Renewal', above).
Anyway ... that's what I have for now. I hope it gets you all thinking -- and talking!
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Steven King
Maple Lake, Minnesota
LCCC Steering Committee
The "Coalition for Reform"
Dear Friends in Christ,
From November 6 through November 8, 2005, the WordAloneNetwork sponsored a theological conference in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. A significant element of that conference was the approval of a resolution on forming a "coalition for renewal." The resolution, as amended, is as follows:
A "coalition for renewal" will be formed, for the purpose of supporting the various renewal movements within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and for addressing selected synodical and churchwide issues.
1. Purpose. More specifically, the purpose of the coalition will be to 1) encourage individual reform-minded congregations, laypersons, and pastors; 2) support and offer coordination for the various renewal groups within the ELCA; and 3) address significant synodical and churchwide issues. Such issues may include, but are not limited to, leadership in the ELCA, global missions and pioneer evangelism, marriage and sexuality, the orthodox naming of God, and ELCA polity matters (quotas, three-expressions, delegation/representation).
2. Common Confession. The Common Confession (exclusive of the footnotes) will be accepted as a summary of important teachings that are otherwise affirmed in the Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church.
3. Membership. Membership in the coalition will be open to reforming movements, congregations and individual members of the ELCA, who share The Common Confession and are supportive of the purposes of the coalition.
4. Relationship with WordAlone. The coalition will coordinate its ministry within the WordAlone Network (WA) and with the "association of congregations." A serious and intentional effort will be made to integrate the coalition within WA. A representative from the coalition will be invited to attend WA board meetings; in April 2006, a member of the coalition will be elected as a member of the WA board. The implications of this relationship, and the necessary processes for this relationship will be a subject of conversation between the steering committee (see below) and the WA board. This relationship will apply for two years and will be reviewed by the coalition and the WA board following the 2007 churchwide assembly.
5. Steering Committee: A steering committee of seven* persons will be elected. The purpose of the steering committee will be to follow through on any actions taken on the November 2005 gathering, set priorities for the coalition, develop strategies for implementing the priorities, plan an organizing gathering for the coalition, consider a fiscal proposal, select a name for the coalition, develop initial strategies regarding the 2007 churchwide assembly, and arrange for other organizational and structural matters.
*After adopting the resolution, the gathering decided later in the meeting to elect by unanimous consent all ninenominees to serve on the steering committee.
I personally believe that the formation of this coalition within the WordAlone Network fulfills the intention to organize a broad-based confessing movement for renewal. The purpose of the coalition is to support the various renewal
movements within our church and to address various issues that are still facing our church. Working within the WordAlone Network, the coalition will itself achieve a certain stability and will still have the freedom to advocate for its own concerns.
A steering committee of nine persons was elected to move the coalition process forward. The resolution indicates the important responsibilities that have been given to this group. On the steering committee are Mark Graham, Scott Grorud, Kenneth Kimball, Eric Midthun, Russell Saltzman, Stephens Shipman, Paull Spring, Paul Ulring, and Erma Wolf.
For the next five to six months the steering committee will work on the tasks that have been given them and will prepare for an organizing gathering that will officially launch the coalition into being.
A particularly urgent need now is to begin planning for the 2007 churchwide assembly in Chicago. You will be hearing more about this after the steering committee meeting in December. In the meantime, if your synod's process for nominating churchwide assembly members begins this fall or early in the new year at conference meetings, let's be sure that we have good people being nominated. It would be helpful to coordinate our efforts with WordAlone's synod
point of contacts, who are already at work on this in some synods. Contact Mark Chavez (wordalone@popp.net) for more information about this.
I am very pleased with what we have achieved thus far in forming this coalition. The goal is to renew and re-focus our church about the Word of God and the Confessions of our church, for the sake of the mission of the Gospel. I ask
you to surround this effort with your earnest prayer and with your encouragement and support. I also invite you to be in contact with me, if you have questions and comments.
In Christ,
Paull E. Spring,
Steering Committee Chair
956 Stratford Court
State College, PA 16801
814-235-9769
pastorspring@pennswoods.net
The Common Confession
Imagine churches, one by one, recommitting themselves and covenanting with each other to prepare a way for a new generation of Lutheran Christians. Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession (LCCC) is an association of churches who are lifting up such a vision. We are asking what "Lutheran" will mean in this post-denomination age. The churches who are joining LCCC commit themselves to a Christian witness founded on a Lutheran theology that is grounded in the authority of the Word of God and the Lutheran Confessions. Our common mission is the Great Commission (Matthew 28).
By first covenanting with each other around a Common Confession, we seek to bring clarity to the Lutheran witness and work with mission partners to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to a world who hungers for it. Beginning with our neighbors, the LCCC will work from the ground up to imagine together a Lutheran witness faithful to our callings to witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Common Confession
1) The Lord Jesus Christ
We are people who believe and confess our faith in the Triune God; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We trust and believe in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord.
2) The Gospel of Salvation
We believe and confess that all human beings are sinners, and that sinners are redeemed by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. God alone justifies human beings by faith in Christ, a faith which God creates through the message of the Gospel. As ambassadors for Christ, God uses us to speak his Word and build his kingdom.
3) The Authority of Scripture
We believe and confess that the Bible is God's revealed Word to us, spoken in Law and Gospel. The Bible is the final authority for us in all matters of our faith and life.
4) A Common Confession of Faith
We accept and uphold that the Lutheran Confessions reliably guide us as faithful interpretations of Scripture, and that we share a unity and fellowship in faith with others among whom the Gospel of Jesus Christ is preached and the sacraments are administered in accordance with the Gospel.
5) The Priesthood of All Believers
We believe and confess that the Holy Spirit makes all who believe in Jesus Christ to be priests for service to others in Jesus' name, and that God desires to make use of the spiritual gifts he has given through the priesthood of all believers.
6) Marriage and Family
We believe and confess that the marriage of male and female is an institution created and blessed by God. From marriage, God forms families to serve as the building blocks of all human civilization and community. We teach and practice that sexual activity belongs exclusively within the biblical boundaries of a faithful marriage between one man and one woman.
7) The Mission and Ministry of the Congregation
We believe and confess that the church is the assembly of believers called and gathered by God around Word and Sacrament, and that the mission and ministry of the church is carried out within the context of individual congregations, which are able to work together locally and globally.
If you would like more information on how your congregation
can join the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession
Email pietist@sbcglobal.net
You may also wish to go at this time to the archived information at the web site of our friends at the WordAlone Network here.
By first covenanting with each other around a Common Confession, we seek to bring clarity to the Lutheran witness and work with mission partners to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to a world who hungers for it. Beginning with our neighbors, the LCCC will work from the ground up to imagine together a Lutheran witness faithful to our callings to witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Common Confession
1) The Lord Jesus Christ
We are people who believe and confess our faith in the Triune God; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We trust and believe in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord.
2) The Gospel of Salvation
We believe and confess that all human beings are sinners, and that sinners are redeemed by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. God alone justifies human beings by faith in Christ, a faith which God creates through the message of the Gospel. As ambassadors for Christ, God uses us to speak his Word and build his kingdom.
3) The Authority of Scripture
We believe and confess that the Bible is God's revealed Word to us, spoken in Law and Gospel. The Bible is the final authority for us in all matters of our faith and life.
4) A Common Confession of Faith
We accept and uphold that the Lutheran Confessions reliably guide us as faithful interpretations of Scripture, and that we share a unity and fellowship in faith with others among whom the Gospel of Jesus Christ is preached and the sacraments are administered in accordance with the Gospel.
5) The Priesthood of All Believers
We believe and confess that the Holy Spirit makes all who believe in Jesus Christ to be priests for service to others in Jesus' name, and that God desires to make use of the spiritual gifts he has given through the priesthood of all believers.
6) Marriage and Family
We believe and confess that the marriage of male and female is an institution created and blessed by God. From marriage, God forms families to serve as the building blocks of all human civilization and community. We teach and practice that sexual activity belongs exclusively within the biblical boundaries of a faithful marriage between one man and one woman.
7) The Mission and Ministry of the Congregation
We believe and confess that the church is the assembly of believers called and gathered by God around Word and Sacrament, and that the mission and ministry of the church is carried out within the context of individual congregations, which are able to work together locally and globally.
If you would like more information on how your congregation
can join the Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession
Email pietist@sbcglobal.net
You may also wish to go at this time to the archived information at the web site of our friends at the WordAlone Network here.
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