Lutheran Witness: November 2019

The annual “State of the Synod” issue of The Lutheran Witness features updates about The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in 2019.

Contents

From the President: For the sake of the Gospel

The issue includes updates on:

Rosters and Statistics

Making Disciples for Life

Office of International Mission

Pastoral Education

Concordia University System

Lutheran K–12 Schools

As well as the following articles:

LCMS Annual Report

Now, What Lies Ahead? — Kevin D. Robson

God’s Truth Today: CTCR Guides Important Discussions

LCMS Social Media: Proclaiming Christ and His Work to the World — Peter Slayton

Departments:

world views: A monthly news column from Gene Edward Veith

bene+diction: The State of the Synod’s Grammar — David Strand

From the editor

Welcome to our annual “State of the Synod” issue of The Lutheran Witness. In the following pages, you will not read many stories, but you’ll find figures and charts. It’s an update on your Synod as an organization. There are people, resources and plans involved. Dollars and cents, reports on attendance and outlines of programs all reflect how The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod continues to fulfill its mission of making “known the love of Christ by word and deed.”

In the issue, LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison reminds us all of our foundation and focus — justification by grace through faith for the sake of Christ. In addition, LCMS Chief Mission Officer, Rev. Kevin Robson helps us understand the Synod’s plans to move forward, built on this foundation.

The Commission on Theology and Church Relations continues to provide the LCMS with documents and statements to guide our discussion and thinking on the issues that confront us. Read about their latest work, all of which is available for free. The LCMS also enjoys a robust presence on social media. You can explore this intentional strategy and learn about helpful posts in this issue. If you are not following the LCMS on social media, now is the time to do so.

And, by the way, please read the bene+diction piece on the Oxford comma. It is well-written, thoughtful, and enjoyable.

May all we do as the LCMS be to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

In His mercy,

Kevin Armbrust
Interim Managing Editor, The Lutheran Witness