2016 LCMS Convention

CTCR report addresses marriage and the state

The report follows several requests, in recent years, for the CTCR to address the question of whether or to what extent LCMS clergy should continue to serve as agents of the state in officiating marriages and signing civil marriage licenses.

Lutheran Public Radio establishes Lutheran Identity Fund at CUC

The fund will support the recruitment of LCMS faculty and students.

Synod leaders meet to discuss church worker wellness

The Ministerial Care Coalition, a project of Concordia Plan Services, began in 2014 with the goal of fostering wide-ranging discussion and advocacy of worker wellness in the LCMS.

BOD continues on path toward best corporate stewardship

At its November meeting, the Board heard from its chairman about efforts to increase the efficiencies of corporate Synod so the church can use the savings on its “core competencies.” 

LCMS presidential voter registration proceeds under new bylaws

Receipt of presidential election voter registration forms began on Oct. 25 and will continue until March 24, 2019.

New CTCR report highlights the priesthood of all believers

The report stresses the complementary relationship that exists between the priesthood of all believers and the Office of the Holy Ministry.

FAQs provide ‘Update on Licensed Lay Deacons’

The new online resource is available on the LCMS president’s webpage.

Nominations begin under 2016 bylaw changes

Convention delegates in 2016 adopted resolutions regarding district convention attendance and geographical region requirements for board members.

FAQs address bylaw changes on ecclesiastical supervision

The changes were mandated by Resolution 12–14, adopted by the 2016 LCMS convention and endorsed in May by the Synod’s Board of Directors.

‘Boards and Business’ — LCMS Board of Directors

Actions at the Board’s May 19-20 meeting in St. Louis include adoption of a prudent, lean Synod budget, contingent on further expense reductions.

Synod, other advocates speak for religious liberty in secularized military

U.S. Air Force Col. Michael Madrid allegedly was punished because of his religious beliefs about marriage and sexuality.

Constitutional Amendment Ballot Results (April 2017)

Three amendments to the LCMS constitution are approved by congregations.

And the ‘Mustache Resolution’ winner is …

Montana District President Rev. Terry Forke wins having “the best mustache” as he and Synod President Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison both undergo facial-hair shaves.

Board’s top challenge: helping God’s people marshal kingdom resources

“Finances are first and foremost on everyone’s heart,” LCMS Board of Directors Chairman Rev. Dr. Michael L. Kumm says during the Board’s Nov. 17-18 meeting in Schaumburg, Ill.

COP tackles wide range of topics at November meeting

Topics discussed by the LCMS Council of Presidents include ecclesiastical supervision, calling pastors on candidate status, immigration and seminary concerns.

Photo essay: Powerful Moments — A Year in Review

Nine photos taken during 2016 illustrate how God has been at work worldwide through The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.