Gottesblog

His July article mentions Pope Leo XIV, Leo’s ecumenical discussions with the Eastern Orthodox concerning the papacy, and a citation from Philip Melanchthon from the Treatise on the Power and Primacy of the Pope - as well as a response from one of the newly-ordained Lutheran pastors in Rome.

Pastoral care is an art, not a science. Thus there is seldom a one-size-fits-all solution to dealing with every parish and every parishioner.

In spite of the ongoing chaos (liturgical and otherwise) in our culture, church, and church body, there are a lot of positives - especially on the horizon. A lot of the monkeyshines of the past are diminishing among younger generations of Christians - including among us confessional Lutherans - who are once again taking the faith seriously.

What is a Protestant?  Well, it's any Christian who is not a Roman Catholic or an Eastern Orthodox.  It is impossible to define "Protestant" in any positive way, we can only say what one is by saying what one isn't.  As a theological term, it is useless.  For what is Protestant Theology?

The cultural differences between men and women covering their heads is stubborn and persistent, even in our current feminist, egalitarian age. For men still remove their hats at certain times, even though women do not. Such times include prayer, and showing civil respect to the flag

One of the persistent strategies of the progressive wing of the LCMS is to advocate for non-ordained church workers to be voting delegates at conventions. Another related strategy is to push for proportional representation of congregations based on membership size. Make no mistake. This is all about power, and is a means to a progressive end.

This is the time of year in which we are ordaining men into the Office of the Holy Ministry. And because of this, it is also the time when we call to mind our own ordinations.