Reformation Lutheran Church : Protest ELCA

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).

Recent events at the ELCA National Assembly have caused many to question their affiliation with the ELCA. I too am questioning my affiliation (see recent letter sent to Bishop Finck). The issue is not homosexuality. The homosexual, lesbian, and transgendered communities have enough crosses to bear (we need not add more). The real issue is the ELCA’s acceptance of Liberal Protestantism, which leads to the kind of proclamation described by H. Richard Niebuhr: “A God without wrath brought men without sin into a kingdom without judgment through the ministrations of a Christ without the cross.”

At times like this, the temptation is to lay down the cross. However, we must not. Instead, we are to heed our Lord’s command. There are many ways to do this. I will suggest four ways.

We carry the cross by worshiping when we do not want to worship. One of the greatest gifts that God has given to us is worship. However, worship can be a burden. This is not the time to stay away from church. This is the time for worship. If you cannot attend your own congregation because of this matter, then come to Reformation. Our service times are 8:30 & 11:00 am (get directions).

We carry the cross by receiving the Lord’s Supper. We have modified our communion schedule so that the Lord’s Supper will be provided every Sunday at every service. As we eat the bread and drink the cup, we proclaim our Lord's death until he comes.

We carry the cross through prayer. We are gathering every morning at 6:00 am to pray. We will be praying for our congregation, for the ELCA, for the homosexual community, and for the church’s witness. If you cannot join us at the church, please set time in the morning to pray from home.

We carry the cross through protest. We are working with Lutheran Core (learn more) to see what other ELCA congregations are doing to protest this assembly. We are seeking a united voice of protest. In addition, no money collected will be sent to the ELCA unless designated on the offering envelope. We will find other mission and mercy ministries to support.

We have a long road ahead of us. The cross we carry is not an easy one. God is faithful.

Yours in Christ,
Pastor Russell Lackey

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