Dear Friends in Christ:

Grace and peace be with you, from God our Father and from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

On behalf of the Council of Presidents of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and Council Chairman Dr. Larry Stoterau, with this brief memo I share with our beloved Synod the document, titled “Theses on Worship.” This document has been in the process of preparation by the COP since the 2007 Synod convention.

The Council of Presidents is keenly aware of the diversity of worship practices in LCMS congregations. This diversity in many instances has resulted in disharmony and even polarization. In order to foster God-pleasing harmony in this matter, the COP encourages pastors, worship leaders, musicians, and other church leaders to engage in prayerful conversation with one another, in submission to God’s Holy Word and the Lutheran Confessions.

Read the "Theses on Worship"   Download the "Theses on Worship (PDF)

To that end and to assist with that process, the Council of Presidents presents these succinct but significant “Theses on Worship.” This document was approved unanimously by the COP at its regular meeting September 22, 2009, in St. Louis. As you will see, these theses are based on and supported solely by scriptural and confessional references. They are designed for wide distribution and study throughout the LCMS. In order to view the document CLICK HERE.

Please be assured that the Council of Presidents ardently desires to assist our Synod in every way possible to achieve harmony and concord in the theology and practice of worship. We recognize that different affinities in music and worship expressions exist among us. Yet we believe that our future with one another as brothers and sisters in Christ must be firmly grounded in the light of Christ’s forgiveness, grace, and mercy.

While seeking to enhance our worship of the triune God with a variety of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod remains steadfastly committed to the Holy Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions. Through this varied repertoire we joyfully confess all that God has done for us, declaring the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. May the songs of the Church prevail beyond human adversity and strife, confessing our eternal hope in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer.

Jerry Kieschnick

Dr. Gerald B. Kieschnick, President
The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod

"Transforming lives through Christ's love ...  in time ... for eternity ..." John 3:16-17

Download "Theses on Worship" in PDF format