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Commission on Theology and Church Relations

The LCMS Commision on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) provides study documents, opinions and statements on theological issues. The CTCR also assists the President of Synod in maintaining doctrinal integry as he relates to other church bodies.

Commission on Theology and Church Relations

The LCMS Commision on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) provides study documents, opinions and statements on theological issues. The CTCR also assists the President of Synod in maintaining doctrinal integry as he relates to other church bodies.

In the News

July 21, 2026

Synod elects members to BNM, BIM, CTCR, CHI

On the morning of July 21, the Synod in convention elected a total of 15 people to serve on four different boards or commissions.

March 30, 2026

Doctrine, pastoral office, abortion among topics of new CTCR documents

The 2023 convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) gave the LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations a record number of assignments.

September 5, 2025

CTCR adopts report on Lutheran education

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations met May 1–3 in St. Louis.

More Stories

Highlights

CTCR report — ‘Proper Administration of the Lord’s Supper’

CTCR report — ‘Proper Administration of the Lord’s Supper’

The CTCR offers the Synod guidance on three practical issues in our Synod presently: the use of grape juice, pre-packaged elements, and non-wheat hosts.

CTCR report — ‘Unity in Doctrine, Uniformity and Variety in Practice: A Study Document’

CTCR report — ‘Unity in Doctrine, Uniformity and Variety in Practice: A Study Document’

The study focuses on six worship-related debates over three distinct historical periods: the Early Church, the Reformation-era church, and the Missouri Synod era.

Commission on Theology and Church Relations library

Commission on Theology and Church Relations library

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) document library includes reports, statements, evaluations, and opinions.

CTCR Library — Biblical Authority and Interpretation

CTCR Library — Biblical Authority and Interpretation

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations addresses the inspiration and inerrancy of God’s Word, interpretive principles, and the relationship between the Gospel and Scripture.

Connect With Us

Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer

Executive Director, LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations