April 30, 2022
On this date in 1987, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America began. During the opening session of the Constituting Convention in Columbus, OH, the new ELCA constitution was adopted.
The picture below includes Bishops David Preus (left), James Crumley, Jr. (right), and Will Herzfeld (hidden) as they fill a communion vessel to symbolize the three merging church bodies (the American Lutheran Church, the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches, and the Lutheran Church in America) forming one church. Herbert W. Chilstrom (who was elected the first bishop of the new body) looks on from behind the altar.
In these thirty-five years there has been richness, joy, turmoil, and schism. Certainly there is much the church needs (and can) do to be faithful in sharing God’s message with the world. Yet, today, we celebrate and say, Happy Anniversary.
So on this Satisfied Saturday, I am thankful for the wisdom and God's guidance that led to forming this church body. It is a privilege to serve as a pastor in the ELCA alongside many wonderful people/saints.
Blessings. And prayers.
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