This just in...


Lutheran community seeks to redefine path at meeting in Geneva

Geneva (ENInews)--At a meeting taking place from 9 June through 14 June in Geneva, members of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) will vote on adopting a strategic plan for the years 2012 through 2017 that places greater focus on responding to emergencies, especially those having to do with the environment. The new focus also includes proposals for increasing the role of youth and creating financial sustainability. "There is a need to explore how to get involved in advocacy work that is linked to climate change," said LWF General Secretary Rev. Martin Junge, who is leading the renewal process. Under the proposal, Lutheran churches hope to be able to better respond to human suffering through coordinated actions with partners.

 I was worried as heck that the environmental emergencies would lack from clear Lutheran teaching and witness but now I can breathe easier.  Whew.  Dodged a bullet on that one.

Seriously, what happens when Lutherans no longer have any unanimity about justification, when social gospel replaces the Gospel of the cross, when social causes are more important than salvation, and when overpaid theologitians sit around in offices in Switzerland?  You got it.  The environment becomes the cause celebre for Lutheran worldwide identity.  Is it no wonder that Lutherans are in decline?  I am sure Dr. Martin might have a few choice words to say at such a meeting -- before stomping off to drown his sorrows in some good beer.  Hrrrmmmmpppphhh.