I was happy to read this. After spending most of my life in the non-denominational world, my wife and I have begun attending a small Lutheran parish, and it has been an incredible breath of fresh air. Like many others out there, I appreciate the sense of reverence surrounding God's Word and the Sacraments, as well as the stability offered by confessionalism and a more structured church polity. I also find Lutheran theology to be gospel-centered, historically informed, and simply beautiful. The rich music, the liturgy, and the personal prayer life it encourages are wonderful.
While some of these things come with their own challenges, I do think there is a reason why younger millennials and Gen-z are "trending" in this direction. I'm happy to hear you're thinking through the phenomenon and are reflecting on how to address it thoughtfully. May the Spirit continue to guide us all.
Jeremy! Thank you for these words. I miss you and the greater Portland believers. What a gift it was to cross paths with you (far too short though!). Much love to you, brother. Happy Advent to you and Natalie!
Hi David! Hope you're doing well!
I was happy to read this. After spending most of my life in the non-denominational world, my wife and I have begun attending a small Lutheran parish, and it has been an incredible breath of fresh air. Like many others out there, I appreciate the sense of reverence surrounding God's Word and the Sacraments, as well as the stability offered by confessionalism and a more structured church polity. I also find Lutheran theology to be gospel-centered, historically informed, and simply beautiful. The rich music, the liturgy, and the personal prayer life it encourages are wonderful.
While some of these things come with their own challenges, I do think there is a reason why younger millennials and Gen-z are "trending" in this direction. I'm happy to hear you're thinking through the phenomenon and are reflecting on how to address it thoughtfully. May the Spirit continue to guide us all.
Happy Advent to you and your family!
Jeremy
Jeremy! Thank you for these words. I miss you and the greater Portland believers. What a gift it was to cross paths with you (far too short though!). Much love to you, brother. Happy Advent to you and Natalie!