Church in Culture| Church in Culture |
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Fellow Followers in Christ,
This has been a tumultuous several weeks for our country and our church. The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod (LCMS) has respectfully yet, firmly stood in opposition to the HHS mandate that churches must provide abortion services to their employees. We are not alone. The Roman Catholic Church and other groups have voiced similar opposition.
Several people have asked me about where we stand on this issue and why? Others have wondered what is actually at stake if we as a matter of being faithful followers of Jesus continue to stand in opposition to this mandate if it becomes law. As a matter of clarification I thought some of you might appreciate access to some statements by Church leaders that help to clarify why this is such a big deal for us as Christians. I have included 3 audio/video clips that I believe do that very well.
The 1st is a video statement released by the LCMS immediately after the mandate (and the so called, "compromise"). The 2nd is President Matthew Harrison (LCMS) in his opening statement when he appeared at a congressional hearing on the issue. The 3rd might surprise you a bit: It is a homily by a Roman Catholic Priest. While we still have significant differences with the Catholic Church in teaching and practice, we also stand together on many issues. The issue of abortion is one of them. As many of you might be a little hypersensitive when it comes to the Roman Catholic Church, I invite you listen with an open mind.
Lastly, I encourage all of you to pray. Pray for President Obama--That God would bless him, watch over him and his family, keep them safe, and that God would turn his heart to the defense of the unborn and respect for orthodox Christianity. Pray for the leaders of the LCMS and all churches-- That we would remain lovingly, respectfully, and firmly resolute on this issue. Pray also for all those who are hurting because of abortion--That through the mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, they might enjoy comfort and peace as only the love of God through His Son can provide.
As always, I am open to any discussions that these items might spawn.
God Bless you!
Pastor Tim Sims
OALC
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