At its April 2021 convention, the Nihon Ruteru Kyodan (NRK) — the Japan Lutheran Church (JLC) — made two decisions that have destroyed the scriptural basis for the longstanding relationship of altar and pulpit fellowship between The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and the JLC.
LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison has written to the leadership of the JLC to explain the import of these decisions and to seek the JLC’s repentance. If the JLC persists in these decisions and does not repent, Harrison will suggest that the matter of fellowship be brought before the Synod in convention in 2023.