ST. LOUIS — On Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the Thomas F. Eagleton U.S. Courthouse, the former president of the LCMS Central Illinois District, Michael Mohr, was indicted by a grand jury on two counts of production of child pornography.
On Jan. 28, 2026, Mohr was arrested in Illinois by federal law enforcement. At a preliminary hearing, Mohr did not contest the government’s request that he remain incarcerated until the trial.
Last Monday, Feb. 9, the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, LCMS president, visited Mohr in prison. In a letter following the event, Harrison wrote: “This was my first opportunity for contact since his arrest by federal authorities on Wednesday, Jan. 28. I suspended Mr. Mohr from the LCMS roster. … Recognizing the severity of his alleged actions, Mohr immediately resigned and is now off the roster. This excludes him from any roles with Synod and district.”
With this indictment, the investigation will continue, and this process can be quite lengthy. “We are thankful to law enforcement for their work,” said Nathan Haak, acting chief administrative officer for the LCMS. “We are cooperating with their requests for information, and we encourage our congregations to do likewise.”
In response to these revelations, the LCMS offered this statement to media and reporters:
Today, a grand jury indicted Michael Mohr on two counts of production of child pornography. We continue to cooperate with federal authorities and urge all with information to share and cooperate fully with them as well. Even as we are grateful for the light of truth revealing the deeds done in darkness, we are sickened by what is being revealed. With this indictment, we know that the course of the investigation will continue, and this process can be lengthy. We pray that the Lord, who is making all things new, comfort all the hurting, restore what has been broken, and give those who have been sinned against so gravely hope and faith and a future unburdened by such evil acts.
If you or a loved one has something to report regarding this matter, please contact the FBI St. Louis Office at 314-589-2500. The LCMS Central Illinois District has established a special resource to receive reports from any individual who may have experienced harm by Michael Mohr: 877-276-1740 or email at districtassistance@cidlcms.org. These channels are being monitored by Ms. Rebekah Wendling, a mental health professional.
Posted Feb. 13, 2026
