Feb. 9, 2026
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,
This afternoon at about 1:30–2:00, I visited Michael Mohr, who is in custody awaiting legal proceedings. 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. Were he to appeal my decision, the bylaws would have required a panel to be assembled to judge his case. 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, including LCMS Central Illinois District president, regent of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and associate pastor. He will never again be eligible to serve in any future ministerial roles in the Synod. As required by LCMS bylaw, I have assigned him a chaplain for spiritual care.
Unfortunately, we will have to revisit this matter as it wends its way through the courts. But light has now been shown on what was done in darkness.
I want to praise those who brought these reported crimes to the attention of the federal authorities. It takes courage to do so. We’re sorry and devastated this happened to you. We suspect the pain may be great. We pray that the Lord, who is making all things new, comfort all the hurting, restore what has been broken, and give those sinned against so gravely hope and faith and a future unburdened by such evil acts. These sins and crimes are the opposite of what the church is here to give. We urge those who are suffering to seek spiritual help, and the Synod and its districts and congregations stand ready to give it.
The actions for which Michael is accused have no place in society and have no place in our church. I pray for those who have been harmed, for those who care for them, and I also pray for Michael. May justice be served.
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. (Heb. 13:20–21)
Pastor Matthew C. Harrison
President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
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Posted Feb. 9, 2026
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