LCMS shares law enforcement visit guidelines

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has released two sets of guidelines for use by LCMS schools and congregations in the event of a visit from a law enforcement agent or agency.

These documents are not intended to be legal advice. They are general guidelines only and may be adapted to the specific congregational or school situation as deemed appropriate by the leadership in those locations.

The LCMS is a scripturally faithful church body, guided at all times by God’s Word and His instructions given to His people in the Ten Commandments. At this time, as immigration enforcement is receiving heightened attention, the national LCMS leadership particularly encourages attention to the Fourth and Fifth Commandments as well as to Paul’s instructions to the Colossians: “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience (Col. 3:12).

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Guidelines for schools Guidelines for congregations
Posted Feb. 11, 2025