New video series explores ‘Life Together as Synod’

(LCMS/Erik M. Lunsford)

“What does it mean for you to be part of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod?”

So asks the Rev. Dr. James A. Baneck in the introductory video of a new series, “Life Together as Synod,” produced by the LCMS. Baneck, executive director of the LCMS Office of Pastoral Education, goes on to explain that the purpose of the series is to “explore and discover the answer to this question.”

“’Life Together’ is … about our mutual commitment to confession, mission and good order,” Baneck continues. After providing a definition of the word “Synod,” he gives an overview of the LCMS’ organization and operation, highlights the various entities and auxiliaries of the Synod, and reviews the many individuals and groups who share in the Synod’s work.

The second video of the “Life Together” series, titled “History, Confession and Purpose,” is hosted by LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison. In the video, Harrison talks about the history of the LCMS and why its founding still matters today: “Though the work has grown tremendously, our purpose is still the same. … We hold to the Scriptures of the Old and the New Testament as the written Word of God and the only rule and norm of faith and of practice.”

Module 3, “Confessional Position of Synod,” features the Rev. Dr. Joel D. Lehenbauer, executive director of the LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations, discussing how the Synod is joined together around a common faith and doctrine as contained in the Book of Concord. Among other topics, Lehenbauer highlights the Synod’s doctrinal review process, explaining that “doctrinal clarity and unity ultimately impact the spiritual welfare of all God’s people.”

Each video module in the “Life Together as Synod” series is accompanied by a free, downloadable “talk sheet” with suggestions for studying Scripture, questions for discussion and resources for further study. Modules to be released soon will address the objectives of the Synod (Modules 4 and 5) and membership in the Synod (Module 6). A total of 10 videos are in production for the first installment of this series and will be released as they become available.

Learn more and view the “Life Together” video series.

Posted Jan. 31, 2022