Thoughts on the Statute

 

(PDF in German language only)

Luther's spirit and sense understood as a matter of focus and mission of the Lutheriden Association.

Observations and commentary by Christian Priesmeier from March 2015

Discussion paper and opinion by Christian Priesmeier about the planned amendment of the statute by the General Assembly in September 2015 in Eisleben.

 

Introduction / Foreword

Since 2007, I am on the board of the Lutheriden Association - first as assessor and in the course as Secretary and Vice Chairman. And I have volunteered taken over - more or less - the "spiritual" tasks of Pastor Burkhard Clasen.

 

Shortly before his death, he addressed to me his desire - arose out of the worry and anxiety that the Theological and Spiritual would not have any part anymore - when he leaves the board. So I've always seen my previous work on the Board in the consideration of this desire; in care of family gatherings through prayer and worship as well as at board meetings

 

In recent years, I had to employ with the question of "be a Christian and be Christ to come into union"! Often with different opinions on the subject. Again and again, of course, due to the existing statute, which, generally excludes a membership of Lutheriden who are no longer members in a christian church.

 

Because as part of my work at the board, I have had numerous conversations after approval and rejection of applications; Sure as well as other members of the Executive Board of the Association. These discussions with Member candidates and members, with external, as well as church related and unchurched people, it brought up a variety of approaches and perspectives. Some being part of this writings now.

 

For these observations, I have dealt with various finishes of family papers, chronicles and annual reports, looked up newspaper interviews and statements of various kinds on the described subject. But I have deliberately omitted a "scientific" Citation of sources.

 

Many thanks to Br. Stephan Arnold from my Lutheran monastery Amelungsborn who has enriched the manuscript by his comments and ideas. 

 

I hope that these explanations not only show the different tendencies that exists in the Association but awaken a mutual understanding.

 

To the descendants in "lutherverwandschaftlicher" connectedness

 

Yours Br. Christian Priesmeier