LCMS Church Relations booklet – ‘Women’s Ordination through the Lens of the Apostles’ Creed’

Women’s Ordination through the Lens of the Apostles’ Creed grew out of a theological dialogue between the Lutheran Church in Korea (LCK) and The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS).

In 2022, LCK President Rev. Eun-Seob Kim brought news that the 2020 LCK convention discussed elevating women’s service in the church — understood as pointing toward women’s ordination — and he was concerned about what this might mean for the relationship between the LCK and the LCMS. The two church bodies met for discussion on this topic Jan. 16–17, 2023, at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne.

This booklet documents that fraternal theological dialogue and examines the question of women’s ordination from the perspective of the Christian confession of faith, especially as it pertains to the Apostles’ Creed.

The booklet’s three chapters delve into (1) the enduring truth, goodness and beauty of the order of creation within the family and within Christ’s church; (2) a hybrid exegetical, historical and systematic approach to the Second Article’s understanding of Christ and His institution of ordination; and (3) the Third Article gift of Holy Scripture as the sole authority for the church’s doctrine and practice, and its implications for women’s ordination.

These essays are now being made available for further study and discussion.

Download and read booklet

LCMS Church Relations

lcms.org/church-relations

infocenter@lcms.org

888-843-5267