Frequently Asked Questions – Worship & Congregational Life
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod answers frequently asked questions about the church year, congregational life, and membership.
Topics:
Church Year
- What is the history of Advent and the Advent wreath?
- What is the significance of Ash Wednesday and ashes on the forehead?
- How do you determine the date of Easter each year?
- Could you please explain Epiphany and the Circumcision of our Lord?
- Do Lutherans give up something for Lent?
- What is the significance of Lent?
- What are the advantages/disadvantages of using the one-year or three-year lectionary?
Congregational Life
- What is the LCMS’ stance on clergy promoting political candidates in the pulpit?
- Could you please explain CRM status for a pastor?
- What is “pastor emeritus”? How does a pastor receive this title?
- Could you please explain what is meant by “Divine Call”?
- Why are women not allowed to become ministers in the LCMS?
- Where should the American and Christian flags be placed?
- Does the LCMS have any genealogy resources?
- How does the HIPAA Privacy Rule affect LCMS congregations?
- Who may read Scripture during a church service?
- What is the role of elders in a congregation?
- What is the background of using a Corpus Christi Cross or an empty cross?
- How do I properly dispose of a Bible or American flag that is unusable?
- What are the prescribed means for the disposal of the consecrated wine and wafers?
- How does the LCMS feel about using a crucifix in church?
- What is the LCMS’ position concerning tithing?
Membership
- How do I become an LCMS member?
- Why should a person join a congregation?
- What are the most common names for LCMS congregations?
- What are the largest LCMS congregations?
- When and where has the LCMS met in convention, and which cities have hosted it?
- What are the names of the LCMS presidents and their terms in office?
Usage: Congregational use of FAQs does not require permission of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. However, each reproduction should credit the LCMS as the source and include a link to the corresponding webpage.