# LCMS Convention Workbook_St. Louis Missouri_1973_S313
# Machine transcription, uncorrected — CHI Digital Archive (demonstration)

EVANGELISM 311

Because of these experiences, the Board for Evangelism
recommends:

Recommendation 8 — Open House Services

We recommend:

a) that the Synod commend the Iron Mountain Circuit
for its willingness to experiment with the PTR-type of Open
House Services;

b) that the Synod implore the blessings of God on the
Michigan District week of Open House Services planned for
October

c) that the Board for Evangelism consider producing re-
vised materials to help congregations, circuits, and Districts
conduct Open House Services.

Conclusion

The task of evangelism is as broad as the commission
to “make disciples of all nations.” It is not merely pro-
grams, although programs for training, motivation and orga-
nization are needed. It is not merely the task of one Board
or Committee, although some group must make evangelism
its special concern. Every activity and function of the
church has evangelistic implications. So the Board for
Evangelism seeks the continued cooperation of all the other
boards, commissions, and committees of the Synod, pleading
that they keep the “Great Commission” to “make disciples”
before them as they plan their program and activities.

The Board seeks to work with the Board of Parish Edu-
cation on materials for training children to witness; with
the Board of Youth Ministry in youth evangelism; with the
Board for Higher Education for evangelism training at the
synodical schools; with the Board for Missions in special
ministries; the college campus and its world-work; with the
Board of Social Ministry and World Relief that the good
works may lead many to see the good and “glorify the Fa-
ther;” with the Board of Stewardship that the stewardship of

life include sharing Christ; with the Board for Lutheran
Television that the best outreach use may be made of pro-
grams like “Tension Point,” the children’s spots, and “This
Is the Life.”

In the American culture of the 70s, society continues to
be splintered by political and social groupings of people.
The Board for Evangelism pledges renewed efforts in seek-
ing to learn how to communicate the good news about Jesus
Christ to every part of our society, seeking to reach “all sorts
and conditions of men.”

Yes, Missouri Synod has come a long way in evangelism,
and by the grace of God it will keep going the way the
Spirit directs until the Lord Himself returns to take his
pilgrim people to their eternal dwelling place with Him.

Boarp FOR EvANGELISM
Erwin J. Kolb, Executive Secretary

8-02

To Encourage Caution in Cooperation
with Key 73

Wuereas, Key 73 “Commission on Theology and Church
Relations” guidelines warn against unionistic services or
activities which contradict our synodical fellowship princi-
ples; and

Wuereas, Participation in Key 73 is possible while follow-
ing the guidelines; therefore be it

Resolved, That Synod in convention admonish all those
who take part in unionistic practices under the banner of
Key 73.

Trinity LUTHERAN CHURCH
Sturgis, Mich.

Bruce Schaeffer, Chairman
Albert Bumann, Secretary
H. M. Heidenreich, Pastor