Ad Crucem NewsLCMS 2026

Ad Crucem NewsLCMS 2026 ConventionBoards and commissions · Conditions for election

Commission on Theology and Church Relations

2 seats to fill at the 2026 convention, 5 current incumbents, 5 candidates published on the official slate.

2023 Handbook, pp. 151–55.

Seats to elect

  • One (1) Minister of Religion—Ordained(parish pastor)
  • One (1) Layperson

Duties

Six-year term. Three-day meetings four times a year in St. Louis. The commission assists the President in his constitutional responsibilities; provides guidance to the Synod in matters of theology and church relations; and serves as a clearing house for materials relating to membership in societies, lodges, cults, or any organizations of an unchristian or anti-Christian character.

Desired qualifications

The CTCR exists to assist congregations in achieving the objectives of 1 and 6 — conserving and promoting the unity of the true faith (; ), and providing resources and opportunities for recognizing, promoting, expressing, conserving, and defending confessional unity.

Nominees should therefore be well grounded in their knowledge of and commitment to the Holy Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions and the doctrinal position of the Synod, with a good understanding of the internal workings of the LCMS. Above all, they should have a Christ-centered concern for the pure teaching of the Gospel, the right administration of the Sacraments, and God-pleasing relationships with all members of the Body of Christ.

Must be available for quarterly meetings of three days each.

Current incumbents (5)

* Ineligible for re-election (term-limited or otherwise barred from a successive term).

Other boards and commissions