One reason that I have decided to start writing again is that in some minor way, I would like to affect positive change in my church body, The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). I believe positive change is needed because, across this last decade or so, I have seen the LCMS change in some negative ways. Now do not misunderstand me, there are many positive traits and people in the LCMS. I enjoy having a network of pastors, congregations, and resources that I can utilize in my career as a pastor. But I am also saddened by many things that have occurred in the LCMS.

I plan to tackle two topics over the coming days that have been on my heart and mind lately in an effort to shine light on positive and negative work that is being done around these topics. These topics are:

• The changes that are occurring at my alma mater, Concordia University – Ann Arbor
• The actions of the current leadership of the LCMS around immigration and refugees.

These topics, plus a host of others, have compelled me to start writing again. I see the challenges faced by our local congregations and national church body and I want to help in a positive way. These posts are not meant as attacks on any person or group. I will try my hardest to not give political views, as I am not a politician nor am I educated in the laws of our country.

Instead, I want to speak truth in love, speak truth to power, and speak hope to the discouraged. I want to remind us all (but mostly myself) that God is in control of all things and He will be returning one day to make all things new again. And I want to remind us all that God deeply loves us.

Pastor Garet Ellis
The World’s Okayest Pastor