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Frequently Asked Questions about Lutheran CORE Congregations
Listed below are some of the more frequently asked questions. If you have specific questions not included here or would like an individual response, please email us at info@lutherancore.org.
How can my congregation join Lutheran CORE?
In order to join, a congregation needs to adopt the “Common Confession” at a duly authorized meeting. An intention to participate in the Lutheran CORE can be included in the same statement. A copy of the congregational action, signed by the church president on church letterhead, should be sent to Lutheran CORE at: 2299 Palmer Drive, Suite 220, New Brighton, MN 55112. A congregation will not be listed as a member of Lutheran CORE, unless official notification is received from the church.
Why would a congregation need adopt a new confession of faith? Aren’t the Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions enough? Why the “Common Confession?”
The Common Confession is not intended to be a new confession of faith nor a comprehensive statement of faith, it is intended only to highlight the main areas where traditional Lutheran teachings have been called into question in our own day. The Common Confession introduces no "new" doctrine that is in conflict with prior confessions, but allows a congregation to state in a brief form its basic convictions.
What is the role of the WordAlone Network in Lutheran CORE?
The WordAlone Network, a national organization working for reform, renewal, and reflection within the Lutheran Church, is fully supportive of Lutheran CORE and is working in cooperation with the association’s mission and ministry efforts. However, the WordAlone Network remains a separate organization. A congregation does not have to be a member of WordAlone to be a part of Lutheran CORE, nor is it assumed that Lutheran CORE members are in agreement with WordAlone's stance on all issues.
How is Lutheran CORE different from the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC)? Aren't they also an “association” of Lutheran congregations?
The “Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ” (LCMC) is a group that grew out of the WordAlone Network in the early years of the movement as an association of churches freely gathered together with one another in a common mission. The LCMC also served as a denominational entity. a recognized “Lutheran body” to which congregations could go if they chose to leave the ELCA. Lutheran CORE is different from this in that it is not a denominational body, but is an association working within and alongside denominations for renewal in mission and ministry.
In order to join Lutheran CORE, does a congregation have to leave ELCA?
No. Lutheran CORE is not a new denomination, nor does participation and membership in it require a congregation to leave or join a particular denominational body. Lutheran CORE is not a ‘break-away’ organization, but an attempt to mobilize congregations in mutual mission and ministry. While Lutheran CORE is primarily aimed at ELCA congregations, we are interested in working cooperatively with churches of other Lutheran denominations as well. Some churches in the LCMC and Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada have already adopted the “Common Confession” as a statement of faith.
Who makes decisions for Lutheran CORE?
A nine-member Steering Committee, representing various regions from across the country, serve the administration of the coalition.
Can pastors and individuals join Lutheran CORE if their churches do not?
Yes. Lutheran CORE is a coalition of churches and individuals.
Are there financial obligations for joining Lutheran CORE?
There are no membership dues. However, congregations are encouraged to make Lutheran CORE a part of their annual benevolence budget. The primary need at this point is in the area of administration (mailings, internet, postage, etc.), but as the association grows, specific mission and ministry projects will be promoted.
You may make an online donation or checks may be sent to Lutheran CORE, 2299 Palmer Drive, Suite 220, New Brighton, MN 55112.