Letter from Rev. Mark H. Larson

It may sound strange for a congregation to spend so much time and energy developing a “Strategic Plan.” After all, isn’t the mission and the strategy for the church the same that is has always been? Jesus was pretty clear when he said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28).

Yes, the mission is the same but the context has changed, and keeps changing. That is why we must constantly discern as a community who we are called to be in this particular place and time. As one of favorite hymns by Fred Pratt Green suggests, this is what it means to be part of a church founded on resurrection:

Lutheran Church of the Redeemer Senior Pastor Mark Larson (Far right) with ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and Southeastern Synod Bishop Kevin Strickland)

The Church of Christ, in ev’ry age Best by change, but Spirit led, Must claim and test its heritage And keep on rising from the dead.

As you read through this “roadmap” for our mission in these changing times, I hope you will have the same reactions I do. As I read this document that so many have worked so hard to complete, I feel thankful for the faithful servants of Christ who God has continued to gather at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer over its many generations of ministry. I am emboldened by the group of disciples who currently call Lutheran Church of the Redeemer their home today—for I know we have the creativity, commitment and generous spirit to meet the challenges we have identified. But most of all, I am full of anticipation to see this vision come to fruition, not just for ourselves, not just for Midtown or even metro Atlanta, but for the good of Christ’s church everywhere.

As that same favorite hymn concludes;

We have no mission but to serve In full obedience to our Lord; To care for all, without reserve, And spread Christ’s liberating word.

In Christ,