11 September 2010

Initial Reflections

Wonderful.  No two ways about it.  Wonderful.  From the music, to the packed Chapel, from the reverent and gracious presiding of Bishop Stechholtz, to the stirring homily by Archbishop Obare (miter and all!), from the joy of receiving together our Lord's body and blood to the beer and brats afterward.  From start to finish, a day to remember and give thanks for - a most churchly start for the new President, and I'd expect nothing less.  May the Lord graciously guide and protect our President and his vice-presidents as they lead our Synod's pastors and parishes and workers toward a vibrant emphasis on martyria (witness), diakonia (mercy), and koinonia (life together)!

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing the photos, and so quickly! Watched the entire thing on the computer wishing we could raise our voices with all who were there. It was great to have a service folder to participate, though. So grateful for all of you pastors who took the time to participate....moving!!! God's blessings to ALL of our shepherds.

William Weedon said...

You're welcome, Anon, and thanks for praying God's blessings upon the pastors of the flock!

Past Elder said...

I enjoyed what I saw of the streaming video, but even more enjoy what this means for our beloved synod. Saturday remained Saturday out here in the trenches so I only saw bits and pieces. Enough albs and stoles to push me to my limit on that sort of stuff, so I'm glad I didn't see the bloody mitre.

Anonymous said...

I watched the installation via internet. What is the historical significance of of the leather bound copy of the Book of Concord used in the installation? It is very impressive looking.

Unknown said...

Where are the (much more needed) emphases on 1) confessions 2) Liturgy and 3)Eucharist. Those 3 are needed more than simply "can't we all just get along."

Anonymous said...

Oh, but the psalm....... It was horrifying - asking for "annointing" of out new president and the improvisation.... and it just went on forever. And then the appalling applause. Wow. How do I get past that one?? :-(

Rev. Paul T. McCain said...

That copy of the Book of Concord belonged to Dr. C.F.W. Walther. It was his personal copy. It contains both the Book of Concord, proper, and is bound with the 1580 Saxon Church Order.

Anonymous said...

it certainly was thrilling to see "Obare (miter and all!)"!