Established by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in 1962, the Commission on Theology and Church Relations provides theological guidance to Synod leaders, congregations, church workers, and laypeople. The CTCR produces reports, statements, opinions, and study documents on matters in the church and in society.


CTCR Library — Lutherans & Other Christians

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations provides reports and opinions on the Lutheran understanding of church fellowship, inter-Christian relationships, church workers participating in civic events, and church relations in the 21st century.

CTCR Library — Marriage and Sexuality

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations provides Scriptural perspectives to explain God’s design for human sexuality and marriage between one man and one woman.

CTCR Library — Man and Woman in the Church

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations examine Scripture to address the topics of creation, women's military service, women’s suffrage in the church, and women's service in the church.

CTCR Library — Life Issues

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations has issued reports on the topics of abortion, reproductive ethics, cloning, human care, and end-of-life concerns and decisions.

CTCR Library — Social Issues and Citizenship

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod's Commission on Theology and Church Relations has issued reports, opinions, and Bible studies on the Lutheran view of church and state, racism, immigration, gambling, capital punishment, and the care of creation.

CTCR Library — LCMS Doctrinal Statements

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations has archived three historic yet timeless documents: C.F.W. Walther’s "Theses on the Ministry," a "Brief Statement of the Doctrinal Position of the Missouri Synod," and "A Statement of Scriptural and Confessional Principles."

CTCR Library — LCMS Polity and Policy

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations provides an introduction to the LCMS, guidelines on scriptural and confessional principles, and theological considerations for altar and pulpit fellowship with other church bodies.

CTCR Library — Bible Studies and Discussion Guides

The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations has compiled Bible study materials and presentation slides for pastors to use in guiding congregations through God’s Word while examining various church and societal matters.

CTCR Library — LCMS Task Force Updates

Established out of convention resolutions, LCMS task force report topics include abortion, life issues, licensed lay deacons, homosexual clergy in the ELCA, and ministering to homosexuals and their families.