CTCR Library — Responses to Expressions of Dissent
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations responds to dissent from Synod members on topics including lay ministers, women's ordination, and participation in civic events.
CTCR Library — Individual Opinions for Study and Consideration
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations commissioned three Concordia Seminary professors to write opinion papers after an organization published materials about human sexuality and gender identity.
CTCR Library — Statements from Other Church Bodies and Entities
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations shares statements from other churches on topics including Scripture, cremation, and homosexuality.
CTCR Library — Minority Opinions
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations shares minority opinions from members on CTCR reports about racism, civic event participation, lay teachers of theology, and the Divine Call.
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 — Staff Responses
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations provides staff responses to CTCR reports on topics including racism, homosexuality, and the service of women in the church.
CTCR Library — Responses to Reports, Actions, and Statements by Ecumenical Organizations
In collaboration with Concordia Theological Seminary and Concordia Seminary, the LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations responds to actions and declarations by ecumenical organizations.
CTCR Library — Conferences and Convocations
As an additional way of carrying out its assignments, the LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations utilizes conferences and convocations to bring theological matters for discussion to the membership of the Synod.
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.
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 — 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 — Means of Grace (Sacraments): Lutheran Doctrine and Practice
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations addresses the topics of confession and absolution, Holy Baptism, admission to the Lord's Supper, and guidelines for congregational communion statements.
CTCR Library — Creation and New Creation: Lutheran Doctrine and Practice
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations addresses the topics of creation in a Biblical perspective, caring for God's living earth, the natural knowledge of God in Christian confession and witness, and the end times.
CTCR Library — Church and Ministry: Lutheran Doctrine and Practice
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations addresses topics such as the Divine Call, the royal priesthood, church discipline, and privileged communications in a pastor-penitent relationship.
CTCR Library — Christian Faith, Life and Witness: Lutheran Doctrine and Practice
The LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations addresses the topics of Christians and social media, the mission of the church, evangelism, church growth, and church workers participating in civic events.