Conference looks at Lutheranism in a secular Scandinavia

Lutheran Cathedral in Helsinki, Finland

In Scandinavia, Lutherans have a history dating back hundreds of years. Yet the influence of the church is declining to the point that it is no longer the state church in Sweden. To help North Americans understand the current state of Lutheranism in the area, Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) in St. Catharines, Ontario is holding a conference June 6-8 at the seminary. The program details are available on line.

The presentations begin Monday evening, June 6 in St. Catharines following Lutheran Church–Canada’s synodical convention in Hamilton, Ontario.

“The seminary warmly invites all delegates and guests to stay on in southern Ontario and join us,” says CLTS Acting President Thomas Winger. “All concerned with the wellbeing of Lutherans overseas, especially those with family roots in Scandinavia and the Baltic republics, will find it interesting to learn of efforts to revive and strengthen orthodox Lutheranism in the Nordic lands.” 

Rev. Juhana Pohjola, Rev. Eric Andrae, Rev. Dr. Naomichi Masaki, LCMS President Matthew Harrison

The opening lecture, by Rev. Juhana Pohjola, Dean of Luther Foundation Finland, takes place Monday, June 6, at 7 p.m. Dr. Winger suggests that this open lecture is particularly suited to a lay audience. It is available without registration. (There will be a voluntary offering at the close of the evening.)

Tuesday’s lecturers include Rev. Eric Andrae of Pittsburgh, Penn; and Rev. Dr. Naomichi Masaki of Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft. Wayne, Ind. CLTS is especially pleased to announce the participation of LCMS President Matthew Harrison.

Dr. Winger explained that this symposium is being held partly in response to a request from a number of East District pastors for a repeat of the Pastors’ Study Week CLTS hosted for a couple of years some time back.

Those interested in attending are asked to register online. The registration fee is $75, including a hot meal Tuesday noon, hosted by the Seminary Guild. Retired seniors may request a reduced rate of $25.

The seminary is deeply appreciative of a supporting grant from FI Capital that makes the conference possible.

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