Listed below are some of the more frequently asked questions about Lutheran CORE. If you have specific questions not included here or would like an individual response, contact the Lutheran CORE Steering Committee chairperson, Pastor Paull Spring at: pastorspring@pennswoods.net
In its formation, the organization was referred to as the “Coalition for Reform.” The initial letters “Co” and “Re” were taken as a contraction of the title. But more than this, the name “CORE” also conveys our representation of the broad center of traditional Lutheranism in this country, and our stand for core Lutheran values and theology. Our intention, as Lutheran CORE is to be a voice for the Word of God within our church. We are neither of the left nor of the right. We are for the center, where Christ is Lord, and where his Word redeems us and calls us to newness of life.
As members of the ELCA, we are committed to prayer for our church and its leaders, and to our intention to serve Christ within congregations, synods, and the national organization. We seek for ways to dialog with both synodical and churchwide leaders. We will continue to support our church, when its decisions and actions conform with the Word of God. We will provide criticism and serve as a loyal opposition, when our church diverges from the Word of God.
No. As Lutheran CORE, we are determined to work within our national denomination and to labor for its reform. We strive to be a voice for the Word of God within the church. Lutheran CORE is a confessional and confessing movement within the ELCA. We have neither the desire nor the intention to leave the ELCA, but to stay within the church to which God has called us. And we are prepared to engage vigorously and confidently, over the long haul, for the reform of our church according to the Word of God.
Lutheran Churches of the Common Confession (LC3) is a partner organization of Lutheran CORE, focusing more on the mission and ministry of local congregations. Sharing the same Common Confession, Lutheran CORE and LC3 are in harmony on basic theological issues. Though each group has their own Steering Committees, they communicate and share resources between them.
Lutheran CORE is thankful for your prayers and words of encouragement. We are constantly looking to increase our representation and 'presence' throughout the synods of the ELCA. If you would like to connect with Lutheran CORE in your area, please feel free to contact any one of the members of our Steering Committee (refer to the Contact CORE page).
We also appreciate financial support Lutheran CORE. As the churchwide assembly approaches, we will need significant funds to support our participation in that important event in our church’s life. Our friends at the WordAlone Network are handling financial administration on our behalf. Checks may be made out to “WordAlone Network” with a memo, “Lutheran CORE” and sent to 2299 Palmer Drive #220, New Brighton, MN 55112.