[TPartyType]

I'm LCMS. I don't really expect an influx. There may be a few quiet, unassuming souls who just tip-toe out the back door and join the LCMS.

Seems to me, though, that not many people will leave. There's an organization of liberal Lutherans who want to remain true to their heritage (Lutheran CORE) but, at the end of the day, I don't think they identify with LCMS. Those folks are more likely to form their own associations.

It's just as well. If there were a great influx, they'd just "re-invent" the LCMS and spoil it within a generation.

[Conservativegreatgrandma]

I was former ELCA. We left seventeen years and ago for the LCMS and I agree with every word you said. I, also do not expect a big influx. We will barely feel it. Pride gets in the way of doing the right thing. They absolutely will be going to the LCMC, or whatever other group.

The LCMC is a step in the right direction but they will eventually be right back to where they are now as one of the reasons they don't want to take a complete step away from the ELCA is because they still believe in women in the clergy.

[skandi]

I am one who has left the ELCA and joining the LCMS. Some friends and I are not tiptoeing, some have, some may. NOt tiptoeing has cost us relationships. This has been very hard. Some of us have been very vocal to a pastor with an agenda that does not match ours.

I caution you that your post reflected an attitude that was not very welcoming to those who are hurt and seeking. This is the time for LCMS to shine. It is the judgmentalism we have heard and experienced by LCMS in the past that makes many reluctant to come. I’m glad I had the choice of an LCMS church and that the church and members have been very welcoming in embracing us.