Rev. Paul T. McCain, the former Interim CEO/President of Concordia Publishing House, and now the Executive Director of the Editorial Division and Publisher claims that Mr. John Fenton, has “turned his back on Christ and His Gospel,” and “Fenton’s reununciation [sic] of his ordination vows, and confirmation vows, is nothing less than an act of treason against our Lord Jesus Christ and His Gospel.” See the complete comment here. McCain posted this missive all over the internet, apparently on every blog that mentioned Fenton at all. Many bloggers refused to allow it to be posted. Rev. Randy Asburry has been carrying on a response to McCain’s views on this blog, and I wish to thank him for his measured Christian responses. I’ve been holding my pen. But several things still need … Read entire article »

Sometimes men leave the holy ministry. I can’t say how many leave because it’s often hushed up, appearing as quiet notices in the Lutheran Witness, usually months after the resignation happened, and notices of vacancies filtered through congregational grapevines. It seems somehow shameful, unless the man goes to something glamorous, like a “call” to administrate at a District or Synodical level, or a teaching position within the system. We are speaking not of them, however, but of the ones who are not suited or whose conscience leads them elsewhere. How many leave the ministry for these reasons? Many of them scatter, leaving quietly. They do so because of the scarlet letters thrown at them, or because of the pursed lips and shaking heads of pastors and laymen. Those who are “left … Read entire article »