Reconciliation

By Pastor Jon Coyne

Prior to the 2007 convention of the Synod, Jesus First published a series of articles in several editions of its pre-convention newsletter that expressed opinions regarding the candidates for major offices of our Synod. I personally produced nearly all of the articles.

One of the editions spoke of the nominees for the office of Secretary of our Synod, one of whom was Rev. Raymond Hartwig. An article I wrote alleged that he was in part responsible for the costly lawsuit filed against our Synod. A related article called into question his handling of another matter as Secretary of our Synod.

After numerous conversations with Rev. Hartwig and a face-to-face meeting, I have come to acknowledge that I erred by not reviewing the articles with Rev. Hartwig for accuracy prior to publishing. I acknowledge also that a number of statements in the articles should not have been published because they were misleading and did not defend Rev. Hartwig, speak well of him, or put the best construction on his performance of his duties.

I have apologized to Rev. Hartwig for this, and we have been reconciled. I also agreed to publish this statement for the sake of his reputation and as an encouragement to our Synod. It is time for our LCMS to refocus on the common confession of faith that we have in Jesus Christ. It is this confession alone that can empower brothers and sisters to be reconciled after sin gets in the way of our relationships.