Not Then, Nor NOW, Can We Avoid the Cities

One of the great challenges for the Church today, and perhaps in particular for The Michigan District, is how to carry on vital and vibrant urban ministry.  More than half of the churches that were thriving in the mid 1950’s in Detroit are now closed, with those remaining  very challenged in their ministries and even in worship attendance.  It is possible that there will no longer be any Lutheran Schools in Detroit by the end of this year.

I’ve heard some excuse this as just the normal turn of events for a city.  Others have recognized the horrible economic plight of our entire state and how it has ravaged Detroit.  Still more have said that “Lutheranism” can no longer impact Detroit like it once did because of Detroit's multi-nationalism and multi-culturalism.