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Pastor Otten: The Reformation and pastoral care

Greetings from Faith Lutheran Church in Eldorado.

There are number of reasons that Reformation occurred, but one of the main reasons was the dismal pastoral care that was present in the 15th and 16th centuries. Robert Kolb and Charles Arand of Concordia Seminary, St Louis, write in their book, "The Genius of Luther's Theology" (BakerAcademic, Grand Rapids, 2008): "The Reformation Luther led with his colleagues at the University of Wittenberg arose out of the crises of pastoral care that plagued the late medieval church. That crisis had its roots in a crisis of proclamation: there was too little preaching in the 15th century, largely because pastors were ill trained or not trained at all. Most knew little theology and had little idea of how the gospel might make a difference in people's lives. Theologians lived trapped in their own intellectual constructs."

Pastoral care is essential to the life of the church and each congregation. The word pastor is associated with shepherding. A shepherd feeds, protects and guides his flocks. A pastor is to feed the flock with the word of God found in preaching and the administration of sacraments. The pastor visits his flock in hospitals and nursing homes, as well as their personal homes. He listens to their hurts and sorrows, prays for them, and responds to crises at 3 a.m.

Luther made visitations with the common people, as well as congregations, to analyze the state of affairs with Christians and congregations. He also saw the corruption that was rampant among various clergy in Rome. He strived to fulfill his vow to the Church and God – to learn, teach, stand up for Christ and proclaim the gospel.

He worked to change the curriculum at the University of Wittenberg and wrote much, including the Small and Large Catechism. In his introduction to the Large Catechism, he was very critical of the pastors who refused to understand the basics of the Christian faith. He helped congregations distinguish between the authority they had over customs not commanded by scripture and the authority of the pastor, who was not to give in to public will concerning the teaching of God's law and the promise of grace found in Christ.

When the plague hit Wittenberg, many wanted Luther to leave, but he stayed to give care to the sick and the dying, and comfort the survivors.

Good pastoral care is never limited to Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. The word of God must be the primary tool. The writing of Paul to Timothy and Titus should be read by pastors regularly. A spirit of servanthood must characterize them.

Pray for your pastor. Support him financially so that he can fully concentrate on his calling. Encourage him to further his training and education so that he may be able to better present God's word and His sacraments to you. Finally, if he has a family, support them in prayer and friendship.