New series profiles "new to WELS"
Filed Under: FIC, Forward in Christ, identity
Beginning in April, a new series of articles in Forward in Christ magazine will feature confessions of faith of adult confirmands—where they came from, why they started attending a WELS church, and why they became members. The first article profiles Tammie Radikopf, the daughter of a Southern Baptist preacher, who joined a WELS church in Florida.
"Here are people that God has brought to treasure what we treasure, and that should help us all get a fresh look at the blessings God's given us," says Rev. John Braun, executive editor of Forward in Christ. "We shouldn't be ashamed of what we believe. It's God's message to us, and the gospel still has the power to change hearts."
Forward in Christ began the open-ended series to help readers appreciate what WELS believes. In upcoming editions, look for profiles of a former Catholic and a previously unchurched couple.
The series is part of an ongoing initiative to highlight the positive aspects of WELS identity and to communicate that identity inside and outside the synod. "As we remember who we are, we will then grow in our desire to share what we treasure with the world," says Pres. Mark Schroeder, who is highlighting WELS’ identity in his own column in Forward in Christ, "From the president’s desk."
Since January, Schroeder has been answering questions like who are we as a synod? What do we stand for? In upcoming months, he will explore topics like the importance of Christian education, welcoming outsiders, upholding the blessings of marriage, and the value of human life. "There is something very special at the heart and center of who and what we are as a synod," he says in his column. "I invite you to join me in rediscovering and celebrating our identity."
Look for the first article in Forward in Christ magazine's newest series, "Confessions of faith," in the April issue. You can also view the article online: www.wels.net/jump/ficapril
