Letter from Pres. Kieschnick

Greetings in the Name of Jesus Christ, Savior of the world and Lord of the universe, through whom alone we receive forgiveness of sin, life, and salvation!

A decision to discontinue “Issues, Etc.” on KFUO AM Radio was made March 18, 2008, Tuesday of Holy Week, for fiscal reasons described in statements issued after the decision became public. At the April 21, 2008, meeting of the Council of Presidents (COP) of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, financial details precipitating this decision were discussed in executive session by Mr. David Strand, Executive Director of the LCMS Board for Communication Services (BCS), with specific fiscal information provided by the Vice-President-Finance—Treasurer of the Synod, Dr. Thomas Kuchta. The decision was made solely by Mr. Strand after consultation with the chairman of the BCS, Mr. Dennis Clauss, with whom I subsequently spoke over the phone regarding this matter. KFUO Radio is a ministry under the umbrella of the Board for Communication Services.

Prior to its implementation, Mr. Strand also informed me as president of the Synod of his decision. I regret that I did not counsel Mr. Strand to postpone implementation of the decision until sometime other than Holy Week. It is obvious that the timing and process connected with the discontinuation of the program have contributed to the disappointment expressed by listeners and supporters of “Issues, Etc.” in and beyond the Synod. Human Resources policies, compliance with applicable employment regulations, the process of implementation of reduction in force, accompanying severance and outplacement considerations, etc., do not allow the sharing of details about this matter. I am deeply saddened by the anxiety, worry, and consternation experienced in the Synod by those directly and indirectly affected by the decision.

Some have interpreted the decision to discontinue “Issues, Etc.” as being theological or political in nature or purpose. Such interpretations have no basis in fact.

As president of the Synod, I respectfully request and pastorally encourage all in the Synod to be patient and charitable regarding this matter, putting the best construction on actions and decisions connected therewith. I pray for the day when the financial resources of our Synod do not necessitate the reduction in force of radio personnel, the return of missionaries from the foreign mission field, or any other such difficult and painful decisions. And I pray for peace and harmony in our beloved Synod.

Dr. Gerald B. Kieschnick, President
The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod

Comments

[Kepler]

President Kieschnick said, "Some have interpreted the decision to discontinue “Issues, Etc.” as being theological or political in nature or purpose. Such interpretations have no basis in fact.

At some point in this decision making process, it was determined that "Issues, Etc." had to be -- at the very least -- a 'break even' venture. Making determinations about the fate of such an entity based on exclusively financial matters means that Mr. STrand, et al., did not (in fact) consider IE to be a "ministry" (in spite of the fact that they call it a ministry, and in spite of the fact that a rostered pastor had been given a call to that position). This concious and deliberate chnage of status -- from 'ministry' to 'viable, market supported programming' (my words) -- is most certainly a theological decision. And a bad one, at that. To suggest that this decision was not theolgical is an outright untruth. Whether it is a deliberate untruuth (a lie) or an accidental untruth (stupidity) remains yet to be discovered.

The fact remains that if IE was truly that much of a burden, the proper way for the BCS to address the problem would have been to announce publicly the situation and appeal to listeners for more support. There is no excuse for this step not having been taken. The FACT that this step was not taken, combined with the attepmt to put a gag order on Pr. Wilken and Mr. Schwartz, certainly makes it appear to have been a political decision as well. The BCS saw an opportunity at jumped at it.

One does not immorally rob two families of their livlihoods and then beg for Christian charity towards oneself, Mr. President. That is the textbook definition of chutzpah.

Dr. Eric G. Casteel
Member, Resurrection Lutheran Church
Cary, NC

[Jonathan Schultz]

There are days when this whole ordeal feels oppresively depressing. I'm afraid this is one of them.

On the other hand, I sure am looking forward to the next national convention.