- 19
- Episodes
- 8
- Ratings
- Bi-weekly
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About Synod Stories
Synod Stories is a show about the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod: where it’s been, where it is, and where it’s going. Our goal is to look at the entire Synod—celebrating its wins, facing its challenges, and exploring the unique perspectives that shape its future. We’ll talk with Circuit Visitors and others who can share insights you won’t hear from a single congregation or a synodical official. We’re starting with coverage from the convention, but this is just the beginning. Join us as we tell the stories of the LCMS from voices across the church body.
- Publisher
- Brian Yamabe
- Category
- religion & spirituality · society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 12 Aug 2025
- Latest episode
- 2 Nov 2026
Latest episodes
19 episodes in the feed.
2 Nov 2026
Synod Stories 19: Korea, the LWF, and Lutheran Fellowship
Pastor Ben Ball, Second Vice President of the LCMS, went to Seoul in early October to address the convention of the Lutheran Church in Korea, standing in for President Harrison. The convention's main question was whether to stay in the Lutheran World Federation. Pastor Ball explains what the LWF is, why the LCMS never joined, and why the 1999 Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification was a turning point for many partner churches. He also describes the floor debate that followed his presentation and the convention's decision to study the question one more year. He traces LCMS mission work in Korea from chaplains serving during the Korean War to a self-standing church by 1958. He explains why the Korean church's main request was help getting a Lutheran hymnal, and why a member in the pew should care what partner churches confess. Documents mentioned in this episode The Lutheran World Federation Today: Missio Dei, Imago Dei and the Ongoing Reformation (https://resources.lcms.org/reading-study/church-relations-the-lutheran-world-federation-today) (Jonathan E. Shaw, LCMS Church Relations, 2024) 2019 LCMS Convention resolutions on partner churches and the Lutheran World Federation (https://reporter.lcms.org/2019/synod-in-convention-examines-relationships-of-partner-churches-with-lwf/) (LCMS Reporter) Watch the video on YouTube (https://youtu.be/GASMp2wFlik)
22 Sept 2026
Synod Stories 18: ASL Liturgy, Closed Communion, and No-Script Sermons
Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller runs two congregations in Austin, Texas — a large English-speaking parish and a small congregation that worships entirely in American Sign Language. He explains how the historic liturgy adapts into ASL, how his church handles close communion responsibly with 80-100 visitors most Sundays, and the tiered catechism program that shapes confirmation. He also lays out a theory of church retention built on family versus friendship, argues the pastor shortage is a financial problem before a vocational one, and explains why he stopped writing manuscript sermons after two decades in the pulpit.
17 Jul 2026
Synod Stories 17: One Vicar, Two Churches — Fixing the Pastor Shortage
What happens when one vicar is assigned to two very different churches at once? Vicar Isaiah Mudge has spent the past year splitting his time between Shepherd of the Valley, a suburban congregation, and First Emmanuel, an inner-city church with a thriving Spanish-language congregation and no pastor of its own — the California-Nevada-Hawaii District’s creative answer to the Synod’s pastoral shortage. In this episode, Isaiah reflects on what a year of real ministry taught him that the classroom couldn’t: sitting with a dying congregant, running out of sermon ideas eight weeks in, and learning to let go of people he may only meet once. He shares why he believes young men are quietly returning to church, walks through his (careful, gracious) thoughts on close communion and the confessional/missional debate, and weighs in on the SMP alternate route to ordination — all ahead of this year’s LCMS Convention.
22 Jun 2026
Synod Stories 16: Inside the CTCR with Dr. Martin Noland
The Commission on Theology and Church Relations — the CTCR — is one of the LCMS's most influential bodies, yet most laypeople couldn't explain what it actually does. In this episode, host Brian Yamabe sits down with Dr. Martin Noland, pastor, historian, and CTCR nominee, to trace the commission from its Reformation-era origins all the way to its role in the 2026 National Convention workbook. The conversation covers how the CTCR is structured, how its documents are written and distributed, what makes it effective (and occasionally fallible), and which current resolutions — including one on LCMS partner churches and another on artificial intelligence — will put the commission's work front and center at the Phoenix convention in July. Dr. Noland also shares candid assessments of two CTCR documents he believes need revision, and explains why organized laymen — not church officials — were the ones who kept the Missouri Synod from following the ELCA into doctrinal drift. Brian also discloses his nomination to the Concordia University Irvine Board of Regents and the two share a wide-ranging discussion about AI, technology, transhumanism, and what role the church should play in guiding Christians through a rapidly changing technological landscape.
26 May 2026
Synod Stories 15: Marine-Turned-Pastor on Worship, Confession & AI
Rev. Isaac Wirtz didn't grow up wanting to be a pastor. He was heading toward CIA interrogation work when a misfiled seminary application, a Marine's willingness to be the dumbest guy in the room, and a nagging sense that the harvest was ready redirected his life to Fort Wayne and eventually to Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Tucson, Arizona—where he now serves as pastor and hosts the Christian Combatives YouTube channel. In this conversation, Brian Yamabe and Pastor Wirtz cover the full range of congregational life: liturgical worship in the desert Southwest, the chalice and close communion, why Wirtz does all his own readings, and how tens of hours of daily Bible study underlie a 15-minute Sunday sermon. They also wade into harder territory—women's roles and the orders of creation, the worship wars (Wirtz doesn't think they're over), open communion discipline, the Concordia University system, and the pastoral shortage reframed as an overabundance of unsustainable congregations rather than a lack of men. The episode closes with an urgent and encouraging word: the LCMS needs to show up online, and the way to compete with Catholic money and Reformed personality culture is for Lutherans to build each other up.
26 May 2026
Synod Stories 14: AI Reads Committee 7 — All 29 Convention Overtures
What happens when you feed every overture in LCMS Convention Committee 7 into an AI and just start asking questions? In this solo episode, Brian Yamabe walks through all 29 overtures headed into the University Education committee at the 2026 LCMS National Convention — using an actual AI conversation as the analytical engine. The questions are Brian's, drawn from real experience: he served as a Board of Regent at Concordia Portland through its closure, was named in a $325 million lawsuit, and watched firsthand as synodical accountability collided with Oregon nonprofit law. The AI's responses are condensed from the originals. And yes — it got some things wrong. That's part of the conversation. This episode covers the sharpest structural conflict in Committee 7: converting the Concordia University System from corporation to commission, the prior approval process and the legal exposure nobody's proposing to fix, regent fiduciary duty under multiple state laws, and why 11 near-identical overtures arrived from districts across the country. It closes with Brian's honest reflection on what AI can and can't do — and why the church needs a serious answer to that question before it's too late.
20 Apr 2026
Synod Stories 13: Confessions, Cryptids & the Baptist Belt
Pastor Willie Grills of Zion Lutheran Church in Alexander, Arkansas came to confessional Lutheranism the hard way — through Reformed circles, the Confessions, and a seminary formation that took him from Peru to Iowa before landing in Baptist country. In this conversation, Brian and Willie work through the real debates surrounding pastoral formation in the LCMS: the history from apostolic discipleship through the modern seminary, the SMP program's original purpose versus how it's being used today, and what uniform confessional training actually buys the church. They also talk about what it means to be Lutheran in a place where Lutherans get mistaken for Mormons, why the Mid-South District has one of the lowest vacancy rates in the Synod, and the worship identity question that underlies much of the confessional debate: what happens when a Lutheran service is indistinguishable from the evangelical megachurch next door? And yes — we get to cryptids. Willie explains how the collapse of New Atheism has created a cultural hunger for the supernatural, why now is the moment for the church to speak into it, and how he became the LCMS's only resident Bigfoot expert, courtesy of Art Bell and a gap in the market.
27 Jan 2026
Synod Stories 12: Pastoral Formation with Dr. Adam Koontz
One of the hottest topics heading into the 2026 LCMS Convention is pastoral formation and Dr. Adam Koontz just attended a gathering in Las Vegas where district presidents, pastors, and church leaders spent a day and a half hashing it out. This conversation goes deep. Pastor Koontz shares what he learned from sitting at tables where he was the only defender of residential seminary education, why the online vs. in-person debate is really a proxy for deeper ecclesiological disagreements, and what actually happens when you pass the buck on pastoral certification. We discuss the LCMS's lack of a coherent mission strategy, why expecting more from pastors isn't unkind, and how genuine listening created surprising hopefulness even in contentious conversations. This is essential listening for anyone who cares about the future of Lutheran pastoral ministry.
13 Jan 2026
Synod Stories 11: Gen Z Lutheran on Dating Crisis & Church Revival
Ray Sexton is only 20 years old, but he sees the crisis clearly: his generation is struggling to date, marry, and form faithful Lutheran families. In this frank conversation, Ray shares his journey as a lifelong LCMS member in Springfield, Missouri, his plans for seminary, and why he believes the Lutheran Church needs a complete renovation. We discuss the cultural forces making Christian relationships nearly impossible, why three out of four confirmed Lutheran teens leave the church, and what it means to be a confessional Lutheran in a generation drowning in hookup culture and political extremes. Ray doesn't pull punches—he talks about ultra-conservative rabbit holes, the myth of congregational autonomy, and why the LCMS needs to stop hiding in its "little box." This episode offers a rare window into what young, thoughtful Lutherans are actually experiencing and thinking. Whether you're a parent, pastor, or just curious about the next generation of the LCMS, Ray's perspective will challenge and inform your understanding of where the church is heading.
23 Dec 2025
Synod Stories 10: Remote Seminary Reality Check
In this candid conversation, Brian sits down with Vicar Tyree Toney to discuss his unexpected journey from social media theology debates to seminary vicarage. As someone currently in the Cross-Cultural Ministry Center (CMC) program, Vicar Toney provides rare insider perspective on alternate seminary paths that goes beyond the usual talking points. This episode tackles the controversial remote education debate head-on, with both host and guest committed to good-faith dialogue about legitimate concerns and often-overlooked nuances. From young pastors being run over by congregations to the problem of "theological echo chambers" in residential programs, nothing is off limits. Vicar Toney also shares his experience as a confessional Lutheran who came to the faith entirely through online exposure—a reality that challenges assumptions about what "missional" church work really means. If you've been following the alternate paths debate or wondering what these programs actually look like from the inside, this conversation offers substance over sound bites.
9 Dec 2025
Synod Stories 09: Reclaiming Christian Masculinity with Memento
Pastor Bryan Stecker, Associate Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waconia, Minnesota, joins us to discuss his latest endeavor: Memento. This innovative Lutheran discipleship program is helping men reclaim Christian masculinity through practical disciplines like fasting, cold exposure, and digital detox—all rooted firmly in confessional Lutheran theology. We dive deep into how Memento differs from secular self-mastery programs, why the three-tier system prevents burnout, and how to balance discipline with grace. Pastor Stecker also addresses concerns about works-righteousness and explains how historic Christian practices can transform modern men's spiritual lives. Whether you're struggling with digital addiction, looking for accountability, or simply want to grow deeper in your faith, this conversation offers practical wisdom grounded in Lutheran teaching. Plus, learn about the founder special that locks in 33% off for life if you sign up before Christmas Day. https://memento70.com/
15 Oct 2025
Synod Stories 08: Pastor Joshua Reber on Circuit Brotherhood and Confession
Pastor Joshua Reber of Faith Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran (Minnesota North District) shares what genuine pastoral brotherhood looks like. He discusses circuit life, the importance of shared worship and mutual support, and how honest conversation and biblical fidelity strengthen the church. From open communion to seminary training, Reber speaks plainly about integrity and fellowship within the LCMS — and why his call to “make the Bible great again” resonates with pastors and laity alike.
8 Oct 2025
Synod Stories 07: The Lutheran Doctrine of Church, Ministry, and Power
Who holds the ultimate authority in the church? Is it the bishops, the pastors, or the people in the pews? In this episode, Dr. Martin Richard Noland provides a scholarly and accessible tour through the Lutheran Confessions to answer these very questions. The conversation focuses on the doctrine of the Church and the Office of the Ministry, revealing the theological foundations for Lutheran church polity. From the Augsburg Confession's distinction between spiritual and civil power to the Smalcald Articles' bold claims about the papacy, Dr. Noland explains why Lutherans believe what they do about church structure. Learn about the congregation's divine right to call its own pastors, the historic understanding of ordination, and how the "priesthood of all believers" is more than just a slogan—it’s a foundational doctrine with profound implications for church life today. This episode is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the "why" behind the structure and governance of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.
1 Oct 2025
Synod Stories 06: From Pentecostal to Lutheran Missionary in Germany
What happens when the son of a Pentecostal pastor discovers the clarity of Lutheran theology? For Vicar Peter Williams, it changed everything. This episode chronicles his fascinating journey from a faith rooted in experience to one grounded in Scripture alone, and how that path has led him to a two-year vicarage in Germany. Peter shares candidly about his family's reaction, his discernment process, and the unique Lutheran perspective on mission and evangelism. He explains how the LCMS is not trying to create a movement in Europe, but rather responding to the incredible work the Holy Spirit is already doing among Farsi-speaking Muslims who are converting to Christianity. This conversation is a powerful testimony to the truth of God's Word and a compelling look at the future of LCMS international missions.
22 Sept 2025
Synod Stories 05: A Hopeful Outlook on the Missouri Synod
In this episode, we welcome Pastor Justin Schmidt of Peace Lutheran Church in McMurray, Pennsylvania. As a circuit visitor in the English District, Pastor Schmidt provides an encouraging perspective on the future of the Missouri Synod, arguing that we have more advantages than we realize and that the work ahead is hard but rewarding. He shares his personal journey from studying engineering to becoming a pastor, a path his family never expected. Pastor Schmidt also dives into the crucial topic of pastoral community, explaining how building strong, supportive relationships among ministers is revitalizing the synod and creating a sense of hope. He challenges common misconceptions about church growth, advocating for hard, consistent work and relational ministry over trendy, quick-fix solutions. This episode is a powerful reminder that with Christ at the center, the future of our church is bright.
15 Sept 2025
Synod Stories 04: The History and Theology of LCMS Church Government
How did the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod develop its unique form of church government? This episode explores the concept of "polity," tracing its historical roots from the Reformation and European Lutheranism to its development on American soil. Dr. Martin Noland joins the show to discuss the foundational principles that shape the LCMS. He explains the differences between episcopal, presbyteral, and congregational systems and unpacks the dramatic story of the Saxon immigrants, the Stephanite crisis, and C.F.W. Walther’s pivotal argument that the Church is constituted by the Word and Sacraments, not by its form of government. This is a critical discussion on the balance of authority between the congregation and the Synod, clarifying why the Synod is considered an "advisory body" and how that structure protects the rights of each member church.
1 Sept 2025
Synod Stories 03: A Blueprint for a Confessional Synod with Erich Johnson
What does it take to change the direction of an entire church body? For Erich Johnson, a layman from Wisconsin and a founder of the Flacius Caucus, the answer is simple: intentional, organized action. In this episode, Erich unveils a comprehensive, grassroots effort to nominate a full slate of confessional, conservative, and highly qualified candidates for nearly every open position at the next LCMS convention. We dive deep into the philosophy behind this project, discussing the urgent need for lay involvement in synodical politics and the importance of competence alongside theological conviction. Erich argues that for too long, the most qualified individuals have remained on the sidelines, and this list is a guide to bring them into service for the church. From the reasoning behind nominees for the Presidium and Concordia Publishing House to the vital role of the seminary boards, this conversation is a detailed look at a strategic plan to ensure the LCMS remains faithful to its confessional roots. If you have ever felt concerned about the direction of the synod but didn't know how to get involved, this episode provides a clear and actionable blueprint.
26 Aug 2025
Synod Stories 02: Dr. Martin Noland on How LCMS Convention Nominations & Resolutions Work
Welcome back to Synod Stories! With the LCMS National Convention approaching, are you ready to make your voice heard? In this episode, host Brian Yamabe is joined again by Dr. Martin Nolan, former director of the Concordia Historical Institute, to pull back the curtain on how the convention really works. Dr. Nolan provides a masterclass on the two distinct nomination processes and the critical steps for submitting overtures that won't get thrown out. Whether you're a first-time delegate or a seasoned veteran, this is a must-listen to navigate the complexities of the synodical process. In This Episode You'll Learn: [0:32] An important update on the combination of electoral circuits. [1:23] A correction from the last session about the new online nomination system and the data you need to have ready. [5:11] A step-by-step breakdown of the nomination process for the secretary, boards, and commissions, including the behind-the-scenes work of the Committee on Convention Nominations (CCN). [17:02] The specific rules for making a nomination from the convention floor and why it's a rare occurrence. [23:07] Details on the separate, more recent process for nominating and electing the Synod President and Vice Presidents through a congregational vote. [38:56] A comprehensive guide to writing and submitting effective overtures, including the critical exceptions that will cause a proposal to be discarded. [57:37] A discussion on what happens to your overture in a floor committee and whether its original intent can be reversed. [1:03:07] A look ahead to future topics, including the LCMS's "bottom-up" congregational polity.
12 Aug 2025
Synod Stories 01: A Guide to LCMS Convention Nominations, Overtures, and Deadlines
In this informative episode of Synod Stories, host Brian Yamabe interviews Dr. Martin Noland, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in San Mateo, California, and former director of the Concordia Historical Institute, about the upcoming Lutheran Church Missouri Synod National Convention. Dr. Noland provides valuable insights into the democratic nature of the LCMS governance structure and offers practical guidance for those looking to participate. The conversation covers critical deadlines for nominations, overtures, and delegate selection, with Dr. Noland emphasizing the importance of early submission. Listeners will learn about the convention preparation process, including how to nominate qualified candidates for various Synod positions, how congregations can submit overtures for consideration, and how electoral circuits select their pastoral and lay delegates. Dr. Noland shares his experience serving on convention committees and provides tips for delegates on how to prepare for the convention by thoroughly reviewing the workbook and biographical information of nominees. The episode concludes with practical advice for first-time delegates and emphasizes the importance of congregation-level participation in the broader church body's governance. Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, or interested church member, this episode provides essential knowledge about how the LCMS democratic process works and how you can effectively participate in shaping the future of the Synod.
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