What sets the Lutheran church apart from other Protestant traditions? In this episode, Pastor Jeff welcomes Pastor Erik Janke, founding pastor of May River Lutheran Church and fellow fire department chaplain, to unpack the rich theological roots of Lutheranism, its historic emphasis on Word and Sacrament, and the unique structure of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS).

🎉 P.S. Be sure to join us for Part 2 of this conversation

Here’s What We Discussed:

02:02 – Meet Pastor Erik Janke

Pastor Erik shares how he started May River Lutheran Church, his missionary background, and his journey from California to South Carolina—alongside his medical-professional wife and their two daughters.

04:01 – A Brief History of Lutheranism
We trace the roots of the Lutheran Church back to Martin Luther and the Reformation. Pastor Erik explains how Luther never intended to start a new denomination, only to reform the Catholic Church from within. We also dicuss Katharina von Bora, Martin Luther’s wife and her powerful role in the Reformation. 

10:05 – A Family Calling
Erik reflects on growing up as a pastor’s kid and how he followed in the footsteps of generations of pastors in his family—plus a few stories about “being paid in potatoes.”

13:56 – What is a Synod?
We break down what “synod” means (hint: it’s not a senate!) and how WELS originated and expanded globally.

15:26 – WELS Denominational Structure
Pastor Erik explains the organizational structure of the Wisconsin Synod, the role of district presidents, and how accountability and leadership work.

17:51 – Conferences & Community
Find out how often WELS pastors gather for worship and learning, and why a church body that meets in Florida can still call itself "Wisconsin."

18:49 – What to Expect at a WELS Service
From the pulpit and font to creeds and communion, Pastor Erik gives us a walk-through of a typical Sunday morning at a Lutheran church and explains the emphasis on Word and Sacrament.

20:46 – Creeds, Liturgy, and Confession
Discover why Lutherans recite the Apostles' and Nicene Creeds, and how liturgical worship helps us confess, reflect, and focus on Christ.

23:21 – Worship Music and Instruments
Though often associated with hymns and pipe organs, Lutheran churches around the world embrace diverse musical expressions—from piano to bluegrass—while keeping the focus on congregational participation.

Key Quote:

“We call it the Reformation, not a revolution. Luther didn’t set out to start a new church—he wanted to reform the abuses that were in the church at the time.” – Pastor Eric Yanke

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!