Welcome to “Liturgy and Evangelism by Dr. Kurt Marquardt.” In this episode you’ll hear a personal introduction to the late +Rev. Dr. Kurt Marquard+ by Pastor Lance O’Donnell, which became—much to his surprise—a deeply emotional live-mic moment. We decided to leave it because it helps provide a sense of the man who wrote the essay that so faithfully and clearly explains why a consistent, Scripture-based order of service or “liturgy”—especially sung liturgy—is best not only for Christian faith formation, but for evangelism. This episode has the introduction and the essay. The next episode, “’Liturgy and Evangelism,’ a Conversation,” provides deeper personal and churchly reflection. We encourage you to listen to both.

For the text of Dr. Marquardt’s essay, see “Liturgy and Evangelism” in Lutheran Worship: History and Practice (St. Louis, CPH, 1993) 58-76. Used by permission. Copyright 1993. Concordia Publishing House. CPH.org. All rights reserved.

Recorded 6 February, 2026