Publisher's Synopsis
The study Lutheran Identity is a contribution of the Institute for Ecumenical Research in Strasbourg to the self-understanding of the Lutheran churches worldwide. In its first set of theses, the basic theological convictions of Lutheran churches are described, explained, and their historical and actual contexts are addressed. In the second series of theses, the relation of Lutheran churches to the unity of the church is discussed, along with how it is articulated in the Lutheran World Federation and in ecumenical engagement. Finally, present-day challenges for the Lutheran churches and their identity are addressed in an ecumenical perspective. The study intends to encourage Lutheran churches to reflect on a clear, historically well-founded, self-critical, and inviting understanding of their identity.
