Asian Lutherans?

[12ogue]

I know that most Koreans are either Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, or Baptist. They usually take in the religion of the missionaries in the past.

After discussing things with my mom about wanting to enter the Lutheran Church, she did mention how her high school was actually a Lutheran-based school. That did startle me, because I honestly couldn't bear another conflict that I had in the past. As a Presbyterian, I suffered from moving to 7 churches, striking my faith and trust in the Presbyterian structure. I can't help but loathe going into another fully Korean-based church ever again. It only led to conflict among those who have power in the church and caused divisions and splits among the church. I just wanted to go to a church where practice and traditions aside, I can communicate with God without having to worry about a conflict within the church. I'm not trying to go against the Asian churches, but after going through a year of depression because of these conflicts, I couldn't take another breakup of a church.

I hope the Lutheran church does NOT give certain people the power to attract different followers and get into conflict with all the staff. And hopefully, I could get into a church with a more international aspect than an entire Korean populated church.

 

[dusky_tresses]

I'm not really sure of what you're trying to discuss here-- you don't think Asians should be Lutheran or you had a bad experience at an all-Korean church?

Btw...I'm Asian and am contemplating on joining the Lutheran church.

 

[RegularGuy]

I hope the Lutheran church does NOT give certain people the power to attract different followers and get into conflict with all the staff. And hopefully, I could get into a church with a more international aspect than an entire Korean populated church.

Unhealthy power dynamics and dysfunctional systems can occur in any congregation of any denomination. Lutherans are not immune from the kind of problems you describe, but we certainly don't encourage confict.

I would say that you should try worshiping with a Lutheran congregation. Observe carefully. Talk to the pastor and see...

 

[dusky_tresses]

Unhealthy power dynamics and dysfunctional systems can occur in any congregation of any denomination. Lutherans are not immune from the kind of problems you describe, but we certainly don't encourage confict.

I would say that you should try worshiping with a Lutheran congregation. Observe carefully. Talk to the pastor and see...

I will also add-- perhaps part of the reason there was an unhealthy dynamic and conflict of interest is because the congregation (and I'm guessing the leadership and staff) were all Korean, basically part of the same cultural group.

I have noticed that in churches were it's basically a uniform cultural group, there are quite a bit of problems due to the fact of how the cultural interaction is. I mean, I've gone to an all Indian church before and there was a LOT of drama and problems. Not saying that it's an excuse, but it's definately something to consider.

 

[KagomeShuko]

I find that most Lutheran congregations are a majority of Caucasians, but I figure that is just due to the German and Scandinavian ancestry. I find that there is at least one person of another ethic background that is in a congregation and easily accepted if not a leader as well.

All congregations have inside politics and they are never fun. I know this all too well. . .heh.

However, the ELCA/ELCIC is extremely welcoming to anybody. It is really part of what the church is - a welcoming place for all believers. . .

So, just give it a try. . .see if you like it or not. . .

Stein Auf!
Bridget