Synod Stories

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.

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.

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.

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.

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/