Spokane -- Second Chance City for WELS

Abstract

Jeff Carter chronicles the history of Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) mission work in Spokane, Washington, from its pioneering beginnings in 1942 to its dramatic collapse in 1957 and eventual rebirth. Led initially by Pastor Meinhardt J. Witt, Spokane became a thriving mission field with four congregations. However, doctrinal tensions over fellowship with the Missouri Synod led Witt and other pastors to resign from WELS, causing all Spokane congregations to leave the synod. Carter details the theological disputes, leadership dynamics, and the impact of distance and communication challenges on the Pacific Northwest District. Despite the setback, WELS returned to Spokane in 1962, establishing St. Matthew Lutheran Church, which grew steadily and became self-supporting by 1980. Carter concludes with a personal reflection, noting his own journey from Spokane to Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, symbolizing the enduring legacy of WELS persistence and mission zeal. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)