WELS' Outreach in the Inner City: Strategies and Challenges

Abstract

This 1985 senior church history paper examines the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s (WELS) outreach efforts in Milwaukee’s inner-city black communities. Focusing on four congregations—Garden Homes, Siloah, St. Philip’s, and Zebaoth—the authors explore historical development, demographic shifts, and cultural challenges. They analyze the impact of segregation, economic disparity, and cultural differences on church growth and integration. The paper highlights the role of Christian day schools, personal evangelism, Vacation Bible School, and liturgical adaptation in successful outreach. Interviews with pastors and educators provide firsthand insights into evolving strategies and attitudes. The authors emphasize the importance of cross-cultural understanding, the dangers of racism, and the need for genuine commitment to minority communities. This study offers both historical context and practical guidance for urban ministry within WELS. Abstract generated with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).