The Mankato Controversy

Abstract

Marcus L. Birkholz’s paper examines the Mankato controversy, a pivotal episode in the history of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) leading up to its break with the Missouri Synod in 1961. Centered around doctrinal disagreements—particularly over military chaplaincy and participation in ecumenical ministerial associations—the conflict unfolded between two pastors at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Mankato, Minnesota. Birkholz details the tensions between Rev. Adolf Ackermann and Rev. G.W. Fischer, the congregation’s polarization, and the eventual founding of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church under Missouri Synod auspices. The controversy escalated into formal protests and correspondence between district leaders, culminating in a break in fellowship. Birkholz also highlights the lasting impact on WELS campus ministry, tracing the origins of Lutheran Collegians WELS to this dispute. The essay underscores how doctrinal fidelity and perseverance shaped WELS identity during a time of institutional upheaval. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)