The Inner-City Call

Abstract

Rolfe F. Westendorf’s 1975 letter offers practical and spiritual counsel to a newly called worker in Milwaukee’s inner-city mission field. Emphasizing empathy and Christian love over technique, Westendorf outlines challenges unique to cross-cultural ministry, particularly among African Americans. He stresses seeing individuals as persons rather than racial stereotypes, warns against imitation or condescension, and advocates respect for cultural differences without compromising Gospel priorities. The letter explores historical and social factors shaping Black culture—slavery’s legacy, matriarchal family patterns, ghetto isolation, and poverty—while urging sensitivity in language, behavior, and attitudes. Westendorf underscores that prejudice persists even within churches and calls for efforts toward indigenous leadership to secure the future of Black Lutheranism. Ultimately, he affirms that Christlike love and faithfulness to the divine Call are the worker’s greatest assets in overcoming barriers and serving effectively in this vital mission field. Prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT‑4)