From October 27 to 31, 2025, an international conference of the Commission on Theology and Church Relations of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) was held in Wittenberg, the birthplace of the Reformation. Bishop Ivan Laptev took part in the conference. The annual meeting brought together theologians, pastors, and representatives of Lutheran churches from around the world to discuss key issues of faith, mission, and fellowship.
The conference days were structured around worship services, presentations, and thematic discussions.
A special place was given to joint worship services in the churches of Wittenberg – the Schlosskirche and the Stadtkirche, where Dr. Martin Luther preached. These services emphasized the spiritual continuity between the Reformation era and the present day.
The conference once again demonstrated the unity of faith and commitment to the Lutheran confessional documents among those churches which, in the modern Christian community, remain faithful to the Holy Scriptures and desire to continue missionary service in the spirit of the Reformation.
The Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) serves as the theological and advisory center for the Missouri Synod. It develops documents on the most important issues of doctrine and church practice, and also helps churches build relationships with other Christian communities.
The Ingrian Church has maintained official relations with the Missouri Synod for many years. A cooperation and church fellowship agreement is in effect between the two churches, providing for:
- Mutual recognition of the ministry of the Word and Sacraments;
- Joint participation in theological conferences, pastoral seminars, and educational projects;
- Exchange of students and faculty from theological educational institutions;
- Cooperation in missionary and humanitarian spheres.
