The Story of The Service

Each generational hymnal brings familiarity and change to public worship. Christian Worship: Hymnal is no exception. The familiar flow and content of the tried-and-true Lutheran liturgy is presented with adjustments and adaptations for a new generation. Johnold Strey, a member of the hymnal’s rites committee, will share the story behind The Service—the discussions, debates, and decisions that ultimately led to the shape of the liturgy in the new WELS hymnal. This workshop also provides useful background information for Pastor Strey’s new Bible class called A Look at the Lutheran Liturgy from Northwestern Publishing House.

Bio | Johnold Strey

Pastor Strey served congregations in California for 15 years and as the Arizona-California District’s worship coordinator for a decade before coming to Crown of Life in Hubertus, Wis., in 2016. He earned a master’s degree in worship and church music from Santa Clara University in 2009. He has served on the School of Worship Enrichment team and on the hymnal’s rites committee and is the author of Christian Worship: God Gives His Gospel Gifts (NPH).