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Over Half of LCMS to Face Aging Crisis in 20 Years

In a thought-provoking tweet, Matthew E. Cochran highlights a concerning trend within the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS): over half of its members may die of old age in the next two decades. He argues that this alarming statistic cannot simply be attributed to bad luck; instead, it reflects a broader fertility crisis linked to societal shifts, particularly the rise of feminism. This commentary invites reflection on the implications of cultural changes on religious communities and their future sustainability. By addressing these issues, Cochran encourages a deeper understanding of the intersection between faith, culture, and demographic challenges.

Over half the LCMS will have died of old age within 2 decades.

It’s absurd to think we’re doing everything right and that this is just bad luck. Our fertility crisis has the same cause as the wider culture’s: our embrace of feminism. pic.twitter.com/s6gJfg7cNv

— Matthew E. Cochran (@matt_e_cochran) August 4, 2025

Over half the LCMS will have died of old age within 2 decades

Have you ever stopped to think about the future of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS)? A striking statement recently made by Matthew E. Cochran highlights a significant concern: over half the LCMS will have died of old age within the next two decades. This prediction isn’t just a casual remark; it’s a wake-up call for a community that may not be fully aware of the impending demographic crisis.

As generations age and the younger demographics show a declining interest in church participation, it’s vital to discuss what this means for the future of faith communities. A church that has relied heavily on tradition now faces the challenge of engaging a younger audience that may not share the same values or practices. This situation demands attention, and it’s essential to dive into the underlying factors contributing to this decline.

It’s absurd to think we’re doing everything right and that this is just bad luck

Many within the LCMS may cling to the idea that the decline is merely a result of bad luck. However, this perspective can be detrimental. The truth is, it’s time to critically evaluate our practices, beliefs, and outreach strategies. We cannot simply dismiss the shift in attendance and participation as an unfortunate coincidence. Instead, we should actively seek to understand the broader cultural shifts that are influencing the church.

One significant factor that Cochran points out is the phenomenon of the fertility crisis, which he argues is closely linked to the wider culture’s embrace of feminism. This isn’t to say that feminism itself is to blame, but the societal changes it has ushered in have altered traditional family structures and values. Understanding these transformations is crucial for the LCMS as it navigates the waters of modernity while trying to retain its core beliefs.

Our fertility crisis has the same cause as the wider culture’s: our embrace of feminism

The fertility crisis isn’t merely a statistical issue; it’s a reflection of how people view family and community today. The shift towards individualism, career prioritization, and the deferral of family planning has led to lower birth rates across many demographics. This has significant implications for religious communities like the LCMS, where family and generational continuity are essential.

As we embrace feminism, we also need to recognize its complexities and the diverse perspectives it brings. The empowerment of women and the push for gender equality are undeniably important, but they also necessitate a reevaluation of how we approach family life and community engagement. It’s crucial for religious institutions to adapt their messaging and outreach strategies to resonate with modern families and individuals, ensuring they feel included and valued in the community.

In navigating this landscape, the LCMS has the opportunity to rethink how it fosters relationships and nurtures faith among its members. By addressing these challenges head-on and embracing a more inclusive and adaptive approach, there’s hope for revitalization within the church.

It’s essential to acknowledge the realities of change and work together to create a future where faith communities thrive in harmony with the evolving cultural landscape. The time to act is now, as the LCMS looks towards ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.