Seminex Letters Pour In

Seminex Letters Letters continue to pour in following the release of “Seminex: Memories of a Church Divided.” This is a surprise! In our 21st century digital world, I’m used to Facebook “likes”, Youtube views or download analytics. But with this project, my trips to the post office are marked by a full mailbox (literally, a full mailbox). Cards, letters, many of them hand-written by folks whose lives were impacted by events that took place in St. Louis, Missouri in the early 1970’s.

There is something deeply gratifying about receiving a physical, hand written card or letter as appose to an email or social media text comment. Maybe it’s the 44 cent stamp? Maybe it’s the pen or pencil on actual paper? What ever it is, I like it. Thanks to all those who have written and shared your memories and ordered a DVD copy.

This documentary, “Seminex, Memories of a Church Divided” began back in 2003 when I was producing a documentary about the origins of the ELCA. Not being a Lutheran, the Seminex story was new to me then and we included Seminex as an important part of the larger story which covered the three predecessor bodies (ALC, LCA and AELC) the Commission for a New Lutheran Church, the Constituting Convention in Columbus, Ohio and much more.

At the time, I thought the Seminex story would make a great documentary. Of course, other things got in the way and the project did not immediately materialize. In 2007 I resigned my position as Associate Director of Communication and MOSAIC producer in the ELCA Department for Communication and launched my own production company. One of my clients, the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago asked me to record material for two separate theological conferences that included Seminex faculty and student reunions. This gave me an opportunity to record many of the interviews seen in the documentary. From there, I went on my own and recorded interviews with several scholars and a trip down to the Concordia Historical Institute in St. Louis. I half expected my request to review materials would be met with rejection. Just the opposite happened. The folks at CHI were warm, open and most helpful. This project would not have been possible without them.

Once again, the project stalled. I recorded a few interviews here and there. Then, this winter, things finally slowed down and I began to dust off the media drives that contained all the raw material. Over 1 terabyte of data! Shortly after the new year, the project was ready for release.

 

Order a DVD of the full, 42 minute documentary today for $19. Send your check to:

Tim Frakes Productions Inc.
2 South Park Ave
Suite 2C
Lombard, Illinois 60148

 

and I will personally ship you a DVD.  Include your shipping address.

On February 19, 1974, students and faculty at the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod’s St. Louis Concordia Seminary marched through the campus – out the doors of an institution, church body and well established educational system – and into self-described exile. This story begins in the 19th Century when a new method of Biblical interpretation known as the “historical-critical method”, tore many Protestant churches apart. Were Adam and Eve real people? Was Jonah actually swallowed by a fish? Or, did ancient authors reflect their own historical situation when addressing the people of their time and place?

For Missouri Synod Lutherans, the full impact of these theological debates and culturally conservative verses more modern world views came to a head decades after other church bodies had divided and drifted apart. The debate ruptured the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod at a time of vast American cultural and social upheaval: Viet Nam, the Civil Rights movement and Watergate.

For many students, faculty, administrators and Lutherans throughout North America, the events in St. Louis took a personal toll. The walkout would divide families, split congregations and have a lasting impact on the future of the church.

Interviews include John H. Tietjen, Herman Otten, Gerhard Bode, the grandson of Jacob Preus, author and historian Jim Burkee, and dozens of Seminex faculty and students.


Comments

8 responses to “Seminex Letters Pour In”

  1. larry w zuberbier Avatar
    larry w zuberbier

    Why has this documentary not gotten more public media exposure?

    1. Dear Larry,
      Seminex, Memories of a Church Divided was produced because I find the topic interesting and edifying. I also wanted to honor the efforts and memories of those who sacrificed their careers for love of the Church. Plus, it’s just a good story. Thanks for your interest. Tim

  2. Judy Wellert Avatar
    Judy Wellert

    I’m eager to see the documentary, Tim. I put my check in the mail to you today. In the past I’ve belonged to both ELCA and Missoula Synod churches. I’m interested to learn more about the topic.

  3. Pr. Charley Lopez Avatar
    Pr. Charley Lopez

    Thanks Tim…appreciate the DVD. Will there be another one in the future?

  4. David Gmelich Avatar
    David Gmelich

    Tim, I was a senior at Concordia Sr College when it occurred. My class was the first class to come to Seminex (Class of 78). What an experience!!! The faculty and administration were men and women of conviction and incredible faith. They risked their financial security and future for their beliefs. I am honored to have been part of the experience . Although not a pastor, I cherish those years for the unbelievable experience in learning and commitment of faith demonstrated by the men and women of Seminex. I have sent my check and look forward to the DVD. Thanks Dave

    1. Thanks Dave! I’ll look for it and ship. Tim

  5. Debbie Hartfield Avatar
    Debbie Hartfield

    Hi Tim,

    Just wondering if you still have a dvd to share?
    It is 2018, and this is still an important part of our church history.
    I would love a copy of your documentary and will send money if they are still available!

    Pax,
    Debbie

    1. Hi Debbie. Sorry I missed your post. Yes, I still have DVD copies. Happy to ship one. Just get me an address. Email tim@frakesproductions.com Thanks.

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