Wisconsin's Pioneer Mission Developer- Moldehnke as Reiseprediger

Abstract

James Witt’s essay explores the missionary legacy of Edward Frederick Moldehnke, the Wisconsin Synod’s first official Reiseprediger (traveling preacher). Witt provides a biographical sketch of Moldehnke’s education, ordination, and extensive mission work across Wisconsin and Minnesota from 1861 to 1866. Moldehnke’s zeal, theological soundness, flexibility, and administrative skill made him a highly effective mission developer, organizing congregations, Sunday schools, and lay-led services in frontier communities. Witt analyzes Moldehnke’s transition from missionary to seminary founder, arguing that the Synod’s decision to remove him from the Reisepredigt hindered its mission outreach for over a decade. The essay concludes with a reflection on the path not taken and a call for present-day mission-mindedness. Witt’s work highlights Moldehnke’s enduring impact and the importance of strategic leadership in church growth.

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