A Forgotten Battlefield: A Report of Certain Incidents between the Missouri and Iowa Synods in Bremer County, Iowa from 1872-1877

Abstract

Jon N. Wolff’s 1984 essay investigates theological and congregational conflicts between the Missouri and Iowa Synods in Bremer County, Iowa, from 1872 to 1877. Rooted in divergent views on church and ministry stemming from Pastor Loehe’s teachings, the essay traces tensions that escalated after the failed 1867 Milwaukee Colloquy. Pastor Paul Bredow of the Iowa Synod faced opposition from Missouri Synod pastors, especially W. Kanning, who aggressively planted rival congregations and challenged Iowa Synod doctrine. The essay details disputes in Maxfield Township, Buck Creek, Waverly, and Leroy Township, including congregational splits, contested inheritances, and theological debates over eschatology and ordination. Wolff concludes that while the Iowa Synod emphasized brotherly love, it compromised doctrinal clarity, whereas Missouri upheld confessional integrity but often lacked pastoral sensitivity. The essay underscores the lasting impact of theological conflict on local congregations and the importance of balancing truth with love. —Abstract created by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)