EF 3468 Interview with Pastor Wayne Mueller

Abstract

Rob Zeratsky’s essay reflects on an in-depth interview with Pastor Wayne D. Mueller, tracing the moral and cultural shifts in American society from the 1950s through the early 2000s and their impact on pastoral ministry. Mueller discusses the rise of public immorality, including sexual sin, substance abuse, and family breakdown, and how these trends increased demands on pastors and reshaped seminary education. He recounts his service in parish ministry, his role in doctrinal disputes such as the Kokomo case, and his leadership in the WELS Synod Office during financial challenges. The essay emphasizes the importance of continuing education, pastoral care, and synodical support in confronting societal decay. Ultimately, Zeratsky highlights Mueller’s conviction that the timeless Gospel remains the church’s most powerful tool against sin and urges future pastors to remain steadfast in their mission. Abstract prepared with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).