Return to Wittenberg Conference

In this episode (TLHP 82), we are joined by Daniel G. Baker to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Luther's "German Mass." We discuss Baker's article, “The False Dichotomy of Formula Missae and Deutsche Messe.” Luther’s two major orders of service are often treated as representing competing liturgical traditions: the Formula Missae preserving the historic Latin Mass and the Deutsche Messe representing a distinctly German alternative. Baker challenges that interpretation, arguing that both are expressions of the same evangelical approach to worship, adapted to different linguistic and cultural settings. We discuss what Luther was actually trying to accomplish with the Deutsche Messe, the importance of the chorale and Luther’s musical theology, and the substantial similarities between the two services. The conversation then explores the way American Lutherans have subsequently understood Luther’s liturgical reforms. Along the way, we explore what this history can teach us about Luther’s understanding of liturgical freedom, continuity with the historic church, and the distinctly evangelical character of Lutheran worship.

Support the show

• Confessional Languages Scholarship
• The Wauwatosa Diary (book)
• YouTube
• Website
• email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com

About the Host:

Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College (BA with a German emphasis) and a graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards and recognitions from the Concordia Historical Institute. He serves on the board of the Lutheran Historical Conference. Ben is currently a doctoral candidate in historical theology through CSL.

Image: Ludwig Nietmann

This episode welcomes returning guest, Pastor Justin Dauck, to examine the complex and often overlooked figure of Ludwig Nietmann, a 19th-century Lutheran pastor whose life and ministry intersect with the early development of the Wisconsin Synod. Beginning with Nietmann’s background prior to his arrival in America, the conversation traces his path into the synod and situates his ministerial work within the broader context of immigrant Lutheranism on the American frontier. Dauck offers a concise overview of Nietmann’s pastoral career, highlighting both his activity and the controversies that came to define his legacy.

Central to the discussion is the paradox that Nietmann proved to be “a blessing to some, a stumbling block to others.” His ministry bore real fruit in certain contexts, yet was marred by serious personal and pastoral failures that ultimately led to his departure from the Wisconsin Synod. The episode explores how his case not only reflects individual shortcomings but also exposes systemic vulnerabilities in early synodical vetting and recruitment practices during a time of urgent pastoral need.

Dauck also reflects on the research process that led to his thesis and article, offering insight into the historical sources and questions that shaped his work. The conversation concludes with thoughtful consideration of the personal and ecclesial lessons drawn from Nietmann’s story—particularly regarding pastoral formation, accountability, and the enduring challenge of maintaining both doctrinal fidelity and pastoral integrity.

Meet and Greet Registration

Support the show

Podcast Meet and Greet October 8

• Confessional Languages Scholarship
• The Wauwatosa Diary (book)
• YouTube
• Website
• email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com

About the Host:

Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College (BA with a German emphasis) and a graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards and recognitions from the Concordia Historical Institute. He serves on the board of the Lutheran Historical Conference. Ben is currently a doctoral candidate in historical theology through CSL.

In this episode, we explore the story behind The Lutheran Hymnal (1941) and the remarkable collaboration that brought it into existence. Drawing on Elisabeth J. Urtel’s recent dissertation, the conversation traces how the Missouri, Wisconsin, Norwegian, and Slovak synods of the Synodical Conference worked together to produce a shared English-language hymnal during a time of profound cultural change. The discussion examines how the shift from German and other immigrant languages to English shaped Lutheran identity in America, the theological and musical principles that guided the hymnal committee, and the challenges of translating and selecting hymns that would faithfully carry the Lutheran confession into a new cultural setting. Along the way, we ask how hymnody forms theology and devotion, how different Lutheran traditions negotiated their distinctive musical heritages, and how the publication of The Lutheran Hymnal helped foster a shared American identity among confessional Lutherans. The episode also reflects on the reception and lasting influence of TLH and what its history reveals about the relationship between tradition, language, and church life.

1941 Recording of a TLH model service (misleadingly described as just "Missouri Synod.")

Meet and Greet Registration

Support the show

Podcast Meet and Greet October 8

• Confessional Languages Scholarship
• The Wauwatosa Diary (book)
• YouTube
• Website
• email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com

About the Host:

Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College (BA with a German emphasis) and a graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards and recognitions from the Concordia Historical Institute. He serves on the board of the Lutheran Historical Conference. Ben is currently a doctoral candidate in historical theology through CSL.