Scandinavia Lutheran Church

Waupaca County, Wisconsin

June 26 - July 4, 1872

President Preus had not prepared what we have come to recognize as an address, but gave only a report. From that report of several pages only the first paragraph is translated.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with us all! Amen.

Dear brethren, we frequently see in our times how men in various positions form associations and hold meetings for the attainment of temporal goals. Yes, unfortunately, they are often for the purpose of being able to force their plans through with much greater power for the overthrow of the existing situation and of such ordinances which not only have the prescriptive right of the centuries but also divine sanction. When we now in these last evil times are able to be gathered in the harmony of faith, solely in the spiritual interest of building up the church of God among us, this might fortress which shall remain standing, yes, be revealed in glory when those proud plans are reduced to nothing and the world’s glory passes away, then we have much reason to thank God for such grace. May God grant that we now also during this synod meeting might render him our thanks so that through all our discussions and through all our resolutions we might have our dear congregations’ building-up in mind and seek it furthered according to the Word of God. To that end may God grant us all his grace, and bless our meeting for Jesus’ name’s sake!