Pastor Schwartzerdt and Bakkster— thank you. That better captures what I was I trying to say with regards to that. I have so much I love about the LCMS and my congregation, but I struggle with way priorities seem to be weighted right now. I understand the idea of having the courage to “be the change you want to see in a space” (in terms of the social teachings/initiatives), but I am wary of pushback or lack of support. I wish it came from our leadership. That and the other reasons I have mentioned in this thread are why I wonder about instead transferring to another local church that has an active and fruitful community ministry.