ST. LOUIS — A dispute resolution panel for the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) has lifted the suspension of a New York church official.
David Benke, president of the denomination’s New York-based Atlantic District, was suspended last June for taking part in a national ecumenical prayer event at Yankee Stadium following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
The event, “A Prayer for America,” included non-Christian clerics as well as Christians representing various denominations. They gathered to pray for the United States and for the victims of the attacks.
Benke’s suspension was a response to complaints filed by 18 LCMS pastors and three congregations who believed his participation constituted syncretism — worshiping with non-Christians. They also felt Benke sinned against some of the Ten Commandments, committed public defense of false doctrine and violated the constitution and bylaws of the St. Louis-based denomination.
Benke appealed the suspension. Ultimately he faced removal from the clergy roster. However, nearly 11 months after being removed from his duties, the panel of trained LCMS reconcilers unanimously lifted Benke’s suspension.
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