When we pass the peace during our worship service, what is really going on? What is the purpose? Are we harboring no ill-feelings towards our brothers & sisters? Or is this more spiritual than temporal where we confirm that we are declared rightous and pass the peace that surpasses all understanding?

What does it mean when we pray in our communion liturgy, "...Therefore with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven we laud and magnify your glorious name..."?

Does the LCMS hold a particular opinion as to who (pastor, elder, layman-woman) should or may read in front of the congregation the Sunday morning Scripture verses (including the Gospel books)?

I am a new member of the LCMS (less than two years). My question is on the practice of making the sign of the cross on oneself during the course of the Divine Services, during the Sacrament of Communion, etc. It seems to me to be a great expression of love and respect to Christ our Lord. I am baffled because even though it is addressed in our hymnals, very few in the congregation actually do this. Is this simply left to an individual preference or should we all participate in practice? Could you also tell me the difference in the meaning of this practice between the LCMS and the Catholic Church?

I need to know where I can find proof that Christ wishes us to worship on Sunday. Through the whole Bible it does not say we have a choice about changing the day of worship. Jesus kept the Sabbath and so did all the apostles.

My church secretary informed me that the LCMS was coming out with brand new hymnals, supposedly to replace Lutheran Worship, around 2008. Where can I get more information on the new hymnal?

I have been a baptized member of the LCMS since birth. I am now 50. Why are there so many changes in the church regarding women serving as ushers and other areas where it used to be predominantly men? My church is having conflict with members over these issues.

My question is regarding the wording of the absolution in Divine Service II: "To those who believe in Jesus Christ He gives the power to become the children of God and bestows on them the Holy Spirit."  I have heard these words for many years, but I was recently thinking about their meaning. What does "become the children of God" mean? If I believe in Jesus Christ, I already am a child of God; I don't become a child of God.  Does the phrase refer to sanctification and not justification? It would make more sense to me if it read: To those who believe in Jesus Christ He gives them the power to live as a child of God.

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