Ebenezer "Her Church" Lutheran (ELCA) in San Francisco, California

[EvangelCatholic]

Me thinks that is only very seldom that Lutheran clergy in Europe are addressed as “Father.” And when they are it is for the most part as honorific title not unlike “monsignor” in Roman Catholic circles.

I think you are correct. I recall retired clergy being referred to as “Father” by other pastors as a sign of respect. At my own parish as well as other metro Lutheran churches, the pastor may also be addressed as “Father” especially when using his first name. One hears that in Lutheran seminaries and religious communities. The awkward part is what to call female priests? I have heard an Episcopal priest called “Mother”. But I think it is preferable to use “Pastor” since it does not connote gender and it describes the pastoral nature of the priesthood.

 

[Oldtimer_7]

This and many other denominational decisions by the ELCA is why I have removed it from my personal information. I consider myself a Lutheran in regard to my understanding of Scripture. I was Lutheran before the ELCA, and will continue to support the community in which I grew up physically and spiritually.