Recent statistics show that more than half of the U.S. population is concentrated in 52 of the largest metropolitan areas. Statistics also lean toward some of the largest cities being the least pro-life communities in the nation. So why are places that are bursting with so much human life less likely to be pro-life? Why are families moving out of urban areas in droves and flocking to communities that are more family friendly? Joining Steph is Rev. Dr. Leonard Payton, a pastor serving in Chicago. Pastor Payton shares the unique ways that cities are fertile ground for the Gospel, and why urban areas desperately need Christians to stand up for life in their midst.
Bio: Rev. Dr. Leonard Payton has served as pastor of St. John/Forest Park, IL, for the past 12 years. He is married to Lori, his wife of 43 years, and together they have four adult children and ten grandchildren. In addition to his M.Div., Leonard also has a PhD in music theory and composition.
Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org.
Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.
We believe that God is the author and sustainer of all life. We also know it can be hard to speak about the intrinsic value of that life when it feels like the world is trying to drown us out.
We’re right here beside you. In this podcast of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Life Ministry, we’re coming alongside one another as a community of Christ’s redeemed people, ones who are speaking up for and living out the sanctity of human life. Together we’ll explore life issues in a way that honors our heavenly Father’s value of human life, serves our neighbor, and connects us to others who are doing the same. Join us, so that together we can be friends for life.
