The story of Christian mission is a story of faith, sacrifice, and Gospel proclamation. From the earliest days of the Church to the present, mission work has remained central to fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission:  

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19-20)  

For Lutherans, this mission remains foundational. Through organizations like Spiritual Orphans Network (SON), this calling continues today—reaching those who have been disconnected from the Church and the Gospel, particularly in post-communist societies and beyond.  

From the Early Church to the Reformation: A Foundation for Lutheran Missions  

The Apostolic Mission: Relationships Over Transactions  

Christian mission began with the Apostles, who, filled with the Holy Spirit, proclaimed Jesus’ death and resurrection to both Jews and Gentiles. The Apostle Paul, one of the greatest missionaries, established churches across the Roman Empire, emphasizing that mission is more than conversion—it is about relationships.  

This relational approach remains at the core of SON’s mission today —building trust and lasting relationships with spiritual orphans in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union, and beyond.  

The Reformation: A Missional Rediscovery of the Gospel 

The Lutheran approach to mission finds its roots in the Reformation of the 16th century. Martin Luther’s rediscovery of justification by grace through faith in Christ alone was itself a missionary act.  

Luther’s impact on mission included:  

• Translating the Bible into German, making Scripture accessible to all.
• Emphasizing the priesthood of all believers, equipping everyday Christians for mission.
• Fostering a culture of catechetical, ensuring faith was passed down through generations.

Spiritual Orphans Network carries this Lutheran legacy forward by:

• Equipping local leaders to share the Gospel.
• Training short-term mission teams to serve relationally.
• Supporting ongoing discipleship in local languages and contexts.