Wyneken Exhibit Now Open

Concordia Historical Institute (CHI) opened its new museum exhibit, “F. C. D. Wyneken: The Thunder That Follows the Lightning,” on Wednesday, June 9, 2010, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony as part of a reception for the alumni of Concordia Seminary (Saint Louis). It will remain on display until fall 2011.

“F. C. D. Wyneken: The Thunder That Follows the Lightning” highlights the life and ministry of Friedrich Conrad Dietrich Wyneken, a celebration of the 200th anniversary of his birth. Wyneken left Germany in 1838 to minister to German Lutherans in America and began his ministry as a missionary in Indiana. A strong confessional Lutheran pastor, Wyneken was involved in preliminary discussions that led to the formation of the Missouri Synod and joined the Synod in 1848, a year after its founding. He served as president of the Synod for fourteen years. During his 38-year ministry he served parishes in Fort Wayne and Friedheim, Indiana; Baltimore, Saint Louis and Cleveland. Despite the many struggles he faced throughout his life, Wyneken served God and the church faithfully until his death in 1876.


This exhibit includes newly translated letters from Wyneken to key individuals in the Lutheran church. These letters reflect his life as missionary and pastor, synodical president and his personal life. They highlight the manner in which he judiciously and honestly carried out his role as president, father and friend. Wyneken’s handwritten agenda notebook, which contains rites for baptism, marriage and funerals in German, English and French, can be viewed in the exhibit. A book of psalms given by Wyneken to Marie Sophie Buuck, who later became his wife, on the occasion of her confirmation is also on display. Other artifacts include a cross made of Wyneken’s hair, a book of handwritten sermons, and various other publications about and by Wyneken.


Concordia Historical Institute is located on the Clayton campus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, at 804 Seminary Place, off of Clayton Road. The museum, which has free admission, is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays. Reservations are not necessary to view the museum exhibits, except for groups over 50. Tours of the synodical archives at the Institute require advanced reservations. For reservations or more information, please call 314-505-7900.