The latest and best biography of a father of confessional Lutheranism in North America. Loehe, who never visited the United States, sent missionaries, founded seminaries, established deaconess training, studied doctrine and liturgy, and fought with church officials. Geiger sets forth Loehe's life, and the divided opinions about him, in a compelling and authoritative narrative. This first, full length biography of a key player in Lutheran history is accessible to lay audiences and appreciated by scholars. Prof. John T. Pless MDiv Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry & Missions Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne Co-President of the International Loehe Society Those looking for a model for pastoral ministry with integrity do well to emulate Loehe. Few pastors have mobilized their congregations for mission as he. Prof. Mark Mattes, PhD Professor of Religion and Philosophy Grand View University Des Moines, Iowa Through a splendid use of original source material the reader is immersed in the challenges and affairs confronting Loehe in his time. Prof. Craig L. Nessan, ThD Academic Dean and Professor of Contextual Theology Wartburg Theological Seminary We have so much to learn from this visionary and yet practical pastor. John W. Kleinig, MDiv, PhD Emeritus lecturer and former head of the Biblical Department, The Australian Lutheran College, North Adelaide, South Australia