The memoir of the Rev. Dr. Herbert W. Chilstrom, the first presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It is the story of his life as it intertwines with the church from baptism to the present day. The book begins with a reflective account of his family roots, childhood, education, pastoral and teaching career. Subsequent chapters include his life as a synod bishop, his role in the formation of the ELCA and his ministry as the first presiding bishop of that church. Although central to the narrative is his focus on leadership, it is done in the context of the larger scene, bringing into focus the major historical events that were happening at the time. Embedded in his story are deeply personal accounts of his family experience, including the role of his wife Corinne, the trauma of the death of their son Andrew, and the impact of his handicapped brother David.