The Coffee Hour from KFUO Radio

What is a helpful conversation? What is not a helpful conversation? Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy, Sarah, and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about what makes good conversation about mental health, the goal of a helpful conversation, an example from Luther that can illustrate the application of advice we’ve discussed so far for helpful conversations, and what we should consider if planning to have a helpful conversation.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

Why is it fitting for Lutherans to adopt today, and what may be unique about Lutheran or Christian adoption? Rev. Michael Salemink, Executive Director Lutherans for Life, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the upcoming Lutheran Adoption Conference, the need for adoption today, why it is fitting for Lutherans to adopt today, and what may be unique about Lutheran or Christian adoption. Learn more and register at Lutheransadopt.org.

What did Black Ministry look like in the 1960s and 1970s, and how did the civil unrest during that time shape Black Ministry? Rev. Dr. McNair Ramsey — Retired Pastor from Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wittenburg, Alabama, and serving as 1st Vice President of the LCMS Southern District of the LCMS, and Rev. Michael Shannon — Pastor of Faith Lutheran in Shreveport, Louisiana join Andy and Sarah to share their own stories of Lutheranism, Dr. Ramsey's education under Dr. Rosa Young in Alabama, Rev. Shannon's experience of converting to Lutheranism, the significant developments of LCMS Black Ministry in the 1960s and 1970s, and how the unrest among the broader society during this era shape Black Ministry. 
 
 Resources in this series:
 
 LCMS Black Ministry lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/black-ministry
 Roses and Thorns by Dr. Richard C. Dickenson cph.org/roses-and-thorns-black-lutheran-centennial
 Recommended reading from LCMS Black Ministry lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/black-ministry/recommended-reading

As Lutherans continue to form synods in America, what is the story of the Ohio Synod, and how did American Protestantism begin to have a poor influence on Lutherans? Why were the German Lutherans so concerned about retaining the German language? Hear these stories and the history of the meetings leading up to the First Convention of The German Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and Other States.
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

How can the arts, specifically music and rap, engage communities and reach people with the Gospel? Flame — Lutheran rap artist, author of Extra Nos: Discovering Grace outside Myself (available from CPH), and creative behind Extra Nos Academy, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about rap as art, art in outreach to engage communities, what he's been working on and upcoming projects, Extra Nos Conferences, and the value he sees in equipping laity to understand great Biblical doctrine. (Plus, hear his answers to our Lightning Round!) Find Flame's book at books.cph.org/extra-nos and find Extra Nos Academy at extranosacademy.com.

What is Luther's advice for managing behaviors associated with mental health?
 
 Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy, Sarah, and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about Luther's advice for behavior, Luther's understanding of Anfechtung, how Anfechtung is different from mental illness, and Luther's personal experience with Anfechtung.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

How do faithful Lutheran school leaders encourage children to pursue church work? Thomas Wrege, Principal of Zion Lutheran Church & School in Georgetown, TX, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about his journey from the military to Concordia Nebraska to Lutheran education, how the military prepared him for service in the church, how he sees faithful Lutheran school leaders encouraging children to consider church work vocations, how his relationship with students resulted in some of them considering a church work vocation, and how we form and recruit Lutheran school principals. Learn more about the Lutheran Education Association (LEA) at lea.org.
 
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

What was life like as a pastor's kid during LCMS Black Ministry from 1927-1977? Mrs. Cheri Laurent Blair joins Andy and Sarah to share her personal family history of LCMS Black Ministry, including her family's story, her father's service to the church, where her father trained to become a pastor, her memories of how her father cared for his congregation, and more stories from her childhood. 
 
 Resources in this series:
 
 LCMS Black Ministry lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/black-ministry
 
 Roses and Thorns by Dr. Richard C. Dickenson cph.org/roses-and-thorns-black-lutheran-centennial
 Recommended reading from LCMS Black Ministry lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/black-ministry/recommended-reading

How did Lutheranism settle on the American frontier, and what was the religious culture like in those remote areas? What was the relationship between the Lutheran missionaries and Native Americans on the frontier? Hear these stories and the influence of men like Friedrich August Craemer and Wilhelm Sihler on the frontier Lutheran churches and the formation of Lutheran church bodies and seminaries.
 
 
 Find the Lutheran Ladies’ Lounge podcast episode about Dorothea Craemer at kfuo.org/2021/04/09/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-080-story-time-with-sarah-dorothea-craemer-goes-to-america.
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

What can humans do that artificial intelligence will never be able to do? Why should we care? Dr. Robert Marks — Distinguished Professor at Baylor University, Director of Discovery’s Walter Bradley Center for Natural & Artificial Intelligence, and author of Non-Computable You: What You Do Artificial Intelligence Never Will, and Dr. Elisabeth Bennett — Associate Professor and Director of the Master of Science in Leadership for the Haab School of Business at Concordia University Wisconsin, join Andy and Sarah to talk about what sparked Dr. Marks' interest in design and AI that led to a full career in research and academia in this field, how AI has become useful to the average person and business, what humans do that AI never will, and the upcoming leadership conference at Concordia Unversity Wisconsin that will provide opportunities to learn more about human-centered leadership in the time of artificial intelligence. Find registration information for the Ignite & Inspire Leadership Conference at learn.cuw.edu
 
 Dr. Marks’ books:
 
 Non-Computable You: What You Do Artificial Intelligence Never Will
 For a Greater Purpose 
 Minding the Brain

What was the state of medicine and mental health care during the Renaissance Era and the time of Martin Luther? Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy, Sarah, and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about how he first learned about Martin Luther’s experience with mental health problems, the understanding of medicine and mental health care during the Renaissance Era and the time of Luther, how mental illnesses typically were treated by physicians or other caregivers in this era, and how Martin Luther cared for souls with mental health problems and mental illness.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

It's soup season, so we're having a Live Soup-er Bowl Social! Mike Broberg, Administrator of Residential Services at Concordia Seminary in St Louis, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the Concordia Seminary Food Bank, how this service helps seminary students and their families, and how people can support the Food Bank. Call 314-505-7029, email [email protected], and visit csl.edu/campus-life/food-bank to learn more.

What did the first 50 years of LCMS Black Ministry look like, from 1877-1927? Rev. Dr. James McDaniels, serving St. Luke Lutheran Church in High Point, North Carolina, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the Lutheran Synodical Conference's work in evangelization, some important figures in the early work of missionary work to Black Americans, Black Lutheran congregations that flourished in North Carolina and other areas, how Black professional church workers were raised up, some challenges of this work, and the joyful outcome of this work.
 
 Resources in this episode:
 
 LCMS Black Ministry lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/black-ministry
 Concordia Seminary's post about Marmaduke Carter facebook.com/ConcordiaSem/posts/948333803689601 
 Roses and Thorns by Dr. Richard C. Dickenson cph.org/roses-and-thorns-black-lutheran-centennial
 
 Recommended reading from LCMS Black Ministry lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/black-ministry/recommended-reading

What role did Frederick Wyneken and August Craemer play in Lutherans settling in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan? Hear about these settlements, how Wyneken and Wilhelm Loehe partnered to send more German missionaries to America, and what happened with the Lutherans who remained in the German states. Find the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge podcast episode about Dorothea Craemer at kfuo.org/2021/04/09/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-080-story-time-with-sarah-dorothea-craemer-goes-to-america.
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

The February issue of the Lutheran Witness explores a broken community. Peter summons Christians to gather as a holy community — consecrated by and set apart for the One who alone is holy, God the Holy Trinity. Whenever Christians fall short of this calling, they inevitably revert to “the passions of [their] former ignorance” (1 Peter 1:14) and “the futile ways inherited from [their] forefathers” (1 Peter 1:18), whether the Gentile proclivity for idolatry and licentiousness or the Jewish inclination toward self-righteousness. Peter wisely guides us away from both antinomianism and legalism by upholding both Law and Gospel as God’s unchanging Word for humanity. He proclaims our redemption from sin by the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18–19) while urging sober-mindedness and reverent conduct (1 Peter 1:13, 17). In fact, believers can receive Peter’s quotation of Leviticus 11:44, “You shall be holy, for I am holy” (1 PETER 1:16), as both a command and promise: He will make us holy by His Word, so we must always “be holy in all [our] conduct” (1 Peter 1:15).
 
 Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the February 2024 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled "A Holy Community" on 1 Peter 1:13–21. This year, "Searching Scripture" is themed "Elect Exiles" and will walk through the First Epistle of St. Peter. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us!
 
 Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.
 
 1 Peter 1:13–21
 Called to Be Holy
 
 13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action,[a] and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one's deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
 
 Read full chapter
 
 Footnotes
 1 Peter 1:13 Greek girding up the loins of your mind
 
 English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. esv.org

What do we do with the stigma and shame around mental health problems? Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy, Sarah, and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about what has led to stigma and shame around mental health problems, why we struggle with shame, and how we can understand mental illness and mental health problems.
 
 If you or someone you know struggles with self-harm, call or text the suicide prevention hotline at 988. Help is available, and you are not alone.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

How do men from various backgrounds become LCMS pastors? Rev. Harrison Goodman, Content Executive for Higher Things, and Rev. Randy Sturzenbecher, Vice President of Higher Things, join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about their paths to the pastoral ministry, how pastors serve in many and various ways in the church, who encouraged them to become pastors, and how Higher Things encourages youth to consider church work through their conferences and large amount of other resources. Learn more about Higher Things at higherthings.org.
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

What's it like to be a writer, and what can we learn from Lutheran writers? Presenters from this year's Texas Lutheran Writers Roundup join Andy and Sarah to talk about their presentations and what people will learn at this year's event. Learn more about the Texas Lutheran Writers Roundup, including how you can attend if you're in Central Texas, at facebook.com/events/1121263108907395.
 
 Today's guest lineup:
 
 Sarah Baughman is the author of A Flame in the Dark (available from CPH). Find Sarah at sarahbaughman.org.
 Christina Hergenrader is the author of Inspired by the Holy Spirit: Four Habits for Faithful Living (available from CPH). Find Christina at christinahergenrader.com.
 Rev. Dr. Brian Kachelmeier is the author of Reading Isaiah with Luther (available from CPH). Find this book on CPH FaithCourses at youtube.com/watch?v=QAOPUOsLVKU.
 Rev. Dr. Christopher Kennedy is the author of Jesus Said What? (available from CPH).
 Ruth Meyer is the author of N for Nativity (available from CPH). Find Ruth at Ruthmeyerbooks.com.
 Donna Snow is the author of Meant for Good: a Study of Joseph (available from CPH). Find Donna at artesianministries.org.

Out of any place the Saxons could have settled in America, why did they choose Missouri? Hear about their journey, C.F.W. Walther's role in settling Lutherans in both St. Louis and Perry County, and the fallout from Martin Stephan's dramatic story with the Saxon immigrants. Find the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge episode on C.F.W Walther's wife Emilie at kfuo.org/2020/09/11/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-050-story-time-with-sarah-walthers-wife-emilie.
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

Kay Meyer, Founder and Director of Family Shield Ministries, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how Family Shield Ministries began, how they have served families throughout the history of the organization, and the work of Family Shield Ministries today. Learn more about Family Shield Ministries at familyshieldministries.com.

How are thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to mental health, and how are these affected by social media? Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about how mental health is related to emotions and behaviors, how social media affects our mental health, unique things about social media that may contribute to mental health problems in adolescents and young adults, and some practical advice for parents and others who care for youth and young adults.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

How does a love of languages serve future church workers? Rev. Joshua Hayes, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, KS, editor of Johann Gerhard’s Theological Commonplaces (available from CPH), and a contributing translator to the American Edition of Luther’s Works, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about his story of considering and becoming a pastor, the challenges and joys in his journey, his love of languages, what a day in the life of a pastor looks like, and how he and his congregation encourages and forms youth and adults in the Christian faith and to consider a church work vocation.
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

What happens at the National March for Life and how has it changed since the Dobbs decision in 2022? Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor, LCMS Director of Life Ministry, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the 2024 National March for Life, the long list of events surrounding the March, how state Marches have become more significant in the last few years, and LCMS resources that are available for congregations and groups interested in supporting life in their states and communities. Learn more about LCMS Life Ministry and the state Marches at lcmslife.org and find information on the Million Dollar Life Match grants at lcms.org/serve/grants/life-grant.

What's the rest of the story about Martin Stephan? How did his actions affect the Saxons in Perry County? Hear about his dramatic exit from the Lutheran community as well as the journey of the Saxons into their new homeland.
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

Robert Lunak, Superintendent of Lutheran Neighborhood Schools in the LCMS South Wisconsin District, joins Andy to talk about Lutheran education in South Wisconsin, what makes Lutheran Neighborhood Schools different, how this creative model will benefit students, and how our tradition of excellence in Lutheran education continues in this unique educational experience. Learn more about Lutheran Neighborhood Schools at mylns.org.
 
 This program originally aired October 19, 2023.

What are some risk factors for mental illness, and how are mental illnesses different in adolescents and young adults? Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about risk factors for mental illness, how mental illness present differently in young people, and how mental health problems have increased over the last 13 years.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

Why is it important for parents to teach their children the faith, immerse them in God's Word in the home, and bring them faithfully to church? Allison and Michael Zeller, Members of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Fenton MO, join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about how they were formed in the faith and why it is important to teach their children the faith, what they do at home to teach the faith, how they see their roles in teaching their children the faith, and why it's important for them to bring their children to the Divine Service and Sunday school.
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

Do you love creating and posting social media, keeping websites up to date, and diving into digital content? We're hiring a Digital Media Associate! Derek Olsen, Human Resources Specialist with The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the role of social media in what we do at KFUO Radio, what the new Digital Media Associate will do at KFUO Radio as part of Sarah's team, and the benefits of working at the LCMS International Center. Find the job posting and apply at kfuo.org/careers.

How were Rationalism and Unionism affecting the Lutheran church in Germany, and who was reacting in Saxony? We meet Martin Stephan and C.F.W. Walther, two significant characters in the story as Lutherans settle in Perry County, MO. How did Stephan become the leader, and what drama did he begin to have within the group?
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

What's it like to plant churches and serve people on the mission field in Uruguay? Rev. James, Angela, and Maggie Sharp, serving the Lord in Uruguay, join Sarah to talk about how the Lutheran congregations have grown across Uruguay over their time on the field, what it's like to be back in America for home service, and the short term mission opportunities in Uruguay. Learn more about the Sharp family and how to support their work at lcms.org/sharp, sharpmission.org, and facebook.com/sharpmission.

What does Martin Luther say about Mental Health, and how does it apply today? Stephen M. Saunders, PhD, Schneider Endowed Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Marquette University, and author of Martin Luther on Mental Health: Practical Advice for Christians Today available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy and guest co-host Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about how he serves as a mental health professional, why it was important to him to write about Martin Luther on Mental Health, and the difference between mental illness and a mental health struggle.
 
 Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9:00 a.m. CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday.
 
 Disclaimer: Dr. Saunders is a professional clinical psychologist and is very pleased to offer ideas and suggestions about mental health and mental health problems on these shows. However, one of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Saunders frequently gives is to get professional help when you need it. Nothing said on these shows should be taken as therapy or treatment or as a substitute for personal consultation with a professional.

How do cantors use church music to teach children the faith and form future church workers? Jonathan Rudy, Cantor at Grace Lutheran Church in Clarksville, TN, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about the influence of Grace Lutheran’s music program on forming and recruiting church workers in the LCMS, how Lutheran liturgy and hymnody contribute to children loving being in the church, and his role in the Mid-South District Set Apart to Serve church work recruitment committee and collaboration with SAS.
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

Summer camp provides unique opportunities for campers and staff alike! Keith Peters — Director of Summer and Youth Ministry at Camp Lutherhaven in Albion, Indiana, and Derrick "Rocky" Minnick — Ministry Impact Worker at Camp Lutherhaven, join Andy and Sarah to talk about their memories of time at camp, how camp experiences impact kids and teens, the outlook for staff this summer at NLOMA Camps, and how to apply to work at camp this summer. Learn more and apply at nloma.org.

We embark on the epic story that is the creation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri. In this episode, we begin in mid-1800s Saxony and Prussia, focusing on the Prussian Union. What prompted the immigration from Saxony to the United States in the mid-1800s? What are rationalism and unionism, and how did these deeply affect Lutherans in the German states?
 
 Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series on the History of the LCMS. Find more from Dr. Mackenzie at video.ctsfw.edu.

How can Lutheran congregations support military service members and veterans through Operation Barnabas? Jill Tendler — Operation Barnabas volunteer at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Eureka, MO, and Lee Hinton — Administrative Coordinator for LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, join Andy and Sarah to talk about Jill's military family story, why Operation Barnabas is important to her, and how small actions make a huge difference for veterans and military families. Learn more at 314-996-1337 andlcms.org/ministry-to-the-armed-forces/operation-barnabas.
 
 Photo: Jill's Father's New Testament (mentioned in the episode) that saved his life.

Every four years in the USA, the presidential campaign preoccupies our populace, culminating in the November election of the next “president elect.” But for Christians, whose “kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36), the most important “election” has been made by God and revealed in our Baptism into Christ: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). As God’s “elect exiles” (1 Peter 1:1) during our pilgrimage through a sinful world on the way to our heavenly home, the First Epistle of St. Peter is a wonderful guide for our life together in Christian communities today under “the Shepherd and Overseer” (1 Peter 2:25) of our souls.
 
 Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the January 2024 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled "A Community of Exiles" on 1 Peter 1:1-12. This year, "Searching Scripture" is themed "Elect Exiles" and will walk through the First Epistle of St. Peter. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us!
 
 Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.
 
 1 Peter 1:1–12
 Greeting
 
 1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
 
 To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood:
 
 May grace and peace be multiplied to you.
 
 Born Again to a Living Hope
 
 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
 
 10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired carefully, 11 inquiring what person or time[a] the Spirit of Christ in them was indicating when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glories. 12 It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.
 
 Read full chapter
 
 Footnotes
 1 Peter 1:11 Or what time or circumstances
 
 English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. esv.org

Rev. James and Deaconess Christel Neuendorf, who serve the Lord in Puerto Rico, join Andy and Sarah to talk about some history and trivia about where they live and serve in Puerto Rico, how Advent and Christmas is observed in their churches and communities, how seriously Puerto Ricans take Christmas (hint: a lot), some of the local traditions, and their own family traditions. Learn more about the Neuendorfs and how to support their work at lcms.org/neuendorf.

Joyce Erber, who serves the Lord in Accra, Ghana, with her husband Rev. David Erber, joins Sarah to talk about the Lutheran Women's group she serves with in Ghana, how this group serves the community around them, how Advent and Christmas is observed in West Africa, and their own family traditions for Christmas. Learn more about the Erbers and how to support their work at lcms.org/erber.

Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard, pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Minot, ND, and author of Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up? available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy and Sarah in our series on the Sundays in Advent to talk about the Gospel Reading for the Fourth Sunday in Advent. Why did the Jew ask who John was, and why did the Pharisees care? Are there different kinds of Baptism? What does John mean when he talks about the Lamb of God?
 
 John 1:19-29
 The Testimony of John the Baptist
 
 19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight[a] the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said.”
 
 24 (Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.) 25 They asked him, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, 27 even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” 28 These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
 
 Behold, the Lamb of God
 
 29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
 
 Read full chapter
 
 Footnotes
 John 1:23 Or crying out, ‘In the wilderness make straight
 
 English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. esv.org

Rev. Brian Hamer, active duty Navy Chaplain and author of the Lifted Voice column in Around the Word: Theology for the Curious Christian, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Luther's first Christmas hymn, "We Praise You, Jesus, at Your Birth" (Lutheran Service Book 382), including Martin Luther as a hymn writer, Luther's theology of music, how this hymn describes Christ's incarnation, and how our sung confession is incarnational, not "attractional."

Deaconess Kim Bueltmann, serving the Lord in Germany, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Weihnachten (Christmas) in Deutschland (Germany), including some history about Leipzig and Chemnitz where she lives and works, how Advent and Christmas are observed in Germany, what Christkindlesmarkts are like in Germany, how the influx of refugees has shaped the local traditions how Bach is a part of local traditions, and traditional Christmas foods. Learn more about Deaconess Kim and how to support her work at lcms.org/bueltmann.

Chaplain Steven Hokana — Assistant Director of LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, and Lee Hinton — Administrative Coordinator for LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about their own time in the armed forces, how they became interested in military service, what deployment is like, how Christmas is observed during deployment, how Chaplains made an incredible difference while deployed, and the path to becoming an LCMS Chaplain in the Armed Forces. Learn more about LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces at lcms.org/armedforces.
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

Let's sing Christmas Carols! Friends from the International Center Rev. Doug Griebenaw, Katie Rickords, Prince Solomon, Rev. Sean Daenzer, Deaconess Cara Patton, Anne Gonzalez, Courtney Zalmonoff, Peter Slayton, and Aubrey Blank join us live in studio to sing some of our favorite carols. Sing along in your Lutheran Service Book! View the caroling live on Facebook at facebook.com/KFUORadio/videos/371244222228616.

Rev. Peter Ill, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Millstadt, IL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Corinthians 14:1-25.
 
 Keeping in mind the most excellent way that is love, St. Paul instructs the Corinthians concerning their use of prophecy and speaking in tongues. He holds up prophecy as the more helpful gift, because prophecy builds up the entire church, while speaking miraculously in a known foreign language benefits only the individual, unless someone translates. As the Corinthians seek to use the gifts bestowed by the Spirit within their public worship services, they should consider how they can benefit the whole congregation. If an outsider witnessed the foreign languages, the scene would appear only to be confusion and only add to his judgment. However, prophecy would serve to proclaim the Word of God that would bring the unbeliever to repentance and faith in Christ.
 
 “Nothing But Christ Crucified” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the epistle of 1 Corinthians. In response to correspondence from the Christians in Corinth and reports about matters arising in the congregation, St. Paul writes to address various matters of Christian faith and life. Throughout it all, he directs our attention to the power and wisdom of God for our salvation: Christ crucified.

Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard, pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Minot, ND, and author of Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up? available from Concordia Publishing House, joins Andy and Sarah in our series on the Sundays in Advent to talk about the Gospel Reading for the Third Sunday in Advent. Why is John the Baptist so important in Advent? Why does Jesus ask questions when He already knows the answers? What do all of these miracles mean?
 
 Matthew 11:2-10
 
 2 Now when John heard in prison about the deeds of the Christ, he sent word by his disciples 3 and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers[a] are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 6 And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.”
 
 7 As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 What then did you go out to see? A man[b] dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. 9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet?[c] Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is he of whom it is written,
 
 “‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face,
 who will prepare your way before you.’
 
 Read full chapter
 
 Footnotes
 Matthew 11:5 Leprosy was a term for several skin diseases; see Leviticus 13
 Matthew 11:8 Or Why then did you go out? To see a man…
 Matthew 11:9 Some manuscripts Why then did you go out? To see a prophet?
 
 English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. esv.org

Steven Wolters, KFUO Radio listener and donor, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about when he first began listening to KFUO Radio, how it became a regular practice for him and his son, how our programs him help him in his daily vocations, and how listening to KFUO Radio has made a difference for his family. If you'd like to become a supporter like Steven, visit kfuo.org/give.

Deaconess Carol Halter, serving the Lord as an evangelistic missionary among the Chinese people in Hong Kong since 1981, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what she's experienced over her many years on the mission field in Hong Kong, the culture where she serves, the ways she can share Jesus' love to the people in Hong Kong, and her experience working in the Cantonese language. Learn more about Deaconess Halter and how to support her work at lcms.org/halter.

Deaconess Amy Rast — Associate Director of Deaconess Formation at Concordia Theological Seminary Fort Wayne, Deaconess Dr. Gillian M. Bond — Director of Deaconess Studies at Concordia Seminary St. Louis, and Deaconess Kristin Wassilak — Program Leader for Deaconess Studies and Interim Dean of the College of Theology, Arts & Humanities at Concordia University Chicago, join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about their journeys to serving as Deaconesses, how they've been able to serve in unique ways as Deaconesses, and wisdom for women considering diaconal formation. Learn more about these respective programs at ctsfw.edu, csl.edu, and cuchicago.edu.
 
 Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve.
 
 Christ’s church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers.
 
 Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations.
 
 Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS:
 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers.
 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers.
 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation.
 
 To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve.

Dr. Jeff Held, Assistant Dean of Music and Artistic Director of the Concordia PBS Broadcast at Concordia University Irvine (CUI), joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the annual Christmas festivities with the arts at CUI, the preparations for the annual PBS Christmas Concert broadcast, the music that listeners will experience, and how this broadcast fits into the arts programs at CUI. Find details and local PBS broadcast details at cui.edu/Christmas.

Jennifer Nitchman, flutist with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the upcoming Christmas celebrations happening with the St. Louis Symphony, including the Gospel Christmas Concert, Mercy Holiday Celebration, two film scores (with films!), and the New Year's Eve Celebration. Find details for all of these events at slso.org or call the Box Office at (314) 534-1700.