The Coffee Hour from KFUO Radio
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Live at the Faith and Film Festival at Concordia Seminary
Dr. Erik Hermann — professor of Historical Theology, dean of Theological Research and Publication, director of the Center for Reformation Research, and director of Concordia Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and Erika Bennett, director of Continuing Education at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, join Sarah and guest co-host Jordan Harms live from the Faith and Film Festival at Concordia Seminary to talk about the value of film for telling stories, how we can find Christian themes in movies that are not explicitly Christian, what we learn from Sci Fi and Fantasy films, and what Festival participants will learn and experience. Learn more at csl.edu/resources/continuing-education/faith-and-film-festival.
St. John Chrysostom: January 27 (Rebroadcast)
Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Boyle, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church and Trinity Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kansas, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about who St. John Chrysostom was, the era in which he lived, how he served the church, and what we learn from him as a forefather of the faith. This is a rebroadcast from January 27, 2022.
St. Titus, Pastor and Confessor: January 26 (Rebroadcast)
Rev. Dr. Daniel Paavola, Professor of Theology and Theology Department Chair at Concordia University Wisconsin, joins Andy and Sarah on the Commemoration of St. Titus to talk about who St. Titus was, how the Lord used him the church, his relationship with St. Paul, and what we learn from St. Titus and Paul's letter to him. This is a rebroadcast from January 26, 2022.
LCMS National Development Grants
Deaconess Maryann Hayter, LCMS manager of grants administration, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how national development grants help LCMS entities make known the Love of Christ, some examples of how past recipients of the LCMS national development grants program have carried the mission forward, the criteria to be eligible, and the application process for the grants. Learn more and apply at lcms.org/serve/grants/development.
Lutheran Schools Week: Metro East Lutheran High School
Mrs. Karen Shimkus — Choral, Strings, and Guitar Teacher at Metro East Lutheran High School (MELHS) in Edwardsville, Illinois, along with MELHS seniors Sophia, Jakob, and Joey, join Andy and Sarah during National Lutheran Schools Week to talk about why their families chose MELHS for them, how MELHS is preparing them for the next chapter in life, how God's Word is part of their day, what makes MELHS a unique experience for students, and why Mrs. Shimkus loves teaching there. Learn more about MELHS at melhs.org and on Facebook at facebook.com/MetroEastLutheranHS
Short-Term Mission in Puerto Rico and Beyond
Scott and Drew Prachar, short-term volunteers with LCMS International Mission, along with Erin Alter, Director of Short-term Missions for LCMS International Mission, join Andy and Sarah to talk about the father and son team's experiences serving on short-term volunteer teams, how they got connected to serve in Puerto Rico, how they served on this trip, and what exciting opportunities are coming up for those interested in serving on a short-term trip. Find short-term mission opportunities at servenow.lcms.org.
Mental Health Monday: Emotions and the Gospel — Forgotten Emotions of Scripture
Deaconess Heidi Goehmann, LCSW, MSW, joins Andy and Sarah in our series on "Emotions and the Gospel" to talk about Forgotten Emotions of Scripture, including why sorting through feelings and emotions can be daunting or intimidating, how a robust vocabulary helps us sort through emotions, how we can expand our emotions vocabulary, and some examples of overlooked or forgotten emotion words of Scripture. Find your copy of Emotions and the Gospel: Created for Connection at books.cph.org/emotions-and-the-gospel. Listen to all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/emotions-and-the-gospel. Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9am CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday. View Deaconess Heidi's Mental Health Playlist on Youtube, listen to the Life in Relationship Podcast, and find all of her writings and resources at heidigoehmann.com.
Set Apart To Serve: Journey Into Church Work
Dr. Roger Paavola, President of the Mid-South District of the LCMS, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about his journey into church work from the business world, why he is passionate about encouraging people to consider church work, how others helped him and his family work through challenges, the message he is giving others about the blessings of church work, and how the Mid-South District is supporting the Set Apart to Serve Initiative. 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.
LHF: Cultural Challenges and Sharing the Gospel
Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise, Executive Director of Lutheran Heritage Foundation (LHF), joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the current global needs that LHF is meeting, challenges like witchcraft and idol worship that they encounter in certain cultures, what it means for recipients to receive faithful resources in their own language, and the current pressing needs for LHF. Learn more about Lutheran Heritage Foundation at lhfmissions.org.
LAMP Ministry: 55 for 55
Rev. Dr. Steven Schave, Executive Director of LAMP Ministry, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the work of LAMP, the history of residential schools and the abuse and trauma in Indigenous communities, the challenges of youth living in remote villages, how LAMP brings the comfort of the Gospel to people in remote and isolated areas, and a new initiative for the 55th Anniversary of LAMP to reach even more communities with the love of Christ. Learn more about LAMP and how you can participate in 55 for 55 at lampministry.org.
Spring 2023 Men's Gathering
David Vandercar, Men’s Gathering Co-founder and Planner, joins Andy to talk about why they have a gathering for men, the theme and speaker for this year's gathering, what else is on the agenda beyond Bible study and fellowship, and the accommodations for this year's gathering. Learn more and register at mensgathering.us.
Specialized Pastoral Ministry Conference
Rev. Brian Heller, Manager of LCMS Specialized Pastoral Ministry, joins Andy to talk about Specialized Pastoral Ministry, the upcoming SPM Conference, who should attend this conference, what topics will be covered, and how to register. Learn more about SPM at lcms.org/spm and register for the conference happening February 28 - March 1 at calendar.lcms.org/event/lcms-specialized-pastoral-ministry-conference-2023.
Mental Health Monday: Emotions and the Gospel — Connection
Deaconess Heidi Goehmann, LCSW, MSW, joins Andy and Sarah in our series on "Emotions and the Gospel" to talk about Connection, including some examples of connection, what is required for emotional processing through connection, how this can be challenging in some cultures and easier in others, how things like transference and projection play a role in connection, and the place of vulnerability and boundaries in connection. Find your copy of Emotions and the Gospel: Created for Connection at books.cph.org/emotions-and-the-gospel. Listen to all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/emotions-and-the-gospel. Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9am CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday. View Deaconess Heidi's Mental Health Playlist on Youtube, listen to the Life in Relationship Podcast, and find all of her writings and resources at heidigoehmann.com.
Shadow a Missionary Program Opportunities
Rev. Mark Rabe — Director of Missionary Recruitment with LCMS International Mission, Ariana Gomez — Manager of Missionary Recruitment with LCMS International Mission, and Chelsea Irwin — LCMS Missionary serving in the Czech Republic, join Sarah to talk about the Shadow a Missionary Program for those interested in missionary service, including the wide variety of roles in which missionaries serve, how they all discerned missionary service for themselves, how this immersive program is helpful in that discernment process, and opportunities for this program available now. Learn more and apply at servenow.lcms.org/opp/shadow-a-missionary.
English Conversation Partners: Latvia
Anne Gonzalez, Manager of Short-term Mission Training & Engagement with LCMS International Mission, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what happens in Online English Conversation Partner programs, the current group of students studying with Luther Academy in Latvia who are in need of English Conversation Partners, how this program is helpful to those who participate, who can participate as a Conversation Partner, and how to get involved. Learn more and apply at servenow.lcms.org/opp/online-english-conversation-partner-latvia.
Interest Time Magazine from LCEF
Rehema Kavugha, Director of Synod Relations with Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF), joins Andy and Sarah to talk about LCEF’s long history of serving the LCMS, how LCEF's magazine Interest Time is different from other LCMS publications, how each issue features some aspect of our Lutheran faith, and how people can get Interest Time. Learn more at interesttime.org.
Robo Raiders and Their Robot, Live in Studio!
Cal, Nathaniel, Alana, Austin, and Aiden, along with their robot RoTato, from Robo Raiders FTC7129 of Mascoutah, Illinois, join Andy and Sarah to talk about their robotics program Robo Raiders, how they're each involved in the process for building a robot and preparing for competition, what they learn throughout this process, and how their robot functions. Follow the Robo Raiders at roboraiders.net, facebook.com/roboraidersftc7129, and on Youtube.
LW Searching Scripture "Grace and Peace to You" January 2023: Philippians 1:1-11
Rev. Anthony Oliphant, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Elmhurst, IL, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the January 2023 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled "Grace and Peace to You" on Philippians 1:1-11. This year, "Searching Scripture" will study the book of Philippians, so stay tuned each month for a new Bible study. Follow along 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. Philippians 1:1-11 Greeting 1 Paul and Timothy, servants[a] of Christ Jesus, To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers[b] and deacons:[c] 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Thanksgiving and Prayer 3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. 7 It is right for me to feel this way about you all, because I hold you in my heart, for you are all partakers with me of grace,[d] both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel. 8 For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, 11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Read full chapter Footnotes Philippians 1:1 For the contextual rendering of the Greek word doulos, see Preface Philippians 1:1 Or bishops; Greek episkopoi Philippians 1:1 Or servants, or ministers; Greek diakonoi Philippians 1:7 Or you all have fellowship with me in grace 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
Mental Health Monday: Emotions and the Gospel — Exploration
Deaconess Heidi Goehmann, LCSW, MSW, joins Andy and Sarah in our series on "Emotions and the Gospel" to talk about Exploration, including the benefits of having an emotional processing toolbox, what Heidi learned when reading and searching the Bible for emotions, the relationship between our physical senses and emotions, how physical movement plays a role in processing emotions, and emotional valence and how it;s helpful. Find your copy of Emotions and the Gospel: Created for Connection at books.cph.org/emotions-and-the-gospel. Listen to all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/emotions-and-the-gospel. Hear Mental Health Mondays each Monday at 9am CT, or listen to all episodes at kfuo.org/tag/mental-health-monday. View Deaconess Heidi's Mental Health Playlist on Youtube, listen to the Life in Relationship Podcast, and find all of her writings and resources at heidigoehmann.com.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Once in Royal David's City (LSB 376)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 376, "Once in Royal David's City." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/376. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Come, Your Hearts and Voices Raising (LSB 375)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 375, "Come, Your Hearts and Voices Raising." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/375. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming (LSB 359)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 359, "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/359. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Of the Father's Love Begotten (LSB 384)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 384, "Of the Father's Love Begotten." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/384. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Joy to the World (LSB 387)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 387, "Joy to the World." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/387. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Let Our Gladness Have No End (LSB 381)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 381, "Let Our Gladness Have No End." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/381. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — Silent Night, Holy Night (LSB 363)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 363, "Silent Night, Holy Night." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/363. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — O Come, All Ye Faithful (LSB 379)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 379, "O Come, All Ye Faithful." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/379. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger Is (LSB 372)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 372, "O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger Is." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/372. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
12 Days of Christmas: Behind the Hymns — From Heaven Above to Earth I Come (LSB 358)
Benjamin Kolodziej — member of Faith Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, professional church organist and composer, and contributor to the Lutheran Service Book Hymnal Companion, joins Andy and Sarah to explore our rich hymnody for the season of Christmas! Today, we learn about Lutheran Service Book 358, "From Heaven Above to Earth I Come." Find this hymn at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/358. Theme music, “Lo, How A Rose Er Blooming” from theHymnalProject.com, used with permission. Find your edition of the Lutheran Service Book at music.cph.org/lutheran-service-book/related-products and the LSB Companion to the Hymns at cph.org/p-33586-lutheran-service-book-companion-to-the-hymns-2-volume-set.aspx. Find more research at hymnary.org.
International Christmas: Uruguay
Rev. James and Angela Sharp, who serve the Lord as missionaries in Uruguay, join Andy and Sarah to talk about their respective work as church planter and educator, what makes Uruguay a unique country to share the Gospel of Jesus, how Uruguayans celebrate Christmas and other holidays in a very secular culture, and their own favorite Christmas traditions. Learn more about Rev. James and Angela Sharp, their family, and their work at lcms.org/sharp.
International Christmas: Kenya
Shara Osiro, who serves as the regional shared ministries manager for the LCMS in Eastern and Southern Africa, and her husband Michael join Andy and Sarah to talk about her work in Kenya and across Africa, the team she works with to accomplish this work, how she and Michael met, the Christmas traditions in Kenya, and their favorite parts of Christmas in Kenya. Learn more about Shara and Michael at lcms.org/osiro.
International Christmas: Czech Republic
Rev. Dr. John Bombaro, LCMS Eurasia Director of Theological Education based in Prague, Czech Republic, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the region and communities he serves, the various theological education institutions in the Eurasia region, what Christmas looks like in Prague, and Christmas traditions in the church and their home. Learn more about Dr. Bombaro, his family, and his work at lcms.org/bombaro.
International Christmas: The Balkans
Rev. Andrew Fedder, Missionary and Theological Educator and Area Facilitator for the Balkan-Mediterranean sub-region for LCMS International Mission, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the Balkan-Mediterranean sub-region, the needs in this large region, how he serves as a theological educator, Christmas traditions in the Balkans, and their own Christmas traditions in the home. Learn more about Rev. Fedder, his family, and his work at lcms.org/fedder.
Million Dollar Life Match: Meeting the Needs of Community
Rev. Scott Heitshusen, pastor of Lifebridge Community Church in Sealy, Texas, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why affirming life is important to him and the saints of Lifebridge, the needs of the surrounding community in Sealy, how Lifebridge is meeting those needs, and how the LCMS Million Dollar Life Match is helping them care for their neighbors in life-affirming service. Learn more about the Million Dollar Life Match at lcms.org/life and lcmslife.org.
LCMS Life Ministry: Million Dollar Life Match and Local Life Marches
Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor — Director of LCMS Life Ministry, and Nicole Chappell — Deaconess Intern with LCMS Life Ministry, join Andy and Sarah to talk about the purpose of the Million Dollar Life Match, the types of ministries that have received grants, the goals of the projects that have received this grant, remaining opportunities to apply, and what’s on the horizon for Life Ministry in 2023. Learn more about the Million Dollar Life Match and local Life Marches at lcms.org/life and lcmslife.org.
Set Apart To Serve: Standing Partnership and Pilot Program
Nick Sargent, Vice President of Standing Partnership, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about the work of Standing Partnership as they partner with organizations to create campaigns like Set Apart to Serve, why it's important to him that we talk to our youth about church work as a potential vocation, the upcoming Pilot Program with Set Apart to Serve, and how this Pilot Program will help create more conversations about church work vocations. 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.
LCEF's Sustainable Future
Rev. Bart Day, President and CEO of Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF), joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how LCEF has fared with the rocky economy, ways that LCEF is planning for a sustainable future, and how building relationships has been important throughout the years. Learn more about LCEF at lcef.org.
Christmas with the St. Louis Symphony
Roger Kaza, Principal Horn player with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Christmas celebrations with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, including Gospel Christmas, Mercy Holiday Celebration, film score concert and movie nights, and New Year’s Eve concerts. Learn more at slso.org!
St. Lucia, Martyr
Rev. Weslie Odom, Associate Pastor and Headmaster at Our Savior Lutheran Church and School in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about St. Lucia on her commemoration day, including what we know about her life and upbringing, the state of the Roman Empire during this time, what led to her martyrdom, and our traditions associated with her commemoration.
LCMS Servant Events in 2023
Steve Johnson — Director of Lutheran Valley Retreat and host of an LCMS Servant Event, Jo Ellen Miskoksi — Project Coordinator for an LCMS Servant Event, and Randy Ronning— Project Coordinator for an LCMS Servant Event, join Andy and Sarah to talk about how LCMS Servant Events began, what their individual first Servant Events were and how they got involved in the program, some projects completed at past Servant Events, how communities have benefited from LCMS Servant Events in the past, who can participate in an LCMS Servant Event, and where Servant Events will be held in 2023. Learn more and register at servantevents.lcms.org.
Set Apart To Serve: Family Life Ministry in the Parish and the Home
Rev. Dr. Theodore Hopkins — Associate Professor of Theology, and Program Director for Pre-Seminary and Family Life Ministry at Concordia University Ann Arbor, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about what a Director of Family Life Ministry (DFLM) is trained to do, how this work is important in the lives of families both in the church and home, how this vocation complements other church work vocations, and how students are prepared to serve in this vocation. Learn more about Concordia Ann Arbor and the DFLM program at cuaa.edu/academics/programs/family-life-bachelors/index.html. 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.
Hymns of the Season: Multi-Level Piano Books from David's Harp
Dr. Elizabeth Grimpo, Professor of Music at Concordia University Nebraska and contributor to David’s Harp, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about her involvement in creating the David's Harp "Hymns of the Season" piano books for students of multiple levels, how she arranged hymns for a wide range of skill levels, what has resulted from this partnership, and what is in the latest Volume 4 of "Hymns of the Season." Find these books and more from David's Harp at davidsharpmusic.org/resources.php.
MO Scholars Program: Update!
Leah S. Sieveking — Director of Mission Advancement for the LCMS Missouri District, and Josh Swartz — Director of School Ministry for the LCMS Missouri District, join Andy and Sarah to talk about the MO Scholars program through the State of Missouri, how the LCMS Missouri District is involved in this program, how many students have applied for the program, the needs that are still remaining, and how people can make a contribution using tax credits. Learn more at mo.lcms.org/mo-scholars.
St. Ambrose of Milan, Pastor and Hymnwriter
Rev. Dr. Joel Elowsky, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, joins Andy and Sarah on the commemoration of St. Ambrose of Milan to talk about this saint's history, what we know about his early life and family, Ambrose's position on the Arianism, his relationship to the Roman emperor, and where we see him in our Lutheran traditions (specifically hymnody) today.
St. Nicholas of Myra: History, Legends, and Traditions
Chaplain Amadeus Gandy, LCMS Chaplain at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about St. Nicholas of Myra, what we know about his history, the many legends associated with him, his connection to Santa Claus, and the traditions associated with the Church's commemoration of him. Find a handout from the Gandys on traditions for St. Nicholas (including a recipe for Speculaas!) on Lutheran Homeschool lutheranhomeschool.com/product/st-nicholas-bishop-of-myra-dec-6.
LW Searching the Scriptures, December 2022: Ephesians 6:1-24
Rev. Roy Askins, Managing Editor of The Lutheran Witness, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching the Scriptures” feature in the December 2022 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled "Stand Firm" on Ephesians 6:1-24. This year, "Searching the Scriptures" will study the book of Ephesians, so stay tuned each month for the next Bible study. Follow along and search the Scriptures with us! Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. Ephesians 6:1-24 Children and Parents 6 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 “that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Bondservants and Masters 5 Bondservants,[a] obey your earthly masters[b] with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, 6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. 9 Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master[c] and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him. The Whole Armor of God 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. Final Greetings 21 So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. 23 Peace be to the brothers,[d] and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible. Footnotes Ephesians 6:5 For the contextual rendering of the Greek word doulos, see Preface; also verse 6; likewise for bondservant in verse 8 Ephesians 6:5 Or your masters according to the flesh Ephesians 6:9 Greek Lord Ephesians 6:23 Or brothers and sisters 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
Set Apart To Serve: Pastoral Formation in Vicarage and Beyond
Joseph Greenmyer, Vicar at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mitchell, South Dakota, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about his journey to pastoral formation, how he worked through challenges on the path to entering seminary, how seminary education has been formational for him, what vicarage looks like for pastoral education students, and his encouragement to those considering church work. 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.
Art, Food, Organ, Rap: Intersect Arts Dovetail Reception
Sarah Bernhardt, Executive Director of Intersect Arts Center in St. Louis, and Rev. Dr. Jim Marriott, Department Coordinator for Music at Concordia University Texas, join Andy and Sarah to talk about the work of Intersect Arts, how the arts can help connect people from different backgrounds, the Dovetail events at Intersect, and the upcoming Heads, Faces, and Spiritual Encounter Dovetail Reception and Concert on December 6th from 5-7pm featuring an art exhibit, a five-course menu, theatrical performances, and an Advent hymn sing presented by Jim Marriott and Flame. Learn more and register at intersectstl.org/events.
Faith & Film Festival at Concordia Seminary
Rev. Dr. David Lewis — Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology at Concordia Seminary St Louis, Erika Bennett — Director of Continuing Education at Concordia Seminary St Louis, Heather Choate Davis — Faith & Film Festival Co-Creator, and Rev. Jacob Wampfler — Faith & Film Festival Co-Creator, join Andy and Sarah to talk about the Faith & Film Festival at Concordia Seminary, including how the Festival began, what makes film a unique medium for discussing theological topics, the films and speakers on the agenda for the 2023 festival, and how to register. Learn more and register at csl.edu/resources/continuing-education/faith-and-film-festival.
Martin Chemnitz at 500: The Second Martin’s Life, Work, and Legacy
Molly Lackey, Social Media and Special Projects Assistant with Concordia Historical Institute, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the "Martin Chemnitz at 500: The Second Martin’s Life, Work, and Legacy" exhibit at Concordia Historical Institute, including how Martin Chemnitz became known as the Second Martin, what we know about Chemnitz's upbringing and education, his contributions to the Reformation and Lutheran doctrinal writings, and why he is an important figure in our Lutheran history. View the exhibit online at concordiahistoricalinstitute.org/martin-chemnitz-at-500.