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The Coffee Hour from KFUO Radio

The Coffee Hour from KFUO Radio

2,469 episodes — Page 3 of 50

Good Theology, Good Stories, and Gratitude: Sharathon 2026!

Apr 20, 202629 min

Set Apart to Serve: Behind the Scenes with LCMS Communications

Apr 17, 202624 min

God's Mission in Germany with Persian Refugees

Apr 16, 202627 min

Meet the Council of Presidents: Rev. Michael Lange

Apr 15, 202627 min

America's 250th with Concordia University Chicago

Apr 14, 202626 min

United in Praise: Concordia Seminary's Multiethnic Symposium

Apr 13, 202627 min

Set Apart to Serve: Music in Formation

What role does music play in the formation of Christians for daily living and church work? Dr. Sam Eatherton (Assistant Professor of Practical Theology, Kantor, and the Kreft Professor for Music Arts at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) and Lois Eatherton (teacher of music at St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Des Peres, Missouri, and Project Coordinator, Children in Worship Initiative, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about how both of them pursued full-time church work, why they love to teach music both in academic settings and in the home, how music plays a role in their home with their children and grandchildren, why music is essential in Christian formation, and the joys and challenges of serving the church.
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Apr 10, 202629 min

Supporting Concordia Universities through CU Ventures

How do new ideas help monetarily support the Concordia University System? Curt Gielow (CU Ventures Executive Vice President) and the Rev. Dr. Jamison Hardy (President, Concordia University System) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what CU Ventures is, where the idea began and how it serves the Concordia Universities, what the Talents Fund is and how it provides monetary support for the Concordia Universities, and how CU Ventures and the Talents Fund supports students.
 
 Reach out to Curt at [email protected] for information on the Talents Fund. Find more information at cuventures.com and talentsvcfund.com. Find information on Concordia University Scholarships at cus.edu.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Apr 9, 202627 min

Meet the Council of Presidents: Rev. Justin Panzer

We head out to Kansas in this episode! The Rev. Justin Panzer (President, Kansas District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and talk about his journey through school to seminary, how his time at Westfield House in England was especially formative for him, interesting things about the Kansas District, how his time in congregations has shaped how he leads, and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS. Follow goings-on in the Kansas District at facebook.com/kslcms.
 
 Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Apr 8, 202627 min

Online Evangelism, Real-Life Church Planting in Puerto Rico

How does online evangelism lead to real-life church planting in Puerto Rico? The Rev. James Neuendorf (LCMS missionary serving in Puerto Rico) and the Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Senior Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church, Austin, TX) join Andy and Sarah to talk about how Rev. Neuendorf is called to serve in Puerto Rico, how Rev. Wolfmueller's congregation in Texas is involved in this work through the Puerto Rico FORO, how Puerto Ricans have learned about Lutheran teaching from online evangelism, the new online efforts happening through mission work in Puerto Rico which lead to Word and Sacrament ministry, and how the FORO supports this work in a meaningful way.
 
 Resources in this episode:
 Read about this story at engage.lcms.org/puerto-rico-spring-2026.
 Learn more about the LCMS presence in Puerto Rico at lcmspuertorico.org.
 Find information about a FORO to support at international.lcms.org/foro.
 Learn more about all LCMS International Mission at international.lcms.org.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Apr 7, 202628 min

Bible Translation for Every Language

How has Lutheran Bible Translators made a difference for people who want to read the Bible in their own language? The Rev. Dr. Rich Rudowske (Executive Director, Lutheran Bible Translators) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the work of Lutheran Bible Translators (LBT), where LBT serves around the world, why this work is so important to him, a recent Bible dedication for the Komba people in Ghana, and a historic translation goal for LBT and partner translation organizations. Learn more about Lutheran Bible Translators at lbt.org.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Apr 2, 202624 min

Meet the Council of Presidents: Rev. Jeffrey Miskus

We go "non-geographical" today to learn about the English District! The Rev. Jeffrey Miskus (President & Bishop, The English District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and talk about growing up in Canada and his path to seminary, how his formation led to where he is serving now, a brief history of the English District (and how there are LCMS churches in Canada), and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS.
 
 Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Apr 1, 202627 min

Concordia University Direct Admission for Lutheran High Schoolers

Concordia Universities have an exciting opportunity for Lutheran high school students! Dr. Jamie Kowalczyk (Vice President for Strategic Operations/Chief of Staff, Concordia University Chicago), Breana Winnes (Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admission, Concordia University St. Paul), Aaron Roberts (Associate Vice President of Undergraduate Admissions, Concordia University, Nebraska) and Leah Toerpe (Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Concordia University Wisconsin) join Sarah to talk about the new Direct Admission program at these four Concordia Universities, including how this helps high school students gain a direct path into a Concordia University, the advantages of this program, what makes each Concordia a special and unique place for higher education, and their advice for high school upperclassmen. Learn more about this program at cus.edu/admissions.
 
 Learn more about the Concordias:
 
 Concordia University Chicago: cuchicago.edu
 Concordia University St. Paul: csp.edu
 Concordia University, Nebraska: cune.edu
 Concordia University Wisconsin: cuw.edu
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 31, 202628 min

Children's Place in the Church

How can we encourage children's presence and participation in the worship service? Professor Jared Stiek (Assistant Professor, Lutheran Teacher Education; Assistant Dean, College Education, Concordia University Chicago) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what drew him into the education field, what he loves about teaching future Lutheran educators, the aspects of children’s value in church that are often overlooked, what we learn about children from Scripture and our Lutheran doctrine, and some ideas for fostering a child's upbringing in the church.
 
 Resources in this episode:
 
 lea.org/childrens-place-in-the-church
 cph.org/whisper-whisper-learning-about-church
 cph.org/about-the-lutheran-church-set (Worship)
 cph.org/right-from-the-start
 amazon.com/Parenting-Pew-Guiding-Children-Worship/dp/0830823409
 blog.cph.org/read/everyday-faith/parenting-in-the-pew-6-steps-to-help-kids-behave-in-church
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 30, 202624 min

Set Apart to Serve: Pastoral Recruitment & Church Planting

What role does pastoral recruitment play in Set Apart to Serve? The Rev. James Baumgartner (Manager, Pastoral Missionary Recruitment with the LCMS Office of International Mission) and the Rev. Dr. Quintin Cundiff (Director of Church Planting with the LCMS Office of National Mission) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what they get to do in their respective positions, their journeys into church work vocations, the need for international pastors and what these pastors get to do, how church planting works and why it is important, and how we can continue to raise up new pastors by the work of the Holy Spirit. Learn more about serving internationally with the Office of International Mission at international.lcms.org and learn more about church planting by emailing [email protected].
 
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 27, 202627 min

Serving God's People Over Spring Break

How do students from the Peace Lutheran Campus Center at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point serve God's people through their Spring Break mission trips? Scott West (faculty advisor for Peace Lutheran Campus Center at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point) is joined by Peace Lutheran Campus Center members Clara, Ethan, Sebastian, Melissa, Matt, Rylan, and Rachel to talk about how the Center enriches the lives of college students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, why mission trips are a priority, how Scott has seen students grow in their faith in God and love toward their neighbors during these trips, what the students have learned, and how they see these trips as helpful in forming them for their future vocations.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 26, 202624 min

Meet the Council of Presidents: Rev. Benjamin Ball

We launch a new series today, answering this question: Who is on the LCMS Council of Presidents, and what do they get to do? The Rev. Benjamin Ball (Senior Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, Hamel IL; Second Vice President, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to kick off the series by answering the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to), sharing his journey from childhood through seminary formation, what he loves about the congregations he's been blessed to serve, the duties of the Second Vice President of the LCMS, why he's a pastor in the LCMS today, and what brings him joy in serving God's people.
 
 Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 25, 202626 min

The American Kantorei Performs Bach's St. John Passion

Have you heard the 1725 version of Bach's St. John Passion? You have a chance to hear it live in St. Louis during Holy Week! Dr. Maurice Boyer (Artistic Director of the American Kantorei) and the Rev. Dr. Jon Vieker (Associate Professor of Practical Theology, Dean of Chapel, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) join Sarah to talk about what Bach's St. John Passion is, how it is different from the more popular version that the American Kantorei performed two years ago, the highlights of this Passion, what sets the Passion apart from Bach's other works, and how this can be a part of a listener's Holy Week journey. Learn more at american-kantorei.org and csl.edu/event/st-john-passion-by-johann-sebastian-bach-1725.
 
 Sunday, March 29
 3:00 p.m. CT
 Concordia Seminary, St. Louis
 
 Tuesday, March 31
 7:30 p.m. CT
 St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Des Peres, MO
 
 Both performances are free admission.
 A door offering will be collected.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 24, 202627 min

Serving Military Families through Operation Barnabas (Rebroadcast)

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 and lcms.org/ministry-to-the-armed-forces/operation-barnabas.
 
 This episode originally aired on January 9, 2024.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you’d like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 23, 202626 min

Set Apart to Serve: Church Work Programs at Concordia University Irvine (Rebroadcast)

What's it like to be a student in a church work program at Concordia University Irvine? The Rev. Dr. Jonathan Ruehs (Assistant Dean of Christ College at Concordia University Irvine) and Carrie Donohoe (Director of LCMS Recruitment, Christ College Program Coordinator, and Assistant Director of LCMS Placement at Concordia University Irvine) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what they love about working at Concordia Irvine (CUI), why church worker formation is important to them and to CUI, the church work programs available at CUI and what makes them unique, what students would experience on a visit day, and how to take the next steps to learn more. Find Concordia University Irvine online at cui.edu.
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 20, 202627 min

Updates from Lutheran Heritage Foundation

What’s unfolding right now at the Lutheran Heritage Foundation? The Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise (Executive Director, Lutheran Heritage Foundation) and the Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt (Board Member, Lutheran Heritage Foundation) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the LHF-sponsored African Translation conference in Addis Ababa, the very exciting work underway in Iceland and Norway, the extensive distribution of the Spanish Lutheran Book of Prayer, and the recently published Vietnamese translation of Unchanging Truth in Changing Times. Learn more about Lutheran Heritage Foundation at lhfmissions.org.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 19, 202628 min

Finally Free, Episode 3: Resulting In Joy

How does the Parable of the Prodigal Son end? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas) joins Andy and Sarah for Part Three of a three-part series on his new book Finally Free: Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Son from Concordia Publishing House. He revisits the types of slavery and freedom covered in his book, what the older son does when the father welcomes the prodigal son, how this parable compares to the other lost-and-found parables in Scripture, and who has the resulting joy in these parables.
 
 Find Finally Free at cph.org/finally-free-three-lessons-in-the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son. Find more content from Rev. Wolfmueller at youtube.com/wolfmueller1 and wolfmueller.co.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 18, 202629 min

The Legacy of St. Patrick (Rebroadcast)

Rev. Sean Daenzer, LCMS Director of Worship and International Center Chaplain, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the history and legacy of St. Patrick, what is significant about his early years, the misunderstandings we may have about him, the impact of his work on Ireland and the rest of Christianity, and where we find his work in our Lutheran circles. Find Lutheran Service Book 604, St. Patrick's Breastplate, at hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/604.
 
 This episode originally aired on March 17, 2021.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you’d like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 17, 202625 min

Life Ministry Topics at the 2026 Men's Gathering

What will men be learning about at this year's Men's Gathering at Lakeview Villages? Men's Gathering organizers Joshua Vandercar and Luke Vandercar join the Rev. Dr. Richard Stuckwisch (President of the Indiana District of the LCMS, and Men’s Gathering Presenter and Pastor), Dr. Donna Harrison, MD (Retired Board-Certified Obstetrician, active leader in AAPLOG and Men’s Gathering Presenter), and Andy and Sarah to talk about Dr. Harrison's involvement with the Men's Gathering this year, what she will be presenting on, why life ministry topics are important to discuss with this group of men, Dr. Stuckwisch's involvement in the Gathering, and the fun and formational activities men at this year's Gathering will experience. Learn more about the Men's Gathering happening April 9-12 at Lakeview Villages in Seymour, IN at mensgathering.us.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 16, 202627 min

Set Apart to Serve: Church Worker Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska

How are music and theology students formed at Concordia University, Nebraska (CUNE)? Dr. Jeffrey Blersch (Professor of Music, Concordia University Nebraska) and the Rev. Dr. John Genter (Assistant Professor of Theology, Concordia University Nebraska) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what drew them to their areas of expertise in music and theology, the church work programs each of them interact with, how they see their individual areas of expertise as important in forming future church workers, what students at CUNE experience academically and socially, how students are fed spiritually, and their encouragement for parents and students to consider CUNE or another Concordia for church worker formation.
 
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 13, 202624 min

What is a FORO? (Rebroadcast)

What is a FORO? The Rev. Dr. Brian Gauthier (Managing Director, Global Mission Operations, LCMS Office of International Mission) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the structure of the LCMS approach to international mission, how missionaries and support staff are organized, how these missionaries and support staff are supported from outside the International Center, what a FORO is and how it supports mission work efforts, why church planting is such an important strategic priority, and how you can support the work of a FORO. Learn more at lcms.org/international and international.lcms.org.
 
 This episode originally aired on June 9, 2025.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 12, 202627 min

Finally Free, Episode 2: Despair

Where do we see despair in the Parable of the Prodigal Son? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas) joins Andy and Sarah for Part Two of a three-part series on his new book Finally Free: Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Son from Concordia Publishing House. He shares how despair is a slavery, specifically a theological slavery, the relationship between proclamation of the Word and faith, what we see when the younger son returns to his father's home, and what true repentance is. 
 
 Find Finally Free at cph.org/finally-free-three-lessons-in-the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son. Find more content from Rev. Wolfmueller at youtube.com/wolfmueller1 and wolfmueller.co.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 11, 202625 min

Lutheran Visitation Education

How can church workers and graduate level church work students refine their God-given talents and skills in spiritual care from a historic Lutheran perspective? The Rev. Dr. Brian Heller (Manager, LCMS Office of National Mission, Mercy Training, LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what Lutheran Visitation is, how listeners may have experienced visitation, how Lutheran Visitation Education serves the Church, the key components of Lutheran Visitation Education, how this training fits into the bigger picture of Specialized Spiritual Care, and how church workers can take advantage of Lutheran Visitation Education. Learn more by emailing [email protected] or visiting lcms.org/how-we-serve/mercy/specialized-spiritual-care-ministry/lutheran-visitation-education-program.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 10, 202623 min

Lutheran Maternity Home Expanding to St. Louis

How do we as Lutherans support women facing unplanned pregnancies? Deaconess Jessica Thompson (Director of Program and Ministry Services for Redeeming Life Outreach Ministries) joins Sarah to talk about the mission and work of Redeeming Life Outreach Ministries (RLOM), the need for this type of ministry in the LCMS, how RLOM has impacted women with physical and spiritual care over the years, the RLOM expansion plans for St. Louis, and how people can support RLOM in general as well as this expansion plan. Learn more at rlom.org and facebook.com/RedeemingLifeOutreachMinistries.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 9, 202625 min

Set Apart to Serve: Church Worker Formation at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

How are students formed into faithful future pastors and deaconesses at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis? The Rev. Dr. Jason Lane (Associate Professor of Historical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) and the Rev. Dr. Peter Nafzger (Associate Professor of Practical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what they love about their work at Concordia Seminary, their areas of theological expertise and why they were drawn to those areas, how these branches of theology intersect for seminary students, the classes that fall under each branch of theology, how their areas of expertise are important in the forming of future pastors and deaconesses, how students are fed spiritually on campus, and the students' academic and social experience on campus. Learn more about formation at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis by visiting csl.edu.
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 6, 202626 min

Seeds of Generosity at Concordia University, Nebraska

How has Concordia University, Nebraska (CUNE), been equipping students for service in God’s church and the world for over 130 years? Derek Englebart (Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Concordia University, Nebraska) and Scott Seevers (Senior Director of Development and Engagement, Concordia University, Nebraska) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what students are equipped for when they complete their Christ-centered education at CUNE, what a Christ-centered education at CUNE looks like for both the church work student and the liberal arts student seeking a career, Derek and Scott's CUNE stories and why they returned to work for the university in leadership roles, the difference scholarships have made for CUNE students, how the “Concordia Fund” enables Concordia University, Nebraska to provide financial assistance, and the exciting Seeds of Generosity celebration at CUNE. Learn more at cune.edu/seeds.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 5, 202627 min

Finally Free, Episode 1: Belly Slaves

What can we learn about freedom in Christ from the Parable of the Prodigal Son? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas) joins Andy and Sarah for part one of a three-part series on his new book Finally Free: Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Son from Concordia Publishing House. He shares his first memory of learning about the Parable of the Prodigal Son, what the parable teaches us about who Jesus is, in what way we are slaves, how the illusion of sin as freedom has shaped our culture, where we see contrition in this parable, and the first freedom we have in Christ.
 
 Find Finally Free at cph.org/finally-free-three-lessons-in-the-parable-of-the-prodigal-son. Find more content from Rev. Wolfmueller at youtube.com/wolfmueller1 and wolfmueller.co. 
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 4, 202625 min

Following the Formula, Article III: The Righteousness of Faith Before God — LW Searching Scripture, March 2026

Article III of the Formula of Concord addresses doctrinal errors spread by two 16th-century teachers, Andreas Osiander (1498–1552) and Francesco Stancaro (1501–1574). Osiander taught that the righteousness of Christ’s divine nature dwelling in Christians is their righteousness before God, while Stancaro insisted that the righteousness of Christ’s human nature is the Christian’s righteousness. The article quickly dispenses with the controversy by demonstrating from Scripture (for example, 1 Corinthians 1:30 and Jeremiah 23:6) that the righteousness of the whole, indivisible Christ is what Christians receive by faith, for which God the Father justifies them (that is, declares them righteous before His judgment throne).
 
 This article also demonstrates the falsehood of the Roman Catholic teaching that Christians are justified by becoming righteous in themselves rather than trusting solely in the righteousness of Christ. Lest we think this issue is merely part of an arcane debate hundreds of years ago, note what the Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church continues to teach: “Justification is not only the remission of sins, but also the sanctification and renewal of the interior man. … Justification … conforms us to the righteousness of God, who makes us inwardly just by the power of his mercy” (CCC 1989, 1992). The Formula of Concord confesses the comforting truth that our righteousness is a gift from God, which means that it depends completely on Christ, not on us.
 
 Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the March 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article III: The Righteousness of Faith Before God” on Article III in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month!
 
 This year, “Searching Scripture” is walking through the Formula of Concord (FC) from our Lutheran Confessions, exploring the biblical foundations for each topic. Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep III on The Righteousness of Faith Before God (p. 479–482 in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions, CPH 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan.
 
 Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article III at kfuo.org/2025/03/04/coffee-hour-030425-the-righteousness-of-faith-before-god-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord.
 
 Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 3, 202628 min

Lutheran Educator Academy

How is Concordia Publishing House's new Lutheran Educator Academy strengthening Lutheran teachers? Dr. Lisa Clark (Senior Editor, Curriculum Resources, Concordia Publishing House) and Dr. Jacob Corzine (Vice President of Publishing, Concordia Publishing House) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the need for theological continuing education for educators in Lutheran schools, how the idea for the Lutheran Educator Academy came about, how the program is structured, who is teaching and the variety of topics, and how this opportunity will strengthen teachers and benefit students. Learn more about the Lutheran Educator Academy at learn.cph.org/lutheran-educator-academy.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Mar 2, 202625 min

Set Apart to Serve: Church Worker Formation at Concordia University, Irvine

What do church work students experience at Concordia University, Irvine? The Rev. Dr. Scott Stiegemeyer (Associate Professor of Theology and Bioethics, Concordia University, Irvine) and the Rev. Dr. Paul Elliott (Professor of Theology, Christ College, Concordia University, Irvine) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what they love about their work at Concordia University, Irvine, what drew them to their areas of expertise and how these areas of expertise help form students, what students can expect academically and socially at Concordia Irvine, how students are fed spiritually, and what makes CUI a unique place for church worker formation. Learn more about Concordia University, Irvine at cui.edu.
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 27, 202626 min

Vocatio and Christ Academy for High School Students

Do you know a high school student who might be interested in becoming a church worker? The Rev. Craig Reiter (Admissions Officer, Director of Vocatio – High School, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis), the Rev. Christian Schultz (Admission Counselor and Director of Christ Academy, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne), and Nate Demlow (Student Director of Christ Academy, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the Vocatio – High School program at Concordia Seminary and the Christ Academy program at Concordia Theological Seminary. They share what a typical day looks like in these programs, what students learn and experience, why chapel is a central focus of these programs, and why each program is helpful for high schoolers considering church work. Learn more about Vocatio at csl.edu/admissions/admissions-visit/vocatio-high-school and Christ Academy at ctsfw.edu/about/events/christ-academy.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 26, 202627 min

Battle for the Augsburg Confession, Ep. 8: Synodical Conference and Doctrinal Unity

How did unity in doctrine and practice affect the formation of the Synodical Conference? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the evolution of American Lutheranism, the formation of the Synodical Conference, and the significant role of the Norwegian Synod. Dr. MacKenzie highlights the educational and mission efforts undertaken by the synods, particularly towards African Americans in the South, and reflects on the challenges faced by the synods in maintaining confessional integrity. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of unity in doctrine and practice among Lutherans.
 
 Learn more about Rosa Young's story on these Lutheran Ladies' Lounge episodes:
 
 kfuo.org/2020/02/07/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-020-story-time-with-sarah-the-first-rosa
 kfuo.org/2020/09/25/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-052-light-in-the-dark-belt-book-club-wrap-with-special-guest-kaye-wolff.
 
 Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 25, 202625 min

The Litany

What is the Litany and why is it important in the life of the Church? The Rev. Sean Daenzer (Director of Worship for the LCMS and International Center Chaplain) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what the Litany is, where it came from in our church history, the format and flow of the prayers, why it seems to rise up at different parts of the church year, how it's different from other prayers, and how we can incorporate it into our prayer life.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 24, 202628 min

St. Matthias, Apostle (Rebroadcast)

Dr. Robert Sorensen, Professor of Theology and Foreign Languages at Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, Illinois, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about St. Matthias, whose commemoration day is February 24, including where we hear about St. Matthias in Scripture, what is unique about how he became an apostle, how he served the Church, and what we can learn from Matthias’ story and service to the Church.
 
 This episode originally aired on February 24, 2022.
 
 
 Feature image: Peter Paul Rubens, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you’d like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].
 
 Today’s episode of The Coffee Hour is underwritten in part by Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor. You can learn more about Concordia University Wisconsin at cuw.edu and Concordia University Ann Arbor at cuaa.edu. Live Uncommon.

Feb 23, 202625 min

Set Apart to Serve: Church Worker Formation at Concordia St. Paul

How are church work students formed at Concordia St. Paul? The Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing (Professor of Theology & Ministry; Director of the Pre-Seminary Program; Director of the Center for Biblical Studies; Concordia University, St. Paul) and the Rev. Dr. Mark Koschmann (Vice President of Faith and Ministry; Theology Department Chair; Chief Mission Officer; Concordia University, St. Paul) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what they love about their vocations at CSP, how their individual areas of expertise are important in forming future church workers, the academic and social experience at CSP, how students are fed spiritually, and their wisdom for future church work students.
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 20, 202627 min

The Doctrine of Election

Has God chosen some to go to heaven and some to go to hell before they were even born? The Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer (Executive Director, LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the "crux theologorum" or main theological question of "why some and not others" in the doctrine of election, including what Scripture says about election, the historic Lutheran teaching on election, what other denominations believe about election or predestination, and how the doctrine of election is really about the hope we have in Christ.
 
 Resources:
 
 "Walther’s Works: Predestination" (CPH)
 "Bondage of the Will" by Martin Luther
 "Bound Choice" by Robert Kolb
 Formula of Concord: Article XI 
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 19, 202629 min

Battle for the Augsburg Confession, Ep. 7: Establishing Fellowship

How did early Lutheran synods join in fellowship? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the breakup of the General Synod, the significance of the Free Conferences, the challenges faced by the General Council, and the Missouri Synod's efforts to establish fellowship with other Lutheran synods, ultimately leading to the formation of the Synodical Conference.
 
 Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 18, 202625 min

Preparing for Armed Forces Sunday

How can churches prepare to celebrate Armed Forces Sunday? Chaplain Craig Muehler (Director, LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces) joins Sarah to share the work of LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, how LCMS chaplains support service personnel and their families, stories of chaplains in action, what Armed Forces Sunday is and how congregations can pray for our national military, and how Operation Barnabas supported military-connected families. Learn more at lcms.org/armedforces.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 17, 202624 min

Remembering Paul Devantier

For several decades the Rev. Dr. Paul W. Devantier served both the church and his neighbors graciously. You may recognize his voice from the long-running program By the Way. The Lord, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, called His servant, Paul, to eternal rest on Nov. 30, 2025. Today, we give thanks to God and remember Rev. Dr. Paul W. Devantier. Joanie Harwell (former KFUO Radio Director of Development), Jenny Williams (former KFUO Radio Lead Producer), and John Devantier (son of Paul and Ellen Devantier join Andy and Sarah for this special episode. Joanie and Jenny talk about when they first met Paul, how his service and leadership impacted their lives and roles at KFUO, how technology and innovation played a role during Paul’s leadership for KFUO, and how Paul’s leadership shaped the future of KFUO Radio. John shares his memories of his father's service to the church, KFUO, and LCMS Communications. He also shares stories of his parents' role as foster parents and what life looked like with a full house of children. Finally, John shares how his father’s life of service has been an example for him. Find Paul Devantier's obituary at legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/paul-devantier-obituary?id=60188942.
 
 Watch Paul Devantier share about KFUO's 100-year legacy in the Centennial Documentary at youtu.be/T97rxnzYqcA?si=AmcQwUDEdLu5E3kP
 Hear Paul Devantier share stories about his time at KFUO Radio at youtu.be/Y8aPCTKgAww?si=fcaqCuNyWQkm5uqf
 Watch the video about the Supreme Court case at youtu.be/m5puWeYv7Mg?si=b1YARi2Uo0puALjW
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 16, 202630 min

Set Apart to Serve: Church Worker Formation at Concordia Chicago

How are church workers formed at Concordia University Chicago? The Rev. Dr. Kirk Clayton (Assistant Professor of Theology, Director Pre-Seminary program, Concordia University Chicago) and the Rev. Simeon Raddatz (University Chaplain, Concordia University Chicago) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what they love about what they get to do at Concordia Chicago, how their individual areas of expertise are important in the forming of future church workers, what students can experience academically and socially on campus, how students are fed spiritually at CUC, wisdom for parents who are anxious about sending their children to college, and their encouragement for young people to consider church work formation at a Concordia University.
 
 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.
 
 Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 13, 202627 min

Prevallet Hymn Workshop & Festival: Celebrating Women Hymn Writers

Why is it important for the Church to encourage the creation of theologically rich and musically beautiful hymnody? Dr. Jon Vieker (Associate Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of Chapel, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis), Katie Schuermann (author and storyteller, most notably of the Anthems of Zion series from CPH), and Dr. Lisa Clark (hymn writer, Senior Editor of Curriculum Resources at CPH) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the upcoming Prevallet Hymn Writing Workshop. They share what each of them will be speaking on at the workshop, why this workshop is so important for the future of hymn writing, the companion hymn festival celebrating women hymn writers, and how community members can attend each event. Learn more about the Prevallet Hymn Writing Workshop at csl.edu/event/prevallet-hymn-writing-workshop-2026 and the companion Hymn Festival at csl.edu/event/a-hymn-festival-featuring-the-hymns-of-lisa-clark-and-katie-schuermann.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 12, 202624 min

Battle for the Augsburg Confession, Ep. 6: General Synod, General Council, and Church (Dis)Unity

How did small synods fight for church unity during the Civil War years? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the historical context and implications of the breakup of the General Synod during the Civil War era, the formation of the General Council, and the Missouri Synod's perspective on confessional theology and church unity.
 
 Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series.
 
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 11, 202624 min

Learning from Youth in the Gathering Youth Poll

What does the LCMS Youth Ministry team learn from each Gathering's Youth Poll? The Rev. Mark Kiessling (director, LCMS Youth Ministry) and DCE Julianna Shults (program manager, LCMS Youth Ministry) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the history of the Youth Poll, how this poll helps inform those who care about young people, the topics usually covered in the poll, what we've learned from past polls, and interesting insights from this year's poll. Find the summary of the poll at youthesource.com/2026/01/2025-lutheran-youth-and-adult-leader-poll-executive-summary.
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 10, 202626 min

The "Getting Through What You're Going Through" Show

Are you ready to be refreshed through an evening of poetry, storytelling, and music? Tanner Olson (author, poet, speaker) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what he's been working on in the last few years, including his most recent book Getting Through What You're Going Through. He shares his upcoming tour dates, what he loves about traveling and presenting poetry for an audience, and why he thinks you'll enjoy poetry more than you think you might. Learn more about Tanner at writtentospeak.com.
 
 The "Getting Through What You're Going Through" Show: An Evening with Tanner Olson & Matt Doering
 Thursday, February 19, 7:00pm
 Lutheran South, Duesenberg Theater
 webstergardens.org/event/24256180-2026-02-19-the-getting-through-what-youre-going-through-show
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 9, 202613 min

CFNA Grand Market for the Community

How does a community market support the mission of CFNA to support new Americans? Amy Ziegler (Community Engagement Associate, Christian Friends of New Americans) and Grand Market vendor Edit Daliri join Andy and Sarah to talk about how Edit became involved in CFNA; where the idea for the Grand Market began; what happens at the Grand Market; Edit's creative outlet through her jewelry-making business, Zeenora; how Edit and other vendors have been supported through this creative outlet; and how community members can attend. Learn more at cfna-stl.org.
 
 Market Dates:
 
 February 14
 April 25
 May 16
 
 Times & Location:
 
 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
 5515 S. Grand Blvd
 
 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let’s be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: [email protected].

Feb 9, 202611 min