The Coffee Hour from KFUO Radio

We're looking ahead to the Third Sunday in Advent! The Rev. James Gier, Senior Pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah to discuss the week's readings and themes. 
 
 Find Ascension Lutheran Church at alcsfw.360unite.com/home.
 
 Third Sunday in Advent (Series C):
 
 Zephaniah 3:14-20
 Psalm 85
 Philippians 4:4-7
 Luke 7:18-28 (29-35)
 
 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].

We celebrate 100 years of God’s blessings on KFUO with special historic broadcasts.
 
 These broadcasts are from the KFUO 50th Anniversary Special in 1974. First, the Rev. Doug Nicely interviews Dr. Walter A. Maier, Jr. Second, KFUO Host Bob Ault interviews Rev. Dr. Paul Maier.
 
 Find more KFUO history at kfuo.org/100.
 
 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].

We celebrate 100 years of God’s blessings on KFUO with special historic broadcasts.
 
 First, the Rev. Carl R Kretzschmar reads the 1924 dedication address of KFUO from his father the Rev. Richard Kretzschmar.
 
 The second broadcast comes from April 23, 1939, the 100th anniversary of the Saxon landing in St. Louis. The then president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, the Rev. Dr. John W. Behnken presents a Lutheran Hour sermon for the occasion.
 
 Find more KFUO history at kfuo.org/100.
 
 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].

How are new church workers supported in their vocations? The Rev. Jonathan Manor, Director of PALS with the LCMS Office of Pastoral Education, joins Andy and Sarah during our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about his own journey into pastoral ministry, what PALS (Post-Seminary Applied Learning & Support) is and how it supports new pastors and their families, the challenges that new pastors face, why worker wellness is important, and how PALS helps church workers encourage others to consider church work vocations. Learn more about PALS at lcms.org/pals.
 
 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].

This issue of LW focuses on the community of family. Peter reminds us that Christians have a much larger family, our “brotherhood throughout the world” (1 Peter 5:9). Paul says something similar in 1 Corinthians 1:2: “To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours.” While we properly focus most of our attention on our local communities of family and congregation, our Lord has a global mission: “This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). Peter’s emphasis on the common suffering of Christians throughout the world is a reminder that we are part of something much greater than ourselves, as Paul also writes: “There is one body and one Spirit — just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call — one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:4–6).
 
 Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the December 2024 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “A Worldwide Community” on 1 Peter 5:8-14. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Elect Exiles” and will walk through the First Epistle of St. Peter. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us!
 
 Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.
 
 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].

We're looking ahead to the Second Sunday in Advent! The Rev. James Gier, Senior Pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah to study the readings and themes for the Second Sunday in Advent. They discuss who the Messenger is in Malachi, how we prepare for the coming of One who is perfectly holy and righteous, practical ways we prepare to meet Him, and how the Means of Grace prepare us for this season of waiting and watching.
 
 Find Ascension Lutheran Church at alcsfw.360unite.com/home.
 
 Second Sunday in Advent (Series C):
 
 • Malachi 3:1-7b
 • Psalm 66:1-12
 • Philippians 1:2-11
 • Luke 3:1-14 (15-20)
 
 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].

It's time for the KFUO History Trivia Game Show! The Rev. John Lukomski (co-host of Wrestling with the Basics), the Rev. Matt Clark (co-host of Wrestling with the Basics and pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in St Louis, MO), the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe (host of Thy Strong Word and pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Luverne, MN), and the Rev. Timothy Appel (host of Sharper Iron and pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Godfrey, IL) join us as guests for this trivia extravaganza!
 
 How well do you know KFUO? Download the PDF answer sheet here!
 
 1. Today KFUO is found at 850 on the AM dial. When KFUO first started in 1924, what was its original AM dial number?
 2. In 1924, what was the cost to build and operate the original seminary attic-based station in its first year? $14k, $140k, or $1.4m?
 3. When KFUO first went on the air in 1924, how many programs were broadcast each week?
 4. Before KFUO became the broadcast ministry of the LCMS, what organization owned and operated KFUO?
 5. What year did the LCMS officially take ownership of KFUO?
 6. True or False: In 1929, during construction to enlarge the station building, KFUO staff had to broadcast out of a Concordia Seminary dormitory.
 7. What other station did KFUO share its original AM550 signal with until parting ways in 1940? KSD, WKRP, or KWIL?
 8. True or False: Actress Betty White was once a guest on KFUO.
 9. True or False: In the early 1950s, there was a proposal to expand the station building for a third time that would include a large chapel with television broadcasting capabilities.
 10. True or False: In 1935, the St. Louis Star Times inquired if KFUO would consider an offer of $100k for the sale of its station.
 11. True or False: Astronaut John Glenn was once a guest on KFUO.
 12. True or False: KFUO FM was the first licensed FM signal in St. Louis.
 13. True or False: KFUO FM was the first licensed FM signal west of the Mississippi.
 14. The Three Stooges were once guests on KFUO.
 15. In what year did KFUO make its first live link-up with another radio station to share the Bible Study with WLAB in Fort Wayne, Indiana, via a telephone connection?
 16. What prestigious award was given to KFUO FM in 1999 by the National Association of Broadcasters for “Best Classical Music Station in the United States”?
 17. Also in 1999, KFUO AM received two of this award from the National Religious Broadcasters for “Excellence in Religious Broadcasting”?
 18. What year did KFUO Radio move from 85 Founders Lane on the Seminary campus to its current home at the International Center?
 19. Can you name all ten current staff members of KFUO Radio (bonus point: Can you name the current KFUO intern?)
 20. The call letters, KFUO, were assigned to the station arbitrarily by the United States federal government. What slogan was later ascribed to these call letters?
 
 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].

We're celebrating our Church of the Week, St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Des Peres, MO! Kantor Matthew Gerhardt from St Paul’s Lutheran Church and School, Des Peres, MO, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany opportunities at St. Paul's, including Midweek services at 9:30am and 5:30pm, the Service of Lessons and Carols on December 7 & 8, Christmas Eve and Day services, and worship on New Year's Eve and Epiphany (Sunday). Learn more about all of these opportunities at StPaulsDesPeres.org and click on the Advent and Christmas button in the center of the home page.
 
 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].

How do we rejoice in the season of Advent? The Rev. Brian Hamer, US Navy Chaplain, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why it's important for the church to keep Advent, how we rejoice that the Lord has set up a tent among us, rejoicing in the marriage supper of the Lamb, and rejoicing and exulting with Zephaniah. Find the lovely Advent resource from this episode at resources.lcms.org/worship-planning/midweek-advent-service-suggestions-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].

How does the Divine Service form Christians and church workers? Rev. Sean Daenzer, LCMS Director of Worship and LCMS International Center Chaplain, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about how the Lord guided him to become a pastor, how his love for church music and worship developed, who has most shaped his understanding and love of worship, how the Divine Service formed him as a Christian and pastor, and the importance of the Divine Service in forming church workers.
 
 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].

It's almost time for Advent and Christmas! Elizabeth Pittman (Director of Public Relations for Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the exciting offerings from CPH for this Advent and Christmas season, including the beautiful Enduring Grace: A Church Year Journal, the Enduring Grace journal for kids, and this year's Advent and Christmas package for congregations titled "His Name Shall Be Called" which includes Daily Devotions, a Children's Book, a Christmas Program, and other resources.
 
 Find these resources at:
 cph.org/enduring-grace-a-church-year-journal-year-c
 cph.org/enduring-grace-a-church-year-journal-for-kids-year-c
 cph.org/advent
 
 This episode originally aired on September 10, 2024. 
 
 The Coffee Hour is underwritten by Concordia University Wisconsin. Live Uncommon. Learn more at cuw.edu.

We're looking ahead to the First Sunday in Advent! The Rev. James Gier, Senior Pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah to study the readings and themes for the First Sunday in Advent. They discuss how we observe and prepare in Advent, what we learn from the prophets about the coming King, what kind of King is coming, how the Advent season is full of both repentance and hope, and where we see these themes in both the days of Noah and the New Testament Church.
 
 Find Ascension Lutheran Church at alcsfw.360unite.com/home.
 
 First Sunday in Advent (Series C)
 • Jeremiah 33:14–16
 • Psalm 25:1–10
 • 1 Thessalonians 3:9–13
 • Luke 19:28–40 or Luke 21:25–36
 
 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].

How did a Short Term Mission team serve in Leipzig? Deaconess Kim Bueltmann, who serves the Lord in Germany, and volunteers Sharon Delmore and Linda Forte join Andy and Sarah to talk about the area where Deaconess Kim serves in Germany, the growing outreach festival that happens every year in Leipzig, how the local church and short-term volunteers work together to accomplish the festival, how Sharon and Linda served during their time in Leipzig, and what they learned about the local community and mission work while serving. Find how you can serve on a Short Term Mission Team at servenow.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].

Rev. Sean Daenzer gives today's sermon based on Matthew 25:1-13.
 
 >> The broadcast of chapel services is brought to you by LCMS International Mission and Ministry to Armed Forces.
 >> Learn more at international.lcms.org and lcms.org/armedforces.
 >> To learn more about long and short-term opportunities to serve, visit servenow.lcms.org.
 
 
 Tune in weekdays at 10:00 a.m. CT to hear daily chapel services from the LCMS International Center. Find service information including the lectionary, hymn, and homilist for the day at kfuo.org/daily-chapel-schedule.

How does Ministry Focus support the Lord’s work through financially supporting church workers? The Rev. Ken Krueger, President and Chair of Ministry Focus, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Ministry Focus's impact over the last year, how this has made a difference for church workers through the year, and the very exciting new opportunity for Ministry Focus through a grant from the Lilly Foundation. Learn more and find the Church Worker Grant application at ministryfocus.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].

We celebrate our Church of the Week this week, Peace Lutheran (Lemay) in St. Louis! The Rev. Dr. Jon Furgeson, Senior Pastor at Peace Lutheran Church in St Louis, MO, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Peace Lutheran's place in the St Louis community, Peace's invitation to neighbors this Advent and Christmas season, and the many services and events from Thanksgiving, through Advent, and the Christmas season, including the Tree Lot, Boar's Head Festival, and Christmas Concert. Learn more and find service and event details at peacelutheranstl.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].

How is ministry more of a lifestyle than a profession? Kathy Chapin, Principal at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Orchard Farm, MO, joins Andy and Sarah for the Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about her journey into church work and who influenced her decision to become a Lutheran teacher and administrator, her formation and continual education as a church worker, how ministry is more of a lifestyle than a profession, and how Trinity intentionally forms and recruits youth to consider full-time church work. Read her YouthEsource article here.
 
 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].

How do LCMS seminaries have a global impact on confessional Lutheranism? In our special crossover series "From Wittenberg" with The Lutheran Witness Podcast, the Rev. Roy Askins (Executive Editor of The Lutheran Witness) speaks with the Rev. Dr. Thomas Egger (President, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO) and the Rev. Dr. John Bruss (President, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN) to highlight the role of LCMS seminaries in supporting the proclamation of the gospel globally. They discuss how the presence of Jesus Christ is central to the church's mission, how the history of the world is centered in God's plan of redemption, why apologetics should not overshadow the joyful proclamation of the gospel, and the importance of unity among confessional Lutherans globally. Find these seminaries at csl.edu and ctsfw.edu.
 
 Learn more about LCMS Church relations at lcms.org/about/leadership/president/church-relations.
 
 Find The Lutheran Witness at witness.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].

It's time to celebrate Christmas with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra! Julia Paine, 2nd bassoonist with the St Louis Symphony Orchestra, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how she became a professional bassoon player and why she still loves playing, what she loves about playing Christmas music with the SLSO, and all of the upcoming Christmas performances. Find details for these performances at slso.org.
 
 A Baroque Christmas
 Friday, December 6, 10:30am CST
 Saturday, December 7, 7:30pm CST
 The Pillsbury Theatre at Washington University’s 560 Music Center
 560 Trinity Ave., St. Louis, MO 63130
 
 Celtic Woman Christmas Symphony
 Sunday, December 8, 7:00pm CST
 Stifel Theatre
 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103
 
 IN UNISON Christmas with Take 6
 Friday, December 13, 7:30pm CST
 Stifel Theatre
 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103
 
 The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert
 Saturday, December 14, 7:00pm CST
 Sunday, December 15, 2:00pm CST
 Stifel Theatre
 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103
 
 Mercy Holiday Celebration
 Tuesday, December 17, 7:30pm CST
 Wednesday, December 18, 7:30pm CST
 J. Scheidegger Center for Performing Arts at Lindenwood University
 2300 W. Clay St., St. Charles, MO 63301
 Saturday, December 21, 2:00pm CST
 Sunday, December 22, 2:00pm CST
 Stifel Theatre
 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103
 
 How to Train Your Dragon in Concert
 Saturday, December 28, 7:00pm CST
 Sunday, December 29, 2:00pm CST
 Stifel Theatre
 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103
 
 New Year’s Eve Celebration
 Tuesday, December 31, 7:30pm CST
 Stifel Theatre
 1400 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103
 
 
 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].

Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Skopak, pastor of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Asheville, North Carolina, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how Emmanuel Lutheran Church has been a part of the Asheville community, what happened to the Asheville community during Hurricane Helene, the level of destruction from water and wind, how the community and congregation were affected, and how Emmanuel Lutheran Church has been serving and caring for their neighbors in the aftermath of this disaster. Learn how you can help the disaster response effort at EmmanuelLutheran.info and lcms.org/disaster.
 
 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].

How do Chaplains get to make the love of Christ known in their vocations as Chaplains in the Armed Forces? Chaplain Kurtis Bueltmann (US Air Force Chaplain, Dyess Air Force Base, Abilene, TX), Chaplain David Edwards (US Air Force Chaplain, Serving at Patrick Space Force Base, Brevard County, FL) and Chaplain Craig Muehler (Director, LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces) join Andy and Sarah to talk about how they get to serve the men and women in our Armed Forces, what a day in the life of a chaplain might look like, the challenges men and women in the Armed Forces face each day, and how they decided to become chaplains. The need for chaplains is great! Contact LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces to learn more: email [email protected], call (314) 996-1337, and visit 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].

How does the MO Scholars Program make Lutheran Education possible for more children? Leah Sieveking (Director of Mission Advancement, LCMS Missouri District), Joshua Swartz (Director of Schools, LCMS Missouri District), and Brenda Spieler (Principal, St. John’s Lutheran Church and School, Arnold, MO) join Andy and Sarah to talk about how St. John’s Lutheran School makes a difference for families in the Arnold community, how the MO Scholars program helped more students gain a Lutheran education, how the MO Scholars program has helped students across the LCMS Missouri District in the last year, who is eligible to receive support from MO Scholars, and how simple it is for tax payers to participate in the tax credit program. Find more information on participating in the MO Scholars program at mo.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].

How is Set Apart to Serve changing the culture surrounding church work formation? The Rev. Dr. James Baneck (LCMS Executive Director of Pastoral Education and Set Apart to Serve) and Glenn Rollins (Manager of Set Apart to Serve) join Andy and Sarah to talk about how the culture has been changing around church work formation, what is happening in LCMS Districts, and the feedback from congregations and institutions regarding Set Apart to Serve.
 
 
 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].

It's time to apply to serve as a Young Adult Volunteer (YAV) at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! Bryce Liedtke (YAV Squad Leader) and Brandon Heath (Manager, YAV Team) join Andy and Sarah to talk about Bryce's experience serving as a Young Adult Volunteer at a previous LCMS Youth Gathering, how orientation and training prepared him to serve, his duties at the Gathering, and how serving as a Young Adult Volunteer has shaped how he serves in other ways. Brandon shares details about the application process, who is eligible to apply, the various duties for both introverts and extroverts, and what young adults need to know to apply. The deadline is December 31! Apply now at lcmsgathering.com/volunteer.
 
 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].

A new Christmas program is available from Higher Things! The Rev. Harrison Goodman (Content Executive for Higher Things) and Paige Rebber (Assistant Editor for Higher Things), join Andy and Sarah to talk about “Christmas FOR YOU.” Tune in to hear about the inspiration for this Christmas program, how kids will learn about and share the Christmas story, what's included, and how to use it. Download the program for free at higherthings.org/christmas.
 
 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].

How does Lutheran Senior Services serve the older adult community? Kristy Krumwiede, Director of Hospice for Lutheran Senior Services (LSS), joins Sarah to talk about how LSS has expanded over the last year, how LSS Home and Community Services helps older adults stay in their own homes, and LSS's hospice and palliative care services. Learn more about Lutheran Senior Services at lssliving.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].

How does LAMP share the love of Christ with Indigenous communities? The Rev. Dr. Steven Schave, Executive Director of LAMP, joins Andy and Sarah during National American Indian Heritage Month to talk about LAMP's work as the only LCMS Recognized Service Organization that serves Indigenous communities, how LAMP missionaries and volunteers build relationships with people in remote parts of Canada, how these communities face various hardships, how these relationships have made a difference in these communities, and LAMP's commitment to bring even more teams to these communities to share Christ's love. Learn more about the 55x55 Initiative for LAMP's 55th anniversary at lampministry.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].

A Wisconsin pastor has served both the Church and his country, and we celebrate Veterans Day today by sharing his story. The Rev. Daniel Seehafer, pastor of St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Horicon, Wisconsin, and who served as the National Commander of the American Legion from 2023-2024, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about his service as a pastor and Navy Chaplain, how he got involved with the American Legion, how his congregation has supported him in this service, how he was able to serve as National Commander of the American Legion, and what he would like to share with his fellow veterans on Veterans Day. Read his story in Lutherans Engage at engage.lcms.org/q-a-daniel-seehafer-fall-2024.
 
 Learn more about how the LCMS serves those in the armed forces 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].

How does Lutheran education support young people considering church work vocation? Sean Martens, LCMS Minnesota South District Education Executive, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about how he was influenced to consider full-time church work, where he has served as a Lutheran educator and why he is so invested in Lutheran education, his current role in the Minnesota South District and how this District is encouraging young people to consider church work, and his encouragement to other districts to be actively engaged in church work formation and recruitment.
 
 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].

It might not be March 14th, but it's definitely PIE season! Andy and Sarah talk all things pie in this fun annual episode celebrating one of our favorite food groups.
 
 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].

This issue of LW focuses on the LCMS community, which is made up of “flock[s] of God” (1 PETER 5:2) under “the chief Shepherd” (1 Peter 5:4), who sends men to shepherd His holy people (in Latin, pastor means “shepherd”). If both preachers and hearers heed Peter’s advice, congregations will be blessed with peace and concord; if they don’t, dissension and conflict will ensue. Peter encourages humility for all Christians (1 Peter 5:6–7). Although he doesn’t mention the example of Jesus in this passage, He should be on our minds as we act in humility toward one another and humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:5–8).
 
 Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the November 2024 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “A Humble Community” on 1 Peter 5:1-7. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Elect Exiles” and will walk through the First Epistle of St. Peter. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us!
 
 Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.

We explore requiems today, specifically an upcoming performance of Mozart's Requiem with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra!
 
 First, the Rev. Brian Hamer, US Navy Chaplain, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what a Requiem is and what texts make up a requiem, which ones are familiar to Lutherans, and how we can appreciate the beauty of requiems in light of our Lutheran doctrine. Read Chaplain Hamer's writing on the Requiem at whatdoesthismean.org/lifted-voice--brian-hamer/rescuing-the-requiem-the-sanctus.
 
 Then, mezzo-soprano Kelley O’Connor, performing the upcoming Mozart Requiem with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about her journey to becoming a professional vocalist, some of her favorite performances and composers, what makes Mozart's Requiem unique, and what she loves about singing this Requiem. Find more from Kelley at kelleyoconnor.com.
 
 
 Find more information about this performance from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra on November 9 & 10 at shop.slso.org/8089.
 
 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].

Hear about our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Christ in Chile! In our special crossover series "From Wittenberg" with The Lutheran Witness Podcast, the Rev. Roy Askins (Executive Editor of The Lutheran Witness) speaks with President Rev. Juan Pablo Lanterna of the Confessional Lutheran Church of Chile / Iglesia Luterana Confesional de Chile (ILC-Chile). In this conversation, President Lanterna discusses the history of the church, its current state, and its challenges. The church was founded 70 years ago through the Lutheran Hour radio program and has grown to eight churches and numerous preaching stations. The church body recently worked to create a new Spanish hymnal. It also operates a large school and is actively involved in disaster relief efforts, particularly after a recent earthquake that affected 50,000 people. President Lanterna emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and the power of the gospel in overcoming challenges. Find the ILC-Chile online at soyluterano.cl.
 
 Learn more about LCMS Church relations at lcms.org/about/leadership/president/church-relations.
 
 Find The Lutheran Witness at witness.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].

This week, we celebrate a partnership with our Church of the Week: Good Shepherd Lutheran in Arnold, MO. The Rev. Warren Woerth, Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Good Shepherd's 55th Anniversary on November 10, how members and guests participate in Sunday Services and Christian Education, and several upcoming events that the public is welcome to participate in:
 - 55th Anniversary Celebration
 - Veterans Day events
 - Thanksgiving services
 - Cookie Parade
 - Advent services
 - Christmas services
 
 
 Learn more about Good Shepherd Lutheran Church at goodshepherdarnold.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].

How are students formed for church work vocations at Christ College at Concordia University Irvine? Rev. Dr. David Loy (Professor of Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics, and 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 for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about what Christ College at CUI is, why church worker formation is important to them and to the university, what makes CUI a unique place for church worker formation, how alumni are serving today, and who they see influencing youth and young adults to consider church work vocations. 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].

Hear about our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Christ in Kenya! In our special crossover series "From Wittenberg" with The Lutheran Witness Podcast, the Rev. Roy Askins (Executive Editor of The Lutheran Witness) speaks with Archbishop Joseph Ochoa Omolo of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya (ELCK). In this conversation, Archbishop Omolo discusses the history, growth, and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya (ELCK). He shares insights into the church's formation, its current status with 350,000 members, and the importance of liturgy and diaconal work in their mission. The conversation highlights the collaborative efforts of various Nordic mission organizations in establishing the ELCK and the church's commitment to gospel proclamation and community service.
 
 Learn more about LCMS Church relations at lcms.org/about/leadership/president/church-relations.
 
 Find The Lutheran Witness at witness.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].

Hear about our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Christ in South Africa! In our special crossover series "From Wittenberg" with The Lutheran Witness Podcast, the Rev. Roy Askins (Executive Editor of The Lutheran Witness) speaks with Bishop Helmut Paul of the Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa (FELSISA). In this conversation, Bishop Paul discusses the FELSISA and its history, growth, and collaboration with other Lutheran churches. They explore the challenges and opportunities faced by FELSISA, including the importance of mission work and the role of the seminary in training future leaders. The conversation highlights the significance of international conferences in fostering support and sharing experiences among church leaders. Prayer support is crucial for the ongoing work of FELSISA, and you can learn more about FELSISA at felsisa.org.za.
 
 Learn more about LCMS Church relations at lcms.org/about/leadership/president/church-relations.
 
 Find The Lutheran Witness at witness.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].

How does YouthLead raise up young leaders in the church? DCE Julianna Shults (Program Manager for LCMS Youth Ministry and Host of the End Goals Podcast), DCE Cindy Twillman (King of Kings Lutheran Church, Kansas City, MO), DCE Josh Eckstein (Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church, St. Peters, MO), and Ava Dradzynski (YouthLead Executive Team member) join Andy and Sarah to talk about YouthLead and who it is for, how each of them has benefitted from YouthLead, how they've seen YouthLead grow young leaders in ministry, why young leaders are important for congregations, and what to expect from the ministry this year. Learn more and register for the 2025 YouthLead training at lcms.org/youthlead.
 
 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].

How does Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ (OAFC) help people share their faith? The Rev. Martin Herzberg (Executive Director, Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ) and Jim Meyer (Board Member, Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the history of OAFC, the work of OAFC today, how each of them became involved, how this work has been personally meaningful to them, and how congregations can host their own OAFC events. Learn more about Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ at oafc.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].

Why should we read the Book of Concord? The Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District and host of Concord Matters from KFUO Radio, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the 2025 Book of Concord reading plan he wrote for The Lutheran Witness, including what he's learned while hosting Concord Matters and studying with fellow theologians, the most challenging aspect of reading the Book of Concord, what makes the Formula of Concord and the Epitome of the Formula of Concord unique, and what we need to know before digging in. Find the Book of Concord reading plan at witness.lcms.org/2024/reading-plan and files.lcms.org/file/preview/formula-of-concord-reading-plan.
 
 Find Concord Matters podcast episodes at kfuo.org/category/concord-matters.
 
 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].

How does a family's legacy of church work vocations encourage the younger generations to follow in these footsteps? Al Bardeleben, a retired LCMS Teacher, joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about the generations of church workers in his family, the role his great-grandparents played in this long line of church workers, who encouraged him to consider full-time church work and why he chose that vocation, what he learned through the trials and challenges, and how he encouraged youth and adults to consider full-time church work.
 
 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].

What are the challenges facing Global Lutheranism? Beginning our special crossover series "From Wittenberg" with The Lutheran Witness Podcast, the Rev. Roy Askins (Executive Editor of The Lutheran Witness) speaks with the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison (President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) and the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Shaw (LCMS Director of Church Relations) from the 2024 International Church Relations Conference (ICRC) held in Wittenberg, Germany. This conference brings together Lutheran church leaders from around the world to discuss theological issues, build relationships, and provide mutual support. The theme of the 2024 conference is "Christ the Lord of History," with speakers including the LCMS President, Matthew C. Harrison, and Chaplain Jonathan Shaw. In this episode, they discuss the challenges facing global Lutheranism, such as persecution, financial difficulties, and secularism. 
 
 Learn more about LCMS Church relations at lcms.org/about/leadership/president/church-relations.
 
 Find The Lutheran Witness at witness.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].

The LCMS Florida-Georgia District weathered significant damage from both Hurricanes Helene and Milton. How has the District responded? The Rev. James Rockey, LCMS Florida-Georgia District President, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the areas that the Florida-Georgia District covers, the impact of the hurricanes on the communities and congregations in this area, how the congregations have been able to respond to the needs of their communities, how the Lutheran Early Response Teams have been bringing the hope and mercy of Christ to their neighbors, and how listeners can help in the disaster response. Learn more about the District-wide and Synod-wide response, including how you can help, at flgadistrict.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].

What are some of the challenges facing Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor, and what is their vision for the future? Dr. Eric Ankerberg (President, Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor), Dr. Steven Taylor (Vice President of Innovation and Chief of Staff, Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor), and Rev. Dr. Aaron M. Moldenhauer (Vice President of Mission and Church Relations, Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the mission of Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor (CUWAA), how Concordia University Ann Arbor (CUAA) became a part of Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW), how the campuses are uniquely living out the university's mission, the financial challenges facing the CUAA campus, the vision for the future of CUW and CUAA, how university leadership is committed to a strong future at CUAA, and what they would like current and prospective students to know about CUAA. Learn more and reach out with questions at cuaa.edu/future.
 
 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].

What is it like to serve on a short-term team for English Bible Camp in Taiwan? Mindy Thews (LCMS Lutheran Education Coordinator, Taiwan) and Myles Williams (Short-Term Mission Volunteer, English Bible Camp) join Andy and Sarah to talk about why Myles was interested in this opportunity and how he prepared, how Mindy and the Taiwan team created this English Bible Camp in Taiwan, and how Myles worked with Mindy and the team for an outstanding week with the kids who attended the camp.
 
 If you are interested in serving on this team in 2025, view the opportunity at servenow.lcms.org/opp/2025-english-bible-camp-taiwan.
 
 View all opportunities to serve at servenow.lcms.org.

How can sacred music help us grieve the children we have lost? The Rev. Brian Hamer (US Navy Chaplain) who writes a monthly column "Lifted Voice" for Around the Word: Theology for the Curious Christian, at whatdoesthismean.org, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why we depart from the rhythm of the church year this month in his column on sacred music; who René Clausen is and what his piece 'In Pace' brings to light; Clausen's inspiration for this piece; the origin of the text; where else we see the connection between sleep and death in our Lutheran liturgy; and how this piece brings comfort to those who are grieving children. Read Chaplain Hamer's column at whatdoesthismean.org/lifted-voice--brian-hamer/sacred-music-for-child-loss-month-in-pace-by-rene-clausen.
 
 Listen to ‘In Pace’ by René Clausen at youtube.com/watch?v=yIgudJRJfCQ.

How have three of the Clausing siblings made the journey into church work? Ellie Clausing (Concordia University, Nebraska, graduate and teacher at Emmanuel-Faith Lutheran School in York, Nebraska), Eunice Clausing (Freshman at CUNE in Elementary Education), and Ernie Clausing (Junior at CUNE in Elementary Education), join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what it was like growing up on the mission field, when they began thinking about church work as Lutheran teachers, how CUNE has and will prepare them to be Lutheran educators, Ellie's joy and challenges of being a first-year Lutheran teacher, and Ernie and Eunice's hopes for life after graduation. Read more about their story at cune.edu/news/concordia-nebraska-home-away-home-clausing-siblings-whose-parents-serve-missionaries-tanzania.
 
 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.

How do KFUO Radio Interns help us share the Gospel AND learn valuable skills for future vocations? John Fiene (current KFUO Radio Intern), Aubrey Blank (current Digital Media Associate and former KFUO intern), and Jordan Harms (Media Operations Manager for KFUO) join Andy and Sarah to talk about why John applied to be an intern with KFUO, what he's learning this semester and how he expects to use these skills, where Aubrey's interest in becoming a KFUO intern began and how her internship prepared her for a full-time position with KFUO, and how Jordan uses these internship experiences to build up future radio talent. Learn about KFUO internship opportunities at lcms.org/careers.

What is it like to serve on a short-term mission trip to Belize? The Rev. Micah Wildauer (LCMS missionary serving the Lord in Belize), Beverly Wildauer (Grand Island, NE; led a teacher training in Belize), and the Rev. Weston Wildauer (pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Cape Girardeau, MO; led an English Family Bible Camp in Belize), join Andy and Sarah to talk about how Beverly and Pastor Weston learned about the opportunities to serve on short-term mission teams, how they prepared for their service, who they met and served alongside, how Pastor Micah serves in Belize, the people and communities of Belize, and how short-term mission volunteers serve with him and others in Belize. Learn about upcoming ways to serve on short-term teams in Belize and around the globe at servenow.lcms.org.

Are you getting prepared for the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering? We have important information for you! The Rev. Mark Kiessling (Director of LCMS Youth Ministry), Julianna Shults, (DCE and Program Manager for LCMS Youth Ministry), Meredith Smith (Communications Specialist for LCMS Youth Ministry), Charessa Koontz (Youth Gathering Planner and DCE at Bethany Lutheran Church in Austin, TX), and Rev. Lawton Thompson (Assistant Pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Des Peres, MO), join Andy and Sarah to talk about why we gather the youth of the LCMS, an overview of the theme of ENDURE, how bringing a group of youth benefits the local congregation, how district coordinators help congregations plan to go to Gathering, and the immediate next steps to prepare for travel. Learn more at lcmsgathering.com.