Disguised Light
by REV. DR. MICHAEL ZEIGLER, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour ®
Jesus once said, “I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). But where is His light now? Wouldn’t it be nice if we could point to a gleaming spotlight shining down from heaven and say, “See, over there, that bright beam, that’s Jesus’ light”?
Just because you can’t see the light doesn’t mean it is not there. Take ultraviolet light, for example. Sometimes it’s called “black light.” At a party, when someone stands under a blacklight, materials in their clothing light up and their teeth gleam. How? It’s because they absorb the unseen energy, which is then converted into visible light, giving off that signature glow. Ultraviolet lights are more than just party amusements. They are used to detect unseen stains and cracks. They show the difference between the real thing and a fake. They kill germs and cleanse surfaces. They can help your skin make Vitamin D, and make some things glow, because ultraviolet light is disguised light that lights up what it touches.
final judgment, when He lets our eyes adjust, so that more would turn and trust in Him. Now is the time when He disguises His light in and with His people, in the Word He’s given us to speak, hidden in the waters of Baptism that bind us to Him, present in the Holy Communion that binds us together, disguised under bread and wine. Before Jesus flips the switch in final judgment, He keeps His light out of the visible range, still shining, but disguised. It is light you can’t see but changes how you see. Light that works under the cover of darkness. Light that shows the cracks and stains we try to hide. Light that exposes counterfeits and fakes and converts slaves of darkness into servants of the light.
“Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Jesus’ light is not the kind you can see, at least for now. There will be a day when He brings His light back into the visible spectrum. A great and awesome day, when the curtain is pulled back, and Jesus will outshine the shadows and make this world new again. But for those who do not turn to Him and trust in Him, that light will be unbearable judgment—a holy, blinding light that destroys the darkness, and all who try to hide in it. God does not delight in the death of anyone (see Ezekiel 18:32). He wants all to be saved (see 1 Timothy 2:4). So now is the time when He disguises His light. Now is the time, before the
Once an atheist was having a conversation with a Christian but was not persuaded by any of the Christian’s arguments for the existence of God. So, the Christian suggested, “Try this. For the next week, treat everyone you meet like they are Jesus in disguise.” The atheist came back a week later and admitted that doing so had transformed his life. Now, if seeing Jesus in disguise is transformative for an unbeliever, what would it be like for us who want to walk in His light?
If you give this a try, you’ll probably feel the magic of it for a little while—until you run into someone you really don’t like. All you can see are his or her many faults. Jesus disguised in that person? No way! You can’t imagine it. So, say a prayer and ask for help. Ask Jesus to be disguised in you. See what He does. See how He changes what you see. u
Adapted from a message for The Lutheran Hour aired March 16, 2025.
us share Christ’s love with people like Jamie by visiting LHM.ORG/GIVE or sending a gift in the enclosed envelope. Jamie is a father of three boys whose busy life left him feeling disconnected from his faith. He learned about LHM–Korea through their Advent devotion book, “Come, Let Us Adore Him!” The devotionals have become a transformative tool that not only strengthened his personal faith but provided a practical way to instill faith in his children. Their daily habit of sharing devotions has brought the family closer, creating a sense of unity and spiritual growth amid their busy schedules.
Vida, Para
Camino, Thred, The Hoffmann Society,
Ways to Engage with LHM
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
“Faithful supporters like you never fail to encourage us to remain focused on our critical mission because there is so much more to do today and into the future.”
God is accomplishing remarkable things through Lutheran Hour Ministries because He has blessed us with the gift of partners in the harvest fields. In addition to nearly 300 enthusiastic, dedicated, and talented staff members who are reaching into more than 60 countries, around 365,000 individuals, like you, are currently connected to LHM through our resources or the sharing of their time, talent, or treasure in support of the organizational mission.
“Praise be to God that He has chosen to enlist you in His endeavor to bring salvation to ALL,” says LHM CEO Kurt Buchholz. “Faithful supporters like you never fail to encourage us to remain focused on our critical mission because there is so much more to do today and
into the future. Thank you for allowing us to support and encourage you in your daily life, and for playing a vital role alongside tens of thousands of other passionfilled individuals who have the courage to put their faith into action for the sake of the Gospel.”
From the time this ministry was formed in 1917, countless people have provided prayers, volunteer work, and financial support which, under the blessings of God, have accomplished great things for the Kingdom. Today, God continues to call all of us to boldly share His love with those around us.
Below are some of the ways you can take an active role in sharing the Gospel. As you join hands with thousands of other believers, God accomplishes what none could undertake alone. To learn more about opportunities to partner in this ministry, go to lhm.org. see next page
“I was happy to be there to answer questions that anyone had about LHM.”
LHM Ambassador Program
Lutheran Hour Ministries aims to energize, equip, and engage laity for outreach. For more than 100 years, LHM has equipped churches and laypeople with the resources needed to share the love of Jesus Christ with their communities.
Through partnerships with churches, we can help equip their members. To effectively facilitate those partnerships, we recruit members from congregations to serve as LHM Ambassadors. An LHM Ambassador is a congregation member who nurtures a relationship with LHM for the purpose of sharing resources and helping their congregation use them. Having an LHM Ambassador in every LCMS congregation and beyond leads to a greater number of people impacted by the Good News of the Gospel.
LHM Ambassador Julia Sinclair shared how All Saints Lutheran Church in Bellevue, Washington, shares the Gospel message with children during their Easter event. This year, 86 kids participated in their annual Easter Egg Trunk Hop. Sinclair set up a table with LHM resources, including children’s Project Connect booklets, Gospel Adventures™ stickers and tattoos, and other materials. They also put the children’s booklet about Easter in the giveaway bags that were handed out to all the children at the event.
Also in the bag was a flyer for the Gospel Adventures Show. “We included that flyer this year, to encourage families to stay in God’s Word in a way that would be fun on a road trip this summer, or while winding down in the evening,” says Sinclair. “One of my friends is a retired teacher, and she listens to it with her grandkids when they come to visit for the weekend.”
“The Trunk Hop is something where each of the trunks of the cars is decorated to tell a piece of Jesus’ story,” says Sinclair. “The volunteers then tell the kids about what they are seeing, and then they get to pick out two to three eggs. We
have been hosting this event for five years now, and each year we seem to get more kids from the community in addition to our preschool families. The older siblings who are in elementary school also participate.”
Dawn LaMee first got involved with the Lutheran Laymen’s League many years ago when the South Dakota District hosted the LLL’s international convention. She volunteered to help that first year in Rapid City, and then the next year, she went to Topeka, Kansas. When she was driving home, she prayed, asking God if this was something she should get involved with.
A few months later, Bill Snow, an LLL board of director, asked Dawn if she would be interested in being the secretary/treasurer for the LLL’s local circuit. She agreed and started getting more involved with the district. Over the years, she made friends with other people in the district and formed relationships that she cherishes. More than 10 years ago, when the district president at the time asked her to become an LHM Ambassador for her congregation, Mount Olive Lutheran Church, she willingly accepted. With her experience of going to conventions, she was happy to set up a booth at the South Dakota LCMS District convention this February. “It was interesting to meet all the people who
came through,” says LaMee. “Some people are very interested in seeing the resources and learning more. Of course, people always love the giveaways! Everything fell together very well, and I was happy to be there to answer questions that anyone had about LHM.”
SERVING AS AN AMBASSADOR IS SIMPLE!
• Simply open the monthly Ambassador email! The emails contain new product and program information, and all you need to do is read them and share the information that fits your congregation.
• Ambassadors are encouraged to attend a local LLL District Convention as a way to learn more about LHM resources and to connect and network with other Ambassadors in the area.
• LHM Ambassadors are encouraged to lead activities in your congregation, such as book clubs, listening clubs, Bible studies, hosting LHM Sunday at your congregation, and more!
LHM Ambassadors receive 20 percent off their purchase made at shoplhm.org for you and your congregation. We want resources in your hands to be used to equip you to share Jesus in your community. All Ambassadors will be connected to a dedicated LHM staff member to support you and help with any questions.
Does your congregation need an LHM Ambassador? Consider joining LHM in the mission of Gospel outreach by equipping the laity through your local congregation. Visit lhm.org/ambassador for more information and to fill out the LHM Ambassador application.
Hosting LHM Sunday
One of the main projects that Ambassadors and other LHM supporters participate in each year is hosting an LHM Sunday event at their home congregation. LHM Sunday is an opportunity to celebrate the critical partnership between churches, individuals, and LHM in Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. Church members have an opportunity to see how God is changing lives with the Gospel at home and abroad, and for church members to discover new resources that can help them grow in their faith.
Petal Pushers®
Do you want to get involved with a handson project that is watched by millions of people each year? Volunteering for the Rose Parade’s float-decorating process through the Petal Pushers is a fantastic way to observe the magic of this event firsthand, make new friends, network, and share expressions of the faith that gives true meaning to this experience. This dedicated group of around 4,000 volunteers spends the week between Christmas and New Year’s each year attaching a variety of flowers and natural materials to create the majestic elegance of the LHM float and seven others.
“Everyone should try this once!”
This past February, The Lutheran Church of Our Risen Savior in Green Valley, Arizona, hosted Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler for LHM Sunday. LHM Ambassador Blythe Stenmark-Tovrea coordinated the event and hosted a display table to highlight many LHM resources. She was extremely encouraged by how many people stopped by to learn more about LHM. Although many churches this year chose the official date of Feb. 2, 2025, we welcome you to host LHM Sunday on any date that best fits your church’s schedule. LHM supplies everything you need; physical materials needed to host LHM Sunday were sent to every church within The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, as well as all LHM Ambassadors. Additional materials are available as a free download at lhm.org/lhmsunday
“While the majority of Petal Pushers decorate floats other than the LHM float, this work helps lower the cost of the LHM float being part of the annual parade,” says Dick Gast, chair of the LHM Float Committee.
“I look forward to seeing the worldwide witness of the LHM float every year,” says Joyce Kelly of Chula Vista, California. “I’ve been volunteering as a Petal Pusher for the last thirty years and enjoy it so much. Everyone should try this once!”
LHM Sunday is an opportunity to celebrate the critical partnership between churches, individuals, and LHM.
“My grandmother is on the LHM Float Committee and brought me along one time … and I loved it!” says Kelsey Heinemann of Glendora, California. “I worked alongside my best friend, Madison, this year, and we enjoyed all the detailed work that is involved with decorating the floats. It is great seeing everything come to fruition at the end of the week.”
As a self-funded project of the Southern California District of the Lutheran Laymen’s League, the LHM float is the only Christian float in the annual parade. The float carries on a mission to provide a Gospel witness to viewers everywhere, from the 5.5-mile parade route in Pasadena to televisions and computers around the world. The Jan. 1, 2026, parade will mark the 75th anniversary of a float with LHM’s name appearing in the event. In addition to sharing Christ along the parade route, volunteers are stationed in booths around the parade and float decorating sites to engage in hundreds of individual conversations with visitors regarding the spiritual meaning of the LHM float. These English and bilingual volunteers also distribute thousands of souvenir postcards emblazoned with the LHM float theme as well as a variety of LHM’s topical booklets for both adults and children.
Individuals aged 13 and older can work as little as one shift or as many as they want on a variety of tasks necessary to complete the floats. Volunteers of all skill levels are needed; whether this will be your first time, or you are a seasoned veteran, there are dozens of jobs to do.
Interested in participating in the 2026 parade? Online volunteer registration will open June 15. In addition to individuals registering themselves to volunteer, two tour options are available now through Luther Tours. The tours run from Dec. 28, 2025, until Jan. 2, 2026. Learn more at petalpushers.org or contact Gast at chairman@petalpushers.org or (949) 230-2501. u
Megan McDaniel reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work around the world.
FAITH Is a Word of ACTION
by DR. KURT SENSKE, Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors
Iam a big believer in organizations studying appropriate research trends and making sure their plans respond to them to maximize impact. I was intrigued by the 2023-24 Religious Landscape Study (RLS) released earlier this year and started wondering how those findings would apply to the critical work being accomplished by LHM. This study and other Pew Research Center polling found that the Christian share of the population, after years of decline, has been relatively stable since 2019. Around 62 percent of U.S. adults currently describe themselves as Christians. And the religiously unaffiliated population, after rising rapidly for decades, has leveled off at 29 percent— at least temporarily. I believe these encouraging trends provide an even greater
sense of urgency for us to share the Gospel in our everyday lives. The study revealed that large majorities of Americans have a spiritual outlook and are now more open to hearing about God’s love. For example, 86 percent of respondents believe people have a soul or spirit in addition to their physical body; 83 percent believe in God or a universal spirit; 79 percent believe there is something spiritual beyond the natural world; and 70 percent believe in heaven, hell, or both.
The good news is Lutheran Hour Ministries is well positioned to reach out with God’s love. You are part of an Int’l LLL/LHM family that has consistently shown that great things are accomplished when God’s people work together. When 12 Lutheran laymen gathered in Milwaukee in 1917 to address some big needs in the church, they began a movement
We, as the people of God, are called, equipped, and sent to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and grow His church.
of laypeople who came together to share the Gospel and grow the church in new and exciting ways. This continues to be LHM’s rallying cry today as we seek to encourage Christians to come together as the priesthood of all believers and reach out to those who don’t yet know Him. We, as the people of God, are called, equipped, and sent to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and grow His church. By boldly entering the mission field right where we are, we can reinvigorate our common mission together into a community of believers that grows in faith with God at the center of it all.
FAITH is a word of ACTION that finds expression in meeting the needs of others. It is active hearts, arms, hands, and legs! The active hands of LHM’s faithful army of supporters joyfully distribute Christ-centered booklets at fair booths; present printed and recorded messages of God’s Word
to young and old at special events, schools, and nursing homes; share Bible study material with fellow congregation members; and much more. The sharing of the Word reaches communities large and small—and practically covers the globe with God’s invigorating love. All of this happens because of your ongoing prayers, financial support— and active involvement! I encourage you to explore the lead article in this issue and check out lhm.org to see some of the hands-on opportunities available through this ministry. We must go back to our roots, to the message of salvation, and to the realization that God has called each of us to share the Gospel message in our own lives, in our work, and in our families. All Christians doing this, in every place where they are, near and far, will again ignite a movement where all people can experience the Gospel in a meaningful way. Thank you for joining us in this life-changing mission. u
Sharing Christ’s Love Through Holistic Ministry
by CHAD FIX
Martin Luther believed that deeds of love expressed toward one’s fellow human beings through works of charity were the vocation to which every Christian is called. This is also the teaching of Jesus Himself, who said the “greatest commandment” is to love God and love your neighbor “with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (see Matthew 22:36-39).
What Lutheran Hour Ministries calls “holistic ministry” today is aimed at loving our neighbor, and therefore loving Christ Himself, through word and deed. LHM’s ministry centers often incorporate holistic approaches to sharing the Gospel that address people’s physical and emotional needs as well as spiritual ones.
LHM’s on-the-ground presence in many locations around the world often allows staff and volunteers to respond quickly following natural disasters. This was the case in Myanmar following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in March that devastated not only that country but reached into neighboring Thailand. Thankfully, LHM staff in both locations are confirmed safe. However, the earthquake resulted in more than 3,500 deaths and left thousands of others injured or missing.
LHM–Myanmar staff recently visited the earthquake zone to provide much needed assistance to the survivors. In addition to providing daily necessities, staff supported victims with Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Psychosocial Spiritual Support (PSS) programs. These programs encourage affected individuals to better cope with their situation,
connect them with others who can provide support and understanding, and allow them to focus on a future filled with recovery and healing. Please continue to pray for those affected by this devastating tragedy as well as our staff and volunteers as they build ongoing relationships with survivors in the coming months.
LHM–Sri Lanka recently organized four successful events to assist more than 300 families who had been impacted by severe flooding. Each event provided essential dry cooking items like rice, flour, milk powder, spices, tea, and biscuits as well as hygiene items, such as soap. LHM staff also had an opportunity to share the Gospel message through songs, a short message, and a teledrama. The response from affected families was overwhelming, and many expressed their sincere gratitude to LHM–Sri Lanka for assisting them in this way.
“Often the recipients of holistic efforts like this desire to learn more about the God who motivates these Christians to reach out in love,” says LHM CEO Kurt Buchholz.
In communities where people struggle with poverty, LHM ministry centers often assist individuals through vocational training, educational materials, nutritional supplements, hygiene supplies, or medical clinics. These efforts open doors for LHM to share Christcentered resources and invite people to participate in Bible Correspondence Courses and other ministry programs.
In early March, LHM–Cameroon celebrated the 11th graduating class from its Divine Sewing School. The celebration was featured on the national news in Cameroon that evening where millions of people watched and heard about this transformative program that rescues women who have been victims of violence by teaching them a trade.
The young women learn how to dye cloth, create and cut clothing patterns, sew, and custom tailor their creations so they can financially support themselves upon graduating from the program.
The relationships established during this long-term course help LHM staff and volunteers share their faith as trusted friends to these young women. But above all, the program helps these women find hope through Jesus, so they can face life with confidence.
A similar program in Liberia, the Dorcas Sewing Class, continues
to experience great success in attracting both Christians and non-Christians and empowering them through skills development and fellowship. This initiative not only helps women gain practical skills for developing financial independence but also fosters a sense of community among the participants—many who hear the Gospel for the first time during the ongoing classes.
During the program’s most recent graduation ceremony, 38-year-old Lovetta was recognized not only for her exceptional skill but also for her inspiring resilience. Having recently lost her husband, Lovetta faced the daunting challenge of providing for her family on her own. Despite her grief, she committed herself wholeheartedly to the sewing program, determined to build a new life for herself and her five children. As the ceremony progressed, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation as LHM–Liberia prepared to honor her dedication in a special way.
To Lovetta’s surprise and delight, ministry staff presented her with a brand-new sewing machine, a gesture that brought tears to her eyes. The machine was more than just a tool—it was a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a means to rebuild her life after the devastating loss of her husband. The room erupted in applause as Lovetta, overwhelmed with gratitude, expressed her thanks to LHM–Liberia for empowering her to turn her skills into a sustainable livelihood. u
Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of Lutheran Hour Ministries.
Life to the Full SESSION TWO
How Sheep Find Home NURTURING YOUR FAITH:
INTRODUCTION
Not long ago, we became a dog family. Neither my wife nor I grew up with dogs, or cats, or really pets of any kind. But our boys had been petitioning for years. As we began a search, I was the last holdout. But then a funny thing happened. We went to visit a yellow Labrador mix at his foster family’s house, and on the drive home, I turned to my wife and said, “I miss the dog.” That was it. A week later, we brought Dunkin home.
I’ve been amazed at how quickly he’s become a cherished member of our family. And despite all the additional responsibilities caring for him brings to our house, it’s becoming harder and harder to remember our home without him. To be perfectly honest, I’ve become a little jealous of Dunkin. He is living quite the life, and he seems to know it. We feed him. We play with him. We take him out for long walks and games of fetch. He sleeps whenever
he wants, and bribes treats from us whenever he gives us his puppy-dog eyes. Not a bad life at all, if you can get it.
In his book The Covenant of the Wild: Why Animals Chose Domestication, the journalist Stephen Budiansky dispels a myth about how animals like dogs became domesticated. The common assumption is that at some point in world history, human beings forced animals like dogs into submission. Yet, as Budiansky spells out, archaeology and biology show us that certain animals “chose” to be domesticated. It was a mutually beneficial decision for these animals—both pets and livestock—to trade the “independence” of being in the wild with the protection provided by the shelter and herding of human beings.
I think there’s something in there for us human beings to learn, too. I think I’m learning it from Dunkin.
1. Do you have a favorite pet from any point in your life? What is your favorite memory of them?
2. Even if you’ve never had a pet in your life, what value do you think their life brings to ours?
SHEEP AND THEIR SHEPHERD
Read John 10:1-18.
Watch the video by Dr. Travis Scholl: Session Two - “Sheep and Their Shepherd” at lhm.org/studies
1. How does the picture of what a firstcentury sheepfold looked like change the way you read Jesus’ words in John 10?
2. Which images from this passage are particularly comforting to you right now?
WYour Support Fuels a Global Gospel Movement
by KURT BUCHHOLZ, CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries
ords cannot sufficiently express the energy and joy I receive through seeing and hearing firsthand the personal passion, dedication, and Gospel work done by our staff and volunteers all around the world. This happened again over the past few months as I attended our annual workshops for ministry center directors in Latin America and Asia. Every time I visit with our ministry center leaders, I wish you could all be there with me, hearing the stories of what the Holy Spirit is doing to bring people to Jesus Christ. It is so gratifying to know the work that God is accomplishing through LHM is saving lives for eternity.
Throughout our time together, I often heard the terms “we,” “us,” and “our” when our team members referred to the ministry that was taking place. I don’t recall a single instance of someone referring to his or her personal ministry. What the team did, they did together, so that Jesus Christ would be the central focus.
As we heard best practices being shared by the various directors, the busyness of ministry was as apparent as the passion for reaching the lost and the joy of faith in the dedication of each and every LHM team member. Multiple messages recorded and released on radio, television, and social media; street events sharing resources with passers-by (and people stopping by and staying to visit and learn more); Equipping the Saints workshops for evangelism training at local congregations; holistic eyeglass and medical clinics to connect with
members of local communities; Project JOEL activities in schools that share biblically based guidance to help students make healthy lifestyle choices; and much more. The list of activities goes on and on!
Many of these efforts require staff to travel hours away from their homes before spending the day leading workshops or conducting outreach activities followed by a late-night return. The commitment of your faithful LHM local teams is incredible. At every turn they do not hesitate to give their thanks and appreciation for your support and prayers as they carry out their daily work to share Christ in their communities.
These stories all serve as a great reminder that tens of millions of people each week are experiencing the Gospel message in their language, in their context, from someone they can relate to. But we know that God is leading us to do so much more!
This is why LHM has embarked on a bold globalization initiative that will allow us to exponentially expand our ministry work into places that we have not yet had an opportunity to explore. In John 4:35b, Jesus calls on His disciples to “open your eyes and look at the fields. I tell you, they are ripe for harvest.” God has brought the nations to our doorstep. We have been called to work together to reach across barriers—cultural, linguistic, ethnic, and physical— with the saving Gospel. We are called by Jesus to “lift up our eyes” so that the center of our vision is on His harvest field, on people for whom He died, not on buildings, programs, or self.
I can’t help but wonder what our
What the team did, they did together, so that Jesus Christ would be the central focus.
North American societies would be like if more believers served and witnessed to their neighbors as I see happening in the growing church around the globe. It is that wondering, that desire, and that Gospel passion that is driving us to do the research, teach what has been learned, and create the resources to fuel a movement here in North America to do just that. What an awesome global undertaking and an awesome joy to see dedicated Gospel workers overseas as well as here at home Bringing Christ to the Nations—
and the Nations to the Church! We didn’t gather hundreds of staff and thousands of volunteers spanning the globe alone. I pray you see yourself in these stories; in each of the articles in this issue; and in every bit of research, training, and Gospel resource that is produced ... as well as what is still in planning and production! It takes all of us—working together, praying, and generously giving—to make any of this a reality. Thank you for your continued partnership in ministry! u
LHM’s booklet ministry, Project Connect, is designed to provide down-to-earth insight about things people deal with every day— grief, stress, prayer, relationships—and more.
Students See God’s Work in Action with
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Lutheran Hour Ministries, in partnership with Group Publishing, takes grade school- through middle school-aged children and some adults on a weeklong adventure each year. Gospel Adventures: Wild About Kenya, an informative and interactive virtual
learning experience, is complete with five days of FREE curricula in two age-appropriate formats, and bonus materials. Participants learn about the foods, animals, people, and places of Kenya with Gospel Adventures. Visit gospeladventures.org to sign up today!
Hands-on Experiences
Teachers shared feedback from their Gospel Adventures: Wild About Kenya experience this year, including their students’ favorite parts of the program and how their classroom activities and discussions connected them with life and kids in Kenya.
Kindergarten Through Second Grade:
“We loved the music video and used it every day at our all-school devotions during our Lutheran Schools Week celebration.”
“Everything is always so well done! It is a highlight in our class for the year!”
“We love doing these every year. This year, we mostly did the videos, but one day, while my first graders were doing the lessons and our third-grade buddies were doing the lessons, we did a sing-along day and sang Swahili songs.”
Third Through Fifth Grade:
“I really like how there are lots of choices, so we can choose the areas that we think our students would benefit from the most.”
“I love using these daily lessons. The kids have fun while learning about another country. The theme song was wonderful this year, and the students loved the videos.”
“My students have been watching since Thailand, and we keep singing the songs every year, and this year the song was their absolute favorite. They love the rhythm and the words and keep requesting to sing it.”
Sixth Through Eighth Grade:
“Each year we have a day where the students rotate through different stations. We take ideas from the materials we get from Lutheran Hour Ministries and have stations for games, crafts, stories, and food. The kids love this day!”
“I love how they bring in so much of the culture and traditions of the country we are focusing on each year.”
How Students Can Make an Impact Around the World
As a way to support children’s ministry around the world, individuals, schools, and churches participating in Gospel Adventures: Wild About Kenya can choose to donate through chapel offerings or coin drives. These donations will go toward LHM’s Global Kids Fund, which supports programs that are similar to the ones they see during the Gospel Adventures program. All the funds raised this year will help support LHM children’s programs around the world.
Africa is the youngest continent on earth, with a median age of only 19 years and 70 percent of the people under age 30. Many people do not learn to read and write beyond an elementary school level, so distributing Bibles and booklets is often not the best way to reach individuals with the Gospel. In addition, more than 2,000 languages are spoken on the continent.
By supporting our Global Kids Fund, YOU can help share Christ’s message of hope with children throughout Africa through LHM’s programs, including
• Drama Performances
• Film Screenings
• Vocational Training Programs
• Holistic Ministry
• Bible Correspondence Courses (BCC)
• Medical Support
• Response to Natural Disasters
To learn more about the impact you can make through a gift to the Global Kids Fund, visit gospeladventures.org/fundraising.asp u
Making Connections, Touching Lives: Hispanic Online Ministry in Action
by PAUL SCHREIBER
Coming alongside people in their daily walk with help and hope centered in Christ is what Para el Camino and Sentido Latino do. These LHM Hispanic ministry resources are distinct in content and complementary in purpose. Para el Camino offers daily and seasonal devotions, inspired comments on living, topical and children’s booklets, and much more. Sentido Latino is a podcast featuring Rev. Luciano Vega-Ayala and daughter Deaconess Noemí Guerra. The website includes comments and audio messages that speak about life issues and making sound choices.
Sentido Latino connects with people through its podcast and social media posts in the U.S. and abroad. In 2024 it had more than 200,000 audio reproductions and 2 million-plus social media reaches. The podcast’s father-daughter exchanges create a strong chemistry for listeners. “This makes our audience feel like they are home, with family, maybe in the kitchen, having a healthy conversation about daily life,” says Rev. Germán Novelli, LHM Hispanic ministry director. “Our hosts know the realities, challenges, and afflictions in our communities, and how the love of Jesus can heal the wounds of sin,” he adds.
“We are in awe of how God has used His Word across digital platforms to transform lives.”
Likewise, Para el Camino continues to make inroads into people’s lives who are hurting. Such was the case of a man in Mexico battling alcohol. After the staff at LHM’s ministry center prayed for him and shared resources on alcoholism and addiction, the man replied how he had been spending time with God using LHM’s Daily Devotions on the mobile CPTLN app. “This Sunday I went to church, and I think I will go again with God’s favor. It’s already two weeks of sobriety tomorrow. Thank you to our Heavenly Father. God bless you today and always in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen,” he says.
This encounter led to an on-the-ground connection, too. “We were also able to refer him to our CPTLN director in Mexico City for further guidance and support. We are in awe of how God has used His Word across digital platforms to transform lives. All glory belongs to Him!” says Christina Lopez-Robin, U.S. Hispanic ministry social media manager and marketing specialist.
Additionally, LHM’s Hispanic outreach is served by vivenciar.net in Latin America with a team of volunteers engaging Spanish and Portuguese speakers. Volunteers listen to and accompany people going through difficulties, giving them support and guidance. The website also offers articles, courses, booklets, and a blog.
For more information on all these programs, go to lhm.org/ hispanicministry
Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.
Sharing the Gospel Message at Best Practices in Ministry Conference
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Several LHM staff members gathered in Phoenix, Arizona, in February for Best Practices in Ministry. This annual conference has been hosted by Christ Church Lutheran for more than 10 years as a reminder to professional and lay church workers that they are loved, they are not alone, and they matter.
This year, Nicole Heerlein, associate director of external relations, and Becky Pagel, vice president of constituency, hosted a booth that they shared with the Petal Pushers. They engaged in conversations with attendees and shared several LHM resources, including the “Real Topics, Real People” Project Connect booklet bundle; information on Gospel Adventures; the Spiritual Conversations: Sharing Life, Faith, and Jesus with Friends curriculum for high school students; flyers for Thred; details on LHM’s Hispanic ministries; stickers; sunglasses; and a few giveaways.
“It is an honor to serve fellow church workers as they search for ways to aid their congregations,” says Heerlein. “Whether they need resources for kids or adults or those in between, LHM is here to help.”
Participants went to the LHM booth to express their appreciation for the breakout sessions and to look at all the displayed resources. Some people stopped by the booth just to share how much they love LHM and
“It is an honor to serve fellow church workers as they search for ways to aid their congregations.”
our resources.
Breakout sessions led by LHM staff included Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies, vice president of ministry engagement, who presented a session titled “How NOT to Let Issues Prevent Relationships”; Ashley Bayless, vice president of global content, presenting on “Who Can Reach Gen Z with the Gospel?”; and Rachel Tichich, digital development manager, leading a session titled “Navigating the Digital Maze: Wisdom and Grace for a World of Increasing Anxiety.”
“Bringing the seasoned expertise of LHM staff to conferences like Best Practices always generates large audiences for our sessions because people know they can trust what they’re hearing from our presenters and that they’re going to grow in their capacity for ministry,” says Lakies. “Coupled with the resources we had on hand to support the presentations, participants left more equipped than when they arrived, which is exactly why it’s important for LHM to be at conferences like this.”
Rev. Jeff Mueller, senior pastor of Waikoloa Lutheran Church in Waikoloa, Hawaii, was one of the winners of the booth giveaway. He shared that his congregation recently celebrated LHM Sunday, and he has been using LHM’s Bible studies for several months on Sunday mornings. u
Ashley Bayless, presented a session on “Who Can Reach Gen Z with the Gospel?”
Participants gathered outside for fellowship during the conference.
Rachel Tichich lead a session titled “Navigating the Digital Maze: Wisdom and Grace for a World of Increasing Anxiety.”
Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies presented a session titled “How NOT to Let Issues Prevent Relationships.”
Nicole Heerlein and Becky Pagel hosted a booth that they shared with the Petal Pushers. Several LHM resources were shared.
Two New Booklets from Project Connect to Enrich Your Prayer Life
by PAUL SCHREIBER
In these unsteady times, you may find yourself turning to prayer more than you used to. To that end, two Project Connect booklets address this topic. The first is the booklet 35 Character-Building Prayers for My Grandchild, Vol. 1. It was written by best-selling author and educator Dr. Mary Manz Simon. The second booklet, Getting (Re)Started in Prayer, is by Dr. Kari Vo, theological writer for LHM.
35 Character-Building Prayers for My Grandchild covers several topical concerns for grandchildren. Manz Simon’s concise prayers are perfect for reading alone or with one’s grandchildren/children. With prayers on appreciation, confidence, empathy, fairness, honesty, and more, grandparents and parents can use these specific prayers with ease. Each prayer is headed with a biblical text, another Scripture to read to deepen understanding, and a space is provided for writing personal thoughts to remember. Each prayer focuses on a single quality for children to aspire to in their walk with God.
Readers will find these prayers satisfying on many levels—not the least of which is their clear attention to cultivating godly traits in the young ones they love. Here are a few words from the “Assertive” prayer: “Allow my grandchild to reflect the power that comes with wearing spiritual armor. Give (child’s name) the confidence to speak up and the ability to think independently. When peer pressure threatens to shift (name) away from what he/she knows is right, remind him/her that he/she was created in Your likeness. If my grandchild feels intimidated, reach out in fatherly love to keep him/her physically and emotionally safe.”
In Getting (Re)Started in Prayer, readers are encouraged to partake of this wonderful gift God has given each of us. Any time we pray, we have the opportunity to commune with our Maker, and why?—because He wants us to! Jesus tells us to ask, seek, and knock in our petitions to the Father. Relationships need communication, and that’s what prayer is: talking to God, sharing our heartfelt concerns,
Listen to The Lutheran Hour Wherever You Are by
Now in its 92nd broadcast season, The Lutheran Hour® (TLH) reaches hundreds of thousands of people each week. Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, and a variety of guest speakers preach Christ crucified, salvation, restoration, and reconciliation with God in His Name. Countless people have come to faith, are sustained in their faith, or are encouraged in their faith just by listening.
“Even though I attend a local LCMS church each week, The Lutheran Hour on Sundays is always a must hear,” says Roger. “Keep up the amazing work!”
“I really appreciate the messages on The Lutheran Hour,” says Sheryl.
“They always point to Jesus and share important lessons for life.”
TLH is now available in many ways beyond traditional radio:
“Connected by LHM” Mobile App — Available for iPhone or Android devices, access The Lutheran Hour sermons and Daily Devotions wherever you are. Play the audio or read the text of current and past sermons and devotions. You can also access the Bible and other resources from LHM.
Online at lutheranhour.org
Available online each week are the sermon text, audio player, and downloadable MP3. Subscribe to receive the sermons via email at lhm.org/newsroom.
“… prayer is a beautiful and gracious gift God gives us so that we can be with Him, enjoy Him, and grow in our relationship with Him …”
joys, hopes, and failures. This booklet has suggestions for getting started, different types of prayer to explore, help for overcoming prayer barriers, answers to questions about prayer, and more.
Vo’s attention to the significance of prayer in a Christian’s life will make this booklet a useful volume. She writes, “In the end, prayer is a beautiful and gracious gift God gives us so that we can be with Him, enjoy Him, and grow in our relationship with Him—even now, here on earth, before we see Him face to face. The Lord is your best teacher when it comes to prayer, so ask Him for help. You’ll be glad you did.”
Both prayer booklets and others on various topics can be found at lhm.org/projectconnect, where you can order booklets, download PDFs, and listen to many of them as an MP3 audio file. You will also find Gospel-rich, illustrated, rhyming kids’ booklets in both English and Spanish.
A second volume of 35 Character-Building Prayers for My Grandchild will be available later in 2025. u
MEGAN MCDANIEL
Streaming — The Lutheran Hour can be listened to as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Alexa, iHeartRadio, Spreaker from iHeartRadio, YouTube, and YouTube Music.
American Forces Network — Visit lutheranhour.org/afn to hear a special weekly version produced for the American Forces Network.
Sirius XM Satellite Radio — The Lutheran Hour airs at 10 a.m. Eastern each Sunday on Family Talk Channel 131.
Dial in on Your Phone — Call LHM’s main phone number (800876-9880) and press option three to be forwarded to listen to The Lutheran Hour.
“I look forward to listening to The Lutheran Hour on the ‘Connected by LHM’ app on my way to way to work each Monday,” says Paul. “Pastor Zeigler’s sermons are enlightening, enjoyable, and inspirational!” u
Creating a Lasting Impact Through an IRA
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Norman Gerken comes from a long-standing Lutheran family. His father was a pastor, and one of his brothers is a pastor. His grandfather, uncles, and cousins were all involved in the Lutheran Church as well. He went to Lutheran schools growing up and remembers watching LHM’s This is the Life program on television.
His father went to Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and was taught by Dr. Walter A. Maier, the first Speaker of The Lutheran Hour. In fact, Dr. Paul Maier, Walter’s son, became a family friend. For many years, Paul traveled to Norman’s church, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, in Tacoma, Washington, to lead seminars and speak on various topics.
“I have a family connection to LHM, but I also like the ministry efforts and how the Gospel is shared around the world,” says Norman.
“I know the internet contains many negative aspects, but it can also be used for good. Being able to share the Gospel digitally is very important, and LHM does a great job of using the internet to reach people around the world with the Gospel, so more people get to know the Gospel and get to know Jesus as their Savior.
final paper was on the Reformation, specifically Martin Luther. When he graduated, he couldn’t get a job teaching history, so he started selling life and health insurance for Aid Association for Lutherans, which is now Thrivent. After about 10 years, he got a job with the State of Washington processing claims for workers’ compensation. During this time, he earned a master’s degree in public administration. After he retired in 2014, he needed something to stay busy and his wife suggested he go back to work. When he searched online for a part-time job, the first thing that came up was Enterprise Rent-A-Car, which was looking for part-time drivers. He started driving three days a week, taking cars to dealerships to be sold and driving rental cars between Enterprise branches when needed.
“I have a family connection to LHM, but I also like the ministry efforts and how the Gospel is shared around the world.”
“The United States is part of the world, so I know there is just as much need for the Gospel right here as there is in other countries. There’s a lot of negative things right here in the U.S., so the work to spread the Good News here is needed as well.”
Norman was originally planning on being a history professor. He holds a master’s degree in history, and his
Norman has designated LHM as the primary beneficiary of his Thrivent IRA. “I’m a great believer in Lutheran Hour Ministries,” says Norman. “Seeing how people have come to know God in various parts of the world through LHM’s ministry efforts is fantastic.
Since I don’t have any children of my own, I thought there was no better place for my money to go.
“I know the ministry of LHM will be needed until the good Lord returns, and nobody knows when that will be. I hope my gift makes a lasting impact on the lives of many individuals for years to come.”
To learn more about how you can make a lasting impact through various giving options, contact LHM’s gift planning staff at lhm-gift@lhm.org or 1-877-333-1963. u
Sharing the Gospel with Your Support by
GMEGAN MCDANIEL
od has called us to be powerful witnesses for Christ, a belief that has undergirded the entire history of Lutheran Hour Ministries and continues to define our future work with the church. But more than half of all Christians today have not shared their faith with even one person in the past year. With such great news to share, why do so many Christians feel inadequate when it comes to sharing their faith?
LHM is changing this dire statistic by providing relevant tools and training to help congregations and individuals throughout North America reach their communities with the Gospel. Below are recent comments from supporters like you who help make our ministry efforts possible.
I’ve been blessed to hear The Lutheran Hour for the last 60 years. We read and listen to your Daily Devotions and the sermons online. We always look forward to the message from Dr. Kari Vo on the devotions, and the voice of Mark Eischer welcomes us to The Lutheran Hour as an old family friend. May God continue to bless us all through LHM. – David and Bobbi
My mom shared LHM’s Sunday morning sermons with me and my siblings as we delivered morning newspapers with her in junior high and high school. Memories of the consistent and confident preaching of Scripture from Pastors Oswald Hoffmann, Wallace Schulz, and Dale Meyer bring me comfort and reassurance that God is faithful. More recent sermons from Pastors Ken Klaus, Greg Seltz, and Michael Zeigler continue to bolster me when the world seems to be ‘winning’ against the truth of the Gospel. Thank you for sharing Jesus through your ministry! – Amy
Love your Daily Devotions. They are well done, and my wife and I listen after our evening meal each day. – Daniel
Thank you for your radio program, I love it so much! All of you are such a blessing to me every day. – Ronnie
Thank you, LHM, for your continued work in bringing Christ to the nations! – Ted
Have you been impacted by one of LHM’s resources? Share your story with us at megan.mcdaniel@lhm.org as an encouragement for others to share LHM resources with their friends and family. If we use your story in a future issue of The Lutheran Layman or an LHM e-newsletter, we will send you a free copy of one of our books developed in partnership with Barna Group. u
SLHM’s Hispanic Resources Warmly Received in U.S. and Across the Border
by PAUL SCHREIBER
haring Hispanic resources is central to Lutheran Hour Ministries’ mission of outreach to Spanish-speaking communities in the U.S. and abroad. To illustrate the point, three different groups recently received items from LHM to complement their local missions in California, Mexico, and Guatemala.
On April 6, Rev. Germán Novelli, LHM Hispanic ministry director, preached and presented at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Orange, California. The church had an event to kick off Children’s Day activities, an annual festivity celebrated in Mexico to honor children. Following his presentations, Novelli handed out kits that included LHM’s kids’ booklets—Welcome in English and ¡Bienvenido! in Spanish—some candies, and Gospel Adventures stickers.
St. Paul’s holds four services every weekend, three in English and one in Spanish, and has a vibrant ministry in Orange, serving Hispanic families in their community. Novelli reminded
Give the Gift of Clarity by Creating a Will
by CHAD FIX
Wthe congregation (and the young ones present) of its shared mission with LHM: “We are all missionaries in our different contexts, and the little ones are included in this mission task.”
A congregation in Sanford, Florida, Resurrection Church, recently sent a mission team to work with children in Guatemala. Pastor Chris Johnson was the leader of the mission group, and they took with them a bunch of children’s booklets to share with kids there. Another package that included kids’ booklets went to 1000 Generaciones, a Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod mission group serving communities in Tijuana, Mexico. They are using these materials this month during the celebration of Children’s Day events.
Novelli understands the need to produce and distribute the kinds of Hispanic resources LHM is making available. “The number of congregations and organizations working together to bring the Gospel to Latino communities in the U.S.
hen it comes to your legacy and creating a will, it is common to think you do not have anything significant to give to your loved ones. After all, aren’t wills just for the wealthy? You have mentioned your wishes to your family; why get lawyers and legal documents involved?
The reality is you have meaningful gifts to pass down and a will is one of the best ways to accomplish this. Let’s talk about one of them: the gift of clarity
Having a will in place means your family will not have to guess (or worse, disagree about) your wishes after you are gone. Instead, they will have clear directions about important items like the following:
• Your desires, including how you would like your life to be celebrated
• How you would like your assets distributed, from small mementos to larger items like property or financial holdings
• Caring for family members, especially your children
August is National Make a Will Month, so that is the perfect time to create or update your will. Take the next step by requesting our Will Planning Guide at lhm.org/giftplan. It is our gift to you.
Already have a will that includes LHM?
Many people have included LHM in their final plans and have not yet shared this decision. If you are one of these people, please let us know! For more information, or to tell us we are in your estate plans, contact LHM’s gift planning staff at lhm-gift@lhm.org or 1-877-333-1963. u
is growing, and so is the number of churches doing missions and leading ministries in Latin America. That’s why we continue producing amazing and contextualized materials that will bring the Good News of Jesus to our Spanishspeaking neighbors here, there, and everywhere,” he says.
Keeping churches and mission groups well stocked with relevant, Christ-centered materials enhances their efforts and is central to LHM’s goal of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. “Our commitment is to keep working with our congregations and ministry leaders to supply them with tools and materials they can use in their own contexts, understanding their realities, challenges, and needs,” Novelli adds.
For more information on LHM’s Spanishlanguage resources, go to paraelcamino.com u
NURTURING YOUR FAITH
Our newest Bible study, Nurturing Your Faith: Life to the Full, reminds us that in Jesus, we are given this life freely as a gift through faith, and it's a life that is extraordinary, above and beyond all measure, and everlasting.
Congregation Spotlight:
How YOU Can Join LHM’s Mission
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Location:
Rochester Hills, Michigan
Congregation size: About 100 Members
Contact person: Pastor Terry Baughman
How does your congregation support LHM?
Each year, Crown of Life designates Lutheran or Christian organizations that are focused on disciples making disciples. Lutheran Hour Ministries offers a wide variety of ways to reach those who have not heard the Gospel. Not only is LHM in our prayers, but we also highlight LHM devotions and share information that LHM sends to the congregations.
What was the motivation behind supporting LHM?
Lutheran Hour Ministries has been a blessing to us here at Crown of Life, and we want to bless LHM and their mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. The Gospel is shared to more than 60 countries. The Lutheran Hour continues to broadcast the amazing message of Jesus throughout the world. Crown of Life’s mission is to Connect People to Christ, the Source of Life. Our focus with our mission funds is to augment our mission with organizations that are doing just that, Connecting People to Christ, the Source of Life. Knowing the mission of LHM, we wanted to support this amazing ministry as they are making an impact for God's kingdom.
What has been your members’ feedback? What do your members like about LHM?
Our members appreciate the work of LHM as they continue to share the message of grace and peace through our Lord, Jesus Christ. The opportunities to listen to The Lutheran Hour, read Bible studies and devotionals continue to help us dive into the Word of God more and more. LHM is in our prayers, and we continue to pray for the ministry that LHM is doing and the impact that it is making. We celebrate knowing that all the support poured out toward LHM is Kingdom building!
– Photo from Crown of Life Lutheran Church
If your congregation would like to learn more about how you can support LHM’s mission, contact Robin Forsythe at 314-317-4152 or robin.forsythe@lhm.org. If you would like to make a gift of support, visit lhm.org/give u
Helping High School Students Share Life, Faith, and Jesus with Friends
by MEGAN MCDANIEL
Spiritual Conversations: Sharing Life, Faith, and Jesus with Friends is a seven-lesson course designed for teachers and youth leaders to help high school-aged students recognize and respond to opportunities to have spiritual conversations.
Combining insights from Barna Group research and LHM’s commitment to equipping people to share the Gospel, this course includes interactive group activities, videos, data to consider, opportunities for discussions on Scripture and faith-sharing conversations, and more. The lessons can be presented daily, weekly, or even monthly, depending on the context and schedule of the group.
The Teacher Guide explains how to implement the course and engage students. Instructors are considered the classroom experts, but being an expert in spiritual conversations isn’t necessary to have a powerful learning experience. Lessons begin with a purpose and learning goals. Kickstarter Questions get students thinking on topic, while videos and group activities create a fun environment for exploring video content and related Scriptures. At each lesson’s conclusion, Exit Tickets give students the chance to share their thoughts, prayer requests, and more, in a confidential manner with their teacher.
always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” Insights gleaned from LHM’s Spiritual Conversation Curve and LHM Learn’s online suite of Barnabased Outreach Essentials courses have played a key role in building this course.
Ninth through 12th grade students at Orange Lutheran High School in Orange, California, have been using the program in their missions class this semester. Lisa Baermann, director of missions, found out about the program through a friend who works at LHM. Jessica Heim, the missions class teacher, shared her experience using the program this semester.
“… it allows them to think about spiritual conversations in a way they can actually connect with.”
“Our students are enjoying how interactive the curriculum is and that they are given the opportunity to observe and evaluate spiritual conversations in many different scenarios and then also get to role-play themselves,” says Heim. “They appreciate that it was made specifically for their age group and that it allows them to think about spiritual conversations in a way they can actually connect with.”
The underlying motivator in Spiritual Conversations: Sharing Life, Faith, and Jesus with Friends is the apostle Paul’s exhortation in Colossians 4:5-6 to “Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech
“I just wanted to share how much we are loving the high school curriculum from LHM,” says Baermann. “It literally is an answer to prayers for our semester. We had developed our own curriculum, which I think has good points, but it is just so great to have this resource to guide us through. And then we just have added some of our content and ideas alongside. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.”
Visit lhm.org/schs to find out more and register for Spiritual Conversations: Sharing Life, Faith, and Jesus with Friends u
Congregation name:
Crown of Life Lutheran Church
CHANGING LIVES AROUND THE WORLD with the Gospel
by CHAD FIX
Thailand
Chin is 74 years old and has practiced a non-Christian religion her whole life. She received a pair of free eyeglasses while attending a holistic eyeglass clinic hosted by LHM–Thailand at a local church. She remembered the Bible stories she heard that day about Jesus healing sick people, so she went back to the church and asked the pastor to pray for her. The pastor prayed with her and encouraged her to attend services and join a Bible study group. The LHM–Thailand team sent her some booklets and invited her to enroll in their Bible Correspondence Course, during follow-up visits with her. As Chin learned more about God’s Word, the power of the Holy Spirit worked on her heart and led her to become a Christian. Chin is now preparing to be baptized.
As Chin learned more about God’s Word, the power of the Holy Spirit worked on her heart.
“We thank God for the support we have received from LHM–Mexico and all those who allow the Word of God to reach more families.”
Rosa is a member of a Lutheran church and brought her grandchildren to participate in their children’s program. The kids enjoyed the classes, games, food, and activities, many of which were hosted by LHM–Mexico. At the end of the program, the parents were invited to attend the graduation service. Their mother came to support her kids and afterward decided she wanted to attend church services with Rosa and her children. “We thank God for the support we have received from LHM–Mexico and all those who allow the Word of God to reach more families,” says Rosa.
Mexico
Cameroon
Eighteen-year-old Bayela has three children and struggled to support her kids financially. She has been through many hardships in her life, including being rejected by her family. A friend introduced Bayela to LHM–Cameroon, and she started listening to their radio program. She later connected with LHM staff and enrolled in their Bible Correspondence Courses (BCC). After her BCC graduation and a series of counseling sessions with the director and staff, she registered for the ministry’s Divine Sewing School program. She has been hearing the Gospel message during the classes while gradually building her sewing skills. Now, she knows how to sew children’s clothes that she sells to make a living and feed her kids. Through the power of God’s Word, Bayela became a Christian and says her life is beginning to bloom: “My hope is now found in the Name of Jesus.”
A friend introduced Bayela to LHM–Cameroon, and she started listening to their radio program.
The Holy Spirit worked in his heart, and in time Yoness became a Christian.
Yoness grew up practicing a nonChristian religion, but he turned to the internet in search of answers as he experienced violence and chaos in his living environment. He discovered a Facebook page run by LHM staff in the Middle East and North Africa and was drawn to the content that offered a different perspective of hope through encouraging posts. As Yoness engaged with the content on the page, a sense of curiosity turned into a yearning for deeper understanding. He messaged LHM staff and began ongoing online conversations where he was introduced to the transformative power of the Gospel through Christian testimonies. These testimonies resonated with him, painting a picture of a loving God. The staff also shared Bible verses and encouraged him to dig deeper into the Bible to learn more. The Holy Spirit worked in his heart, and in time Yoness became a Christian. He continues to read the Bible to grow in his newfound faith.
Middle East & North Africa
Individuals around the world experience the Gospel through Lutheran Hour Ministries’ culturally relevant programs and resources nearly 235 million times each week. Below are just a few examples to show how God has been using LHM recently to change lives around the world with His Good News.
Paraguay
Elias is 24 years old and works at an auditing company, where he met Felipe, a member of a local Lutheran church and a volunteer for LHM–Paraguay. They talked for a while about Christianity, and Elias was interested in learning more. Elias contacted the ministry center and asked for a Bible and Catechism for himself as well as one to give to a friend. About a week later, Elias called again to share how impactful the conversation with the director was and mentioned that he read the entire Catechism and was beginning to read the Bible. He and his friend have started going to a local church and are excited to learn more about Christianity together.
Elias read the entire Catechism and was beginning to read the Bible.
“It
would have been unbearable if I had not found another light— Jesus Christ.”
Dita is 58 years old and lost her vision permanently about 15 years ago. Her life went completely dark. “It would have been unbearable if I had not found another light— Jesus Christ,” Dita says. “He is the Light of the world! He is the light of my eyes!” Since she could no longer read, Dita began listening to different recordings when one day she found materials produced by LHM–Latvia on the internet. “These little truths and moments of reflection were like water to a thirsty person,” says Dita. “I could never imagine that this would be my way to learn about Jesus. I recently discovered that LHM also offers audio booklets, which address several topics I’m interested in and are full of instructive truths.”
Latvia
India
Prakash works as a manual laborer, but for many years alcohol addiction consumed most of his earnings, leaving his family in constant need. One day, LHM–India hosted a film screening in his community. Prakash, not a Christian at the time, sat on his doorstep and watched the story of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Though he had no expectations, something unexpected happened— tears welled in his eyes, and the Holy Spirit stirred his heart. A ministry volunteer noticed Prakash’s response and prayed with him. The Lord brought Prakash to faith in Jesus. His heart was made new. Over time, his entire family came to believe as well. Today, Prakash is a new creation in Christ—free from alcohol, full of joy, and faithfully attending church.
The Lord brought Prakash to faith in Jesus. His heart was made new.
“Reading the Bible and sharing its values with students is a tremendous blessing, as it positively transforms our lives.”
Adriana is a volunteer with the Project JOEL youth program for LHM–Panama and instructs thirdgrade students. With enthusiasm and vigor, she begins each school day with devotionals and Bible readings. Utilizing the book Bible Story Garden alongside the booklets Jesus Loves You and Story of Creation, she has crafted a comprehensive values program that enhances the program’s efforts. She says, “Reading the Bible and sharing its values with students is a tremendous blessing, as it positively transforms our lives.” The staff is thankful for volunteers like Adriana who share God’s Word in an environment of trust and understanding. u
Panama
Kyrgyzstan
The team in Kyrgyzstan is steadily building relationships with churches from the region to share the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Through children’s and youth programs, LHM makes God’s love visible among families and youth. Numerous events have been held for up to 60 attendees at a time and included both children and their parents from the churches as well as others from the community, providing an opportunity for all to hear about God’s love for them.
Social media provides an avenue to upload hopeful video messages on topics that will be well received by the audience. One recent video emphasizes the importance of generosity and resourcefulness, urging readers to invest in others and in various endeavors, even if the return isn’t immediate. Another video discussed the value of family by taking a deep dive into some of the relevant topics that families throughout the country face on a daily basis. u
LHM in this bold initiative to reach the world with the hope of the Gospel by impacting people globally, through digital engagement, and right where they are! Use and Share
Your Congregation by
Sharing the Gospel Through Popular Games
For decades, LHM has shared Christ’s love with the world by identifying and equipping local laypeople to develop ministry programs contextual to the culture in which they serve. Since staff members understand local needs, LHM can create customized programming and resources that resonate with their audience.
LHM’s ministry in India has a long history of organizing youth programs in churches to share God’s love. Given the growing popularity of cricket among young people in India, staff organized a cricket tournament to capture the interest of young people. Assisted by a local pastor, LHM’s satellite ministry in Mumbai hosted more than 100 youth from eight churches who were cheered on by 180 spectators. The event opened with a ribbon cutting followed by prayer. Team members were given LHM booklets, and the winning team received prizes. Staff had an opportunity to
New Multi-Language Project Helps Viewers Find Hope in Christ
by CHAD FIX
Aby CHAD FIX
meet new pastors and share the work of LHM in India with them.
This initial success led to a second tournament with the assistance of another pastor who works with the Christian Premier League. This event began with an opening prayer and sermon for the eight teams from local churches. There were 72 players in all, supported by around 100 spectators for the daylong event. Pastors and participants learned about LHM’s ministry through the sharing of information and booklets. The tournament ended near midnight with the awarding of prizes to the winning team.
LHM–Jamaica invited people from the community to join local church members for a time of fun and fellowship at their Men’s and Women’s Domino Event. Many attendees brought their children, too, and the older ones even participated. LHM provided food for everyone and prizes for the winners.
new multi-language project in partnership with SAT-7 was launched earlier this year to shine Christ’s light across all of SAT-7’s adult channels in the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia. The programs include Heartbeat on SAT-7 ARABIC, GPS on SAT-7 PARS, and Let’s Talk About This on SAT-7 TÜRK.
The Reconnecting the MENA to Hope project uses selected topical content from LHM’s Project Connect booklets to address the challenges of daily life in the region by offering hope in Jesus through unique satellite broadcasts, digital and social media, and direct follow up. Each channel’s programming is tailored to the unique language, culture, and felt needs of its audience, and points viewers to additional resources to help them further explore the topics covered.
A viewer named Bahram shares, “Each [episode] has been very fruitful for me. With this program, I can understand [the topics] in a more practical way, realizing how those verses apply to my daily interactions with my family, at work, and in every environment that I find myself in.”
A young women named Firozeh says, “This was my first time watching this program and I was blessed by it. Early on in my life I felt truly lonely even though I was not alone; I had God by my side. I should have entrusted my problems to Him, but I didn’t. I had faith but lacked action. Watching this program reminded me of this and I felt blessed again.” u
Staff shared the Gospel in an inviting environment with the 31 individuals in attendance. Participants also learned more about LHM’s outreach and received packages containing several booklets. In the coming months, LHM–Jamaica plans to hold their firstever Ludo competition. (Ludo is like popular board games Sorry! or Parcheesi.)
LHM–Laos is one of many ministry centers using soccer as a tool to connect young people to Christ. Through this initiative, staff train both boys and girls under the age of 16 to participate in a local league and share the Gospel with them throughout the training. By God’s grace, many players have since been baptized and are now actively involved in the local church community. Beyond spiritual impact, the program plays an important role in social development—helping keep youth away from drugs and negative societal influences. u
