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Thank you, East Regional Pastor Bublitz, for your July/August article about the good old days that included the reminiscences of an elderly lady who, as you put it, “bemoaned the current age and longed for the good old days.”
I too bemoan the current age and long for the good old days, but with a broader emphasis on what the “good old days” included.
Growing up on a mixed farm in Manitoba, with my life beginning even before we had electricity, there is no doubt that we were without many of the physical comforts of today. Yes, we worked hard, growing most of the food we needed; gathering firewood to cook with and keep warm; putting up the hay to feed our animals through the winter; and growing and harvesting grain to sell to bring in much needed cash.
Yes, it was hard and challenging, yet I am thankful because those good old days taught and instilled selfreliance and good work ethics.
But what I am even more thankful for is that, in the good old days, Christian faith had a very strong moral and ethical influence on all of society. In the good old days, you were quite safe even when you left the doors of your home unlocked and left the keys in your vehicle. Even though there were laws protecting the Sabbath, most people still undertook to honor the Sabbath and refrain from working. People had integrity as we were able to take many people at their word; the handshake was accepted as binding by both parties. There were clear distinctions between good and evil defined by the Ten Commandments; respect for the elders and for each
other was taught and enforced; moral, ethical, and other boundaries were taught and enforced to protect all of society from creeping evil and disorder.
I could go on and on, but I hope everyone gets the picture that the elderly lady and those of us who “bemoan the current age and long for the good old days” are bemoaning the decline of Christianity and its positive influence on society.
Yes, society has changed. We have creature comforts now, but it is pretty hard to say that much else has improved. As one of our hymns says: “Change and decay in all around I see;” and we pray, “O Thou who changest not, Abide with me.”
So, not only do we need to be longing for “the good old days” but we need to realize we must do something to bring society back to good in these days.
Somewhere buried in our constitutional documents we declare that the Bible is the Word of God and the only norm for word and practice. May our bemoaning of the current age and longing for the good old days inspire us to think outside the boxes that we have created for ourselves and realize that, even as society has changed around us, so we, standing firmly on all of Gods words, need to change how we approach and engage with today’s society. As we prepare for the next convention and review our life together since restructuring, let us see to it that our restructuring does not morph into something like moving the chairs around on the Titanic.
Rev. Elmer Mushumanski Armstrong, B.C.
ALL THE COMPANY OF HEAVEN
EDITOR | MATHEW BLOCK
The king of Syria wanted Elisha dead. The prophet had foiled his plans against the king of Israel several times, so the Syrian king instead set his sights on Elisha. Learning the prophet was in Dothan, the Syrians sent “horses and chariots and a great army, and they came by night and surrounded the city” (2 Kings 6:14).
When Elisha’s servant awoke the next morning and saw the army, he was afraid. But Elisha comforted him: “Do not be afraid,” he said, “for those who are with us are more than those who are with them” (6:16). Then Elisha prayed that the servant might see—and suddenly “the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (6:17). These heavenly forces—invisible but nevertheless very real—were there at God’s command to defend and protect the prophet. It comes as no surprise to learn, therefore, that Elisha escaped the Syrians unharmed.
In our world today, it is easy to become discouraged. Like the servant of Elisha, we look around and see danger all around—militant secularism and shrinking churches, for example, to say nothing of our own sinful flesh and the devil. And though these trials indeed surround us, we forget that those with us are greater than those against us. Just as God did for Elijah, so too He “command[s] His angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways” (Psalm 91:11).
Every Sunday, we are reminded that—however small the Church may look on earth—we are united in faith and worship “with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven.” The angelic host in all their might, the heroes of the faith, even our own dear departed loved ones join with us in worshipping Jesus as Lord.
That knowledge gives us confidence to carry on in faith, despite the many enemies which stand against us. “Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” the book of Hebrews instructs, “let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:1-2). For ultimately, it is not the heavenly host or the Church Triumphant in which we place our trust; it is in Christ our Lord. For it is in Him alone—through His sacrifice at the cross, His resurrection from the dead, and His ascension to glory in heaven—that we find the victory for which we so desperately long.
The infant Jesus was born for this very reason: to save us from death and the devil and from our own sinful selves. So it is that the angel proclaimed: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).
That Saviour, born in Bethlehem so many years ago, was born for you. He died for you. He rose again for you Jesus has rescued you from sin, death, and every other danger. And He promises you the joy of life with Him, both here on earth now and into endless eternity in heaven. What enemy can stand against Him?
With such good news, how can we refrain from joining the heavenly multitudes in their song of praise? “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!” (Luke 2:14). It is a song all believers down through the centuries sing as one.
In this issue, we reflect on the comfort that “the company of heaven” gives us, despite the challenges we face on earth. Rev. Kurt Lantz discusses the sorrows of widows and widowers, highlighting the unique place they hold in our wider Christian community (page six). Rev. Christopher McLean reflects on the challenges of small congregations, explaining how God continues to care for His people even when they are few (page nine). Finally, Rev. Dr. William Mundt reminds us that Jesus has gone on ahead to prepare a place for us—a place where all sorrows will pass away as we dwell with Him forever (page twelve).
It is true that we “walk in danger all the way” (LSB 716:1). But it is also true that we “walk with angels all the way” (v. 4)—and, what is more, that we walk with Christ Himself all the way. “I walk with Jesus all the way,” the hymnist writes, “His guidance never fails me; Within His wounds I find a stay When Satan’s pow’r assails me; And by His footsteps led, My path I safely tread. No evil leads my soul astray; I walk with Jesus all the way” (v. 5).
Heavenly Father, comfort us with the knowledge we do not walk alone. When the Church feels threatened, remind us that Your angels are with us to defend us. When the Church feels small, remind us that we are surrounded by an uncountable cloud of witnesses. And remind us too, dear God, that You are among us with Your Spirit, pointing us ever back to Jesus Christ, in whom we live and move and have our being even now. Amen.
Alone by the Tree, Together at the Altar
by Kurt Lantz
Late at night I sit in the living room with the lights from the Christmas tree providing a warm glow and sacred choral music softly streaming in the quiet hours. It is quieter than it used to be. The only voice softly singing or humming along is my own. The Christmas tree lights don’t glow quite like they used to (not dimmer, but perhaps they seem a little duller). It is warm, but not as warm as it once was; there is only my own body heat on the couch on these winter nights when the draft finds its way into the room. This is my sixth Christmas since my wife died—and now she celebrates in the heavenly presence of Jesus rather than in our home.
Not every widow or widower experiences the holidays in the same way. Some have other family members with them while others are alone. Some find it not exactly sad but still different—perhaps more solemn and sober. And some feel deep sorrow during these sacred festivals in which we used to so vigorously celebrate with a more complete family. Our loving heavenly Father has always emphasized to His people the importance of taking care of widows (along with orphans and sojourners) to ensure that they are fed, housed, and not denied justice. But not much is said in the Scriptures about providing for the emotional needs unique to widows or widowers or, indeed, to all those who live alone.
Yet, the Scriptures are full of passages that speak of widows as being a source of strength for others, particularly for the worshipping community, the congregation of God’s people. Jesus pointed out to His disciples a widow putting her offering into the temple treasury as a premier example of giving with faith in the Lord’s ongoing provision (Mark 12:42-43; Luke 21:2-3). Jesus also depicted a widow in a parable about an unjust judge who finally grants the widow’s request because of her constant petitions for justice (Luke 18:5)—a story which encourages us to be persistent prayers. And at this time of year, we hear also of the widow, Anna, who was in the temple courts on the day when Mary and Joseph first brought Jesus. Anna was there every day and every night, worshipping with fasting and prayer (Luke 2:37).
The Lord’s commands to His people in the Book of Deuteronomy outline a reciprocal relationship between the community of faith and widows. On the one hand, because God “executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner” (10:18), His people were called to be His hand in doing this very thing. The tithe of their produce was to be given in order for the town to keep a food bank for the Levites, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow (14:2829). And on the other hand, those who received the fruit of these tithes were called to participate in the community’s festal celebrations. “You shall rejoice in your feast, you and your son and your daughter, your male servant and your female servant, the Levite, the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow who are within your towns” (16:14). I don’t believe this was just a command for inclusion, just so that
such people would not feel unwanted or lonely. Based on the example of Anna and how Jesus pointed out the exemplary acts of the faith of widows, I believe these people were to be included precisely because they are so often exemplary leaders of faith and worship for the community.
Perhaps you have noticed this in your congregation. The widows are the ones who are regularly present and active in the service groups of our church. The widows have taken the lead while the rest are stumbling, trying to keep up. They have a faith that has been tried and tested and strengthened by the Lord through tribulations that not everyone has yet experienced. They cry out to our heavenly Father, knowing that He is gracious and merciful, that He has seen them through at least one battle with death, and that He will be with them to the very end.
This is my sixth Christmas since my wife died—and now she celebrates in the heavenly presence of Jesus rather than in our home. “
It is important for God’s people to take care of widows, but also to remember that there is a reciprocal relationship of God’s blessings. Widows and widowers have something that God wants to bestow on the people of our congregations, something that we may not have in rich supply without them. In the same way that Anna at the Temple recognized and proclaimed Jesus to be greater than those around her could see, so too those who have lost loved ones have something to share with others about this Christ Child that we have received.
They do not always share this with us in words—in fact, they rarely do so. Rather, like a lonely veteran standing
Like a lonely veteran standing before a flag, widows and widowers standing before the altar give a greater witness through their vigil than they put into words. . . .
Perhaps with them you will see the departed faithful who are at the eternal feast on the other side of mortality. “
before a flag, widows and widowers standing before the altar give a greater witness through their vigil than they put into words. Here is true peace. Here is salvation from death. Here is the hope of those who grieve the loss of those we love. Here is the answer to loneliness and isolation. Here is the victory over death.
It all came to us in that little baby, wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger. Not everyone can see it as clearly as those who have lost their spouse. But when we see them among us in the pews, eyes fixed on the font, the crucifix, the pastor, the bread and the cup, they preach to us in harmony with the sermons that we hear.
Like battle-weary soldiers, they need you to stand with them. They need you to sing the hymns and carols when the tears blur the notes on the page. They need you to confess and pray when the words cannot get past the lump in their throats. They need you to kneel beside them so that they can know that you are one with them in the Christ that you receive together.
And with them kneeling beside you, perhaps it will be easier for you to see those who are with you in Christ beyond the range of vision. Perhaps with them you will see the departed faithful who are at the eternal feast on the
other side of mortality. Perhaps in your singing for them you will hear more clearly the angels and archangels and all the company of heaven. And in your confessing along with them you will know more surely “the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.”
The quiet stillness of the night alone before the Christmas tree is endured and even treasured when it is not the only experience of Christmas for widows, widowers, and all those who are single or alone for any reason. The best you can do for them is to treasure their presence with you before the altar. Help to get them there or, if they cannot, ensure that your pastor has time and energy to go to them. Where appropriate, you can even accompany your pastor to sing and confess with them and to share in their vision of the realities of Christmas that are sometimes beyond our sight.
Rev.
Kurt Lantz is pastor of Resurrection Lutheran Church in St. Catharines, Ontario.
Small Town Faith
by Christopher McLean
God declares through Micah: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days” (Micah 5:2). Bethlehem was little, but from it came the Christ. Many of our hometown churches are little too, but in them we receive the same Christ “from ancient days.”
Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but He grew up in another small town called Nazareth. Apparently, it wasn’t a very significant place, as it prompted Nathael to ask Phillip: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” (John 1:46). Well, the answer to his question is yes! God chose to have His Son, the Saviour of the entire world, live and grow up in a small town called Nazareth.
Sometimes those who grow up or live in small, rural towns can feel lonely or insignificant. They may ask themselves, “Can anything good come from… [ insert your small town here].” And the answer is yes! For you see, “God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are” (1 Corinthians 1:28). God intentionally chose a small town in which to raise His only begotten Son. So we must answer the question, “Can anything good come from a small-town?,” the same way Phillip responded to Nathanael: “Come and see!” (John 1:46).
Perhaps there are some who consider living in a small town to be like sitting in the penalty box… they can’t wait to get out! But there are also those of us who find life in the rural and isolated areas of our country to
The number of people attending church may rise or fall from one generation to the next, but what we do as the Church doesn’t change.
be a great pleasure! I’ve been called to serve four small churches in North East Saskatchewan. Along with my wife and two teenage daughters, we also serve a cow, four miniature mules, a couple of horses, any number of pigs and chickens, ten cats, and two dogs. We love the country lifestyle and we feel so blessed to live where we can grow good food and grow in the faith!
As much as I love serving as a rural pastor, there are seasons and times when it can feel lonely and even depressing. Having four points in our parish means that I get to do plenty of driving. Even though I enjoy driving, there are times when it gets tiresome. Likewise, as much as the people in our congregations love where they live too, there are times when they feel lonely or depressed— especially when they look around and see that there aren’t as many people as there used to be. When we feel a bit down about the smallness of our church, it’s helpful to remind ourselves of what the Church is all about.
Martin Luther writes in the Smalcald Articles: “God be praised, a seven-year-old child knows what the church is: holy believers and ‘the little sheep who hear the voice of their shepherd’” (3.12.2). The number of people attending church may rise or fall from one generation to the next, but what we do as the Church doesn’t change.
The Church is where we hear the voice of our Shepherd. We preach and teach the pure life-saving Gospel and administer the healing medicine of the sacraments according to the Gospel. God works through seemingly insignificant means—words, water, bread and wine—to do His marvellous life-saving work. He uses seemingly insignificant people in seemingly insignificant places as His chosen instruments to bless His Church.
There are mornings when I arrive at church and look around at the still-empty sanctuary and wonder if we will gather even two or three pews worth of people for worship. And yet, every Sunday God calls and gathers His lambs—and even if they are not many, they continue to join Him at His table. When discussing the authority of the Church on earth to forgive sins, our Shepherd declared that “where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20). Just two or three? Even our smallest congregation can manage that! It is encouraging to remember that the Church is not the building; it is the people who have gathered in His name to hear the voice of their Good Shepherd. Even though we may wish to have a few more faces in the picture directory, what really matters is that we hear the voice of Jesus from Nazareth.
The Church is where we hear the voice of our Shepherd.
We preach and teach the pure life-saving Gospel and administer the healing medicine of the sacraments according to the Gospel.
As God’s baptized children, we give Him great thanks that “He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith” (Small Catechism, The Apostle’s Creed, Article 3). One of the beautiful aspects of liturgical worship is the way it connects God’s Christian Church on earth over time and space. Liturgical worship unites us in the one true faith. We may be isolated and spread apart geographically, but from God’s perspective, we are all gathered around the same Word and the same altar. Each Divine Service, we are worshipping with the entire Church on Earth and with angels and archangels and all the company of Heaven! In the liturgy, we share a profound connection with all other earthly congregations and even those in the heavenly realm. The worship of the Church includes all believers, both living and departed. Knowing that we are part of a huge family in Heaven and on Earth gives us additional comfort during the times when we feel alone. Even if we can’t see the whole company of God’s Saints in heaven and earth, we are united to them through Jesus of Nazareth.
As members of Lutheran Church–Canada, we are also connected to a body of fellow believers that spans our entire country. Being part of this broader community means we get to share both resources and the richness of our confessional faith. We draw strength from knowing that all of our congregations are part of a vibrant tapestry of believers, each contributing to the greater mission of the Church in the specific places we live, and in the ways He equips us to serve.
As we look past the boundaries of our own communities, we see the work that God is doing across our nation and abroad. Staying informed about news and activities in our synod, regions, circuits, and parishes helps us to remember that we are part of that broader community. When we seek opportunities to gather as a larger church body, we get to see how our own seemingly meagre efforts, which come from seemingly meagre origins, are magnified by the unity of all God’s people. This sense of unity encourages us to reach out and share the blessings God has given us and participate in God’s work beyond our local context.
So, the question once again is, “Can anything good come from your small town?” Yes! Come and see! Come and see Jesus of Nazareth as the Church gathers in His name. Come and see the One who came in humility to lift us up! Even though our congregations are spread out across many towns and cities of various sizes, God continues to bring each and every one of us the same gifts: forgiveness, life, and salvation. No matter the size of your congregation, you are the Church, and He is with you always, to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).
Rev. Christopher McLean is pastor of the NorthEast Lutheran Parish in Saskatchewan, which includes Zion (Nipawin), Zion (Mistatim), Good Shepherd (Hudson Bay), and St. Paul’s (Melfort). The photos in this article feature these congregations, taken by Rev. David Haberstock.
A Place for You
by William Mundt
The Ascension of Christ into heaven, after Dürer, engraving by Marcantonio Raimondi (after Albrecht Dürer).
He spoke calmly, but still you could see anxiety rising in their eyes. Three short years earlier He interrupted their lives and their livelihood and now He was talking about going away—without them. “In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?.... And you know the way to where I am going” (John 14:2, 4). Thomas spoke what they were all thinking: “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” (v. 5). Anxious eyes became confused ones as He invited them again to follow Him. But again, they did not understand where exactly where He was going or what such following entailed.
Our thoughts become a bit cloudy and confused too when talking about or seeking answers to the question, “And after death, what?” And, like those first disciples, Jesus comforts us with the same promise: “When I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also” (v. 2). The separation may be temporary, but the promise is eternal. In the meantime, lest there be any doubt, “the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you” (vv. 26-7). Peace and comfort are what Jesus had in mind when He made this promise, saying, in essence, “Do not be afraid, there is a place for you.” “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
Almost all religions stress life after death, because God “has put eternity into man’s heart” (Ecclesiastes 3:11). What that looks like and how we get there varies. Most religions assert that good behaviour on earth brings great rewards in heaven. Others assert that God is too gracious and loving to exclude anyone from paradise. Still others assert God is so capricious we cannot discern His will; we must just hope He is in a good mood when He judges us.
“
In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?
— John 14:2
pain anymore, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4). Everything earthly will be replaced by something better—by something we cannot yet imagine.
“Are we there yet?” is a frequent, childlike question when travelling. Thinking about the destination may relieve some of the boredom of the time it takes to get there.
The Bible stresses that the main ingredient of the life that awaits believers in Jesus Christ—and specifically in His substitutionary life, suffering, death and resurrection for us—is a beatific vision, that is seeing God face to face without fear (1 Corinthians 13:12). Believers may also look forward to a restoration of the divine image (lost in the fall), deliverance from all evil, divine rest, and joyful song and praise (those who cannot ‘carry a tune’ will finally learn!). Noteworthy is what is absent: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor
“Think on these things,” God says: “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:6-8).
Preoccupation with the things of this world, that we mostly cannot control anyway, robs us of any comfort Christ offers. That is why He says: “Do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?.... But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:25, 31).
St. Paul learned this simple but profound lesson too: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain... I am hard
“
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
— Romans 8:38-39
pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account…. Only let your manner of life be worthy of the Gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the Gospel” (Philippians 1:21, 23-4, 27).
Zachariah foretold it all, in response to the general amazement at the birth of John the Baptizer when people asked: “What then will this child be?” (Luke 1:66). And the response? “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David, as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us; to show the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant, the oath that He swore to our father Abraham, to grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all our days. And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare His ways, to give knowledge of salvation to His people in the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the
shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace” (vv. 68-79).
That question—“What then will this child be?” —may have been asked about you and me too. It is always amazing what and whom God uses to carry out His will, to proclaim the Gospel, to represent Him in love to the neighbour, to provide comfort and encouragement in time of need. Ever since the fall into sin, this world demands a lot of us—and even more so of Christians. But we have this promise—signed and sealed in the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus:
“For those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose…. He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?.... Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?.... For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:28, 32, 35, 38).
Rev. Dr. William Mundt (Chilliwack, B.C.) is Professor Emeritus of Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (St. Catharines, Ontario).
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
Supreme Court of Finland holds new hearings in “Bible Trial”
FINLAND – On Thursday, October 30, the Supreme Court of Finland held hearings in the case of Finnish Member of Parliament, Dr. Päivi Räsänen, and Bishop Juhana Pohjola of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland (ELMDF). It was the third court since 2022 to consider what has been dubbed Finland’s “Bible Trial.” The two are accused of hate speech as a result of articulating historic Christian teaching on human sexuality.
“It is difficult to overstate how surreal [it has been]—to see my faith, my conscience, and even the Bible itself placed on trial in a democratic nation,” said Dr. Räsänen. “Whatever the outcome of this trial is, my conscience is clear and my faith is firm. My hope is that this ruling will affirm the right of every person to express their beliefs freely, without fear and without punishment.”
Bishop Pohjola noted that the doctrinal beliefs for which he and Dr. Räsänen are being prosecuted are “shared widely across Christian churches.” As a result, he said, “Any possible conviction would not only stigmatize me and the Lutheran church body that I lead as criminals, but also send a dangerous signal to all Christians and Christian denominations. Such an outcome would not contribute to building a genuinely free society proud of its rule of law.”
Dr. Räsänen and Bishop Pohjola were first charged with hate crimes in 2021 for the publication of a 2004 booklet which articulates historic Christian teaching on human sexuality, with Dr. Räsänen charged as the author
and Bishop Pohjola as the publisher. Dr. Räsänen was also charged for a 2019 tweet which included a picture of a Bible verse and for comments made during a 2019 radio program.
The two stood trial in 2022 at the Helsinki District Court, where they were unanimously acquitted by a panel of three judges who declared: “It is not the role of the district court to interpret biblical concepts.” An appeal by the prosecution was subsequently heard in the Helsinki Court of Appeal, with the two again unanimously acquitted on all charges in 2023.
Despite two unanimous rulings in favour of Dr. Räsänen and Bishop Pohjola, the prosecution appealed the decisions related to the booklet and the tweet to the Supreme Court of Finland (the acquittal of Dr. Räsänen for her radio comments was not appealed). The court announced earlier this year that it would allow the appeal. While the Supreme Court of Finland often simply reviews the records from lower courts, the court in this case decided to also hold new hearings.
The hearings in October saw a new prosecutor in charge of the case, and observers noted a marked difference
from proceedings in the lower courts. While in the past the prosecution has directly interrogated the defendants on their theological beliefs at trial, the hearings at the Supreme Court saw the prosecution abstain from questioning the defendants entirely.
The International Lutheran Council (ILC) continues to urge prayer for Dr. Räsänen and Bishop Pohjola as they endure a fifth year of prosecution for
their articulation of historic Christian doctrine. “We pray for an end to this legal persecution,” said ILC General Secretary Klaus Detlev Schulz. “Christians must be free to speak openly about their religious convictions without fear of prosecution. We pray that this third round of hearings would be the last, and that they would lead to the same conclusion as the lower courts: a unanimous acquittal of Dr. Räsänen and Bishop Pohjola on all charges.”
The International Lutheran Council recently reaffirmed its support for Bishop Pohjola during the ILC’s 2025 World Conference in the Philippines, during which time members reelected Bishop Pohjola to a second term as ILC Chairman. The ILC also issued a public letter in 2021 signed by the leaders of 45 Lutheran church bodies and associations worldwide, protesting the unjust decision of Finnish prosecutors to charge Bishop Pohjola and Dr. Räsänen.
Bishop Pohjola and Dr. Räsänen expressed their continued thanks for the support of Christians around the world, including the ILC. “I am extremely thankful and grateful to all those who have supported me and Juhana,” Dr. Räsänen said. “Even though this process has been long— and of course there have been also dark moments during these years—my main experience is that I have gotten much more joy than any troubles… I think that God has been so good to turn bad things to good things.”
Bishop Pohjola likewise highlighted the good which God has brought forth out of evil. The trial is “bringing us closer to the Word of God and to prayer,” he said. “I also hope that this case has been an encouragement for many Christians,” he continued, to “say publicly: ‘I am a Christian. I’m not ashamed of it. This is what I believe, and this is what I want to share with you.’” ILC News
Photos: Dr. Päivi Räsänen and Bishop Juhana Pohjola arrive at court on October 30, 2025 (Source: ADF International).
IMPORTANT DATES
JAN. 12, 2026 | Deadline for CNE to submit list of nominations for service on the Board of Directors or commissions.
FEB. 12, 2026 | Deadline for congregations to return to the synod office the nomination forms for President, Vice-President, Regional Pastor, and Circuit Counsellor.
FEB. 20, 2026 | Deadline for submission of workbook reports (BOD, commissions, committees, auxiliaries, LSOs, RMMCs, etc.) to the Synod President.
FEB. 20, 2026 | Deadline for submission of overtures to the Synod President.
MAR. 14, 2026 | Deadline for congregations/parishes to return to the synod office the appointment form for Pastor and Lay Voting Delegates.
MAR. 20, 2026 | Deadline for appointment of Convention (Resolutions) Committees.
APR. 3, 2026 | Deadline for publication and distribution of the Convention Workbook.
APR. 24, 2026 | Deadline for responses and comments to reports and overtures.
CONVENTION
2026 Synod Convention News
WINNIPEG – Preparations for the 13th Regular Convention of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) are well underway.
DATES: The 13 th Regular Convention of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) will meet from June 12-15, 2026.
LOCATION: The convention will be held at the Victoria Inn and Conference Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
THEME: The convention theme is “Together One: One Lord, One Faith, One Body,” based on Ephesians 4:4-6.
FORMAT: The convention will begin with an orientation session on Friday, June 12 at 4:00 p.m., with the Opening Divine Service that evening. It will conclude at noon on Monday, June 15.
The 2026 Synod Convention will bring together representatives from every congregation or parish of LCC. A key focus of the upcoming convention is the encouragement and celebration of our shared confessional unity, grounded in our rich Lutheran heritage.
A primary responsibility of the convention will be electing individuals to leadership roles, including positions on the Board of Directors and various commissions. Once again, voting will be conducted electronically to support a smooth and efficient process.
Of vital importance, of course, will be the opportunity to come together for worship and nurture in God’s Word. There will also be breakout sessions on a variety of topics, many shaped by feedback from LCC’s church workers and lay leaders.
SUBMISSION OF OVERTURES:
Additional business of the Convention will be in response to overtures. Overtures are proposed resolutions that recommend action by Lutheran Church–Canada's 2026 Synod Convention. They may be submitted only by a Member Congregation, the President’s Ministry Council, Board of Directors, Regional Mission and Ministry Councils, a faculty of an educational institution which has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with LCC, a commission listed in bylaw 2.55, a committee established by a prior Convention, a circuit convocation or official Pastoral and Diaconal Conferences (HB 2.19a; 3.11c). Submit overtures to convention@lutheranchurch.ca or by mail to:
Lutheran Church–Canada
3074 Portage Ave Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Y2
Attn: President Teuscher
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: February 20, 2026
STAY CONNECTED!
Congregations should have received Pre-Convention Bulletin #1 which included the nomination ballot for President, Vice-President, Regional Pastor and Circuit Counsellor. Also included was the form for parishes to report the appointment of lay and pastor voting delegates. For additional copies of the forms, and all other convention news and media, visit www.lutheranchurchcanada.ca/ synod-convention-2026/ or email convention@lutheranchurch.ca.
LCC names new Director of Communications
WINNIPEG – Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) has announced the appointment of Dr. Tasheney Francis as the church’s new Director of Communications, effective November 17, 2025.
“It is an honour to serve Lutheran Church–Canada in this role,” said Dr. Francis. “I am deeply aware that this work is only possible through your practical and prayerful support.
I look forward to collaborating with Synod’s church family across the country to share the stories of God’s work among us and to strengthen connections through thoughtful, faithfilled communication.”
Dr. Francis is an award-winning communications strategist and sociolinguist with more than 15 years of experience leading communication initiatives across academic, non-
profit, and faith-based sectors. She is also an accomplished educator and public speaker.
Her extensive background includes strategic communication planning, stakeholder engagement, and crisis management, with previous experience in faith-based organizations such as the Bible Society of the West Indies, where she led national outreach initiatives centred on Christian themes.
New Communications leadership begins at LCC
WINNIPEG – The month of November marks a meaningful moment in the life of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) as we joyfully welcome our new Director of Communications, Dr. Tasheney Francis. With a warm spirit, a collaborative heart, and a passion for faithful storytelling, Dr. Francis steps into this role eager to learn our stories, share God’s Good News, and embrace the weight and privilege of this office: “
“With deep reverence and gratitude, I step into the role of Director of Communications, seeking God’s guidance in every task. I ask for your prayers as I learn, listen, and grow into this work.
My calling is simple and weighty:
• to help amplify the voice of God to His people,
• and to help amplify the voice of God’s people to the Synod.
May every word and effort honour Christ and strengthen our life together as a confessional Lutheran body. Thank you for welcoming me into this ministry. May the Lord bless our shared work for His Church.”
—
Dr. Tasheney
Francis, LCC Director of Communications
From her first day in the office, Dr. Francis has been listening—learning the rhythms of the church, meeting ministry leaders, and getting to know the people who make
this community feel like home. She has been assessing our communication tools, exploring fresh ways to connect, and imagining how our story might shine even more brightly within our church walls and beyond them.
She is quick to remind us, however, that communication is never the work of one person. It is a shared ministry.
Her hope is that the whole church works together— offering ideas, sharing events, supporting communication initiatives, engaging with released materials, sharing them widely, and providing constructive feedback. In partnership with her, we can ensure that our message remains clear, welcoming, and joyfully Christ-centred.
As she begins this journey, Dr. Francis invites every member to help shape how we celebrate our mission, nurture connections, and reach our neighbours. Whether through sharing stories, photos, and video footage of church activities, spreading the word about ministries, responding to surveys, or simply offering encouragement—each of us has a part to play.
This is a beginning—a chance to grow together in how we communicate and how we live out our calling as a Lutheran community rooted in grace, Together One.
May God bless this new season of teamwork, creativity, and connection.
In just 10 minutes, you can shape the way we connect: Scan, Share and Strengthen Our Church!
New Family Resources section launched on LCC’s website
ONLINE – Based on feedback from LCC members and developed in partnership with Dcn. Samantha Neeb, Associate Director - Family Ministries, a new Family Resources section has been added to LCC’s website. It currently features three categories: Home Use, Church Use, and Church Year.
We appreciate your patience as we continue to build and improve this section in support of families, youth, and young adults across our synod. Your feedback is welcome—let us know what’s working, what’s not, and what you’d like to see added! To share your thoughts, please contact Dcn. Samantha Neeb at sneeb@ lutheranchurch.ca . Visual and content updates are ongoing.
This development follows the creation of Lutheran Church–Canada’s newest Advent resources for families, which were shared widely through LCC’s various communication channels in advance of the season.
LCC released two print-at-home Advent Devotional Calendars: Waiting for Jesus and Immanuel: God with Us Waiting for Jesus was also made available in French under the title En attendant Jésus. Prepared by Dcn. Samantha Neeb, LCC’s Associate DirectorFamily Ministries, these calendars invited families to reflect on how our Lord came as the Christ Child, comes to us now through Word and Sacraments, and will come again in His promised second coming—while providing practical tips for beginning a daily devotional practice at home.
Immanuel: God with Us
All calendars remain available to view and download in print-ready format here: www.lutheranchurch. ca/resources/family-resources/
We extend our sincere thanks to Rev. Dr. David Saar for his translation work, which has made Waiting for Jesus accessible to French-speaking families.
We pray that these materials were a blessing to the many young families across our synod this Advent season and served as a helpful supplement to congregational midweek and Divine Services.
WEST REGION NEWS
Rev. Russ Howard retires
DICKSON, Alta. – On June 23, 2025, Rev. Russ Howard delivered his last sermon to the congregation of King of Kings Lutheran Church. During this memorable service, he shared his reflections and gratitude to the congregation he has faithfully led.
That afternoon, an open house was held, providing an opportunity for friends, family, and congregation members to come together. Guests expressed their appreciation and wished Rev. Howard well as he embarked on the next chapter of his life. The atmosphere was warm and filled with heartfelt farewells.
Vacancy Pastor installed in Dickson
DICKSON, Alta. – On Sunday, September 21, 2025, King of Kings Lutheran Church had the privilege of installing Rev. Al Lewis as Vacancy Pastor. The congregation extends a warm welcome to Rev. Lewis and offers heartfelt thanks for accepting this important role.
The congregation is eager to get to know Rev. Lewis better and
Installation of Rev. Vic Esperanza
B.C. – On June 22, 2025,
Many pastors and guests from near and far attended, with Rev. Leonardo Neitzel officiating and special guest preacher, Rev.
The day concluded with a special dinner attended by Rev. Howard and Pat’s family, long-time friends, colleagues, members of the community, and parishioners, both past and present. The event featured several speakers who paid tribute to Rev. Howard’s years of service, leadership, and the positive impact he made on countless lives. The dinner provided a fitting closure to a day of gratitude, celebration, and community fellowship.
Lona Fawcett
are excited about the many ways his encouragement and guidance will inspire their community. His willingness to serve and lead during this transitional period is a blessing, and the congregation looks forward to working together, growing in faith, and supporting one another as they embark on this new chapter with Rev. Lewis at their side. Lona Fawcett
Brian Falkenholt, preaching. Representatives from the church’s numerous language ministries— English, Chinese, Korean, Hispanic and Oromo—were in attendance. Everyone was invited to enjoy a light supper following the service and we were delighted to greet many former members as well as those from our sister congregations in the Fraser Valley Zone.
The congregation is grateful to God for leading Rev. Esperanza to accept the call, and they look forward to working with him to build up the congregation and share the Gospel with their community.
SURREY,
Faith Lutheran Church of Surrey, B.C., celebrated the installation of their new pastor, Rev. Vic Esperanza.
WEST REGION NEWS
75 Years of Grace
CALGARY, Alta. – On Sunday, October 5, 2025, the congregation of Grace Lutheran Church enjoyed a very special celebration: 75 years of worshipping God together—a clear demonstration of God’s faithfulness to His people!
The sermon, given during the service by Grace’s pastor, Rev. Mark Ruf, encouraged the congregation to praise God for His blessings these 75 years, to keep listening to Him, and to keep trusting in Him for all their tomorrows.
The occasion was commemorated during the service with the presentation of a plaque from the District by Grace’s Executive Director, Kelly Weger; a special song, played and sung by longtime member Nancy Guebert (“Me and My House We Will Serve the Lord,” arranged by the Heritage Singers); and a show of appreciation for the past and current pastoral and administrative staff and volunteers who have served the congregation so well over the years, led by long-time member Jacque Hagen. A church family photo was also taken.
There was also a historical retrospective on the pastors and
buildings that have shepherded and sheltered Grace Lutheran Church over the years, by the congregation’s longest-time member, Betty Ann Rietze (who was married in the first building). Previous pastors and locations were:
• Rev. Norman Eifert (July 29, 1951, to August 9, 1959) and Rev. Wilbert Sallach (October 18, 1959, to April 11, 1965) at the Crowchild Trail Portable Building;
• Rev. Don Unterschultz (December 12, 1965, to August 27, 1995) at the Crowchild Trail Building and the current Sarcee Road Building;
• Rev. Mark Ruf (Oct 22, 1995, to present) at the current Sarcee Road Building.
A lunch followed the service with impromptu stories told at an open mic, a big display of archival pictures, flowers, balloons, and of course, cake! Congregants also celebrated the special anniversary financial goal of paying off the mortgage. Truly a congregation blessed for “not giving up meeting together” (Hebrews 10:25)!
Cindy Wolfe
Photos by Alf Guebert
WEST REGION NEWS
GOD’S GOODNESS AND THE END OF THE YEAR
FROM THE REGIONAL PASTOR | REV. ROBERT MOHNS
God is good always! As the church year draws to a close, we are given the opportunity to reflect deeply on the grace, mercy, and love that God has made known to us throughout the past year.
The Psalmist, alongside other writers of Holy Scripture, often urges the church to give thanks to God, as seen in Psalm 118:1 and 28: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever!”
In Psalm 105, the thanksgiving of God’s people is directly connected to making His deeds known among all peoples.
The Psalmist looks back on God’s mighty act of saving Israel and ahead with joyful expectation to God’s greatest act of salvation: sending His incarnate Son, Jesus Christ, into the world. Through Christ’s perfect life, suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension, God redeems the world from slavery to sin, death, and Satan.
The entire church year—from Advent and Christmas to Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter, and the Last Sunday—encircles the mighty acts of God to save His people and continually calls the Christian Church to give thanks. God’s goodness, mercy, and love for His people are never-ending, reaching heights, depths, lengths, and breadths beyond our understanding.
God has revealed His goodness to each of us in Christ Jesus. And not only has He revealed His goodness
to us, He has given it to us. God’s goodness is given to us in our baptism into Christ. His goodness comes to us every time we receive Christ’s Body and Blood through Holy Communion.
His goodness is given to us through the preaching of God’s Word by our pastors, and in the words, and works of mercy provided by our deacons and by many others in our congregations. As we reflect on the year now coming to a close, we can say with joy, and joyful expectation of His return: “God is good always! And He is good to me!”
As we pause to consider all that has transpired, let us also remember the many small moments when God’s kindness was evident: times of answered prayer, unexpected blessings, and the gentle assurance of His presence in times of trial. These experiences, whether shared in community or quietly treasured in our hearts, remind us of our continual dependence on His goodness to us. Let us carry this spirit of gratitude and trust into the coming year, confident that God’s goodness remains steadfast and unchanging.
Not only can we say that God is good, we can live out His goodness in our lives in the various vocations and stations of life that God has given to us. It is often said today that what the world needs most are heroes. Media encourages us to focus on heroes, to pin our hopes on them, and even to aspire to heroism ourselves.
Scripture, however, directs us toward servanthood
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus calls His followers away from worldly ideas of greatness and authority, saying: “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:42-45).
The goodness of God is best lived out among us in servanthood.
As the season of Advent arrives, the figure of John the Baptist looms large as one whom the Lord called to prepare the way for the Lord’s appearance. The Lord’s calling of John preceded his birth. His entire life was given over to serve the purpose for which God had called him, even unto death. You and I are not called to be John the Baptist. But each Christian has been called to servanthood. At the Advent of this New Year, I encourage you to make this your focus.
God is good, always! May that goodness of God in Christ Jesus reign in your hearts and minds!
WEST REGION NEWS
Lower Mainland Youth Retreat
MISSION, B.C. – The fourth annual Lower Mainland Youth retreat was held at Camp Luther in Hatzic Lake from May 2-4, 2025. Youth in Grades 6-12 from five Lutheran churches participated: Walnut Grove Lutheran (Langley), Hillside Christian (Cloverdale), Killarney Lutheran (Vancouver), Trinity
Lutheran (Richmond), and St. Paul’s Lutheran (Chilliwack).
This year’s theme was “Navigating the Waters of Faith.” Youth reflected on water as a powerful, life-giving source on earth and discussed the role of water throughout Scripture. Chapel times examined the theme of
swimming and how in our faith we can be treading, sinking, and saved in Christ. Organizers thank Rev. Ian Wemyss, Rev. Brian Falkenholt, Rev. James Paulgaard, and Adrianna Blitterswyk for assisting with chapel times this year.
The weekend’s activities included crafts, tie dying, wide games, sports, canoeing, and swimming. Camp Luther’s amenities do not disappoint! The food is always fantastic, and the cabins are cozy and comfortable.
Is your church’s youth group looking for an affordable weekend getaway of faith and fun for Spring 2026? Contact Walnut Grove’s Youth Leader Team to take part in planning for next year’s event by emailing admin@wglc.org.
Amanda Gervais, Youth Director St. Paul’s Lutheran, Chilliwack
First West Region Pastors’ and Deacons’ Conference
CALGARY, Alta. – The West Region had a Pastors’ and Deacons’ conference from September 29
to October 2, hosted by Foothills Lutheran Church. Rev. Dr. Stephen Pietsch from Concordia Seminary, St.
Louis, was the main speaker for the event, presenting to the 76 attendees. Dr. Pietsch spoke on a variety of topics relevant for ministry today. Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) President Timothy Teuscher also presented on two aspects of the topic of “Together One.” Breakout sessions on a variety of topics were also offered, led by pastors, deacons, professors, and chaplains from the region. This was the first regional conference to be offered since the restructuring of LCC. Rev. Jonathan Kraemer
CENTRAL REGION NEWS
Local food bank support
Pictured with the generous donations are Jeanne Kaun, Vacancy Pastor Rev. Wm. Moeller, and Judy Koski.
FORT FRANCES, Ont. – The congregation of The Church of the Lutheran Hour in Fort Frances gave donations of food for the local food bank during the month of October. The congregation recognizes the need for food banks during these
difficult times and thanks God for these gifts.
This is a new initiative for the congregation, although the local food bank is run by the Salvation Army, who have operated a food bank here for years. The food bank has recently
Assiniboine LWMLC Fall Renewal
stated that more and more people are accessing this valuable resource due to rising costs, and the congregation felt the need to contribute since they have all been richly blessed with food for their tables.
Judy Koski
GRANDVIEW, Man. – The Renewal for the Assiniboine Zone of Lutheran Women’s Missionary League – Canada (LWMLC) was held September 27, 2025, at Hope Lutheran Church in Grandview. The event was hosted by Hope Lutheran in Grandview, Trinity Lutheran in Inglis, and St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Roblin.
The theme was “God is Our Rock,” based on 1 Samuel 2:2. Rev. Tim Schneider led the Bible study on 1 Samuel 2, Hannah’s prayer, which was enlightening and thought-provoking. Guest speaker for the renewal was Rev. Ron Mohr, Executive Director of Lutheran Bible Translators-Canada, who participated virtually from the Kitchener area of Ontario.
The day included a business meeting, great food provided by the three host churches, and ended with prayer and hymns. Bonnie Kasper
CENTRAL REGION NEWS
Farewell to Immanuel Lutheran in Winnipeg: Closing a Congregation
Congregations are born. They also die. On September 7, 2025, we observed the closing of the mother church of Central Region: Immanuel Lutheran in Winnipeg. A service of “Closing of a Congregation and Disposition of the Building” is a lot like a funeral. It is a time to mourn and a time to give thanks. We thank God for how He has served us in Word and Sacrament, meeting with us week after week in that place. But it is also an ending, a time to mourn the passing of a beloved friend through whom the Lord has blessed us.
What happens in the rite for closing a church building? And how do such rites help us say goodbye? The rite starts after the distribution of Holy Communion in the Divine Service. The chairman or secretary reads the motion passed by the congregation to close the congregation. The Regional Pastor addresses those gathered by acknowledging how many years the congregation has been there, encouraging them to thank God for His good gifts over those years, and to cling to Him in the days ahead. After prayer, a brief history is read, and the record books—baptisms, confirmations, marriages, funerals, and so forth—are entrusted to the Regional Pastor, on behalf of the broader church, for safekeeping.
When the building is being closed, a special rite and ceremony of deconsecration occurs next. It starts with Scripture and prayer, and then members of the congregation come forward to receive various symbolic items used in the Divine Service of the Lord’s House. The Regional Pastor
goes to each piece of sacred furniture (font, lectern, pulpit, altar, and so forth) and reads a Scripture verse related to what happens there. Then portable items from each location are removed and handed to members to carry out.
Once the chancel is decommissioned and deconsecrated, the bearers of those items process out while the congregation sings a closing hymn, such as “The Church’s One Foundation.” The congregation follows out the doors of the sanctuary into the narthex or outside. Once outside, the Regional Pastor closes the sanctuary doors and closes the congregation in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and the final blessing is received.
Afterward, a supper or social often occurs where the blessings of the Lord in that place through His servants are remembered. For the congregation in attendance at Immanuel’s closing, it was both a sad and joyous occasion—just as the funeral service of a devoted saint in your parish is full of sadness and joy.
So it was at Immanuel’s closing. The church was full. The singing was full-throated. The communion rail had descendants and pastors of the congregation in full number. It was like a home coming or family reunion—but one tinged with the sadness of saying goodbye and thank the Lord for His gifts in that place. When the last worshippers departed, the doors were closed, and the final blessing pronounced, there was a finality that settled over us.
We are now in the process of finalizing the sale of the building, transferring members to other Lutheran Church–Canada congregations, and finding homes for the hymnals, resources, stained glass windows, and sacred furniture of the congregation. It is akin to the family and executors dispensing with the family home and the estate of the deceased. Each step is a sadness, but also one step towards closure and moving on.
I encouraged the congregation gathered that day that they give ear to the Word and seek out new pulpits and altars at which to receive Jesus’ Word. He who has ears to hear, let him hear. Find a new pastor, a new preacher. For though that pulpit was closing, there are several more pulpits in Winnipeg, and the Word of the Lord endures.
— REV. DAVID HABERSTOCK CENTRAL REGIONAL PASTOR
This article is condensed from a longer article discussing the rite for the closing of a congregation. Watch for the full article online at www. CanadianLutheran.ca.
CENTRAL REGION NEWS
CHRISTMASTIDE REFORMATION
FROM THE REGIONAL PASTOR | REV. DAVID HABERSTOCK
In Luther’s day, the Western Church conducted the liturgy in Latin, even though few in Europe had spoken Latin for almost 900 years (the Roman Empire had fallen 1,100 years earlier, and Latin morphed into the Romance languages). As a result, the Word of God was not being read in the language of the people, and the people’s faith had slowly departed from God’s Word.
During that time, the Church itself had looked to sources of authority other than the Bible, such as tradition, philosophy, reason, superstition, and mystical experiences. But then along came Martin Luther (and others), and the Lord used them to spark a renaissance of reading the Scriptures in their original languages (Hebrew for the Old Testament and Greek for the New) and translating the Word into the languages people now spoke. This resulted in a re-examination of what the Church was teaching and doing in the light of what the Bible actually taught.
Since 2017 and the 500 th anniversary of Luther’s nailing of the 95 theses on the doors of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, we have been in a series of 500 th anniversaries. Last year marked the 500 th anniversary of the first Lutheran hymnal, and a proliferation of hymn writing by Luther and his circle. This year marks the 500 th anniversary of the Deutsche Messe —the German Mass, or as we call it now, the Divine Service.
That makes sense. Worship is, after all, a logical place to begin reforming and correcting errors in
teaching and practice. We all know that “actions speak louder than words,” and that means what we do and say in worship is going to have an impact on what we believe. And what we believe ought to match our actions. The two must be consistent with each other, or people will know we are hypocrites and just playacting.
So, eight years in, as Luther’s teaching of Scripture and the need for reform in the Church took hold, his hearers were asking for a unified reform of their worship. Luther did not wish to become a new pope or authority; he desired Scripture to be the ultimate authority. But God gives us pastors and doctors of the Church to be our teachers—to be His living voice in our midst, to bring alive His Word and proclaim and apply it to our lives. So someone needed to conduct a reform of the liturgy. The Deutsche Messe was that reform.
Luther had already laid out basic principles for liturgical reform in his 1523 tract “Concerning the Order of Public Worship.” And in December of 1523, Luther had published a Latin “Order for Mass and Communion for the Church at Wittenberg.” The only German portions were the sermon and a few hymns. A Latin service was good for the scholars in Wittenberg, but not useful to the regular folk in town or village. Luther called for more hymns by German poets. He himself worked on this task throughout 1524, publishing the first Lutheran hymnal (the Eight Song Book ) as well as multiple other hymns. Many of the hymns were chorale settings of parts of the liturgy.
1525 was a turbulent year for Luther. In January, he published Against the Heavenly Prophets to deal with some false prophets who were stirring up crowds to destroy art in churches. In May, his prince, Fredrick the Wise, died. And Luther married in June. But by the end of 1525, he had begun working on the “German Mass,” which was first used on December 25, 1525.
Christmas, the day the Word became flesh, was a wonderful day for the first reformed Lutheran Mass in Wittenberg. Jesus took our flesh into Himself so that He might draw near to us. And Luther placed the Mass into everyday people’s own language, so that He might draw near to them. Since faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17), the Divine Service needed to be in a language people could hear and understand.
But Luther also wanted the people to be taught what the parts of the service do so that they could fully participate with heart and voice. Thus, the songs (or canticles) of the liturgy were not only translated but also paraphrased and explained in hymn form. Divine Service Setting Five in the Lutheran Service Book lists the liturgical songs that Luther wrote, if you want to know what that first Lutheran Christmas service sounded like and what those songs said.
Jesus is the great gift our Heavenly Father gives to this world. To receive and hear of Jesus in your own language, so that you might believe and be granted life and salvation—what a Christmas that must have been!
LWMLC anniversary in Middle Lake
MIDDLE LAKE, Sask. – On October 19, 2025, the ladies of Faith Lutheran Church in Middle Lake celebrated LWMLC Sunday and the 60th anniversary of the Ladies Aid at Faith with cake and cupcakes.
The Ladies Aid has been serving the congregation and community in missions and been part of Lutheran
Women’s Missionary League –Canada since 1953. The women at Faith Lutheran have also been hosting and serving a Spring Tea and Bake sale every year since 1947—a total of 78 years!
Faith Lutheran is part of the Northland Zone and enjoys fellowship with other ladies in the
Zone at Renewals twice a year. About 30 come together for these renewal events. They send off donations throughout the year to missions locally and abroad, support LWMLC with their mites monthly, and choose different charities for the annual Christmas ingathering.
Michell Heidecker
Pictured with the generous donation are Jeanne Kaun, Vacancy Pastor Rev. Wm. Moeller, and Judy Koski.
EAST REGION NEWS
A joyful noise: Families celebrate faith, fun, and fellowship
ST. CATHARINES, Ont. – With the music of the brass band, the congregation of Grace Lutheran Church welcomed the community to their second annual Family Fun Day. Held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, this community outreach brought together families from the neighbourhood.
There was something for everybody. The event featured a bouncy castle, puppet play, and theatre game to keep children entertained. Families enjoyed complimentary hot dogs fresh off the grill, as well as cotton candy and freshly-popped popcorn (donated by a local business). The ladies of Grace
outdid themselves with a bake and preserve sale, with all proceeds going to this year’s local charity, Hospice Niagara. The group raised nearly $2,000. Other highlights included face painting, lawn games, and live music.
“We’re thankful the Lord blessed us with a day in which a number of our neighbours visited with us,” said Rev. Richard Juritsch. “Through various means—a puppet play, a theatre game, Christian songs sung by a pair of our youth, free Bibles and tracts for both children and adults from Lutheran Laymen’s League Canada, as well as opportunities to simply chat with folks—the Lord granted us the opportunity to shine the light of Christ into our community.”
The Grace family is already looking forward to next year.
Maria Muñoz
Dual parish installation in the Toronto circuit
TORONTO – On August 17, 2025, East Regional Pastor Marvin Bublitz ordained and installed Rev. Vijay Samuel as the Associate Pastor of the dual parish of Immanuel Lutheran in Georgetown and Risen Christ in Mississauga. The Service of Ordination and
Installation was well-attended, and the parish is thankful to all the esteemed guests, sister congregations, and pastors, professors, and synodical representatives who attended, including guests from The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s (LCMS) English District.
Participants in the service included Heidi Gallas and Jonah Gallas as organists; Rev. Joel V. Kuhl as liturgist; Rev. Kurt Lantz as preacher; Revs. Paul Roggow, Dereck Pillar, and Dr. James Kellerman as lectors; seminarian Mark Du as crucifer; and Wesley Gehl as acolyte.
EAST REGION NEWS
Cornwall congregation joins LCC
CORNWALL, Ont. –St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cornwall, Ontario and its pastor, Rev. Connor Longaphie, were officially welcomed into Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) on Sunday, October 26. The joyous event was the culmination of an ongoing process to seek membership in LCC and took place following the approval of the congregation’s new constitution by LCC.
LCC East Regional Pastor Marvin Bublitz was on hand for the event,
conducting a rite of welcome for the congregation and its pastor, following which the church erupted in applause.
After the rite was concluded, the church held a Divine Service, with East Regional Pastor Bublitz preaching, Circuit Counsellor David Smilek conducting the Liturgy of the Word, and local pastor Rev. Longaphie serving as celebrant for the Liturgy of the Altar.
A potluck luncheon followed the service, at which time members of the congregation got the chance to speak
with East Regional Pastor Bublitz and Rev. Smilek and ask any questions that they had. The occasion was also blessed by the presence of laity from surrounding LCC congregations, as well as a few of St. Matthew’s founding members who have been apart from the congregation for nearly two decades.
St. Matthew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church was founded as a mission congregation of the former Lutheran Church in America (LCA) in Cornwall, on the St. Lawrence River, in 1962. It was incorporated into the 1986 merger of church bodies that became the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC). Following the move to accept homosexuality in the ELCIC, St. Matthew’s joined the Canadian Association of Lutheran Congregations (CALC). The congregation remained in fellowship with CALC until voting to formally break fellowship with the association in 2025 over concerns of Lutheran identity and confessional unity.
St. Matthew’s has been served by Rev. Longaphie since 2021, and the church will formally sign Lutheran Church–Canada’s constitution at the next synodical convention in June 2026.
65th ordination anniversary at First, Windsor
WINDSOR, Ont. – On September 21, 2025, congregation members
to mark the 65th anniversary of his ordination in 1960. Born in Logan Township, Ontario, Rev. Scholl went as a St. Louis seminary candidate to
organize Bethel Lutheran Church in Edmonton (now Sherwood Park), then to Winnipeg to serve with the Lutheran Council in Canada, and finally in 1971 to Windsor, where he spent 26 years as pastor of Gethsemane Lutheran Church until his retirement.
Though holding clergy membership in the LCMS English District, Rev. Scholl joined First Lutheran in Windsor in recent years, attending worship and the Lord’s Table as often as possible. He was President of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) in the 1970s, before autonomy when LCC was still a federation. He also served as an Ontario District Vice-President in the 1980s.
Many members of Gethsemane, Windsor, joined in the festive Holy cont’d on next page
and friends of Rev. Dr. Louis Scholl gathered at First Lutheran Church
EAST REGION NEWS
WHEN REALITY DOES NOT LIVE UP TO EXPECTATIONS
FROM THE REGIONAL PASTOR | REV. MARVIN BUBLITZ
Have you ever been excited about something? I mean, really excited?
You go over it in your mind. You plan just how things will go. You have it all laid out. Maybe it is the first day of school. Or maybe you’re preparing for your driver’s test, knowing how it will work out. Perhaps it is the school dance. You go over in your head what will happen at the job interview. When you meet your girlfriend’s parents for the first time, you know exactly how it will go, how charming you will be. Maybe it is what you expect as a Christmas gift. Or maybe it’s the reaction you expect to a gift you are giving.
But then it happens. Reality hits. All those expectations you built up come face to face with the reality before you.
Such is life this side of heaven. We may want a certain outcome. We may plan for specific results. But then reality hits us square in the face. And it is not just in our personal lives this happens. Think about our life in the church. A congregation calls a pastor and has expectations. A pastor accepts a call and has expectations. All might work out beautifully except for one thing: that one thing is that both pastor and members are sinners.
Communion service at First on St. Matthew’s Day, September 21, the Sunday closest to Rev. Scholl’s actual ordination date. Gethsemane’s Nuer-language preacher, Rev. Jordan Simon, assisted in the service, and numerous loved ones from the extended Scholl family were also on hand. A light luncheon followed the service in the church auditorium. Greetings were shared
Too often our expectations are rooted in that sin. Satan whispers in our ear and convinces us that our expectations are valid and the other person is the one wrong. But in truth we are all wrong—we are all poor miserable sinners. Our best intentions and our purest expectations are all tainted with sin.
Our expectations of others are rarely met. We are often disappointed. And we rarely meet their expectations of us. Faced with this situation, we need to reevaluate our expectations. But even that reevaluation can be tainted with sin.
How do we handle sin? We repent. We lay it at the foot of the cross. We trust in Jesus who bled and died for us. When our trust is in Jesus, we are not disappointed. He fulfills what He promises. We can expect from Him exactly what He promises.
He promises forgiveness for all who repent. So, we repent of our sinful expectations. We repent of our failures. Then we expect forgiveness. And the Lord does not disappoint. He forgives as He promised.
The whole time Satan whispers in our ear, “Oh, don’t you believe it. Jesus will disappoint you just like everyone else you know. He will not live up
by Gethsemane’s council president, and Tom Scholl represented his family in offering tribute to his father. Both of First Lutheran’s pastors—Revs. Drs. Robert Bugbee and Wilhelm Torgerson—reminisced about personal experiences with Rev. Scholl from various times in their own lives.
“Though Rev. Scholl was never on the staff of our congregation,
to your expectations.” But Satan is wrong. It is not our expectations that matter; Jesus does not strive to live up to our sinful expectations. Rather, He fulfills the will of the Father. He came in the flesh to Bethlehem. He willingly took the cup of suffering. He willingly went to the cross for your sin.
And we can expect that He does what He says, “Your sins are forgiven. Take eat, take drink for the forgiveness of your sins.”
See, the Father planned your salvation before the creation of the world. He planned to send His Son at just the right time, born of a virgin. He prepared a mansion for you in His kingdom. And He will take you there in His time. For the sake of His Son, He welcomes you into His paradise.
So, what can you expect? People often ask pastors and doctors what to expect at death. Well, here it is: the believer in Christ can expect to be forever with the Lord. They can expect to be welcomed through the pearly gates because Jesus is their Saviour. He has promised it to you. He will fulfil that promise.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” - Jeremiah 29:11
we’re persuaded that a servant like this is really a gift of God to the entire Canadian church, and we didn’t want to let this milestone pass unnoticed,” remarked Dr. Bugbee. “God bless the many seeds he planted over the years and use them to bring a harvest for life everlasting! Glory be to Christ, who calls such messengers to serve Him and His people!”
Rev. Dr. Robert Bugbee
EAST REGION NEWS
Christ Lutheran Church: A faithful farewell after 60 years of ministry
SARNIA, Ont. – On the afternoon of June 22, 2025, the sanctuary of Christ Lutheran Church was filled with the warmth of memory and the solemnity of farewell. After 60 years of faithful ministry, the congregation gathered with former members, family and friends, and members of sister congregation Redeemer Lutheran (LCMS) for one final service—a celebration of legacy, love, and the enduring grace of God.
The church, nestled on the corner of Lakeshore and Telfer Road, for the past 40 years (and at Murphy and Cathcart Road for its first 20 years), has been a faithful spiritual home for Lutheran believers. This final gathering
honoured not only the building but the lives transformed within it.
Christ Lutheran was founded in 1964, and over the decades it was shepherded by nine pastors whose leadership shaped its identity and mission. Each pastor brought unique gifts, shaping the church’s spiritual journey and nurturing its congregation through seasons of change.
The closing service was rich with hymns, Scripture, and heartfelt reflections. Two former pastors of the congregation, Rev. Kirk Radford and Rev. Paul Schallhorn, shared messages of hope and remembrance, while East Regional Pastor Marvin
Bublitz’s closing rites marked the end of an era with grace and dignity. The sanctuary, filled with familiar faces and some tearful smiles, became a living testament to the church’s enduring presence. Following the service, the altar was then stripped and the worship doors closed after the final rites were spoken. A dinner was then held to celebrate with those in attendance.
Christ Lutheran was more than a building—it was a place of belonging. From Sunday School and Bible studies to LWMLC Mission activities and gatherings, from potlucks and prayer circles to coffee fellowship, it always fostered connection and compassion. The congregation’s mission to share the eternal hope of Jesus Christ resonated through every sermon, every song, and every act of service.
“We didn’t just attend church here—we grew up here, we found faith, the forgiveness of our sins and God’s love here, we found family here, all given to us through the underserved grace of God,” said Richard Herter, an elder who was baptized at Christ Lutheran 55 years ago.
The afternoon sun cast golden light through the stained-glass crosses as the final hymn was sung. With a blessing and a tear, Christ Lutheran concluded its earthly ministry—but its story continues in every life it touched, where people heard the saving Gospel message of Jesus Christ preached every week. Its chapter has closed but its legacy is eternal.
Richard Herter, Elder
East Regional Pastor Rev. Marvin Bublitz, Rev. Kirk Radford, Rev. Paul Schallhorn
LCC Representation at Francophone Theological Formation Meeting in France
Participants at the Francophone Theological Formation Meeting at Église Évangélique Luthérienne Saint-Pierre in ChâtenayMalabry: Rev. Dr. Dinku Banto (Lutheran Heritage Foundation); Rev. Shauen Trump (LCMS Africa Region); Rev. François Lara (LHM–France; Theological Studies Committee, ÉÉL–SF); Rev. Garry Heintz (former liaison pastor for African churches, ÉÉL–SF); Rev. Dr. David Preuss (LCMS Eurasia Region); Rev. Dr. Gleisson Schmidt (Chairman, ILC Francophone Churches Committee; President, ÉÉL–SF); Rev. Dr. David Somers (ILC Francophone African Churches Committee; Lutheran Church–Canada French Ministries; LHF Board of Directors); Mr. John Wolf (LCMS Africa Region); Rev. Tuomo Simojoki (Lutheran Heritage Foundation).
FRANCE – Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC)’s Missionary-at-Large for French Ministries, Rev. Dr. David Somers, recently attended the Francophone Theological Formation Meeting held at Église Évangélique Luthérienne SaintPierre in Châtenay-Malabry.
“The meeting seemed serendipitous as the two days unfolded,” said Dr. Somers, who noted that, beyond broad preliminary guidelines for the gathering, the direction of the discussions had not been predictable.
“What resulted from the talks was surprisingly encouraging for its practically applicable and constructive progress on several key issues for global French theological education— some for immediate action, some in the coming months, and others forming realistic long-term goals—at a level not previously seen for the edification of francophone Lutheranism.”
Organized by Mr. John Wolfe of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Missions in Africa, the meeting focused primarily on francophone Africa, while also considering the broader global francophone Lutheran context, including Haiti and Canada. Participants discussed theological formation, continuing education, the development of teaching materials, and the diverse needs of various church bodies.
A key point of discussion was a draft proposal for a hybrid program combining local pastoral mentorship with online courses offered through the Église Évangélique Luthérienne—Synode de France (ÉÉL-SF)’s Centre de formation théologique en ligne (CFTL).
The proposal was examined as a potential model for global
use, even as Lutheran churches in Haiti and Burundi explore ways to implement their own pastoral training. This model may also prove beneficial for LCC, which does not currently provide formal theological education in French.
Representatives from LCC, LCMS, Lutheran Heritage Foundation, ÉÉLSF , and the International Lutheran Council participated in the meeting. As these organizations often work with some of the same francophone churches—and in other cases, with different ones—the gathering provided an important opportunity to share updates, learn from one another’s work, and explore avenues for collaboration in support of French-language Lutheran ministry worldwide.
Building on the success of this gathering, two further meetings are scheduled for Spring and Fall 2026.
“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” —Galatians 6:10
The mission of Christ’s Church is a mission of love—love received, love shared, love sent. From the cross to the ends of the earth, the Gospel goes forth with power, calling all people into communion with their crucified and risen Saviour. Our Lord has commissioned His Church to go into all nations, baptizing and teaching with His own authority (Matthew 28:18–20). Yet before that Word reaches the far corners of the earth, it begins somewhere closer. It begins in the sanctuary. In the pew. In the quiet corners of suffering and hope within our own congregations. It begins at home.
This is not a turning inward, but a faithful grounding of our outward call. Evangelism and pastoral care are not rivals—they are companions. The health and faithfulness of our congregations directly impact the strength and credibility of our evangelism. A congregation alive with Christ’s compassion is a captivating light that cannot be hidden.
A FAITHFUL ORDERING OF LOVE
St. Paul’s words in Galatians give us a clear priority “especially to those who are of the household of faith.” This does not diminish our call to the world—it deepens it. Evangelism begins with the love we show one another. It begins with tending the wounded among us, rejoicing with the joyful, weeping
MISSION BEGINS IN LOVE:
CARING FOR THE FLOCK OF CHRIST
DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS | REV.
M.L. SMITH
with the grieving, and shepherding the wandering. When the Church lives in this way, it becomes not only a messenger of grace but a living embodiment of it.
This isn’t about abandoning outreach—it’s about anchoring it. When Christ’s love is alive and visible in our own midst, it naturally overflows into the world. Congregations that are strong in the Word, vibrant in worship, and compassionate in care become living signposts of God’s kingdom— visible testimonies of His grace, mercy, and presence in the world. When a congregation listens to the brokenhearted, prays with the suffering, rejoices in Christ’s gifts, and walks together in humility and hope, the world sees something different, something unique—something holy.
THE SHEPHERD’S CALL
Christ has given His Church shepherds—pastors called not only to preach and teach, but to know, visit, forgive, comfort, and guide the flock entrusted to their care. The Office of the Holy Ministry is deeply personal, because our Lord’s care is personal. He does not deal with His people in abstraction, but in the proclaimed Word, in the cleansing water of Baptism, in the bread and wine of the Supper—through tangible means, through human voices bearing His own, through real presence.
Pastoral care is not secondary to evangelism—it is evangelism. The Gospel applied to the wounds of the baptized, the word of absolution spoken into a repentant heart, the Sacrament brought to the bedside of the dying— these are not peripheral acts. They
are the very heart of Christ’s ongoing ministry among His people.
To serve as Christ’s undershepherd is to participate in His mission: to seek the lost, strengthen the weak, and feed the flock He purchased with His own precious blood—fulfilling the call by doing the work of an evangelist (2 Timothy 4:5). This is not a burden, but a holy privilege.
When the shepherd knows his sheep, and the sheep hear the voice of Christ in his, the Church becomes a refuge of grace, a hospital for the hurting, and a beacon for the lost.
THE CHURCH THAT LOVES ITS OWN
When the Church is healthy—when it embodies what it teaches—it becomes a light that the world notices. As the early believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42), their life together bore visible witness to the grace of Christ. The world saw their love and was drawn to it: “See how they love one another.”
This remains true today. Our doctrine may be clear and our outreach strategic, but if love is not visible among us, our witness is dimmed. But when we notice the hurting, welcome the lonely, forgive the repentant, and walk patiently with the struggling, the Gospel becomes tangible. This is not innovation; it is faithfulness. This is not a new method; it is the ancient pattern of the Body of Christ.
LOVE IS THE MARK OF DISCIPLESHIP
Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Love is the distinguishing mark of those who belong to Christ—not a human achievement, but the natural fruit of grace. “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). God’s love, poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5), becomes visible in how we live as His Church.
Our Lutheran confession never separates doctrine from love; it unites them. A faithful church is one where both are present—truth and tenderness, Word and mercy, the cross and compassion.
The same Christ who calls us to love one another also gives us His Spirit to do so. He feeds, forgives, strengthens, and binds us together as His Body. He places each member in the Church not by accident but by design, that we might serve one another in love and bear witness together to His saving grace.
LET THE MISSION BEGIN AGAIN
Let us not look past the gifts right in front of us. The members of our congregations—young and old, strong and weak, joyful and hurting—are Christ’s own precious possession. They are the flock He has called His Church to tend, feed, and care for. And as we care for them faithfully, the mission of Christ unfolds, one soul at a time.
Healthy churches are the best evangelists. Congregations filled with God’s love, grounded in the Word, nourished by the Sacraments, and alive with Christ’s mercy are the ones that shine brightest in a dark and weary world. And it is through these very congregations that the Holy Spirit draws others into the household of faith.
So let the mission begin again— right where you are. In your church. In your pew. In your sharing. In your prayers. In your love.
May the Lord of the harvest continue to gather, strengthen, and send His Church—in truth, in mercy, and always in love.
Strengthening the Church in Southeast Asia
SOUTHEAST ASIA – From mid-September to mid-October, Rev. M.L. Smith, Director of International Missions for Lutheran Church–Canada, visited our mission fields in Thailand and Cambodia, spending ten days teaching in each country. His visit was spent strengthening the church’s ongoing partnership with local pastors, deaconesses, and church leaders who continue to share the Gospel in their growing congregations and communities.
In Thailand, Rev. Smith led an intensive seminar on Law, Gospel, and the Means of Grace, guiding pastors and seminarians to deepen their understanding of these central truths and to ground their ministry in the life-giving presence of Christ Jesus, who comes to His people through Word and Sacrament.
Following his time in Thailand, Rev. Smith travelled to Cambodia, where he led a series of workshops on the Divine Service in three different regions. These gatherings focused on the biblical and confessional foundations of Lutheran worship, exploring how Christ Himself serves His people in the Divine Service. The photo above was taken at one of these teaching sites—the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Church in Kampong Thom—where local pastors and church workers gathered for study, prayer, and encouragement in the Gospel. Through these visits, LCC continues to walk alongside our Southeast Asian brethren, supporting their theological education and strengthening the proclamation of Christ’s saving grace to all nations.
Rev. Jonathan Kraemer installed as CLS President
EDMONTON – On October 26, 2025, Rev. Jonathan Kraemer was installed as the new President of
Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS).
The service took place on Reformation Sunday at All Saints
CLS professor receives doctorate
EDMONTON – Rev. Dr. Mike Kuhn, Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS)’s newest seminary professor, has successfully completed his doctoral studies and is graduating with a Doctor of Ministry degree from ACTS Seminaries in Langley, B.C. Dr. Kuhn has been serving as Professor of Theology at the seminary since the start of the 202526 Academic Year, while completing his study program.
Lutheran Church, where Rev. Kraemer previously served as parish pastor, and was followed by a fellowship gathering and meal.
“A heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers at All Saints who helped setup, serve, and cleanup for this special occasion,” CLS wrote. “We also thank all those who joined and participated in this joyous celebration of God providing a faithful leader to take CLS into the future of ‘forming servants for Jesus’ sake.’”
Please continue to remember in prayer the members of All Saints Lutheran Church during this time of transition.
He previously served as a missionary with Lutheran Bible Translators of Canada as Lutheran Bible Translators’ Program Director for Cameroon. Prior to service with LBTC, Dr. Kuhn served as a pastor at Foothills Lutheran Church in Calgary, Alberta, from 2004-2011. Dr. Kuhn received a Master of Divinity from CLS in 2004 and a M.A. in Linguistics from the Canada Institute of Linguistics in 2015.
Concordia Rocks Bonspiel bringing together curlers of all experience levels for a day of fun and fundraising. Eight teams hit the ice in support of the
seminary’s Student Aid Fund.
CLTS students Augustine Aylin and Andrew Hayes participated alongside Rev. Willy Dieudonne—a pastor from Haiti studying at the seminary this year.
Participants were welcomed with classic Grey County hospitality, including homemade treats and a hearty beef-on-a-bun lunch.
The event’s success was made possible through the dedication of community volunteers and generous sponsors, with special thanks to lead organizer Carol Clark and all who contributed food, time, and support.
Rev. Paul Gerhard Eifert passed away peacefully at his home on March 10, 2025. Born in Edmonton on October 22, 1932, Rev. Eifert was raised in Leduc by his mother Ida and his father Rev. William Eifert.
He was recently recognized by LCC for 65 years of faithful service in the pastoral ministry.
Predeceased by his wife Ruth, he will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and extended family.
Dcn. Katherine
Ann Enders ( née Fuerstenau) entered into glory at the end of March 2025, with her family by her side.
Dcn. Enders was born on June 14, 1945 in Rockford, Illinois. Her confirmation verse was “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20)—a verse she would regularly draw strength from throughout her entire life, including in her final hours.
Dcn. Enders studied at Concordia Teachers College, where she met her husband, Stanley Luther Enders. The two married in 1967, eventually moving to Alberta.
Dcn. Enders taught at Prince of Peace Lutheran School in Calgary from 2007-2022. She brought her skills as a teacher to bear also in her service to her congregation, teaching Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and confirmation classes. Throughout her life, she taught thousands about the love of Jesus.
Her interests included animals, art, and music, and she shared her gifts and talents with those around her.
Dcn. Ender’s earthly race drew to a close on March 31, finally finishing her earthly race not long after midnight on April 1, 2025. She thus followed her husband, who had
IN MEMORIAM
likewise entered into glory a year earlier on March 31, 2024.
Rev. Lowell Guebert was born on October 6, 1926, and called to glory on November 23, 2024.
Rev. Guebert completed his education at the seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He served vicarages in Chicago and rural Alberta, where he met Phyllis Lien. They were married in 1952, and he was ordained that same year.
Rev. Guebert’s first call was to serve the parish of Brooks/Duchess in southern Alberta. He later served the Claresholm/Vulcan parish and then St. Paul’s Lutheran in Saskatoon, where he was pastor for 26 years and led the congregation through the construction of its church building.
Rev. Guebert also served as chaplain for Lutheran Care Society (now LuMinHos), and later served a parish in Middle Lake, Saskatchewan.
Rev. Guebert served on the board of Canadian Lutheran World Relief as president and treasurer, on the Board of Regents for Concordia College, as hospital chaplain, and with the Saskatoon Ministerial Association. He continued to be active in retirement, visiting hospital patients and shut-ins and serving a number of parish vacancies.
Rev. Guebert is survived by his six children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his sister, and extended family.
Rev. Richard Edward Klein was born on November 1, 1945 and called home to glory on October 13, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.
Rev. Klein was baptized into Christ and confirmed at St. John Lutheran Church in North Spencer, Wisconsin.
He studied at Concordia schools in Milwaukee and Fort Wayne. He served his vicarage in several B.C. communities. He was ordained on July 11, 1971 at St. John Lutheran Church in North Spencer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Arlene Klein, his sister Arla, and his brother Robert. He is lovingly remembered by his wife Rosemarie, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family.
Rev. Klein ministered to congregations in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Manitoba. Beyond his pastoral duties, Rev. Klein also served in various community leadership roles, including hospital and mental-health boards, and as a town councillor in Nipigon. He contributed to regional and provincial initiatives supporting community health services.
Rev. Dr. Edwin Lehman was called to glory on December 5, 2024. He was 92 years old.
Dr. Lehman
was the first synodical president of Lutheran Church–Canada, elected to lead the newly-autonomous church during its founding convention in 1988. He was reelected as president in 1990 and again in 1993. Dr. Lehman continued as president until his retirement in 1996, when he declined to stand for reelection.
Prior to this, Dr. Lehman served as District President of the ABC District from 1978–1988, having earlier served the District in other roles. He had previously pastored congregations in Richmond, Red Deer, and Wadena.
Following his time as LCC President, Dr. Lehman continued to serve the Canadian church in many ways, including two periods as Interim President of Concordia Lutheran Seminary in Edmonton.
Dr. Lehman also held important leadership roles in global Lutheranism,
serving two terms as Chairman of the International Lutheran Council (elected in 1991 and 1993).
Dr. Lehman was predeceased by his wife Marjorie in 2015.
An extended story on Dr. Lehman’s life and ministry appears on pages 1213 of the January/February 2025 issue of The Canadian Lutheran
Rev. Michael J. Montague was called to glory on September 27, 2025. He was born on February 21, 1987 in KitchenerWaterloo and moved to Dryden with his family when he was young.
Rev. Montague was pastor in Red Lake from 2012-2023, and then moved to Dryden in 2023 where he shepherded Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Dryden and St. Mark’s church in Vermilion Bay. He lived to serve the people of God, and everybody around him could see his love for Christ and others.
He is survived by his parents and family.
Rev. Louis Lloyd Natzke was born May 11, 1944, and passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and servant-hearted leader, Rev. Natzke will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and the steady, faithful way he cared for the people around him.
Rev. Natzke graduated from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and dedicated his life to ministry and service.
His pastoral journey began at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cable, Wisconsin (1971–1977). He continued his ministry at Epiphany Lutheran Church (1977–2001) before serving at Christ Risen Lutheran Church in Ottawa from 2001 until his retirement in 2016.
IN MEMORIAM
He also served in wider church leadership, including as Vice President of LCC’s former Central District and as a member of the St. Catharines Seminary’s Board.
Rev. Natzke is survived by his wife Marlene, his children and grandchildren, and his stepchildren and their families.
Rev. Dr. Harold Edmund Ruf passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 12, 2024, at 90 years of age.
Dr. Ruf was born and raised near Stornoway, Saskatchewan. He left home for Concordia College in Edmonton as a pre-seminary student and later attended Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.
From 1960-1965, Dr. Ruf served the area of B.C. north of Kamloops, south of Prince George, and from Barkerville to Bella Coola, where he was involved with founding several congregations. Later, he served parishes in Saskatchewan and B.C.
Among other roles, Dr. Ruf served as President of the ABC District, a position in which he continued until his retirement in 2000.
Dr. Ruf is survived by his wife Ruth, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
An extended story on Dr. Ruf’s life and ministry appears on page 21 of the January/February 2025 issue of The Canadian Lutheran
Rev. Sanford “Sandy” James Schelp was born April 24,1942, and passed away at home on December 8, 2024. He felt called to be a pastor from childhood and entered seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. His vicarage was in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was ordained in 1968 at Zion Lutheran, in Corvallis, Oregon. His first call was
to the congregations in Kimberley and Cranbrook, B.C. In 1974, he was called to Peace River, Alberta, and then in 1988 to Mt. Calvary, New Westminster, B.C., where he served the remainder of his more than 50 years in active ministry. After retiring, he served a year as vacancy pastor at Faith Lutheran, Surrey.
Rev. Schelp married Marilee on August 21, 1965, and they had five children and ten grandchildren. He and Marilee travelled widely and enjoyed exploring many countries together.
Rev. Dr. John Wilch was called to glory on November 24, 2024. He was 90 years old.
Dr. Wilch was born in Columbus, Ohio, to Rev. Andrew and Marie Wilch, missionaries to India. He received degrees from Capital University and the Evangelical Lutheran Theological Seminary, as well as his Doctor of Theology from the University of Münster in Germany.
In 1965, he married Ruth Großmann, was ordained by his father, and was called to pastor a dual parish in Abbotsford and Matsqui, B.C. He would later hold teaching roles in North Carolina, Germany, and Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Dr. Wilch was called to Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary in St. Catharines, Ontario, where he served from 1980–1999 as Professor of Exegetical Theology and as Dean of Academic Affairs. He also founded the Haiti Lutheran Mission Society in 1983.
Dr. Wilch is survived by his wife Ruth, their children and grandchildren, his brother Rev. George (Jan), and extended family.
An extended story on Dr. Wilch’s life and ministry appears on page 38 of the January/February 2025 issue of The Canadian Lutheran
Rev. Bart Eriksson of Cochrane, AB, has submitted an application to the Pastoral Colloquy Program of Lutheran Church-Canada. Communications regarding this application should be submitted in writing within four weeks to Rev. Michael Schutz, Chair, LCC Pastoral Colloquy Committee, c/o 2800 South Main Street, Penticton, BC or by email to vicepresident@lutheranchurch.ca. Your gift is an investment in the faith of tomorrow. Help ensure a strong and vibrant future for your church. Have you established a legacy gift for ministry? Schedule a seminar to find out how, or contact us directly.
www.lutheranfoundation.ca
TRANSITIONS
Dcn. Wanda Peters (Surrey, BC) has resigned from roster.
Rev. Louis Natzke, Emeritus (Chilliwack, BC), was called to glory.
Rev. Scott Gamble, serving Concordia (Penticton, BC), accepted a call to St. John’s (Summerland, BC) as Assistant Pastor.
Rev. Richard Klein, Emeritus (Qualicum Beach, BC), was called to glory.
Rev. Gregory Kjos, Candidate (Camrose, AB), to Emeritus (Camrose, AB).
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Rev. Noel Richards of St. Catharines, ON, has successfully completed the requirements of the Pastoral Colloquy Program for Lutheran Church–Canada and is, therefore, eligible to receive a call in LCC.
WDO WE NEED EPIPHANY?
SYNOD PRESIDENT | REV. DR. TIMOTHY TEUSCHER
hat if Epiphany never happened? No star, no magi from the east, no gold or frankincense or myrrh, no questioning from King Herod, no flight by the holy family into Egypt, no twelve days of Christmas. Would it really matter all that much, except to reduce a few pieces from our nativity scenes, along with a few Christmas carols that refer to the wise men?
In fact, maybe it would have been better if it never happened. No baby boys in Bethlehem put to death by Herod. No “Rachel weeping for her children… because they are no more” (Matthew 2:18). No holy family fleeing to a foreign country, with all the hardships that must have entailed. What’s so important about Epiphany, then, that some congregations still gather on January 6 to celebrate the event?
St. Paul answers for us in the epistle reading for the day: “This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel” (Ephesians 3:6). In other words, the account of the wise men shows us that Jesus is born for all people: for Jews and non-Jews, for rich and poor alike—be they wise men from the East or factory workers from the West.
Perhaps this seems obvious since we have heard it so often. And yet, St. Paul calls this a “mystery”— something that we would not know had it not been revealed to us from above. That’s what the word “epiphany” means: “to reveal, to make known.” It is in the visit of the wise men to the Christ Child that God makes this mystery known. This newborn Child is born for all. Christmas is for all. His love and forgiveness is for all.
Apart from God making this known to us, we could never be sure that this newborn King is our King. After all, Jesus is born “King of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2). That’s what the wise men call Him. But so what? Kings are born every day, and most don’t matter much to us. Even our own king, Charles III, is mostly a figurehead. Why should we care that the King of the Jews has been born?
Simply, because He is no ordinary, earthly king. An earthly king rules over a particular territory or nation—but
not this King. His kingdom is not of this world; He rules over the entire universe. An earthly king demands to be served—but not this King. He comes to serve us. And not just 2,000 years ago, but still today in the Divine Service. An earthly king has the best of the best—but not this King. He is poor and humble and lowly. An earthly king has others fight and die in order to save him—but not this King. He dies in order to save us.
No, Jesus is no ordinary, earthly king. Not much of a king at all, some would say—wearing a crown of thorns and nailed to His own throne. But maybe this means that He is more than an ordinary king. King of the Jews? Yes, but more than that. King of the universe. King of creation. Our King. Living not in one place or one time, but in all places and times. Ruling not just one people, but all peoples.
This is what God has revealed to us, what He wants us to know and believe: that this baby—lying in a manger, visited by Jewish shepherds, and worshipped by Gentile wise men—is your King. No matter where you live. No matter when you live. No matter who you are. That is why the Gospels record the variety of the people who come to Jesus: Jewish shepherds and Gentile wise men, lepers and tax collectors, Pharisees and Roman centurions. And today we see the same variety of people. People no longer separated by culture, race, or language, but united by faith in Him. People born anew as children of God by water and the Spirit in Holy Baptism. People who partake of the same heavenly food. People who are fellow citizens of the kingdom of heaven itself.
The magi may have been wise in the eyes of others and rich in the things of this world, but one thing they did not have—at least, not until they heard the Word of God that the King of the Jews was to be born in Bethlehem, followed the star there, saw the Child with His mother Mary, and worshiped Him with their earthly treasures of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. For then they were given what all the riches and wisdom of this world could never buy or attain: eternal life.
The same is true for us today. Your King has come to serve you; to save you; to forgive you; to die for you; to
feed you with heavenly food; to wash you clean from sin; to speak His Word of grace and mercy to you; to rule in your heart and your life. If God had not revealed this in His Word, we would never know it. The mystery would have remained a mystery. But on this Twelfth Night (sometimes called the “Gentile Christmas”) to us, as to the wise men of old, has also been given an epiphany, a revelation—namely, as St. Paul writes in the Epistle for this holy day: “This mystery is that the Gentiles [that would be you and me!] are partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel” (Ephesians 3:6). And that is worth celebrating!
Concordia Lutheran Mission Society
“Jesus loves me, this I know for the Bible tells me so…”
Everything begins with the Word ! By partnering together to support Theological Training, we are strengthening the church in Nicaragua. Please assist CLMS also in the support of the Feeding Program, Lutheran Day Schools, the Music Program for Youth, and Medical Relief Aid for Church Workers
Thank you for your prayers and gifts in support of our Nicaraguan missions.
To donate, please visit our website:
www.concordiamissions.org
Note: E-transfer is now available. www.facebook.com/ConcordiaLutheranMissionSociety/CLMS
INSIDE:
ALONE BY THE TREE, TOGETHER AT THE ALTAR
Rev. Kurt Lantz discusses the sorrows of widows and widowers, highlighting their place in wider Christian community.
SMALL TOWN FAITH
Rev. Christopher McLean reflects on the challenges of small congregations, and how God continues to care for His people even when they are few.
A PLACE FOR YOU
Rev. Dr. William Mundt reminds us that Jesus has gone on ahead to prepare a place for us—a place where all sorrows will pass away as we dwell with Him forever.
