2015 - Lutherans Engage the World - July - August

Lutherans ENGAGE the WORLD July – August 2015, Vol. 3, Issue 6

Lutherans

ENGAGE the WORLD July – August 2015

vol. 3, no. 6

inspire

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Serving the Lord with Gladness at Any Age A Generation Engaged, A Community Restored

Educators Help Students Overcome Life & Learning Hurdles Long After the Inquisition, Lutheranism Returns to Spain

15 4 Engaging the Church in the work of witness and mercy across the globe in our life together.

Lutherans Engage the World is published bi-monthly by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. © 2015 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Reproduction for parish use does not require permission. Such reproductions, however, should credit Lutherans EngagE the World as a source. Print editions are sent to LCMS donors, rostered workers and missionaries. An online version is available (lcms.org/lutheransengage). To receive the print edition, we invite you to make a financial gift for LCMS global witness and mercy work. Unless otherwise noted, all photos are property of the LCMS. 888-THE LCMS (843-5267) lcms.org

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), copyright © 2001

by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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engage

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Service — Youth — Schools

Rejoice to Serve

10 Questions Serve with the LCMS

One Big Song of Praise

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12 21 involve

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In Christ, Pamela J. Nielsen Associate Executive Director, LCMS Communications

Volunteering: The Most Personal of Investments

S TA F F David L. Strand Pamela J. Nielsen Erica Schwan Megan K. Mertz Erik M. Lunsford Lisa Moeller Chrissy A. Thomas

executive director, communications executive editor manager, design services managing editor/staff writer photojournalist/staff writer designer designer

I can trace my path in the church — both as a professional church worker and as a volunteer — directly to the influences of my parents and Lutheran teachers and pastors. These faithful ones not only encouraged but also modeled and actively involved me in service from an early age, both at church and in the community.

If you are reading this issue of Lutherans Engage the World, I know you also are engaged in service, either vocationally as a church worker or as an active member of a local parish.

Like me, you may remember assisting the church secretary by folding the bulletins or helping your mother and the other ladies prepare the altar with the communion vessels. Maybe your dad brought you along and gave you a job to do when the men of the church did repairs. Perhaps you were a junior usher. Or maybe your director of Christian education (DCE) got your youth group involved in service projects at church and in the community. Or was it your parish music director who invited you to join the choir or play your instrument in service to the Lord?

Such experiences instilled in me a sense of belonging and a deep satisfaction that in some way I could reflect back the love, both temporal and eternal, that God in Christ bestowed on me.

Receiving Christ’s gifts from the altar and pulpit and sharing them in service to others were simply part of the rich and wonderful fabric of our family life. What’s your story? Was it a teacher, pastor, parent, grandparent, deaconess or DCE who taught you to serve and instilled a sense of joy in that service?

As you recall your own story, may the stories in this issue inspire you. Take a little break from your serving, and enjoy the read!

E d i t o r i a l Off i c e 314-996-1215 1333 S. Kirkwood Road St. Louis, MO 63122-7295 lutheransengage@lcms.org lcms.org/lutheransengage

Cover image: Mark 10:14 Program student Madison Hinskey chats with her mentor (not pictured) during an arts class at Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School in Las Vegas, Nev. Photo: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

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Rejoice to

Photo: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

Serve

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ife together begins in Christ. There is no life apart from the One “through whom all things were made.” The life of Christ is the life of the world, our life together. The miracle of the Incarnation is that our Lord descended to take up our life. He wears our fallen human flesh, so that He might bear our sin and be our Savior. In His bloody enthronement at Calvary, He draws all creation to Himself. Here is our salvation. Here is our life together.

In the Divine Service, our Lord lovingly invites us to eucharistic eating and drinking. He comes and serves us. With His body and blood, we proclaim His death and receive His life. The crucified One gives us the gift of forgiveness and the seal of immortality. As He is so we shall be.

The Post-Communion Collect roots our life in Christ and our life together in the same: “We give thanks to You, almighty God, that You have refreshed us through this salutary gift, and we implore You that of Your mercy You would strengthen us through the same in faith toward You and in fervent love toward one another.”

The living Christ creates “fervent love toward one another.” The heartbeat of the Church in witness, mercy and life together flows from and to the cross. Having been served, we rejoice to serve one another. What joy and freedom we have in serving our Lord and His

Kindergarten students raise their hands during class at the

holy Bride, the Church. We are no longer burdened by the Law’s requirements. The Gospel — Christ in us — compels us to share His Word to the ends of the earth, to share the mercy and love of Christ with those in need, and to share in the corporate life of the Church.

Life together is the best living. Selfish ambition and pride disappear as we pray for and support the body of Christ. We belong to one another only through and in Jesus Christ.

In his little book Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community, Dietrich Bonhoeffer offers several helpful insights into our life together. For Bonhoeffer, our life together is a concrete reality. God is not a God of the emotions but a God of truth. That truth is revealed in the divine revelation of the Word and the Word made flesh. The justified sinner lives in the community of sanctification, a gift from God that no man can claim. Life together is a gift.

This month, Lutherans Engage the World focuses on three great strengths and opportunities in the Church: service, youth and schools. May you be enlivened in Christ as you read about the great things the Lord is working in and through us around the world. May His service be lived in us as we serve one another in His name.

In Christ, Rev. Bart Day Executive Director, LCMS Office of National Mission

Renaissance School in Mount Pleasant, Wis.

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Photo: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

Questions

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by Megan K. Mertz

Photo: St. Peter’s Lutheran school

with Principal Scott Schumacher Even as a child, Scott Schumacher felt God calling him to serve in the Lutheran school system. After graduating from Concordia University Chicago, River Forest, Ill., Schumacher worked as a teacher and athletic coach before completing his master’s degree and participating in the School Leadership Development (SLED) Project, a program of LCMS School Ministry that prepares future administrators for Lutheran schools. Since 2005, Schumacher has served as principal of St. Peter’s Lutheran School in Columbus, Ind., and he recently mentored another teacher going through SLED.

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How did the SLED Project help equip you for your work?

SLED validated where I believed God was leading me. It also provided a scriptural foundation for being a leader. Later, I agreed to be a SLED mentor because I wanted to help someone else who had that same mission placed on their heart. It was a sacrifice of time, but it was worth it.

2.

Why are Lutheran school administrators important in the LCMS? Schools rise and die with leadership.

Churches are the same way. As an administrator in the LCMS, I have a huge responsibility to serve faithfully. There are a lot of people who are looking to me for guidance, and there are a lot of people who are looking up to me. But the reward is awesome.

3.

What is most rewarding about your job?

Seeing growth in teachers and passion for our school vision. Also, it’s very rewarding to see our school help a child with a specific struggle learn how to overcome that struggle in a way that honors God.

4.

Most challenging?

Managing time. The expectations are very high, so the balance between being a faithful husband, father and worker in a church is challenging. But I feel blessed, because I have a great support team. Just as one of my jobs as principal is to walk

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alongside parents, there are people in our church who walk alongside me.

5.

If you weren’t a principal, what would you be?

A landscape architect. It’s really important that principals have a hobby, and my hobby is my backyard.

6.

What skills do principals need to be effective?

First of all, patience. There are plenty of opportunities that test your patience. You really have to be the consummate servant, putting others before yourself. Also, being able to model true joy in ministry. Being happy is contagious within organizations, and the principal has to model that.

Jesus didn’t just come for those who are Lutheran; He came for everybody. God uses Lutheran schools to connect with families and walk alongside them as they go through life. Lutheran schools are a great resource to be able to support families as they raise young people.

7.

How have students and families changed during your career?

There are so many more families coming from broken homes and who have so many other challenges. Maybe the needs were there years ago, but they just weren’t identified.

8.

How does St. Peter’s integrate the faith into the school day?

Integrating the faith is an essential part of everything we do. While teaching religion is critical, there are all kinds of authentic opportunities to integrate the faith, like developing a prayer life and even discipline.

When students are in trouble, my job is to help them understand it’s wrong, lead them to repentance and tell them they are forgiven.

9.

What’s your favorite Bible verse?

Phil. 4:13: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” It’s hard to be a principal, but God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. He gives us Himself through Word and Sacrament. We get our strength through Him.

10.

What advice do you have for others considering this career?

The best advice is to take a close look at Scripture and develop a solid prayer life to really discern where God would have you serve. God will provide all the tools you need to be successful. Say “yes” to those opportunities, whether they be the SLED Project or getting a master’s degree in administration.

Megan K. Mertz is managing editor of Lutherans Engage the World and a staff writer for LCMS Communications.

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 89-year-old volunteer Ruth Martens talks with a resident of the Lutheran Home, a skilled-nursing community in Wauwatosa, Wis.

Serving the Lord with Gladness at

Any Age

by Megan K. Mertz

“W

e’re called to be servants; that is something God expects of us,” said Ruth Martens, a great-grandmother and member of St. Peter-Immanuel Lutheran Church in Milwaukee.

PhotoS: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

And serve she does. During her 19 years as a volunteer at the Lutheran Home, a skilled-nursing community in Wauwatosa, Wis., the 89-year-old Martens has worked in the gift shop and beauty shop, led bingo games, taken residents to the doctor, helped with the organization’s mailings, visited residents one-on-one and pushed a lot of wheelchairs.

The Lutheran Home, a Recognized Service Organization of the LCMS, was founded in 1906 as a home for retired and indigent pastors and teachers. Today, the organization continues to provide faithbased care to its 175 residents, who come from many different backgrounds. Some 330 people like Martens volunteer with the organization, providing an extra level of friendship and support.

Finding Her Fit Although Martens doesn’t live at the Lutheran Home, she serves there every Wednesday. Currently, she works in Bunny’s Boutique, where she transports residents to and from their appointments, keeps the beauty shop tidy, and assists the beautician and manicurist by taking out curlers and removing old nail polish.

Sometimes she even sings to residents who seem to need a little cheering up.

“I love every moment,” she said. “I love talking to people and making them happy.”

But years ago when Martens saw the request for volunteers in the Sunday bulletin, she didn’t think she was qualified to help out at the Lutheran Home. She spent most of her adult life as a housewife and mother of four daughters, and her only work experiences were at several part-time secretarial jobs.

When she mentioned this to another member who was sitting next to her in the pew that day, the woman called the Lutheran Home and set up an appointment for her to meet with the volunteer coordinator right away.

“I went with my husband, and both of us ended up volunteering,” Martens recalled.

“I’m sure God was working through the lady sitting next to me. When I said I didn’t have the talents, she did something about it.”

Over the years, Martens has served God in many different ways, and she continues to volunteer at St. Peter-Immanuel’s food pantry. A few residents of the Lutheran Home even save their paper grocery bags — which are constantly in demand at the food pantry — for her.

“My problem was that I never thought I had anything wonderful to give back,” Martens continued. “God’s gifts weren’t July–August 2015

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Ruth Martens tends to the beauty shop at the Lutheran Home, where she has been a volunteer for 19 years.

being used because I thought they weren’t good enough. But you don’t have to have any special gifts.”

Enriching Lives “Since 1996, Ruth has volunteered a total of 6,100 hours and has made a huge impact on the lives of our residents,” said Michelle Mittelsteadt, director of Volunteer Services for the Lutheran Home. “Ruth brightens our residents’ day with her friendly, helpful manner, along with her radiant smile.

“Even though our nursing staff is caring and hardworking, they cannot do everything for our residents. That’s why volunteers like Ruth, who give so generously of their time, are able to enrich the lives of the residents,” Mittelsteadt continued.

Martens thanks God for having given her the opportunity to serve the Lutheran Home all these years. She said she’s gotten so much more out of the experience than she ever put in, including abundant joy and the realization that she already had skills to use in God’s service.

“There is just no limit to how much joy it brings to do something for another person,” she said.

Despite the challenges that come with getting older, Martens is determined to reach 20 years of service at the Lutheran Home.

“I take it one day at a time, but I am willing to work as long as I can. There are plenty of opportunities to serve that I can still do,” she said.

Volunteer at an RSO Near You Would you enjoy mentoring a refugee, assisting a food pantry or resale shop, providing office support, tutoring English or being a friend to a person in a retirement community?

The Synod has 176 Recognized Service Organizations (RSOs) all around the United States. RSOs are independent, nonprofit organizations that foster the mission and ministry of the church, whose program activities are in harmony with the Synod and who agree to respect and not act contrary to the doctrine and practice of the Synod.

These organizations often are looking for volunteers, and the available opportunities are as diverse as the services they offer. ▶ Visit lcms.org/rso/directory to find a listing of RSOs in your area.

“God’s gifts weren’t being used because I thought they weren’t good enough. But you don’t have to have any special gifts.” — Ruth Martens 6

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A Generation Engaged, A Community Restored

Photos: Camp Restore

by Jeni Miller

Millennials. We often hear folks lament this generation, that the 30 and under set tends to be increasingly individualistic, entitled and (gasp!) even lazy.

Not so for LCMS youth and young adults, especially those who are actively engaged in caring for their neighbor, both here and abroad. These young people come together from all across the country to work hard, give of themselves and their time, and contribute to the well-being of their church and community for the sake of Christ.

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One such place where these young people converge is Camp Restore in New Orleans, a ministry of LCMS Recognized Service Organization (RSO) RAI Ministries.

Camp Restore recently surpassed 25,000 volunteers as the city prepares to mark the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina this year.

After the hurricane hit New Orleans in 2005, people from all over — including LCMS members — ventured down to help rebuild and revitalize the battered city. Seeing the great ongoing needs in New Orleans and beyond, Camp Restore was formed in the summer of 2006 on the once-flooded campus of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and School with the mission to “restore faith, home and community in the Name of Jesus.”

“Camp Restore grew out of our LCMS family of faith in Christ, and we’ve watched that faith get put into action,” said Kathy Wendling, director of Community Service and Development at Camp Restore. “Every week, I see how God puts into action that we are one in the body of Christ. It’s a living, breathing faith. It’s hard to explain, but I’m proud of how the LCMS has responded, and especially our youth, to this community in New Orleans. We are so privileged that God has used us this way.”

The main areas in which Camp Restore works are human care, environmental, grassroots efforts and construction. Humancare projects are typically centered on 8

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“I think we can serve others, and through them serve Christ, in everyday situations.”

— Elisabeth Grimm, a Camp Restore volunteer

service to seniors and youth; environmental work includes planting trees and marsh grass, urban farming and landscaping; grassroots efforts support the work of small missions and neighborhood projects; and construction involves gutting, painting and helping to restore and improve homes throughout the city. Groups who visit Camp Restore have the option to rank these four project areas according to interest and ability, and exact volunteer opportunities are finalized about a week in advance of the trip.

Interestingly, especially in the past few years, the majority of the 25,000-plus Camp Restore volunteers were age 30 and under, including an influx of college-age young adults and Concordia University System students who want more than just a typical spring break experience. This is no surprise, since young people in the LCMS who desire to serve have no shortage of options.

“Since 1981, LCMS Youth Ministry has been providing servant opportunities for youth,” explained Jim Lohman, director of LCMS Servant Events. “Through their service at Recognized Service Organizations like Camp Restore; LCMS churches,

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schools and camps; and other LCMS RSOs and social-service agencies, people have reached out with Christ-like care and concern, leaving behind ‘fingerprints’ of faith.”

In late July, a group of 50 LCMS young adults will head down to Camp Restore to show mercy and take on some hard work yet again.

“For the past several summers, LCMS Young Adult Ministry has offered two servant events for young adults,” Lohman said. “One of these is hosted by the Orange Nation. These are the young adult volunteers who serve the [LCMS National Youth] Gathering every three years. This event rotates to a variety of locations. They are hosting it in New Orleans this summer as a connection for young adults who will serve at the Gathering [in 2016].”

According to Brandon Heath, coordinator of the 2015 Orange Nation Servant Event, the work in New Orleans has evolved over the years to meet the needs of the community, and Camp Restore offers an authentic opportunity for youth to be involved in helping revitalize this culturally diverse city. lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

◀ Camp Restore volunteers serve in many different ways, such as helping with construction projects (left and center) and working at a local food pantry (right).

Serve at

the

2016 Gathering Service opportunities during the 2016 LCMS National Youth Gathering in New Orleans are still in development, but they will likely include:

“In the early years just after Hurricane Katrina, it was a lot of mucking; removing the sludge of dirt, oil and other debris; and gutting houses to their frame so they could be rebuilt,” Heath said. “Now it is more focused on community building. Camp Restore continues to tell the stories of survival and loss as well as faith and hope.

They have also stayed the last decade to rebuild homes, communities and lives.”

Young adults who have been involved with LCMS servant events, and specifically with Camp Restore, find that they take what they’ve experienced back with them to better serve in their home churches and communities.

Elisabeth Grimm, a 29-year-old senior accountant and San Diego resident, volunteered at Camp Restore in 2011 at the first servant event hosted by Orange Nation and LCMS Young Adult Ministry. She’ll be involved in the 2015 event as well.

“I attended [the 2011] event after serving as a Young Adult Volunteer (YAV) at the 2010 National Youth Gathering,” Grimm said. “My task was to lead the off-site volunteer groups during [the Gathering], during which I saw the need in the community and felt drawn to help the people there.

“There are many different ways to serve people, including with monetary donations, sweat equity and quality time,” Grimm added. “I enjoy serving in each of these ways, but I feel that serving through lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

Camp Restore really allows me to serve via physical labor and a listening ear. I think we can serve others, and through them serve Christ, in everyday situations; it’s not necessary to go halfway across the country to a designated servant event to do so.

However, I also feel that joining together with others to actively serve refreshes me, and I then feel inspired to continue serving after I return home.”

While those in the LCMS — youth and adults alike — continue to volunteer at Camp Restore and in other locations around the world, they can rest assured that, even when the work is hard, they are indeed bringing the love of Christ to their neighbor in tangible, visible ways.

“Even for youth, this work is sometimes outside of their comfort zones,” Wendling said. “Through it all, we don’t always know what God has in store for them, but we reflect on the fact that God uses us in many ways. It’s our privilege at Camp Restore to help workers be bold with their faith, be Lutherans in action. This city loves the Lutherans, and people are excited about the youth.”

Deaconess Jeni Miller is a freelance writer and member of Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Atlanta.

Learn more: ▶ LCMS Servant Events: lcms.org/servantevents ▶ Camp Restore: camprestore.org

• Assisting fixed-income residents with home cleanup and light repairs • Serving at food pantries • Visiting nursing homes • Serving children at vacation Bible schools or day camps • Projects at or with LCMS congregations in New Orleans • Environmental reclamation • Replanting wetlands • Cleaning • Serving underserved public schools • Playground maintenance • Serving underserved neighborhoods • Upkeep at public parks • Providing school supplies and backpacks • Providing personal-care kits for local homeless shelters

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LCMS Opportunities Ministry to the Armed Forces Gospel Seeds Disaster Response Witness & Outreach Ministry school Ministry

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OPERATION BARNABAS

Help organize events in your area to support military members, veterans and their families.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults lcms.org/operationbarnabas

GOSPEL SEEDS

Mentor congregations going through the “Planting Gospel Seeds While Serving Human Needs” program.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: LCMS members who have completed the “Gospel Seeds” program | lcms.org/gospelseeds

LUTHERAN EARLY RESPONSE TEAMS (LERT)

Learn how to be better prepared to show Christ’s love to the community when a disaster strikes.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Members of LCMS congregations lcms.org/disaster/resources

THE 72

Assist congregations with implementing the Synod’s new revitalization program, “re:Vitality,” as facilitators, coordinators and coaches. Training, support and certification are provided by the LCMS Office of National Mission.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Adults and young adults lcms.org/The72 | lcms.org/revitalizing

SCHOOL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT (SLED) PROJECT

Mentor potential Lutheran school leaders through training over the course of an academic year.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Lutheran school administrators who have completed SLED | lcms.org/schools

SHORT-TERM TEAMS

international

Ministry

health Ministry

Youth Ministry

Organize a team (3 to 20+ people) to serve for one to two weeks in various locations around the world.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults lcms.org/service

MERCY MEDICAL TEAMS

Join a team to provide health care to underserved people around the globe.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Medical professionals, pastors, laypeople | lcms.org/mercyteams

NATIONAL YOUTH GATHERING

Serve in a variety of ways during the Gathering.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Adults and young adults lcmsgathering.com

LUTHERAN SCHOOL CONSULTING SERVICES (LSCS)

Serve as a consultant to help strengthen and revitalize Lutheran elementary schools that are struggling.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Experienced Lutheran school leaders | lcms.org/schools

SHORT-TERM VOLUNTEERS

Serve alongside LCMS missionaries and partner churches or be attached to other short-term teams for one week to six months.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Adults (18+) lcms.org/service

PARISH NURSING

Use your professional nursing and spiritual caregiving skills in service to others.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Registered nurses lcms.org/health/parishnursing

LCMS SERVANT EVENTS

Work on construction, outreach, human-care and other projects.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults (may vary by event) lcms.org/servantevents

LCMS YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY

Participate in servant events throughout the year.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Young adults (Ages 18-30) lcmsyam.org

Serve with the LCMS There are many opportunities to serve The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod at both the national and local levels.

(Gal. 5:13b)

LCMS RSOs offer many service opportunities.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults lcms.org/rso

Local Volunteer Opportunities

“Through love serve one another.”

RECOGNIZED SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

LUTHERAN SCHOOLS

Lutheran schools around the country are often in need of volunteers.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults locator.lcms.org (search for a school near you)

SPECIALIZED PASTORAL MINISTRY

Chaplaincy opportunities exist at local hospitals, prisons or in other settings.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Pastors and deaconesses lcms.org/spm

URBAN & INNER-CITY MISSION

Urban ministries around the country have volunteer opportunities in your area.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults lcms.org/citymission

LCMS U

Volunteer with your local campus ministry, or start a new LCMS U chapter at a college or university near you!

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Youth and adults lcms.org/lcmsu facebook.com/lcmsu

VOLUNTEER CONNECTION IN ST. LOUIS, MO. Volunteers are often needed at the LCMS International Center to help with a variety of tasks that further the mission of the LCMS. WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Adults near St. Louis lcms.org/volunteer-connection

MISSION CENTRAL IN MAPLETON, IOWA

Spend a year engaged in domestic service.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: High school and college graduates lcms.org/youthcorps

© 2015 LCMS

LUTHERAN YOUTH CORPS

Volunteers are often needed to help support LCMS mission work around the world.

WHO MAY VOLUNTEER: Adults missioncentral.us

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‚ Lizzie Meyers (left) is executive director of Evangelii, the youth choir at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle, Ill.

One Big Song

Praise

by Adriane Heins

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PhotoS: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

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izzie Meyers and church music go together like chorales and choirs. Or orchestras and overtures. Or maybe even metronomes and melodies.

The 2015 graduate of Neuqua Valley High School, Naperville, Ill., and member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Lisle, Ill., not only loves notes, interludes and song, but she loves the distinctive way that music can bear witness to Christ both to those of and outside of the faith, bridging “the gaps between people, whether that be an age gap, distance gap or otherwise,” she explains. “Working together for a common goal of glorifying God through music is such a beautiful experience to be a part of as well as to witness!”

Starting Young Meyers grew to love music thanks in large part to her church’s director of worship, Jim Marriott, who started a youth choir — named Evangelii — by “walking around to confirmation classes, offering kids chocolate in exchange for us showing up 30 minutes early each week to sing in a choir,” she recalls.

The first week, only four seventh-graders participated. But over time, “more kids joined and our age range grew. lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

“There was a lot of time when we did not sound the best, sang very simple music and were just an average children’s choir,” Meyers admits. “Through the friendships built in the group, however, the choir

has started a chamber choir and leads workshops to assist “smaller churches either without a current program or lacking in funding to begin their own choirs or at least give kids in other communities a taste of

“Lizzie sings not only with her voice, but with her heart, soul, mind and strength. Her entire existence is one big song of praise in response to God’s grace and love.”

— Jim Marriott, director of worship at Trinity Lutheran Church, Lisle, Ill.

became a safe haven, a fun place and a spiritual home for now 30 people, ranging in age from fifth through 12th grade.”

Those relationships, built through practice and song, have already borne fruit. “Our older students are such models of patience and God’s love as they engage in relationships with the younger kids, whether it be mentoring them musically or simply being a friend,” she explains. And the younger students “continually impress us with their maturity and hard work as they learn difficult music and also think about very real ways to use their faith in this world.”

Six years later, this choir of 30 students tours annually, sings at nursing homes,

choral worship,” Meyers notes. The group even sang at the 2013 LCMS National Youth Gathering in San Antonio.

Student (and Servant) Leader Meyers’ own involvement has grown right along with the choir. She now serves Trinity as the executive director of Evangelii, the choir that gave her her start. “Never have I been more in my element than when I am leading this inspiring group of people toward praising our God through music and being His witness to others in the world,” she says.

She also works as the part-time worship publications specialist for the church’s July–August 2015

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traditional worship site. But although Meyers is now a leader herself, she’s quick to note that it’s due to the care shown to her by those around her.

“In thinking about what makes our choir different, I think about the way that Jim [Marriott] leads. He humbly gave up much of his leadership to a 15-year-old girl … while also spending a lot of time to mentor me into the position,” she notes. “I love this leadership because it does not ask much of students but really draws out natural, Godgiven abilities and puts them to use in the church,” reminding adults and youth alike that “the cycle of leadership is alive and well because it is not based upon any one person but on … God’s plan for His use of our choir.”

Marriott wouldn’t have it any other way. “In her time of ministry as the executive director of Evangelii, Lizzie has demonstrated a Spirit-inspired gift for leadership,” he says. “She humbly and graciously approaches leadership in a manner that prioritizes relationships, fosters buy-in and visions a group of people toward a common goal.”

Simply put, “Lizzie gets what leadership is all about,” Marriott explains. “As a musician, Lizzie knows and demonstrates the joy of sharing the Gospel through music. Lizzie sings not only with her voice but with her heart, soul, mind and strength. Her entire existence is one big song of praise in response to God’s grace and love.”

Growth in the Faith That’s why, whether leading Evangelii or helping prepare materials for Sunday morning, Meyers continues to love the way in which the music and those singing it point people again and again to Jesus. “Though the numerical growth [of Evangelii] is incredible,” she says, “the spiritual growth is absolutely astounding.

“Each week, we see a community of youth praising God through music and strengthening their faith in this way. I have seen so many choir members take their beliefs and ask healthy questions and desire to know more … all because of the way music affects their relationship with Christ.”

Adriane Heins is managing editor of The Lutheran Witness and editor of Catechetical Information for LCMS Communications.

What People Don’t Know About Church Musicians People may not know that church musicians, in all of my experiences with them, have proven to be incredibly humble people. Most musicians receive applause and lots of credit for their work. Church musicians, however, give all glory to God. The other thing that people may not know about us is how welcoming we are. Churches are always looking for more to join the choir, the bell choir [or] start a children’s choir with the song “Jesus Loves Me.” Our voices and instruments are gifts from God that we get to use to make a joyful noise! We would love to welcome even more people into that form of worship.

— Lizzie Meyers ▶ Lizzie Meyers (center) gives direction to fellow choir members.

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Educators Help Students

Overcome Life & Learning Hurdles

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by Roger Drinnon

Whether it’s helping children cope with the demands of urban living or helping others rise above challenges they face in learning, Lutheran educators across the nation are there to help.

Here are a few examples of Lutheran institutions where teachers are making a difference:

Lutheran Urban Mission Initiative, Inc. (LUMIN) LUMIN mission statement: “To provide safe, Christian schools focused on educational success, leadership development and spiritual growth.”

LUMIN assists urban areas of Milwaukee and Racine, Wis., by providing high-quality educational services through the Wisconsin state voucher system.

“LUMIN was formed in 2002 by a group of LCMS business people and professional educators who were deeply concerned

Photos: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

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about the decline of Lutheran education in Milwaukee’s urban community,” said Richard Laabs, president and CEO of LUMIN. “The founders of LUMIN planned to open a new school and develop a cutting-edge model for urban Christian education that could be replicated in other locations. Today, LUMIN operates five LCMS schools in Milwaukee and one Christian school in Racine that serve a combined total of approximately 1,600 students from low-income households.”

Laabs said about 10 percent of students in LUMIN schools face unique learning challenges resulting from myriad personal circumstances. LUMIN has a designated professional to evaluate these students to determine their specific challenges and then develop strategies for use by classroom teachers. Other faculty members also help students address barriers to learning, such as those related to health care, social services and counseling.

Laabs said as LUMIN schools’ teachers use best practices for urban education, they also ensure students hear the Gospel. Their efforts earned LUMIN the 2014 Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award, which was presented by Lutheran Church Extension Fund last fall.

“Many students have little, if any, knowledge of Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior prior to enrolling in a LUMIN school,” said Laabs. “In addition to providing students with a rigorous, ‘no excuses’ academic education, teachers focus on the faith formation and journey of each student. LUMIN schools recognize the value of a good education lasts a lifetime, but a strong faith has eternal consequences.”

Learn more: School website: luminschools.org Photo gallery: lcms.org/photo/lumin

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Kindergarten teacher Lindsay Beckstrom works with students at the Renaissance School, part of Lutheran Urban Mission Initiative, Inc., in Mount Pleasant, Wis.

Lutheran Special School and Education Services (LSSES) LSSES mission statement: “Centered in Christ, LSSES prepares students with unique learning challenges to maximize their God-given spiritual, academic, emotional and social potential.”

LSSES values Lutheran education for all children and provides children who have difficulty learning with the opportunity to attend Lutheran schools.

“LSSES was begun in 1958 by a group of parents who wanted their

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children with learning difficulties to receive their special education within a Lutheran school,” said Judy Schultz, school principal. “LSSES was housed in different Lutheran schools throughout the Milwaukee area, depending on who had space, until it ended up on the campus of Concordia College, Milwaukee in 1972.

It remained under Concordia’s campus until it became an independent school in 1986.” lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

Positive academic statistics greet visitors at the Renaissance School.

Nash Siemers (left) and Josiahis Walker play together during free time in class at Lutheran Special School and Education Services, located at Milwaukee Lutheran High School.

Art therapist Alicia Starr works with a student at Lutheran Special School and Education Services at Milwaukee Lutheran High School.

Schultz said LSSES staff members believe all children have been gifted by God with individual talents and gifts for use in His kingdom. The school takes each child “where they are at,” then helps to develop a child’s potential while recognizing unique individual attributes.

LSSES offers a spectrum of special education services tailored for individual learning needs. One notable program is called MOSAICS. lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

“The goal of the MOSAICS program is to develop experiential learning opportunities using the kinesthetic and visual arts as the basis for learning,” Schultz said. “Some of the activities include bike riding, hiking, swimming, Tae Kwon Do [martial arts], visits to various art museums, book-making, digital storytelling, etc. These unique experiences and activities [allow] the students to grow their spiritual, academic,

emotional and social potential in new and creative ways.”

Learn more: School website: lsses.org Photo gallery: lcms.org/photo/lsses milwaukee

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Mark 10:14 Program student Madison Hinskey works with her mentor, Sarah Paglini, during an arts class at Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School, Las Vegas.

Mark 10:14 Program student Alex Simbal dances with his mentor, Lexi Lee, at Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School.

Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School Faith mission statement: “Everyone prepared! Everyone saved!”

Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School in Las Vegas established its Mark 10:14 Program to provide an excellent education for middle and high school students with significant intellectual disabilities in an inclusive Christian setting.

“Some brave Christians in Las Vegas set out to begin a junior/senior high school in the 70s,” said Dr. Steve Buuck, Faith’s CEO. “Our school began in 1979 with 43 sixth- and seventh-graders in rented facilities at First Southern Baptist Church, Las Vegas. In 1998, we bought our present campus on the west side of Las Vegas and have been here ever since.

Every year, something has been added to our campus.”

Buuck said this is the eighth year of the Mark 10:14 Program, where the school enrolls students with autism or

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Down syndrome. These students are “mainstreamed” into Faith’s classes, whereas in other schools they likely would be segregated into special-needs classes. At Faith, these students also participate in athletics, fine arts, chapel, clubs and more.

“All of our Mark 10:14 students are deeply integrated into campus life,” Buuck said.

Overall, he said the school’s numbers indicate encouraging trends.

“We will welcome 1,700 students this fall. Ninety-nine percent of our seniors go on to college. In the past three years, our graduates have been accepted into more than 400 universities in all 50 states,” Buuck said. “In the Class of 2015, our academic top three students are headed to Princeton, Stanford and Duke. We have 21 seniors who have signed letters of intent to play sports in college next fall. Our fine arts [theater and music] programs are regionally and nationally

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acclaimed. We have 165 employees who share Jesus with our students each and every day. We average more than 30 Baptisms a year in a January chapel — God’s amazing grace certainly is evident here at Faith Lutheran.”

Roger Drinnon is manager of Editorial Services for LCMS Communications.

Learn more: School website: faithlutheranlv.org Photo gallery: lcms.org/photo/ faith-las-vegas lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

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witness Moment

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Long After the Inquisition, Lutheranism Returns to Spain

by Megan K. Mertz

A

fter Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the door of Wittenberg’s Castle Church in 1517, the ideas of the Reformation spread across Europe during the next few decades.

In Spain, these ideas took root among some Spanish Christians, especially in monasteries like San Isidoro near Seville.

But after seeing the growing religious unrest that was occurring elsewhere in Northern Europe, the Spanish Inquisition, which had been in effect since 1478, moved to quell the movement within its borders. Reformationminded Spanish Christians who chose not to flee were arrested, and some were even burned at the stake.

It wasn’t until nearly 500 years later that a Lutheran presence would again return to the country.

to become pastors, and provides ongoing Greek and Hebrew instruction to Juan Carlos.

Warner also is working to secure a permanent worship space for the growing congregation in Seville, as well as looking for funding for similar sites in Madrid and Cartagena.

many Roman Catholic family members watched, the grandson of one of the original members of the IELE became God’s child through the waters of Holy Baptism.

“I preached a Law-and-Gospel sermon about the miracle of Baptism and salvation by faith and then went out to dinner and spoke with members of the family for a couple of hours as the plates of food kept coming,” he said. “Lord willing, the many seeds planted will take root and grow.”

Later this year, the Rev. Adam Lehman and his family will join the Warners as LCMS missionaries to Spain. The Lehmans are currently raising the support necessary for their life and work on the Iberian Peninsula.

“Having learned more about the history and development of Spain, I have realized what a great blessing it is to be privileged to serve as a Lutheran pastor in Spain at this time,” Lehman said, reflecting on his call to serve as a church planter there. “After being snuffed out via the Spanish Inquisition, the Lutheran Reformation has now returned to Spain!”

“The members of the IELE are very inspiring,” Warner said. “They became members because they were convinced that Lutheran doctrine is true and faithful. … They are committed even though they lack facilities, worship opportunities and pastoral care. I am humbled to begin serving them.”

On May 23, Warner performed his first Baptism on the mission field. While

Learn more: lcms.org/spain

Photos: istockphoto/thinkstock, Adam Lehman, David Warner

In the 21st Century In 2000, a Lutheran family in Spain partnered with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina to lay the foundation for a Spanish Lutheran church. Between 2000 and 2014, three Argentine missionaries served in Spain, where they led outreach efforts and established Lutheran missions.

With the partnership of the LCMS, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Spain (IELE) was planted and recognized by the Spanish Government in 2004. In October 2010, the Rev. Juan Carlos was installed as the first — and only — Spanish pastor of the IELE. The Rev. David Warner and his wife, Shelee, moved to Seville in April to become the first full-time LCMS missionaries to the country. Warner provides pastoral care to some 80 Lutherans scattered around Spain, mentors four men who are currently studying

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T he Rev. David Warner baptized Izan on May 23.

“ Lord willing, the many seeds planted will take root and grow.”

◀ The Rev. Adam Lehman and family.

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Grant Money Available for Outreach in Your Community Announcing “Stand with Your Community” Grants The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod is offering a special grant opportunity as part of the synodwide celebration leading up to the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.

The grants fund projects that inspire and empower laity for local outreach through witness and mercy as a reflection of Luther’s passion for all to know the Gospel.

Who may apply?

• LCMS congregations • LCMS circuits • LCMS schools • LCMS colleges & universities • LCMS districts • LCMS RSOs Learn how your congregation can participate at: lcms.org/standgrants A total of $1 million in grant funding is available and is being provided by:

WORLDWIDE

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Steward’s Corner The effects of giving yourself as a living sacrifice are truly immeasurable.

by Mark Hofman

Volunteering

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The Most Personal of Investments

PHOTO: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford

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he last Steward’s Corner article (“Tackling God’s Mission ‘On the Cheap’”) drew attention to our pastors and missionaries and how much the LCMS invests in quality servants each year. It didn’t take long to hear from people who read that piece and asked, “Mark, what about teachers and other church workers?

Why did you fail to lift them/us up?” Guilty as charged.

We have a number of categories of professional church workers in our Synod, and there is a good chance I’ll neglect one or more groups whenever I try to list them.

I’m rostered as a teacher, as are my wife, some relatives and a few friends. If there is one thing I’ve come to respect about pastors, teachers, directors of Christian education, directors of Christian outreach, church musicians and all other workers, it’s that they each could rightly call themselves a “missionary.”

When my congregation called our current pastor, a self-study revealed that most members came into the church — and into the Christian faith — through our day school. Our son was thrilled when one of his preschool classmates was brought to the baptismal font, and my eyes filled with tears at his kindergarten graduation when his entire class shared the Gospel with family and friends (some of whom are unchurched) through several songs taught to them by their teachers.

Although my wife is not currently teaching, she continues to steward the Gospel of Jesus Christ through volunteering.

Vacation Bible school, the school’s parentteacher association, Sunday school and various church and school events provide an outlet to serve, lead and still teach. At the LCMS International Center, ministry areas are blessed by more than two dozen men and women who regularly give of their time and talents in our Volunteer Connection program. Dozens of other volunteers serve and support the funding of missionaries lcms.org/givenow/globalmission

and their work through selfless service to Mission Central, the Synod’s “not normal” miracle-facilitating donor care center in Mapleton, Iowa.

Volunteers support Gospel-centered mission and ministry locally, regionally at the circuit and district levels, at the national level, and through service to Recognized Service Organizations and auxiliaries like the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League and Lutheran Hour Ministries. Ushers and altar guild members, elders and property committee members, folders and stuffers of newsletters and mailings, kitchen helpers, youth group leaders, board and church council members … the ways people engage in the life of the church are truly mind-boggling.

If we could place a monetary value on the hours donated by volunteers, it might shock us in a very good way. It has

even been said that volunteers aren’t paid because what they contribute — passion and joy — is simply priceless. Even more importantly, taking the time to volunteer — even if one is a paid, professional church worker — gives evidence that the LCMS is a potent force for the Gospel as we walk alongside one another in the faith, hope and unquenchable joy found only in Jesus Christ.

So, for every person reading this who volunteers as a way of stewarding the Gospel of our Lord using the most precious of His resources — your special talents and your time, regardless of age or life experiences — thank you. The effects of giving yourself as a living sacrifice are truly immeasurable.

Mark Hofman, CFRE, MBA, is the executive director of LCMS Mission Advancement.

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NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID Burlington, WI Permit No. 12

he mission and ministry of Concordia Historical Institute (CHI) is to preserve and proclaim the history of the Lutheran Church — a church redeemed and delivered by Christ.

 From the parable of the talents, Christians learn that treasures are not to be collected only to be buried. CHI is all about moving Lutheran history forward. The institute trumpets historical treasures that point to Christ’s redeeming work in the life of the Lutheran Church, especially in the life of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

 CHI informs and inspires through museum exhibits; archive and research services; online resources; collections of documents, photographs, artifacts and fine art; and publications, including the Concordia Historical Institute Quarterly, the longest-running journal dedicated exclusively to Lutheran history in North America.

The history of the Lutheran Church — delivered.

concordiahistoricalinstitute.org