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V O I C EPublished by the Missouri District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod

The of Missouri

Missouri District, LCMS660 Mason Ridge Center DriveSuite 100St. Louis, MO 63141-8557

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Editor’s Note:This edition of The Voice of Missouri is dedicated

to creative ministry. The variety of stories is a tes-timony to how great our God is and how He works among us. Creative is defined very personally by each article writer. I hope you enjoy the stories and find encouragement to add creativity to your min-istry in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

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Why Not?A virgin birth? God’s Son dying on a cross to pay

for our sins? God raising His Son from the dead on Easter? The world says these things are impossible. Our God said, “Why not?” People said the rotted out housing of Hyde Park, St. Louis, could not be reju-venated, but God said, “Why not!” The world said people could not flourish in that neighborhood, but God said, “Why not?”

Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Salisbury Park, North St. Louis, exudes creative ministry. When a ministry, community program, Bible study, etc. … begins, it is with the needs of the community in mind and how best to reach them with the Gospel.

They are working on opening a charter school with a Christian after-school program. This is not fea-sible for many, but was the right path for them to pursue. After three years of waiting, they will know soon if they have permission and can start in the fall. The community is excited about the possibility of the school. Others are wondering if it’s possible to keep the two entities separate: a public charter school and a Christian after-school program. Rev. John Schmidtke is confident.

The current after-school program, Bethlehem Bible Outreach, or BBO, has had an amazing, positive impact on the community. There are 80-90 chil-dren who come every Wednesday and learn about God. For more than half, that’s their church for the week. They don’t come on Sunday, and no one else in their house goes to church either. In January, they discussed “resolutions,” including New Year’s resolu-tions they had made, resolutions they make to God, and also God’s resolutions, or promises, to them.

On Thursdays, there is a Bible meeting with wor-ship, Bible study and lots of prayer: a great time of Christian celebration for the congregation.

A new ministry at Bethlehem is its monthly mar-riage meeting. DCC, Deeply Connected Couples, allows participants lots of interaction where com-munication is fostered between and within the cou-ples. This is not a pre-packaged program, rather they discuss things the couples face and try to get conversations started, but they keep it short, so the couples keep talking outside the meeting. When Rev. Schmidtke came to Bethlehem in 1989, he and his wife were the only young couple. Now there are a dozen attending this class, some engaged, some mar-ried, some not, but all wanting to get instruction about God’s idea of marriage. One example of a les-son is GFP: Guard, Focus, Pray. Guarding eyes and ears from things that are not God-pleasing. Focusing on your spouse. Praying with and for each other.

Sports has been an incredible blessing to Bethle-hem and the community. Basketball is used as out-reach. The four teams include a grade school team, a seventh and eighth grade team, and two high school teams. As the athletes go up the ladder, they even-tually have to be in church every Sunday to be on

the team. Most team members come because they know the church has a gym, they have heard about the team from others, or possibly they got in trouble at their school and can’t play there, but still want to participate in sports. Before every practice there is a Bible study and every week during the season, which runs November through March, they are in church, learning about salvation.

Every year, there are about 10 confirmations or baptisms of high school students, plus a few parents. All three coaches were once athletes themselves. This ongoing ministry brings people to Christ and creates leaders.

Better Living Communities is a housing proj-ect the congregation worked with to help redevelop the neighborhood and build new low income hous-ing units, including single-family homes and reno-vated apartments. This is not a project most churches would undertake, but renovation and restoration is what this community needed.

Some members of the congregation recently went on a mission trip to Uganda.

Continued on page 16:See mo.lcms.org for a four-minute video showing Bethlehem’s amazing progress.

From t he president ’s desk

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PresidentRayMirly

BeiNg god’s giftThe doorbell chimed. My wife answered the

door. When she opened the door a thin, well-dressed man stood there. She estimated him to be in his mid-40s. He asked if I was home. He said that he had been a student of mine many years ago when I was a Lutheran school teacher. He was in the St. Louis area visiting family and just wanted to come by to see me and thank me for what I had done for him.

My wife remembered his first name, but not his last. But, the first name was sufficient. I imme-diately knew who he was. This man had been a

student of mine. In addition to the usual classroom contact, he had also played on the basketball team that I coached. After graduation from grade school, he went on to a Lutheran high school. He was active in my high school youth group.

Something happened once the young man reached his 16th birthday. He started to “run with the wrong crowd.” He had minor scrapes with the law. And then he started using drugs. Soon thereafter, he was arrested for possession and ended up in prison. I visited him several times at the prison. There was nothing that seemed unusual about the visits. I simply encouraged him and always took time to share a devotion and prayer.

It never ceases to amaze me that the seemingly regular, expected, normal, routine things we do are far more important than we imagine. For me as a pastor, this included hospital and home visits; a brief conversation in the hallway at church before or after wor-ship; a phone conversation or simply a written note. Sharing a passage from the Bible, saying a prayer or just speaking words of encouragement was how I attempted to meet the needs of God’s people.

I’ve had the privilege of observing many Christians also do normal things. Little did they know what they did was important to the recipient. There was a woman who took duck eggs, carefully emptied the inside, gen-tly cut away an oval opening and then cre-ated Christian scenes of the nativity or other Biblical events in the cavity of the egg shell. She gave these as gifts to family, friends and sometimes strangers. Her creations were so well done that most all of them remain, sitting prominently on shelves, still giving their witness to all who see them.

Another woman sent cards (birthday, get well, anniversary, condolence, encourage-ment). She never forgot a birthday! She had a knack for finding just the right Christian card with the perfect message. Her personally penned words were always “just right.” I know recipients who continue to open these cards, even though received long ago, because their message still helps them get through the day.

These two women will probably never comprehend just how special their gifts were and how the Holy Spirit worked through them to help people focus on God’s presence in their life, His unconditional love and the peace He offers through the gift of faith in His Son.

What special gift has God given you? Is it being a friend? Perhaps you are handy at home repairs and help those who aren’t? Maybe you cook and share healthy meals with people in need. Witnessing our faith is best done when we live out our faith in our nor-mal, daily conduct of life. We have many opportunities to touch someone’s life in a way that witnesses Christ, who lives in our hearts.

We have received God’s gift that saves us from eternal death. We can be God’s conduit to provide to others an eternal blessing of life.

The seemingly regular, expected, normal, routine things we do are far more

important than we imagine.

Missouri district coNveNtioN caleNdar aNd updates

Congregations need to start planning for the 2012 Missouri District Con-vention. The convention will be June 3-5, 2012, at the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield, Mo.

Nominations for President and First Vice President are due Dec. 3, 2011.Nominations for Secretary, Treasurer, Board of Directors, Committee on

Nominations are due Jan. 3, 2012.Lay delegate forms are due in the district office on Jan. 2, 2012.As your congregation schedules board or voter meetings, please keep these

items and dates in mind. Congregation presidents and secretaries will be sent nomination forms and they will be posted on the district website when they become available.

presideNt’s prayer list

Please join me in prayer this month. Praise and thank God for our Epiphany Lord.Praise and thank God for the ministry of Christian Friends for New Americans in St. Louis. Praise and thank God for the ministry of LUMA in Kansas City (urban mission work).Praise and thank God for His unconditional love for us and for all people.Pray God to bless the 20+ new mission and ministry starts throughout the Missouri District.Praise and thank God for all the Missouri District early childhood ministries, elementary schools and Lutheran high schools (a total of 119).Praise and thank God for the Sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.Pray that God will bless and protect the life of the unborn.Pray that God will bless the life of the aging, the disabled and those in a vegetative state.Pray that God will bless the Christian witness that many Missourians are giving to the non-churched and de-churched.Pray God to bless the work of the placement committees of our Synod as they do the work of placing candidates from our seminaries and universities into their first ministry position.Pray the Holy Spirit to guide district congregations contemplating and/or extending Divine Calls. Pray God to bless all the men attending Missouri Synod seminaries.Pray God to bless all the men and women contemplating enrolling for full-time church careers at Missouri Synod universities and seminaries.Pray God creates a right spirit within each of us.Ask God to protect the men and women of the United States military.

fuNds raised for scholarshipsThe group from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans at Peace Lutheran Church, Camdenton, Mo., held a fundraiser

for three Amigos De Cristo children so they are able to continue their Christian education at St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Sedalia.

The amount raised was $1,409, which was matched by Thrivent’s “Care in the Community,” giving those three young children $2,818 for their next school year.

Thanks be to God!

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spriNgfield loft MiNistryEach Thursday evening, 20-45 people gather at Randy Bacon Studio in down-

town Springfield, Mo., for what is called the LOFT (Living Our Faith Together). Participants may be homeless, living in a shelter, working poor, school children from the neighborhood, volunteers from Redeemer Lutheran Church, Springfield, or friends from other churches who have a heart to reach people.

The first people to arrive, both volunteers and participants, pitch in to set up the place for the music and refreshments. A small group gathers around a table for 45 minutes of Bible reading and discussion on the life of Christ.

By 7 p.m., music begins as the talented members of City of David band play Christian music. The growing crowd interacts with smiles, greetings and conver-sations. Those who are new are offered free refreshments and a place to sit while enjoying the band.

This relational ministry was developed to reach people who may not on their own go to a typical church building. LOFT regulars are quick to engage each other in meaningful conversations about real life. It is typical that some come hurting with the stress of life and need someone with whom they can talk. Sometimes these conversations provide opportunities to share Scripture and prayer. The evening is much different than what church attendees would call worship but the atmosphere is definitely Christian, leading one young boy to say after a few weeks, “This is my church.”

Approximately half the participants are children ranging from 6 to 15 years from lower-income families and with a tumultuous past. Volunteers have come to know them as gifted, sensitive and intelligent youth, especially as they work with them at a craft table, play board games, or give encouraging attention throughout the evening. As one man who brings his own children and invites others says, “They just want to be loved.”

Though not envisioned at the outset, the ministry to children and youth is pres-ently seen as the most vital area of ministry. These children look forward to coming each week and the hope is to have a lasting impact for them to enjoy a wholesome Christian life. The ministry provides role-models and hopes to direct them in lives of stability and to break the cycle of generational poverty.

Initially, the LOFT was intentional in building relationships. The observer would wonder what could possibly be accomplished offering music, snacks, coffee, soda, water, crafts and games. But these all serve to give an atmosphere for building rela-tionships. Getting to know and trust each other has led people to open up about personal issues. As relationships grow, Christ becomes more and more the center of the conversations. Through genuine love and support, people have said that the LOFT has made a difference in their lives. For example, one man graduated from drug court saying he could not have made it through the last months if it had not been for the LOFT.

Though only 10 months old, this ministry has changed not only the lives of peo-ple in the downtown area, but also the lives of volunteers who have gained a greater understanding and perception of people as just that: people loved by God no mat-ter their socio-economic status.

faMily of the Week“Congratulations! You are our preschool family of the week,” Pastor Ken Sch-

urb has been telling various parents of Zion, Moberly, Mo., Lutheran preschool pupils. By the time he says these words to them over the phone, they have received a letter to this effect from the church. Their child has also brought home from preschool two copies of the upcoming Sunday bulletin which lists every member of their family by name and urges church members to pray for them all week.

Getting to know preschool parents can prove difficult. Opportunities to con-verse with them can turn out to be rather short and perfunctory. In the interests of making better contacts, preschool director Meagan Pemberton suggested a

“Family of the Week.” The process began at Zion’s year-opening orientation, when parents were given

the option of filling out a short form to express interest in being a family of the week. The forms of all the interested families – whether or not members of Zion or any other church – were arranged in alphabetical order by class.

During the school year, each successive interested family is designated week by week. The congregation prays for the family of the week during the Sunday ser-vice, and Pastor Schurb follows up with a telephone call. “Some of them are inter-ested in receiving a visit from me, others are not,” he reports. “When they are, an opportunity arises to become better acquainted, to speak the Gospel of Christ, and to express concern for the ongoing spiritual growth of their children. This opening can become especially useful in reaching out to some of our unchurched preschool families.”

The 2010-2011 school year is the first year Zion has designated families of the week. It will probably not be the last.City of David performs at the LOFT weekly.

a light to the NatioNsThe Gospel of Matthew identifies Jesus as the Light to the nations and summa-

rizes the ministry of the Messiah saying: “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teach-ing in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people” (Matt. 4:23). On Nov. 22, 2010, at Messiah Lutheran Church, St. Louis, our Lord continued His ministry through His people, as Christian Friends of New Americans (CFNA) hosted its annual Thanksgiving dinner. The nations gathered, that is, a couple hundred West and East Africans, Nepalese, and Bhutanese came to Messiah for food and fellowship. Rev. Ron Rall emceed the event that included singing and dancing from the vari-ous ethnic groups and words from a woman who spent 16 years in a refugee camp before coming to the United States. Rev. Michael Okine, pastor at Messiah, pro-claimed the Good News of God’s forgiveness in Christ; Rev. John Loum from Concordia Seminary taught the people of the Christian heritage of their new country; and Christians from Lutheran churches throughout the city worked together to meet the needs of these new friends.

Orphan Grain Train donated food prepared by volunteers from Messiah and Timothy, while Ascension provided dessert. In addition, Orphan Grain Train donated boxes of clothes and blankets. A youth group called YEAH, led by Jennifer Baxter, St. Paul, Des Peres, organized a clothing drive that transformed the school classrooms into a mall. The YEAH group worked together with youth groups from Chapel of the Cross in St. Peter’s, Messiah, and a local Girl Scout troop to set up, serve, and clean up. Adults from St. John’s and other congregations, along with some seminarians, stepped in to provide guidance and a helping hand when needed. Pastor James Uglum from Chapel of Cross provided transportation home for fami-lies with a church bus. It was an “all hands on deck” event.

The ministry of CFNA is a blessing to all nations and congregations involved as we build relationships with others grounded in Christ. It is exciting to see our Lord’s light shine in St. Louis, and we give Him thanks for the ongo-ing leadership of Rev. Dr. Allan Buckman and Rev. Adefris Mekasha of CFNA as we reach out to all the nations that continue to come to our community.

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Leaving the church parking lot, worshippers at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Concordia, Mo., are reminded by signs that they are “Now entering the mission field.” This past year, the church’s evange-lism team’s goal was to find new ways to reach out to the local community. Some of the church members had the opportunity to travel to foreign countries like Guatemala or China for mission work. Others helped with hurricane or tornado relief throughout the United States. But how can the church reach the mission field in its own backyard?

The evangelism team created a mini-servant event in which the entire congregation could par-ticipate. The team set a loftly goal:1,000 service hours. Out of this, the event’s name–Spirit Pow-ered Thousand Hours–was born, with Gal. 5:13,

“Serve one another in love,” as the theme. While it seemed like a big goal, our God is even bigger. It would be achieved through His help and guidance.

April 24, 2010, began with big, gray clouds and a 100 percent chance of thunderstorms. Still, more than 130 church members, ages 1-80+, gathered in the school gym for the Spirit Powered Thousand Hours. Red T-shirts sporting the Spirit Powered Thousand Hours logo were passed out. After a brief

devotion and a prayer for favorable weather, every-one was sent off to serve and witness.

The children made crafts for the nursing home residents and shut-ins. They performed songs at the nursing home and went “Easter caroling” to shut-ins. Not only were the shut-ins blessed, but some of their neighbors commented that they really appre-ciated the serenades.

The junior and senior high school students did Pump & Pray at the gas station. They pumped gas for all the customers for free and as they pumped, they had the opportunity to share Christ and pray with the customers. One eighth grader was excited because he had asked a lady if she knew God and she did. It was a great opportunity to witness to people traveling along I-70.

The adults served in various areas. Through the Spirit Powered Thousand Hours, everyone was able to use their specific God-given gifts. A few local families were identified who had some needs in their houses. One unchurched family had no electricity or heat in the upstairs of their home. Electricians fixed the problem and the family was given a space heater. Other projects included building a front porch, paint-ing a few homes, putting in a bathroom floor, repair-ing storm windows, and other odd jobs.

Many people served by doing yard work for the elderly. The local senior center got a good clean-ing and the f lower boxes along Main Street were given fresh soil. A few men built a large, beautiful f lower box for the nursing home. Some of the older members made snacks and bagged lunches that were delivered to all the workers. After preparing the food, the kitchen crew went door to door, shar-ing the Gospel. One of our senior ladies asked a stranger if she could pray for him. She later admit-ted that she had never done that before.

It was amazing seeing God’s workers spreading throughout the community. While the main goal was service, there were many opportunities to wit-ness to those around us. As one drove through town that morning, red T-shirted people could be seen everywhere.

One group of men doing yard work was joined by a neighborhood child. The child had seen them working and wanted to know what was happening.

They explained what they were doing. The child wanted to help. He joined the men, helping them clean-up an overgrown yard for the next few hours. Afterward, the men returned so they could give the boy one of the red T-shirts. The excitement and pride was evident in the boy’s smile.

Despite the gloomy weather, only a few paint-ing projects had to be postponed. The eminent thunderstorm waited to blow in until the last crew arrived back at the school. It is always good to know the Man who controls the storms!

The event culminated with a breakfast and pic-ture slide show the following morning during Sunday school hour. Different groups were able to talk about how they had served. Many people commented that they were blessed by being able to serve others. A visiting group of Teens Encoun-ter Christ (TEC) youth led an impromptu sing along. Everyone, especially the evangelism team, was surprised when the total hours served through the Spirit Powered Thousand Hours was revealed: 1,271. It was amazing seeing how God had worked through this project. Plans are already underway for another day of serving and witnessing!

spirit poWered thousaNd hourshoW a coMMuNity Was served oNe hour at a tiMe

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saleM lutheraN studeNts celeBrate seasoN of giviNgStudents at Salem Lutheran School, Black Jack/Florissant, Mo., found out that it’s

more fun to give than to receive. The students pushed their own Christmas wishes aside in order to gather toys, gifts and food for families served by St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church and School in north St. Louis’ Walnut Park neighborhood. The students, some seen here next to a tree overflowing with gifts, hoped to collect 2,010 items by the end of the season and they reached their goal! They also plan to donate the proceeds from their second quarter chapel offerings to the effort. Salem Lutheran School serves students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade and is located at 5190 Parker Road in Florissant. For more information, call (314) 741-8220, or visit www.salembjmo.org. Salem Lutheran is a member of the St. Louis-based Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA), www.metrolutheranschools.org.

Seekers are looking for answers in their life, and they seem to have the same questions:“Who am I?” “Why am I here?” “Is this all there is?” How do I reach them?Living life as a pastor in a small town, I struggle with the Great Commission, I feel

limited in resources. The local community is “beseeched” with theme churches. It feels like a new one pops up each week. People are flocking to these new upstarts because they have a name that just sounds “cool” e.g. - La Croix, the Cowboy Church or the Village church. Who doesn’t want to proclaim, “I go to the Cowboy Church!”

My dilemma may be the same as yours. I am proud to be Lutheran. I love Jesus, I love the Bible and the structure of the Lutheran Church. I am proud and subscribe to the Confessions on which we stand.

I believe in the message of the Gospel. God loves us so much, He stepped down from His mighty throne. He lived among us as a man and died and rose again so we who are believers can taste the treasures of heaven. This message is the only hope for salvation. So, how do I reach those who have never heard it? The Great Commission tells me I am supposed to be out evangelizing … but they didn’t have a class on that at the seminary. Now what?

I went out and tried to be creative. As I was out being creative and interacting with the public, I was shocked when a non-church-goer said, “The name Lutheran sounds scary.”

It doesn’t sound scary to me. The person wasn’t unreceptive to the Gospel, just unsure of what it meant to be Lutheran. How do we offer ourselves in a way that the non-believer, the non-church-goer, feels welcome?

This is when I stumbled into accidental evangelism. It happened when I wasn’t focus-ing on creative ministry – something I was doing to creatively reach out with the message of salvation.

It happened when I let go and let God take over.I had purchased a new Lutheran Study Bible and loved the footnotes. Along with the

biblical words, I liked reading the “stuff” between the readings. I was excited and preached about the Bible to my congregation. I preached how the

Word of God is new every day in a sermon titled “Spend some time with God.”On Monday, my wife asked if the two of us could start “spending some time with God”

together. Each week we decided to read one book of the Bible. This would mean after 66 weeks we will have read every page of our new Lutheran Study Bible.

What does this have to do with evangelism?

A congregation member heard about this and asked if they could read along with us. They purchased their own Bible and asked if after reading each book we could get together and talk about it. We set a discussion night at church. Things began to grow. A buzz started. Mul-tiple members asked to attend. Now there was a morning and an evening Bible study. This made me a little nervous. We are not a mega church. Was anyone going to show up? Two other people showed up besides me and my wife. Was this going to be me staring at my wife in our large meeting room? I had to give it up to God in prayer and asked that He would do whatever He wanted with this class. We began to enjoy reading God’s Word together.

Things began to change … and our class slowly grew. When I quit focusing on trying to be creative, the Holy Spirit stepped in.

Things exploded after that. We went from two to eight in each class, quadrupling in size! I wrote a congregational invitation to this event and the letter was picked up by our local newspaper.

The people attending felt so excited by the Word of God and moved by the Spirit, they began inviting friends seeking a church home or who knew the Word but were seeking solid food to chew on.

Our class just finished reading through the Old Testament and we started the New Testa-ment in January!

In one year, our two classes have a regular attendance of more than 30 people. We went from four to 30 of which 22 were not members of our church when they started attending. Evangelism happens when the Holy Spirit is poured out on an individual who hears the Gos-pel. That Spirit moves them to receive the Gospel and then and only then do they cling to the Word. I am so happy to report to you for those 30 people who are clinging to the Word of God weekly!

Outreach/Evangelism does not happen overnight. This attendance is not about me. It is not about being Lutheran. It is not about being anything but a disciple of Christ. It is about an opportunity to reach these 30 people with the solid food of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Simply put, evangelism is not necessarily about being creative. It is not always about re-inventing outreach. Accidental evangelism happens when you simply try to live out your life consistently in creed and character, beliefs and behavior. Be true to God and do what God has called you to do. Non-Christians are quick to see hypocrisy and false piety and yet they want desperately to know the truth.

Share the Gospel in everything you do. You might be surprised how God will use you!Pastor Tony Kobak

accideNtal evaNgelisM

Missouri voluNteer teachiNg iN vietNaMHanna Faith Hartman serves through

LCMS World Mission as a GEO volun-teer in Hanoi, Vietnam. She teaches Eng-lish at a university in Hanoi and through this, builds relationships with her stu-dents in and out of the classroom. (GEO volunteers serve in locations around the world for terms of one to two years.)

Hanna is a member of Faith Lutheran Church in her hometown of Jefferson City, Mo. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in philosophy and religion from Truman State University in Kirksville, Mo. Over the years, Hanna involved herself at Faith in several ways, including helping with vacation Bible school, serving as a Bible reader, and going on short-term service trips with her youth group to Michigan, Tennessee, Montana and Minnesota. While at Truman, she served on the Lutheran Student Fellowship’s Executive Board for two years and participated in spring break service trips to Texas and Arkansas.

Hanna’s hobbies include reading, writing and watching movies.Please pray for Hanna as she serves the people of Vietnam. Pray that God would

grant her humility and remind her that she cannot carry out her work without His strength and guidance. Pray that He would give her focus to embrace the tasks that He sets before her, and that He would grant her His peace when responsibilities and challenges seem overwhelming. Pray also that the Lord would grant her family peace while she is in Vietnam and that the Vietnamese students she serves would have open hearts.

Com mu n icat ions

New Subscription/Change of Address FormTheVoiceofMissouri is provided free of charge to all Missouri District–LCMS

congregation member households. Check with your church office to have your address added or changed. If you are not a Missouri District congregation member and wish to receive a copy, forward the completed form below to: TheMissouriDistrict–LCMS,Attn.:VOICESubscriptions,660MasonRidgeCenterDrive,Suite100,St.Louis,MO63141-8557orsendthesameinformationbye-mailtomovoice@mo.lcms.org

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PresidentRev. Dr. Ray Mirly (314) 317-4570Ray.Mirly@mo.lcms.org

Assistant to the President – Missions/Congregational Services Rev. Dr. Stuart W. Brassie (314) 317-4558Stuart.Brassie@mo.lcms.org

Assistant to the President – School MinistryDennis Gehrke (314) 317-4567Dennis.Gehrke@mo.lcms.org

Vice President – Lutheran Church Extension FundDennis A. Klussman (314) 317-4560Dennis.Klussman@lcef.org

Assistant to the President – Financial Planning and ControlPeter Krege (314) 317-4552Peter.Krege@mo.lcms.org

St. Louis Social Service Outreach and Volunteer CoordinatorMJ Wurdeman (314) 317-4559MJ.Wurdeman@mo.lcms.org

Assistant to the President – Family Life and Youth Ministry/Congregational HealthRev. Gene Wyssmann (417) 766-2183gawyssmann@hotmail.com

Financial SpecialistRuth Ann Grebe (314) 317-4569RuthAnn.Grebe@mo.lcms.org

Publications Specialist/Voice EditorJennifer Krupp (314) 317-4553Jennifer.Krupp@mo.lcms.org movoice@mo.lcms.org

Education SpecialistMartha Schellin (314) 317-4567Martha.Schellin@mo.lcms.org

Hospitality SpecialistDonna Seipp (314) 317-4570Donna.Seipp@mo.lcms.org

Office and Human Resources ManagerKaren Siegel (314) 317-4565Karen.Siegel@mo.lcms.org

Events SpecialistSue Thompson (314) 317-4556Sue.Thompson@mo.lcms.org

Missouri district staff

Who are We?The Missouri District consists of 300 congregations. the visioN: Congregations of the Missouri District—LCMS partnering as one church, united in doctrine, ready, equipped and acting to fulfill the Great Commission in their unique setting with their unique people.the MissioN: The Missouri District—LCMS is to serve and encourage congregations to fulfill the Great Commission and promote unity of the true faith.

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The Missouri District—LCMS660 Mason Ridge Center DriveSuite 100St. Louis, MO 63141-8557Phone: (314) 317-4550Fax: (314) 317-4575

editor: JeNNifer krupp

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Advertising must pertain to church ministry-specific services.

Submissions:When submitting an article to “The

Voice,” e-mails sent to movoice@mo.lcms.org are strongly preferred. Articles mailed on disk should have a hard copy included. If neither of these are possible, please type and double-space your article. Faxed articles will not be accepted.

Please furnish sharply focused original photographs. JPEGs, GIFs or TIFFs may be e-mailed at 300 dpi at 5x3.5” size.

Submission deadline: First day of month preceding publication.Upcoming deadlines and themes:

March 1 April/May Family LifeMay 1 June/July Mission to the World

Photos will not be returned. Make copies before submitting. Identify all photo sub-jects (left to right, front to back); what they are doing; name and date of event depicted; why subject is there; include suggested cap-tion. Please do not write on the back of a photo—write on a label and then affix it to back of photo. Get permission from the people in your picture(s) before sub-mitting. Submission of pictures implies approval.

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is your plaN up to date?In the past several months, Kathy and I both

lost one of our parents. We have experienced tremendous blessings during this time. Over and over again, stories have been shared that remind us of the great gift s Mom and Dad were in our

lives. Th ey provided for our spiritual, physical, and mental upbringing. With their passing, they continued those gift s through the Lifetime Plan for Giving that had been established in both cases to leave a legacy of their faith, to bless their family, and to bless ministry. One fi nal gift —an up-to-date plan that will continue to help us deal with their death with peace, joy, and confi dence. Th ank you, Mom and Dad!

For more information, contact:Kirk Mueller—LCMS Foundation Gift Planning Counselor

11645 Benham Road, St. Louis, MO 63136(314) 704-4389

Kirk.mueller@lcms.org

Kirk Mueller

do you have a plaN?

Dist r ic t News

the Missouri district lutheraN layMeN’s leagueregioNal outreach coNfereNce coMiNg to Missouri

Now that the International Lutheran Laymen’s League has gone to biennial conventions, Regional Outreach Conferences (ROC) are being held in the off years. Seven conferences are scheduled for 2011 and the early part of 2012 in seven states.

The ROC for the south-central part of the country will be held in Branson, Mo., May 13-14. More information will soon be available. Check the ROC website at www.lhm.org/roc or call 1-800-876-9880 for the latest news. Reserve these dates on your calendar now and maybe add a few more days to enjoy what the Branson area offers.

The goal of the ROC is to train and encourage God’s people to be mission-minded wit-nesses for Jesus Christ, ready and able to speak His truth to struggling souls wherever they may be.

The two-day event will include:• Topics such as “Engaging the Mission Field in Your

Community,” “Evangelism Technology in the 21st Century,” “Reaching Out to the Hispanic Popula-tion, a Diverse Cultural Community,” and more;

• Opportunities to connect with local, national, and international ministries who can partner with you in sharing the Gospel;

• A five14 witnessing training event for teens and outreach-themed “Vacation Bible School” activities for children.

MissioN uLHM introduced Mission U as a training program for laypeople to prepare them to wit-

ness the love of Jesus Christ in any situation. Similar to the “Equipping to Share” workshops, Mission U goes a step further and mimics a university setting by having classroom training led by qualified and trained instructors followed up by web-based seminars.

Classes are broken down into two semesters that follow school schedules.

Courses are also similar to universities:MU-101 Equipping to Share: Everyday EvangelismMR-102 Witnessing Methods: Seven Styles of Faith-sharingMU-201 Dealing with Tough QuestionsMU-202 The Outreach-Minded Church: Unified Vision and MissionMU-301 Christ Alone in a Coexist World

Continuing education is handled through “Webinars” with special speakers. A “Web Office” is open twice a month for students to share stories and ask questions.

There is tuition for Mission U. Congregations can co-host to share the expense and charge a registration fee to offset the tuition expense. Tuition covers expenses for all classes.

For complete information on Mission U, contact Sarah Guldalian at Lutheran Hour Ministries, 660 Mason Ridge Center Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141, e-mail missionu@lhm.org or call (800) 317-4100, ext. 4144, or visit www.whatsmissionu.com.

JeffersoN city ZoNe reforMatioN rallyCelebrating the 80th year of The Lutheran Hour, area clergy and laymen portrayed the

early and current speakers by reading excerpts from their sermons.

Readers were Rev. Gerald Scheperle (Dr. Wal-ter Maier), Mr. Andrew Melendez (Dr. Andrew Melendez, Spanish Lutheran Hour speaker), Rev. Martin Hoyer (Dr. Armin Oldsen), Rev. Peter Lange (Dr. Oswald Hoffmann), Rev. Jeffery Schanbacher (Dr. Wallace Schulz), Rev. Samuel Powell (Dr. Dale Meyer), and David Jungmeyer as Rev. Ken Klaus. Rev. Peter Kurowski led the rally program.

Questions or comments? Contact: jack1422@mchsi.com

David Jungmeyer portrays Rev. Ken Klaus in the “Baloney Shop.”

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WeB site for the Missouri district lll:WWW.lutheraNsoNliNe.coM/Missouridistrictlll

Yes, Jesus taught in a synagogue, but He also taught by a well, in a boat, on a mountain, by the sea, in an upper room and in any number of places where His flock could touch and feel the closeness of God. Jesus beckoned people out of their comfort zone and taught them to look at their relationships, the world and their God in a totally different way.

Today, there is a uniquely different learning environment accessible to every school in the Missouri District. It is not exactly down the hall and around the corner, but for many schools it is within easy driving distance. It is not a chemistry or biology lab. It is a laboratory for the exploration of nature. And because nature is the grand creation of the living God, there is the promise for personal inspiration, spiritual nurture and the hands-on, nose-in-the-dirt kind of learning that children can only describe by yelling “AWE-SOME” at the top of their lungs. Camp Wartburg is an outdoor classroom that lets children connect with God and His creation, an experience that can last a lifetime.

It has been said that “when you experience God in nature, you learn something about the nature of God.” Children studying in Camp Wartburg’s out-door laboratory discover the intricate design of a dew-covered spider web. They feel the power of the wind before a storm and hear its song in the rustle of the trees. From lightning bugs to lizards, students catch the awe in the construct of nature. Their curiosity is triggered and they stretch to learn more.

Camp also brings sanctuary worship out into an exciting setting before a blaz-ing campfire under a sky with a million stars. Singing praises to the King becomes more joy-filled. Children feel a part of it all. They have left their computer games and cell phones behind to explore a world of forest, creek and fields. They have bonded as a group and found camaraderie in their shared experiences.

Finally, Camp Wartburg adds a special dimension to the mandate of every Chris-tian school to mold students into Christian leaders. Camp offers new opportunities for success that are not available in a brick and mortar school. Shooting an arrow, playing non-traditional games, fishing, building a fire, paddling a canoe, leading a small group in prayer and so many more activities are occasions where students can excel and lead others.

Camp Wartburg works with more than 40 schools in the course of a year. Some come for just a day; some for up to four days and nights. Most prepare their students through class-room studies which are then validated by on-site data collection and observation. Science, math-ematics, English, theology and even social stud-ies are subjects which invite pursuit in a natural environment. Located within an hour of nearly anywhere in the Greater St. Louis area, Camp Wartburg is an ideal destination as schools expand their classrooms to include the great outdoors.

Camp Wartburg is a retreat center and camp facility that invites youth, adults and families to encounter God’s creation through activities devoted to the body, mind and spirit. Camp Wart-burg is an appealingly low-key and safe place—a

welcoming natural setting for new and unique adventures and moments of prayer-ful reflection. Visitors can take part in a variety of summer camps, three-season outdoor education events for organized groups and schools, and year-round facility rentals for one-day and overnight retreats, family reunions and other events. For more information, contact Camp Wartburg at (618) 939-7715, or try our website at www.campwartburg.com. Camp Wartburg is located at 5705 LRC Road, Water-loo, IL 62298.

caMp WartBurg: Nature’s laBoratory

Fa m i ly Li fe a nd Yout h

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What does the Missouri District do for the youth of your congregation? Besides being a resource for congregations, the district hosts a variety of youth ministry retreats and gatherings throughout the year. One such ministry event is the twice-a-year junior high retreat.

The 2010-2011 Junior High Retreats focus on prayer. The theme is based on Phil. 4:6 (NIV), “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

We are excited to have DCE Travis Hartjen as our presenter! Serving as a church planter in the North Dallas area, Hartjen started off as a youth minister where he served for more than 10 years. During that time, he had the opportunity to speak at schools, youth gatherings, conferences and training workshops across the nation. He is excited about the opportunity to start a church that will not only feed those who know Christ but will be effective in connecting with those who don’t know the amazing love and freedom found only in Jesus. His wife and four children currently live in Frisco, Texas, where they are building a community to launch the church.

Thanks to the positive evaluations from last spring’s retreat, music for the retreat will be provided by the Christian band Parallax View.

We welcome their musical talents and hearts for ministry as a part of the weekend.

Who can go? Youth: primarily in grades six, seven and eight.Adult Counselors: Approximately one for each seven youth (male counselors

for male youth and female counselors for female youth, please).

What will we do? In addition to our four-part session/Bible study, there will be games, fel-lowship, talent show, servant event projects and worship. The “Saturday Night Fun Fest” includes hayrides, board games, basketball, music, dance lessons and karaoke. Camp Windermere offers free, open gym time on Saturday afternoon. Recreational fields and equipment are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Feel free to bring your own gloves, bats, balls, tennis rackets, etc. The camp also offers some equipment for a small rental fee.

What’s the cost? $115 per person (same for youth and adults). A deposit of $50 per person is due with registration. The balance is due upon arrival at camp. Lodging is in the Wilderness Creek Lodge, a motel-style room with bath-room, heat/air and carpeting. You will need to bring your own bedding and towels. Meals are provided in the camp dining hall beginning with breakfast on Saturday. No meal is served Friday evening. Groups should eat before arriving at camp.

Registration information: All registrations and deposits must be received at the district office by Friday, March 4. All registrations must be accompanied by a non-refundable deposit. Early registration is encouraged. Registrations received after March 4, with or without deposit, at the district office are not guaranteed.

Refund policy, directions, scholarship info: Can be found on our website and was included in a mailing to your church. mo.lcms.org

iN everythiNg … Missouri district JuNior high retreat

March 25-27

Program includes:Community building activitiesTopics and a variety of workshopsMusic and fellowshipBanquet and entertainmentOpportunities to make new friends

Date: May 3-4 Location: Cross Pointe Retreat Center, Rocky Mount, Mo.Questions: Call (314) 317-4556 or e-mail: Sue.Thompson@mo.lcms.org

Cost: One check takes care of it all! Registration includes everything you need for a great retreat (lodging at Cross Pointe’s beautiful hotel, program and all meals):

$105 per person (double occupancy)$135 per person (single occupancy)$210 per couple

Bus option: A 36-passenger bus will be available from the parking lot of Lutheran Hour Ministries in St. Louis to the retreat site for just $20 per person, round trip, thanks to a gift from Thrivent. If interested, please indicate on the registration form and send payment.

Deadline: Registration form (with payment) must be postmarked no later than April 15. Due to contract obligations, there will be no refund of deposit after April 15. Visit mo.lcms.org for registration/brochure.

The Presenters: Rich Bimler will be our keynote speaker. Join Dr. Bimler for: “How to be Dancing with the Stars!” No need to be on TV

to dance with the stars! In fact, we all are “dancing with the stars” as we joyfully live out our lives in the constellation of God’s world! Also, “EncourAGING…One Another!” as we live and dance through life, we shine like stars by affirming and supporting those other younger and older stars around us!

Workshop Leaders:Ken Black, coordinator of the Senior Adult Ministry at Trinity Lutheran

Church, Roselle, Ill., and AIMS (Adults Involved in Mentoring Students).Don and Gayle Sommerfeld, founders and volunteer coordinators with

MOST Ministries: short-term mission trips and volunteer service projects. MJ Wurdeman, St. Louis Social Service outreach and volunteer coordinator

Missouri District – LCMS.Rev. Walter Schoedel, director of church relations for Lutheran Senior Ser-

vices of Missouri and Illinois and pastor emeritus of Concordia Lutheran Church in Kirkwood, Mo.

Sponsored by: The Older Adult Ministry Planning Committee and the Mis-souri District Family Life and Youth Board.

Missouri district older adult MiNistry retreat

Fa m i ly Li fe a nd Yout h

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Would you atteNd a Walther league reuNioN?

yes No We want to know if there is enough interest in a Walther League

reunion to start making plans. So, would you be interested in having a Walther League reunion and would you really plan to attend?

Would you be willing to serve on a district committee for a reunion, or do you know of someone who might serve and share their name and contact information with us?

What suggestions do you have for a location and time of year for such a reunion?

Please contact gawyssmann@hotmail.com with answers to any of these questions, or any other suggestions/ideas you might have regard-ing a Walther League reunion.

This would be open to any Walther Leaguers, or anyone who wish they could have been! Why now? It’s the bicentennial of Walther’s birth!

March 18-20at

saiNt paul iNstitute for educatioN coNcordia, Mo.

a retreat for siNgles of all ages!Community building activities and service

Learn how to take this “back home” Make new friends

This year’s retreat presenter is Rev. Gene Wyssmann. Gene will present: Connect-ing Singles in Ministry.

Jesus says, “I am the vine, you are the branches” (John 15:5). There are so many connections in life! The most important one for each of us is that as His children, our God is “Connecting” to us. He does that through His Word. He does that through His means of grace. He does that with the constant presence of His Spirit, who guides and directs us in life. As we gather, we will celebrate the opportunity we have to daily connect with Jesus Christ, and what that means for daily living. With God’s marvel-ous grace in our lives, let’s talk and plan about ways we can connect with others, with our church, and with our community too! Come join the fun and fellowship. 

let’s BraiNstorM Ways to Be “coNNectiNg!”  Cost: $115 per person—double occupancy. If you do not register a roommate request,

one will be assigned. $175 per person—single occupancy. No lodging: $52 for program and meals Friday through Sunday/$40 per person Saturday, March 19.

Deposit: $70 is required with registration for either double or single occupancy. Deadline: Registration form (with deposit) must be postmarked no later than March

4, 2011. No refund of deposit after March 4. Full registration information can be found at mo.lcms.org. Questions: call (314) 317-4556 or e-mail: Sue.Thompson@mo.lcms.org

seNior high youth gatheriNg

hearts oN fire … i coNNect“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you

so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last— and so that whatever you ask in my name

the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other.”

(John 15:16-17)

JuNe 24-26Missouri state uNiversity – spriNgfield, Mo.

Music: parallax vieW

MaiN preseNter: Brad allesBrad Alles teaches religion at Milwaukee

Lutheran High School in Milwaukee, Wis. He graduated from Concordia University, Nebraska in Seward, Neb., with a bachelor’s degree in education, majoring in art and theol-ogy, and received his master’s degree in Chris-tian education from Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, Ill. After teaching for three years at Concordia Lutheran High School in Tomball, Texas, he has spent the last 19 years at his alma mater, Milwaukee Lutheran.

Known for his ability to break down Scrip-ture so it is easily understood and applied, he is a frequent Bible study teacher at Milwaukee area churches, and he also travels to state and national youth events. His passion for God’s Word comes through clearly in his teaching style. He, his wife, Kelly, and their daughters, Makiah and Kaleah, live in Germantown, Wis.

Registration materials will be mailed and be available on the district website, mo.lcms.org, by the end of February.

Youth are encouraged to invite and bring their unchurched friends.Registration fee is $149 per person.

Activities will include the main speaker, nightly devotions, Bible stud-ies, servant events, work-shops, and time to get to know each other dur-ing the Saturday evening entertainment time. The gathering ends with wor-ship on Sunday morning.

Educat iona l Ser v ices

calvary lutheraN high school eNters NeW BuildiNgThe idea of having a Lutheran high school in the Jefferson City area began in 2003.

The Lutheran High School Association of Mid-Missouri, comprised of six area churches, was organized in 2005. “Calvary Lutheran High School” was chosen as the name. Fall classes began in rented facilities with nine students. Erich Ahlers was called as the first full-time principal and teacher. The 2008-09 school year began with all four grades and 39 students. In 2007, John Engelbrecht was called as the first administrator.

In October 2008, 23 acres were purchased southeast of the city. Ground blessings took place in November 2009; ground break-ing was held in March of 2010 and construction began in June.

Dedication was held Dec. 5, 2010. Presiding Minister Rev. Russell Bowder led the opening service. After presentation of the

keys and opening the door, the congregation entered the school for the conclusion of the service. Area clergy assisted with the service and Rev. Samuel Powell had the sermon.

Fifty-three students enjoyed moving to the new building and classes began Dec. 13.Relationships have been developed

and will continue to be enhanced with Lutheran universities such as Concordia University Nebraska and Concordia University Portland, Ore. These relationships have resulted in our students having the opportu-nity for college level courses offered at Calvary. We anticipate continuing these relationships and adding more courses for our students.

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greeN park 50th aNNiversaryGreen Park Lutheran School, St. Louis, Mo., is celebrating its 50th anniversary this

school year! Many events are being planned, with the big celebration event being held at the school on Sunday, May 22. More information will follow on all the events happen-ing at GPLS.

For now, we need all alumni and former faculty to submit your name and address to the school office so we can include you in all of the plans!

You can e-mail Beth (Palisch) Berner at gpls@greenparklutheranschool.org. We look forward to hearing from all of you and seeing you at our celebration in May!

lutheraN high school south choirs preseNt sacred coNcert at epiphaNy lutheraN church

The Lutheran South Choirs will present sacred music from the Lutheran traditions of Epiphany and Lent, highlighting Jesus as the Light of the World, Bread of Life, and Living Water at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 6.

The concert is presented in the beautiful sanctuary of Epiphany Lutheran Church, St. Louis, located at 4045 Holly Hills Blvd., across from Carondelet Park. Off-street park-ing is available at Woerner School, 6131 Leona St., adjacent to Epiphany. A reception with light refreshments will be served immediately following the concert in Epiphany’s Fellowship Hall.

The Lutheran South Choirs consist of three mixed graduated choruses and are open to students of all levels desiring to sing. The introductory Mixed Chorus performs sepa-rate music for young men and women. The larger Concert Choir is a mixed chorus of mostly upper grade singers. Lancer Singers is an elite chamber chorus focused on mixed works of a more challenging nature.

The Lutheran South Choirs are directed by Greg Gastler, who is in his third year of teaching at Lutheran South. Gastler also serves as the choir director of Epiphany Church, and interim conductor of Laudamus at Concordia Seminary, Clayton. Gastler enjoyed nine years as an associate director with the St. Louis Children’s Choirs and served previously as a music marketing manager at Concordia Publishing House. He also served as choir director in several churches and schools in Texas.

Lutheran South is a college preparatory school serving students having a variety of learning needs and aspirations and is located at 9515 Tesson Ferry Road in Affton, Mo.

For more information please contact Greg Gas-tler at ggastler@lhssonline.org, call Lutheran South at (314) 631-1400 or visit www.lhssonline.org.

MartiN luther acadeMy dedicatioNMartin Luther Academy (MLA) of Kansas City, Mo., held its dedication service

at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 30,, at Christ Lutheran Church, Platte Woods. MLA pur-chased property at 7112 N. Overland Drive, Kansas City, Mo., in late 2009 and, after significant renovations and expansions, the first day of classes was held in the new facility on Monday, Jan. 3.

MLA is a kindergarten through eighth grade accredited elementary school. It is governed by the Northland Lutheran School Association, an association of five area LCMS congregations formed 10 years ago. This is an exciting time in the life of MLA, which commenced class offerings in 2003 in leased space. It has taken more than eight years, but MLA now is in its own facility! It is the intent and hope that more and more families in Kansas City’s Northland will be reached with the Gospel message through Christian education at MLA.

MLA has 90 students with the intent of increasing its enrollment to more than 100 for the 2011-12 school year. The new facility has nine classrooms, a media cen-ter, lunch room, commons area, science/art room, all purpose/athletic room, three offices and lower level storage.

MLA extends its deep gratitude to Christ Lutheran Church, Platte Woods, for hosting the school since 2004. For more information about MLA and pictures of the new facility, go to www.martinlutheracademy.org.

Rev. Russell Bowder, front, leads the opening service.

Lutheran South Lancer Singers.

Messiah lutheraN school expaNds preschool, adds early childhood director

Messiah Lutheran School, Wel-don Spring, Mo., has expanded its preschool program and added a full-time Early Childhood Program Director position to the school staff. Messiah’s preschool now offers four options for parents of 3-and 4-year-olds: traditional half-day, school day, extended school day, and full day programs. In addition, parents can choose from two, three, four or five days a week, and take advantage of the school’s drop-in program when needed. “We listened to the parents in our community and responded to their need for flexibility,” said Dr. Tom Guen-zler, Messiah Lutheran School administrator. “Now parents can take advantage of our well-respected program in a format that meets the specific needs of their family.”

To ensure the success of the expanded program, Messiah added a full-time Direc-tor of Early Childhood Program to its staff. This position has some teaching respon-sibility, but will mainly focus on keeping Messiah’s program on the leading edge of early childhood development. “Early childhood development is critically impor-tant,” said Guenzler. “By adding a director-level position to oversee our program, Messiah acknowledges this importance and makes a commitment to the program’s future advancement.”

Messiah Lutheran School is located at 5911 S. Highway 94 in Weldon Spring, Mo., and serves 287 students in grades pre-kindergarten through eighth. For more information on Messiah, visit www.messiahnetwork.org/school.

L eadersh ip Tra i n i ng

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What is a speed networking event?

• Anevennumberofparticipantsgathertogiveandreceiveinformationaroundaspecifictopic.

• A participant is seated facing anotherparticipantatatable.

• At the sound of a bell, participantshave a set time within which to giveinformationandaskquestionsofeachother.

• Atthesoundofanotherbell,participantsstoptomakeadditionalnotes.

• Oneparticipantwillremainatthesametable throughout the event while theother participant rotates to the nexttableforanewround.

• The speed networking is completedwhen all of the rotating participantshave completed a roundwith each ofthestationaryparticipants.

• Time is also provided for informalnetworking,foodandfellowship.

• The participant’s notes taken duringthe networking rounds will providetheinformationneededforappropriatefollow-up after the event. This is anetworking event and as such eachindividualisontheirowntodetermineif,howandwhentheywill furthertherelationshipsbegunduringtheevent.

speed NetWork your Way to dyNaMic collaBoratioNs

You have probably heard of speed dat-ing. There are few who have not. Developed by Rabbi Yaacov Deyo and his wife, Sue, in the late 1990s as a way to help Jewish singles meet each other, this secure, yet exciting way to meet potential dates has become a standard of today’s pop culture.

Speed dating was so successful that the business community adopted the process as a tool for increased networking opportunities. It is a well-established fact that networking is a key component for developing successful businesses.

Matchmakers and business leaders alike have fun while increasing their successes in relationship building. At Send Me St. Louis (SMSL) we asked, “Why shouldn’t we use this proven process to support God’s work being done through our area Lutheran congrega-tions and faith-based organizations?” So we are.

SMSL has developed opportunities to gather around a specific social service ministry area for networking and relationship building. The first speed networking event is being done around home repair. Later in the spring we will host speed networking around homelessness.

Is this event for you or someone from your congregation? Ideas for those who may benefit from this networking experience include: Staff or lay leaders currently involved in a home repair ministry; Staff or lay leaders considering develop-ing a home repair ministry; Home repair ministry leaders looking for volunteers, resources or collaborations;

Faith based organizations currently doing a home repair program; Faith based organizations looking for volunteers, resources or collaborations for home repair; Anyone with organizational or building skills considering home repair ministry; and Anyone with material resources that might be used in this ministry and who is inter-ested in involvement.

The event will include several rounds of speed networking and time for food, fellow-ship and informal networking. For more information visit sendmestlouis.org, or con-tact MJ Wurdeman at (314) 317-4559 or mj.wurdeman@mo.lcms.org.

Speed Networking: Home RepairThursday, Feb. 10, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at

the Lutheran Hour Ministry building, 660 Mason Ridge Center Dr., St. Louis, MO 63141.

The event is free but registration is manda-tory. Deadline is Feb. 8. Register at sendmest-louis.org/content/events.php.

Click on “Speed Networking: Home Repair” listed on Feb. 10.

Hold the date for the second event: Speed Networking – Homelessness on Thursday, April 7.

a plaNNiNg process: start With god’s gifts How often have our congregation leaders come up with a great idea for ministry

just to have the bubble burst by the realist among us announcing, “We don’t have the money.” Sometimes we are able to forge ahead and find the financial resources, but all too often we simply become Winnie the Poo’s curmudgeon friend, Eeyore, and drop the idea with a heavy sigh.

An exciting and energetic process called “Asset Mapping” may be the answer to your dead-end brainstorming. Asset Mapping acknowledges God’s blessing and starts with the premise that God has indeed given us what we need to do His work. It uses a process of identifying assets and then creatively connecting those assets for a ministry/program/project that will serve others and glorify Him.

About 15 months ago a large number of St. Louis area Lutherans came together to learn the Asset Mapping process. This March, Send Me St. Louis will offer that training again as a refresher to those who participated previously and as an intro-duction to creative ministry planning for those who did not. The process can be used with almost any ministry planning but we will zero in on social service out-reach ministry during the three-hour training. You will get the most out of it if you can bring a team of three or more. If that is not possible, we still want you to come and learn. For information contact MJ Wurdeman at (314) 317-4559 or mj.wurdeman@mo.lcms.org.

Asset Mapping TrainingSaturday, Feb. 26, from 8:45 a.m. to noon at the Lutheran Hour Ministry build-

ing, 660 Mason Ridge Center Dr., St. Louis, MO 63141. For additional informa-tion and registration go to http://sendmestlouis.org/content/events.php and click on “Asset Mapping Training.”

supportiNg voluNteer MaNagersThroughout the New Testament we are encouraged to support each other both

in our spiritual lives and our everyday living. Today, a variety of support systems abound that build up the lives of professional church staff and lay members alike. Send Me St. Louis has uncovered a unique opportunity to provide for an additional small but very significant group of congregation/organization leaders, the Christian Volunteer Managers. Whether your congregation or faith-based organization has someone with that title or not, you undoubtedly have someone (staff or lay member, paid or volunteer) doing the job of the Christian Volunteer Manager. We want to support them through the development of a quarterly Christian Volunteer Manag-ers Network meeting. Details regarding the first meeting include:

Christian Volunteer Managers NetworkFor those who coordinate volunteers in congregations and faith-based organizations

Thursday, March 3, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Lutheran Hour Ministries building, 660 Mason Ridge Center Dr., St. Louis, MO 63141.

For complete information go to http://sendmestlouis.org/content/events.php and click on Christian Volunteer Managers Network or contact Melinda McAliney, (314) 231-2244 or Melinda@lutheranfoundation.org.

Benefits of Speed Networking

• Focusisononesubjectonly• Opportunity to talk with many

peopleinashorttime• Easy and simple for even the more

reservedperson• Valuabletimenotwastedinresearch,

playingphonetagandfalseleads• Opens up possibilities you never

thoughtof• Develops valuable relationships you

would have never dreamed of (butare willing to see where God willtakeyou)

• Providesleadsforfurthernetworking• Usesavaluablesocialstructuretodo

God’swork

Concord ia Sem i na r y, St . L ou is

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Upcoming Seminary Guild Meeting:

February11

prepare/eNrich Workshop aNd traiNiNg coMiNg sooN

Mark logid WelcoMed aNd ruth McdoNNell iNstalled

Concordia Seminary will offer a Prepare/Enrich Workshop and Training on Saturday, March 12, to be held on the seminary campus. The workshop will begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m.

This workshop is designed to help facilitators learn how to use the Prepare/Enrich program with premarital and married couples. Prepare/Enrich is a program based on a set of five inventories that examine major relationship issues a couple may experience. These inventories must be administered by a trained Prepare/Enrich counselor and include four to six feedback sessions in which the counselor facilitates discussion between the couple based on the inventory results. Takeaway materials include the Comprehensive Counselor Manual, five inventories for premarital and married couples at all stages of life, and a Building a Strong Marriage Workbook.

The workshop will be facilitated by Rev. Jeffery S. Schubert, executive pastor at Divine Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hartland, Wis. He previously served as executive director of district and congregational services at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s International Center in St. Louis, Mo. He is a certified trainer in Prepare/Enrich and is recognized for his national and international leadership in marriage enrichment.

The fee for the Prepare/Enrich Workshop is $190 (or $175 for Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, students). Pre-registration by Feb. 25 is required. Fee is nonrefundable after this date. Lunch is available in the seminary dining hall.

For more information, contact the office of continuing education and parish services at (314) 505-7486; ce@csl.edu; or visit the seminary’s website at www.csl.edu.

Concordia Seminary is pleased to announce the Second Hispanic Lutheran Theological Consultation and the Sixth Annual Lecture in Hispanic/Latino Theology and Missions. The theme for the three-day event is: “Second and Third Generation Hispanics in the United States: Questions and Implications for the Church.” The event is scheduled Monday, March 14, through Wednesday, March 16. Dinner and a Latino movie night will kick off the events on March 14.

The Sixth Annual Lecture speaker is Dr. Victor M. Rodríguez, professor at California State University, Long Beach, Calif. (CSULB), who will present on “The New Latino Generations: Caught Between Two Worlds.” The lecture will take place in Werner Auditorium at 7 p.m. on March 15.

Dr. Rodríguez is a sociologist and professor in the department of Chicano and Latino Studies. He received his doctorate in comparative culture (sociology) from the University of California, Irvine. He is a national speaker on Latino issues and as an anti-racist multicultural education trainer has worked with universities, corporations, social service agencies, police departments and religious organizations. His writing and research focuses on the role of race and ethnicity in the United States and Puerto Rico. His most recent book, Latino Politics in the U.S. (Kendall-Hunt Press, 2005), received an honorable mention in the Gustavus Myer Center Outstanding Books Awards process that year. He served as associate director for studies in social science for

the Commission for Church in Society and later as associate director for racial justice in the Commission for Multicultural Ministries of the Evangelical Lutheran Church national headquarters in Chicago from 1987 to 1990. From 1990 to 2000, he was a professor of sociology and director of the social work program at Concordia University, Irvine.

As part of these events, the Second Hispanic Lutheran Theological Consultation will offer workshops and presentations in English and Spanish from Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning. Presenters will include Rev. Eloy González, Rev. Aurelio Magariño, Rev. Héctor Hoppe, Prof. Mark Kempff and Dr. Leo Sánchez, director of the Center for Hispanic Studies at Concordia Seminary. Presenters will share relevant cultural and demographic keynotes that aim at understanding second and third generation Hispanics. They will also pose critical questions based on the research and explore its implications for the church, missions, youth and family, and other areas of our life together.

The Latino movie night on Monday and the Sixth Annual Lecture on Tuesday night are free. The cost for attending any of the plenary lectures for the Hispanic Lutheran Theological Consultation, plus dinner on Tuesday night, is $35. CEUs are available. For more information, contact the office of continuing education and parish services at (314) 505-7486; ce@csl.edu; or visit the seminary’s website at www.csl.edu.

secoNd hispaNic lutheraN theological coNsultatioN aNd sixth aNNual lecture iN hispaNic/latiNo theology aNd MissioNs

Upcoming Bach at the Sem Concert:February13,3p.m.

On Nov. 1, 2010, Chaplain Mark Logid, who was installed previously at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) International Center in St. Louis on Oct. 27, received a seminary welcome in the form of a prayer of blessing for his work. Deaconess Ruth McDonnell was installed during the morning chapel service at Concordia Seminary. Logid was called as advisor on personal growth and leadership development, deployed to the seminary campus. McDonnell was called as assistant director of the Master of Arts program.

Logid most recently served as an LCMS-endorsed United States Navy Chaplain on active duty for 22 years. His last assignment on active duty was Naval Support Activity in Naples, Italy. Logid received the B.A. degree from Concordia College, St. Paul, Minn. (1978); the M.Div. degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Mo. (1982); the M.A. degree from U.S. International University, San Diego, Calif. (1993); the M.A. degree from U.S. Naval War College, Newport, R.I. (2006); and the D.Min. degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis (2007). He and his wife, Patricia, have three adult children, one son-in-law, and one grandson.

 McDonnell most recently served as metro St. Louis mission coordinator for the LCMS Missouri District (2008-2010). She previously served Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, as a field education supervisor for the deaconess studies program (2006-2009). She also served as guest instructor for deaconess studies (2009). McDonnell received the B.M.Ed. degree from James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Va. (1984); the M.A. degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis (2005); and deaconess certification from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis (2006). She and her husband, Peter, have two sons.

Dr. Ray Mirly, president of the Missouri District of the LCMS, blesses Deaconess Ruth McDonnell in her new position as assistant director of the Master of Arts program at Concordia Seminary.

Lutheran Women’s Missionary League

shariNg god’s gifts creativelyMany of us received gifts this past holiday season. Some gifts are easy to use

while some take a little creativity. Our heavenly Father has gifted each of us through the Holy Spirit. Some of our gifts are easy to use. Some take a little creativity on our part. In 1 Cor. 12:4, Paul tells us that there are many gifts from the Holy Spirit.

We have all received a gift. The gift of hospitality is one that many LWML women have been given. It might be used to invite a Bible study into our home. It might be that the gift of being a good baker is not being used because there is no one at home “who really needs the calories.” A surprise gift of cookies to a local business is appreciated. Including Mug Meditation, Mustard Seed Devo-tions or one of the new Pray Prompts from the LWML catalog is good.

When visiting someone in the hospital, taking extra cookies for the nurses is a way to reach out, especially if you have included something special. Wearing your LWML logo to shop may start a conversation with a clerk. Be prepared to explain what it is and how you are connected to your Savior.

One gift that everyone has been given is the ability to smile. Taking the time to smile at others can be a blessing to you and to them. As LWML women, we can be creative in our volunteering in the community. Some schools have a Lunch Buddy pro-gram where a child is assigned an adult to be a constant in their life by having lunch at school one day a week. A children’s reading hour at the library is another way to use the gifts God has given.

Try reading 1 Corinthians 12, praying to understand the gifts God has given you and how you can share those gifts with others. God answers prayer and He will guide you in this effort. Try something different. Know that you are never alone because Jesus is always with you.

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couNselor’s corNer

What is creative MiNistry?

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Cor. 5:17

When I hear the term “creative min-istry,” what typically jumps into my mind is something that is big and new, or maybe a little bit strange or out of the ordinary. However, creative minis-try can be as simple as taking some-thing that we already do and either adding to it, or making a small little change that improves that ministry’s reach into our community.

For instance, at our congregation we have had the tradition for several years of having a special service at the beginning of Advent called “Hang-ing of the Greens.” In this service we share the Christmas story through song and through a narration describ-ing the meaning and the symbolism of the decorations we use to celebrate Christmas. This has become a service many of our members enjoy and look forward to each year.

Now, what we did new and differ-ent this past year was two of our mem-bers printed postcard invitations to the service. Not only did many congrega-tion members hand these out to friends and neighbors, but we also sent these invitations home to the families of the children in our childcare and school. The result was a huge increase in the number of visitors from our commu-nity with whom we were able to share the Gospel.

As you read through the pages of this issue of The Voice, I am sure you will see many wonderful examples of creative ministry from congregations throughout our district. However, one thing that we should all keep in mind is this fact: all ministry is creative. Because, at the heart of any ministry is the sharing of Jesus’ love and forgive-ness with others. Whenever we share this Gospel, then the Holy Spirit gets to go to work and He transforms us, the poor sinful being, into a new cre-ation, a child of God.

presideNt’s peNNiNg The first thing

any prospective business owner is told to do while writing a business plan in order to achieve success is to find a need and fill it. This is also true for those of us in ministry. For nearly

70 years the LWML has been very creative and successful in finding needs and fill-ing them within the ministry. The need is great – to reach out to all people with the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. In this world, with many people hurt-ing and needing basic physical necessi-ties, the LWML has been there to respond with handmade quilts that serve as shelter as well as a source of warmth and com-fort. And there are many other examples, including prayer shawls for those hospital-ized and knitted caps for patients undergo-ing chemotherapy. Collecting shoes, socks and underwear for local women’s shelters, or baby items for young mothers needing assistance and putting together hygiene kits or school kits all help to fill the needs of others. These items and acts of kind-ness reach out to others with the loving embrace of Jesus.

Most certainly, the women of the LWML have reached out creatively in ministry through their mites. Mite boxes perch on many windowsills and desks, waiting to collect single coins that collec-tively work to assist the blind, train and educate new pastors and teachers and build new churches and schools around the world. Mite projects that are chosen within our district and nationally repre-sent the need. The simple giving of our mites, together with willing hearts, work to fill these needs.

There are countless ways that the LWML will continue to seek out the needs of oth-ers and find creative ways to fill those needs. When we do this, we share the Gospel message with others.

stay iN touch With lWMl e-NeWs

To keep LWML members and supporters informed around the United States, the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League sends out LWML e-News — an electronic newsletter e-mailed to subscribers, at least once a month.

News of LWML mission grants, activities and a monthly prayer are featured as well as other news and links to LWML resources. To sign up for LWML e-news go to www.lwml.org. Under news, click on e-news in the drop down box and follow the instructions.

Karen Drury

Rev. David Moore

34th BieNNial lWMl coNveNtioN: lWMl plays iN peoria

Start making your plans now to attend the 34th Biennial LWML Convention June 23-26, 2011, in Peoria, Ill. You will want to be there for all the excitement of this con-vention under the theme “Being with Jesus – Living on the Edge” based on the Scrip-ture verse, “And they realized they had been with Jesus. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:13b, 20 NKJV).

Rev. Ken Klaus will be the proclaimer for the inspirational opening worship ser-vice. Rev. Klaus, speaker emeritus of The Lutheran Hour, will share many insights for what it means to “live on the edge.” We will also hear from renowned speaker and author Deb Burma, keynote speaker at the 34th Biennial LWML Convention. You will be encouraged as Deb challenges you to “live on the edge” in different ways.

Dr. Reed Lessing’s dynamic Bible study sessions will center on the convention theme “Being with Jesus – Living on the Edge.” Come and hear mission speak-ers demonstrating how they also “live on the edge.” On Friday evening, Katie Stam, Miss America 2009 and inspirational speaker, and entertainers Sibling Harmony will rock the house. And don’t worry about missing your regular exercise when you’re at convention. You will have a great opportunity on Saturday morning to participate in the Mission Pledge Walk.

Check the Winter Lutheran Woman’s Quarterly for the latest registration infor-mation for the 34th Biennial LWML Convention. Registration information is also available online at www.lwml.org. Registration opens on March 1. Review the infor-mation about the Friday Lunch Gatherings as well as the special interest luncheons on Saturday. Bring your children, who will enjoy spending time at Camp BWJ (Being with Jesus). Start gathering those Gifts from the Heart and plan which of the servant events you want to lend a hand. There will even be a Cyber Cafe! Check out all the details at www.lwml.org.

Vice President of Communication,

Alice Troyke

daily Mustard seed devotioNs

Free subscription to daily Mustard Seed devotions is just a “click” away. Go to www.lwml.org. Under resources select devo-tions. This will take you to the Mustard Seed devotions page. Follow the instruc-tions provided to subscribe for the free daily devotions. (Your e-mail information will remain secure and will not be shared.)

A n nou ncements

1 Rev. Robert Gentzke died peacefully anticipating heaven on Dec. 10, 2010.

1 Rev. Willard Kassulke was called to glory Jan. 9, 2011.We reMeMBer:

persoNNel chaNges — ordaiNed

TransferredtoOurDistrict:Reitz, Jason (RM) installed as associate

pastor at Zion, St. Charles (Harvester) MO 12/11/10 by R. Mirly

Rickenberg, Kermit (KS) installed as missionary leader for Lutherans in Jewish Evangelism, Orlando, FL 1/23/11 by G. Walton

Scheidt, Paul (IE) emeritus 1/21/11Serina, Richard (TX) non-

candidate status 11/29/10Wagner, Jason (CI) installed as

sole pastor at Hope, High Ridge, MO 1/2/11 by R. Mirly

Candidate/Non-CandidateStatus:Ensor, Lewis (Concordia, Maplewood)

candidate status 8/1/10

TransferredtoOtherDistricts:Braunersreuther, Jon (senior

assistant to the LCMS President, St. Louis) to TX 12/10/10

Krueger, Larry (assistant to the LCMS President, St. Louis) to TX 12/16/10

Philp, Paul (Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) to SI 1/7/11

Ordained/Installed:Schlueter, Richard (Specific Ministry

Pastor SL2010) ordained and installed as SMP associate pastor at Faith, Kirksville, MO 1/9/11 by R. Mirly

ChangesWithinDistrict:Henning, Roger (Intentional Interim, Grace,

Holts Summit) installed as Intentional Interim Pastor at Gethsemane, Lemay (St. Louis County), MO 12/12/10 by R. Mirly

Ruback, Nathan (Lutheran Senior Services, St. Louis) installed as sole pastor at Grace Chapel, Bellefontaine Neighbors, MO 12/5/10 by R. Mirly

Retired:Klaus, Kenneth (Lutheran Hour

Speaker, St. Louis) 12/31/10Muench, David (Min. Growth &

Support, LCMS, St. Louis) 1/1/11Sievers, Kenneth (Gethsemane,

Lemay) 11/30/10

Deceased:Gentzke, Robert (emeritus) 12/10/10Kassulke, Willard (emeritus) 1/9/11

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ForSolePastors:Brentwood, Mount Calvary Corning/Craig/Mound City, St. John/

St. Peter/Concordia – called Rev. Brian Lemcke of Onida, SD

Cuba/St. James, St. Paul/St. John Dexter, Faith Glendale, Glendale – (retire-

ment of Rev. Steven Albers)High Ridge, Hope – called Rev. Jason

Wagner of Milford, IL (accepted)Louisiana/Bowling Green, Trin-

ity/Good Shepherd Marshall, Our Redeemer – (retire-

ment of Rev. Douglas Dubisar)St. Charles, Our Savior St. Peters, Child of God West Plains, Immanuel – called Rev.

Eric Swyres of Carrollton, MO

ServedbyIntentionalInterimPastors:Affton, Salem (Rev. Dr. Dar-

rell Zimmerman)Emma, Holy Cross (Rev. Richard Swanson)Florissant, Salem (Rev. Gordon Beck)Lemay, Gethsemane (Rev. Roger Henning)Scott City, Eisleben (Rev. Dr. Richard Foss)

ForAssociateorAssistantPastor:Des Peres, St. Paul St. Charles, Immanuel – (on hold)St. Louis County, Abiding SaviorWentzville, Immanuel

VACANT(OnHold–ButBeingServed):Ashland, Family of ChristBethany, HopeBismarck, St. John Center, TrinityDiggins, ZionElk Prairie (Rolla), PeaceIsabella, FaithKnob Noster, FaithMemphis, St. PaulMilan, PeaceOak Grove, Shepherd of the ValleyPagedale, GracePilot Knob, ImmanuelPrinceton, ImmanuelPotosi, RedeemerSt. Louis, Holy SacramentSt. Louis, St. Matthew St. Louis, St. PaulSarcoxie, TrinityShelbyville, Mount HopeStockton, St. AndrewSweet Springs, ChristWellsville, Trinity

OtherCalls:Auringer, Jason (Immanuel, Wentzville) to

Redeemer, Peoria, IL (associate) (declined)Krueger, Larry to Atonement,

Metairie, LA (declined)Krueger, Larry to Concordia, San Anto-

nio, TX, as assistant pastor (accepted)Krueger, Larry to Word of Life, Sur-

prise, AZ (declined)Martin, Mark (St. Andrew, Cape

Girardeau) to Christus Vic-tor, Knoxville, TN (declined)

persoNNel chaNges — coMMissioNed MiNisters of religioN

calliNg coNgregatioNs

TransferredfromOtherDistrictsBordeaux, Betty (PSW) to emeritus 11/4/10Bordeaux, Joseph (PSW) to emeritus 11/4/10Castens, Jennifer (NOW) to

non-candidate 12/6/10Rollins, Glenn (MNS) to Lutheran

High School of Kansas City, Kan-sas City 12/12/10 by M. Schulz

GraduatesInstalledPaul, Kristina (CS ’10) to Salem, Aff-

ton 12/1/10 by D. ZimmermanWard, Suzan (RF ’10) to Trinity, Cape

Girardeau 1/9/11 by D. Breite

Resigned/RemovedfromRosterWoehr, Valeda (Salem, Florissant) 11/30/10

ReinstatedDash, Denise (reinstated by

COP 11/10) to candidateFraker, Sharon (reinstated by

COP 11/10) to candidate

Non-CandidateStatusJester, Emily (candidate) 12/17/10Peter, Tonya (non-candidate)

Extended by COP 11/10Versemann, Rachel (candidate) 9/18/10

TransferredtoOtherDistrictsBryant, Elaine (emeritus) to EN 11/30/10Dash, Denise (candidate) to TX 12/2/10Fraker, Sharon (candidate) to TX 12/2/10Jaster, Emily (non-candidate) to KS 12/17/10

lutheraN Music prograM reaches MilestoNe:celeBrates 30 years of traiNiNg youNg MusiciaNs for the church

Lutheran Music Program will reach a milestone in 2011 when it presents the 30th annual Lutheran Summer Music Academy and Festival (LSM) from June 26 to July 24 on the campus of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.

For more information on Lutheran Music Program, the 30th annual Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival, or the Young Musicians Partnership, visit www.lutheransum-mermusic.org or contact the organization’s national offices in Minneapolis at 888-635-6583 or lsm@lutheransummermusic.org.

A n nou ncements

BraNsoN, Mo.,coNdo for sale

TwoBed/TwoBathGardenLevelUnit

Close to shopping and shows.All appliances stay.

Use it or rent it.$73,500

MemberFaithLutheranChurch,Branson

Call(573)747-8705

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gulf shores, ala., BeachfroNt coNdo

for reNt

our Beach aNd pools are iN great shape!

Threebedroom,twobath,fullyfurnishedkitchen,washer/dryer,indoor-outdoorpools,hottub,

tenniscourt,exercise,sauna,golf,children’sattractionsnearby.

MemberLutheranChurchofWebsterGardens

Call(314)843-6063

Watch Time of Grace for Straight talk & real hope!

Sundays at 6:30 am

800.661.3311 • timeofgrace.org

Lutheran teLevision

Annual Pork Sausage Dinner

Sunday, Feb. 27Noon - 6 p.m.

Worship Service at 10 a.m.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

3825 Boeuf Lutheran RoadNew Haven, MO 63068

(from Hwy. 100, south on Hwy. C 4 ½ miles,

right on Boeuf Lutheran Road, ¾ mile to church entrance)

Country Store by Ladies Aid

Sponsored by Bethlehem Lutheran Men’s ClubFor more information

call (573) 237-2602

Immanuel Olivette’s

23rd Annual Sausage Dinner

and Spring Bazaar

Sunday, March 6Noon – 4 p.m.

Eat-in or carry-out.Featuring –

Men’s Club sausage, real mashed potatoes,

sauerkraut, green beans,

applesauce, bread,dessert and drinks.

Adults $9.50 Children 6-12 $4

Children under 6 Free9733 Olive Blvd.

(314) 993-2394

St. Paul’s Lutheran Elementary School

Auction and DinnerConcordia, Mo.

Saturday evening, March 19Save the date and enjoy an

evening with friends!

Formoredetailsvisitwww.stpaulsconcondia.orgorcall(660)463-7654

holiday hideaWay resort

oN Beautiful taBle rock lake

BraNsoN, Mo., area

Let us host your church retreatat our 14-cabin lakefront resort.

Special rate for church groups.www.holidayhideaway.com

contact:e-mail: holidayhideaway@centurytel.net

Phone: (417) 739-4542

Members of Shepherd of the HillsLutheran Church, Kimberling City, Mo.

Missions

Page 16 February/March 2011 The Voice of Missouri

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BethleheM receives aWard for coMMuNity reNeWal efforts

The congregation of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, St. Louis, Mo., was presented the 2010 Fred E. Lietz Mission Project Award at the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) Fall Leadership Conference. This annual award recognizes outstanding efforts by a mission project within The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS).

The congregation was chosen for its work in cooperation with six other LCMS congre-gations, city officials, neighborhood associations and other organizations to revitalize its neighborhood, Hyde Park.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church—through its Better Living Communities project—has secured sufficient funding through federal and state tax credits, and loans from entities including LCEF, to construct 57 new housing units in the neighborhood surrounding the church. It has also helped expand the housing stock in the community by rehabbing existing housing and encouraging other developers and businesses to build in the area.

Bethlehem Lutheran was nominated for this honor by Missouri District LCEF Vice President Dennis Klussman, who has worked closely with this organization on low-cost funding. He said members of the congregation have transformed the north St. Louis neighborhood from what it was just five years ago. “There are new houses and residents, a renewed life and vitality in the area, and a sense

of optimism that abound. Residents again speak of community … In the midst of it all, Jesus Christ is held high,” he stated in his nomination letter.

Members reach out and are involved in the community, witnessing through worship services, including their “Taking Jesus to the Streets” ministry, music and drama, and Wednesday evening youth programs. Church members and members of partnering LCMS congregations set up a venue on a neighborhood street corner, offering music, dance, drama and preaching to the community. The pastor and church members minis-tered to the needs of anyone there and have followed up regularly with those who seek it.

As a result of the number of children living in the new housing in the area, Bethlehem is working to create a new charter school for the area through its Better Learning Com-munities ministry.

Customary each year at LCEF’s conference, the offering collected during Sunday morning’s worship service is donated to the Lietz Mission Project Award recipient. The total amount collected this year was more than $13,500, and was matched by LCEF, netting the church more than $27,000 in donations.

Representing Bethlehem in accepting the award were Rev. John Schmidtke and his wife, Sharon; Cathy Rodgers-Edmonds, community coordinator/business manager of Better Living Communities, and her husband, Brandon Edmonds; and Jack and Nancy Gerber of partner congregation Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Sunset Hills, Mo.

The Fred E. Lietz Ministry Awards are named in honor of Fred Lietz, who was the first executive secretary of the Synod’s Church Extension Fund (CEF). When CEF incorpo-rated in 1978, Lietz became the first president of LCEF.

The mission of the Lutheran Church Extension Fund is to support The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in the sharing of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by being a partner, ensuring that funds and services are available now and in the future. A not-for-profit, the organization provides low-cost loans and facility-planning services to churches, schools and rostered church workers of the LCMS through the investment support of church members. For more information about LCEF, call 800-843-5233 or visit www.lcef.org.

Worship at Bethlehem could be described as creative. While it is distinctively Lutheran, it is done a little differently than in many other Lutheran churches.

Sometimes creativity comes by way of editing materials to fit what the com-munity needs. For example, VBS curriculum is adapted to fit the urban setting. Whatever the project or resource, it is used to make sure the ultimate goal is being met, and that is people meeting Christ.

Bethlehem has been blessed with the partnership it has with sister churches in the area. The congregations get to trade ideas and sometimes worship with each other.

Rev. Schmidtke encour-ages churches to be creative. “It doesn’t cost a lot of money,” he said, “but it’s an investment in

people. Small congregations can be creative, if they are committed.”Schmidtke continues, “You have to have the courage to think outside-the-box,

and not just for the sake of being creative, but to ask, ‘Where are the people at? How are you going to meet them? What is important and meaningful to them but will also impart Christ?’”

church BaseMeNt BecoMes outreach veNueDhan Gurung regularly worships at Ascension Lutheran Church, St. Louis. Last

year at The Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park, Dhan danced with a few other Nepali women wearing traditional Nepali dress performing traditional Nepali dances.

Dhan called Brad Aldrich, assimila-tion facilitator at Ascension, the Sun-day evening of this year’s Festival of Nations. She explained that her friends were disappointed that she did not dance at the event and wanted her to perform Nepali dances for them. There-fore, Dhan and her friends were looking for a place for her to dance and asked whether their church basement would be available. They agreed that the fol-lowing Sunday would be the best day for this event.

Twenty to 30 people were expected for an event that would last about an hour. However, in less than one week, word spread throughout the Nepali community. The Bhutanese Association of Saint Louis quickly coordinated the event. Over 150 Nepalese and Bhutanese showed up with enough food to feed about 200 people. Many people performed on stage with dancing, singing and performing skits. The church’s sound system just about brought the roof down. The event lasted more than three hours. Within 45 minutes of the end of the event, the church basement was completely quiet, clean and back to its original condition.

This event opened eyes to the possibilities associated with reaching out to people groups (people of the same ethnicity, language, etc.). The Nepali and Bhutanese Christians, Muslims and Hindus all expressed their appreciation that our church allowed them to use our basement for their cultural celebration. The congregation has close connections with few dozen Nepali Christians within this particular peo-ple group. These Christians are the salt and light among the Nepalese and Bhutanese communities. They are able to share and dem-onstrate the Gospel in this community in a way that we, as cul-tural outsiders, are not able to do. But being open to their needs is allowing Gospel seeds to be spread.

Continued from page 1 - Why Not?