Friends For Life — LCMS Life Ministry

Rev. Brandon Metcalf talks with Steph and Andy about his strategies for family ministry and why men play a vital role in the church and home.   Bio: Brandon Metcalf currently serves as the Associate Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto, IL and previously served as a DCE in the Missouri District. He is a contributing author to numerous books and Bible studies for youth ministries and has spoken at many district and national youth gatherings, including the session "Worth Dying For: A New Model for Dating/Relationships" at the past two LCMS Youth Gatherings. He enjoys playing volleyball, board games, trivia, and writing parody songs, but his greatest joys in life come from being a husband and a father. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Todd Biermann joins Andy and Steph to talk about why family is so important in Christian theology and gives us simple habits that can make families stronger in both faith and love.   Bio: Married to Heather Stange of Frankenmuth, MI in 1995, Rev. Dr. Todd A. Biermann has always had a passion for fostering marriages and families in God's way. This has been true in his role as a parish pastor of the LCMS for 33 years (most recently at Faith Lutheran, Grand Blanc, MI), in his international ministry with Heather, Life in God's Way, and now as they both are working with Concordia Center for the Family (CCF), a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). Dr. Biermann's educational path (BA at Concordia University Nebraska, MDiv at Concordia Seminary St. Louis and DMin at Concordia Theological Seminary Fort Wayne) along with a wide array of field experience has prepared him for his role as the Executive Director of CCF, which he was called to begin in February 2024. He rejoices in the privilege to promote family discipleship, uniting homes and congregations in making lifelong disciples of Jesus. Learn more about Dr. Biermann and CCF at www.concordiafamily.org. Contact him directly at toddbiermann@concordiafamily.org.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Concordia Center for the Family https://www.concordiacenterforthefamily.org/  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

In this episode, our guest Deb Jurchen talks about the importance of intergenerational connectedness as it relates to family ministry in churches and homes.   Bio: Deb Jurchen holds a BFA in K-12 Art Education from Concordia University, Nebraska, and an MSE in Family Life Education from Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor. Professionally, Deb serves as the Director of University Institutes at Concordia University, Nebraska, an adjunct professor in the Family Life Education Graduate program at Concordia University, Nebraska, as well as the Family Life Ministry Consultant for the Nebraska District LCMS.    Deb is married to Rev. Dr. Pete Jurchen who is Assistant Professor of Lutheran Education and Faith Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska. Together, they have five children and reside in Seward, Nebraska. She loves hiking, gardening, and staying active with her kids!  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn how recognizing milestones and benchmarks in the faith leads to healthy spiritual development for children and adults alike!  Bio: Mark Cook is a graduate of Concordia Nebraska and is in his 15th year serving as DCE at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester, MN. He serves in the areas of family ministry, youth ministry, confirmation, and children's ministry. He enjoys playing with his kids, music, camping, backpacking, and anything that involves being outdoors and going on adventures with his beautiful wife Libby and children, Micah (8), Karis (6), Ezra (3), Isaiah (20mo), and baby girl (coming soon!). Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dan Galchutt talks about the privilege of parents to pass down the faith to their children, and how the setting of the home is a prime training ground for young believers.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

In this episode, Steph welcomes the newest co-host to Friends for Life – Rev. Andy Becker – as he shares his role with LCMS Family Ministry and introduces Season 9.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Amanda and Pastor Krenz join Steph to talk about caring for mothers of children in foster care, and their goal to restore relationships between mothers and their children.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family An LCMS Guide to Supporting Foster Families: https://lcmslife.org/resource/lcms-guide-to-supporting-foster-families/  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Chalyce Deterding joins Steph to talk about the joys and challenges of being a foster parent, along with the unique role that she plays as a CASA.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family An LCMS Guide to Supporting Foster Families: https://lcmslife.org/resource/lcms-guide-to-supporting-foster-families/ Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Dr. Thomas Engel joins Steph to talk about the concerns of children in child dependency and how Christians can make a big impact in caring for these children.   Bio: Dr. Engel has been a member of the LCMS at various churches since the age of 4. He is an Eagle Scout, an alumnus of the Virginia Military Institute, and a veteran of the U.S. Army. He has also worked professionally as an EMS paramedic and an industrial saturation diver. He has an MBA and is a Doctor of Human Services with a focus on the concerns of children in child dependency. He has served children as a Child Protective Investigator, Guardian ad Litem supervisor, case manager supervisor, member of Florida's Critical Incident Rapid Response Team, ICPC Deputy Administrator, ICAMA Deputy Administrator, foster parent, and adoptive parent. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family An LCMS Guide to Supporting Foster Families: https://lcmslife.org/resource/lcms-guide-to-supporting-foster-families/  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Join Steph and Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor as they introduce this season's topic surrounding foster care and talk about why Christians have a special care for these children and families.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family To learn more about Recognized Service Organizations of the LCMS: lcms.org/rso An LCMS Guide to Supporting Foster Families: https://lcmslife.org/resource/lcms-guide-to-supporting-foster-families/  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Keeya Vawar shares her story of struggle and survival, as she herself was a victim of human trafficking.   Bio: Keeya Vawar is an author, keynote speaker, and child safety advocate who empowers communities to recognize the patterns and strategies of traffickers, equipping them to build safer environments.  As a wife, mother, and the Executive Director of Mosaic Mission Network (LCMS Texas District), Keeya serves as a powerful voice of hope in an increasingly despairing world. Her passion for advocating for women and children who have been exploited is deeply rooted in her own story of survival from human trafficking in the United States during the 1990s.   Keeya has an extraordinary ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level, helping them forge genuine emotional connections to complex and often hidden realities. She shared her story at the most recent National Youth Gathering during Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor's session, where she inspired attendees with her resilience and advocacy work. Currently, her efforts focus on collaborating with NGOs that rescue women and children from human trafficking, both locally and internationally. Her book, One Thousand Elsewhere: A True Survivor Story, is available for purchase on Amazon.    Resources: For more information on human trafficking, visit https://polarisproject.org/ and https://www.lcms.org/social-issues/human-trafficking  Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. In a non-emergency situation, contact the 24-hour National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or visit: humantraffickinghotline.org   Note: Your computer may be monitored while visiting lcms.org or any other website, and it is impossible to completely block tracking.   Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Scott Heitshusen joins Steph to raise awareness of human trafficking and offer suggestions for how the Church can get involved in caring for victims.   Bio: Rev. Scott Heitshusen was born in April of 1969 in Ponca City, OK. In seventh grade, he moved to Houston, TX. He's been married to Jennifer Heitshusen (née Stein) of Houston since August of 1991. They have two sons: Daniel (b. March 1999) and Benjamin (b. February 2001). Ben has Trisomy 21 (the most common form of Down syndrome). Daniel is studying to be a pastor at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. Their wonderful daughter-in-law, Rachel, is also a student at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. She is a Deaconess. Daniel and Rachel are the parents of granddaughter, Hannah (b. August 2024).  Rev. Heitshusen graduated from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis in 1996, and has served four congregations thus far. He's been working in anti-trafficking efforts since 2013 and has been serving as the Texas District Life Coordinator in the area of trafficking since January 2020.  Resources: For more information on human trafficking, visit https://polarisproject.org/ and https://www.lcms.org/social-issues/human-trafficking  Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. In a non-emergency situation, contact the 24-hour National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or visit: humantraffickinghotline.org  Note: Your computer may be monitored while visiting lcms.org or any other website, and it is impossible to completely block tracking.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Join hosts Tiffany and Steph as they introduce our topic for Season 7 and help clarify the definition of human trafficking.   Resources: For more information on human trafficking, visit https://polarisproject.org/ and https://www.lcms.org/social-issues/human-trafficking  Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. In a non-emergency situation, contact the 24-hour National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or visit: humantraffickinghotline.org  Note: Your computer may be monitored while visiting lcms.org or any other website, and it is impossible to completely block tracking.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What is meant by Separation of Church and State? How does the First Amendment protect the Christian conscience? How can we defend religious liberties in the civil realm? Rev. Dr. Christopher Thoma joins Steph to tackle these questions and more!  Bio: Reverend Dr. Christopher I. Thoma serves as Senior Pastor of Our Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church & School in Hartland, Michigan.  Having become deeply involved in Church and State issues, Thoma regularly engages with executive, legislative, and judicial leaders at the local, state, and federal levels. He labors in this way not only to bring the concerns of the Church to the forefront of government but also to carry back knowledge and resources to his congregation and the Christian community at large.  Thoma is the Executive Director of The Body of Christ and the Public Square (BOCPS.org). He is often called upon to speak at various assemblies and conferences. Thoma has partnered with tier-one thinkers, sharing the stage with prominent newsmakers such as Matt Walsh, Ben Shapiro, Dennis Prager, Dinesh D'Souza, Candace Owens, Charlie Kirk, and others.  Thoma continues to be a guest on podcasts and radio broadcasts to speak to current political and cultural issues. In addition to his social media presence and blogging, he is an avid writer, having authored various volumes on pastoral care, liturgy, and Christian suffering. His four-volume devotional collection entitled The Cruciform Way: A Steady Cadence of Christ for Life enjoys notable endorsements from Dr. Alveda King, Riley Gaines, Charlie Kirk, Lt. General Gerry Boykin, and others. On the lighter side, he has authored two children's books, Tea with the Moon and There's a Bug on the Floor, also the five-volume collection entitled The Angels' Portion: A Clergyman's Whisky Narrative, which exemplifies his abilities as a humorist. Having garnered attention in the field of distilled spirits, he enjoys forewords and endorsements from the likes of Dinesh D'Souza, Stephen Beam (Founder & Master Distiller of Limestone Branch Distillery), Mark Gillespie (Executive Producer and Host of Whisky Cast), and others.  In the spring of 2017, Reverend Thoma was awarded a Distinguished Fellowship from Salt & Light Global Wilberforce Academy, an extension of the Great Lakes Justice Center. In January 2021, he was appointed the religious liberty liaison for the English District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. He earned his doctorate in June of 2024 from Liberty University.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Noah and Becky Rogness join Steph to talk about how parents, teachers, and youth workers can talk to kids about the election, encourage civic involvement, and model calm when the nation is anxious.   Bio: Rev. Noah Rogness is the pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Tomah, WI. Prior to his call to Good Shepherd, Rogness served parishes in Fergus Fall, MN, and Alexandria, VA. He also served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant Major and retiring with 24 years of service. His undergraduate degree is from the University of Minnesota–Duluth, and he earned his M.Div from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. He is married to Becky and they are raising their six children. Becky Rogness is owner of Rogness Communications, a small business specializing in public relations for pro-life policy makers and non-profit organizations. Becky's clients have included national and regional pro-life organizations and policy makers including Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch. Becky received her undergrad from Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, MN, and she holds a Master of Arts in Communication from Johns Hopkins University. A former Capitol Hill staffer, Rogness lives in Warrens, WI, with her husband, Noah, an LCMS pastor, and six children.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Why should Christians be involved in government? How has the interaction between Christians in the civic realm changed over the years? Join Steph and guest Tim Goeglein as they explore these questions and more!  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Join Steph and guest Rev. Graham Glover as they talk about the role of Christians in the civic realm, Christians and voting, and how Christians can influence government and civil issues beyond the polls.   Bio: Rev. Graham B. Glover is the Senior Pastor of Abiding Savior Lutheran Church and School in Gainesville, FL and a Chaplain (Major) in the US Army Reserve, where he is assigned to the Strategic Initiatives Group at the Office of the Chief of Chaplains in the Pentagon. Additionally, Rev. Glover serves as the Chaplain Fellow at the Religious Freedom Institute in Washington, DC.  A native of Gainesville, Glover received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion from the University of Florida. Afterwards, he went to work for his alma mater as a lobbyist, representing UF to the Florida Legislature. He began his studies at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO in 1998. While there, he spent a year studying at Westfield House and Cambridge University in Cambridge, England. He completed his vicarage at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Carbondale, IL. After receiving the Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary, Rev. Glover moved back to Gainesville to continue his graduate studies in Political Science at the University of Florida, where he received a Master of Arts degree. He was later called to be the pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chiefland, FL. In January 2008, Glover joined the US Army as an Active Duty Chaplain, with assignments at Fort Stewart, Georgia; Schweinfurt, Germany; Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Jackson, South Carolina; Schofield Barracks, Hawaii and at the Pentagon, where he served as the inaugural Government Affairs Officer for the Army Chief of Chaplains. Chaplain Glover deployed to Iraq from 2009-2010 in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn.  Pastor Glover's wife, Alison, is also a native of Gainesville, and they have two children: HannahGrace and Graham, Jr. “Gray". Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Steph and Tiffany introduce Season 6: Christians in the Civic Realm. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

You've heard it's a good idea to have a first aid kit close at hand. But what about a Mental Health First Aid kit? Kelly Menke joins Tiffany and Steph to talk about being trained in Mental Health First Aid and why it's also an important toolkit to have on hand!   Bio: Kelly joined Concordia Plans in May 2022 as a Health and Wellness Educator. She holds a Master of Science in public health from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Arts in health education with a minor in healthcare administration from Ashford University. Kelly has nearly 15 years of experience in a variety of health and wellness-oriented roles. As a military spouse (retired) and mother of three, she has seen first-hand the health challenges and successes people from all over the country in different stages of life can experience. Her focus is on encouraging overall healthy lifestyle choices for prevention and improved management of health concerns.  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family To learn more about Mental Health First Aid training: https://forms.office.com/pages Download the booklet Restoring Hope: Care for Mental Health at https://resources.lcms.org/general/restoring-hope-care-for-mental-health-spiritual-care-companion/  If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Is there a link between forgiveness and mental well-being? Join Steph and Dr. Mark Rockenbach for a discussion about how forgiveness affects mental health and how withholding forgiveness affects not just the soul, but the body and mind.   Bio: Dr. Mark Rockenbach received his B.A. from Concordia College, Seward, NE; M.Div. from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO; M.A. in counseling from Doane College, Lincoln, NE and his Ph.D. in psychology from Capella University, Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Rockenbach served as a parish pastor before accepting a call to The Nebraska District Office where he served as the Executive for Church Worker Health and Reconciliation. He served as a mental health counselor and adjunct professor at Concordia University in Seward, NE and Concordia University in Mequon, WI. He currently serves in the following roles at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO: Professor of Practical Theology, Director of Personal Growth and Leadership Development, IRB Director, and Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program. Dr. Rockenbach is the co-author of the book “Unforgivable? How God's Forgiveness Transforms our Lives.” Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Steph is joined by guest Julianna Shults to give a “state of the union” on the mental health of our young people.   Bio: Julianna Shults is a DCE serving as Program Manager of Resources and Leadership for LCMS Youth Ministry. With a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Community Development, Julianna served congregations in Florida and Chicago. She co-authored Relationships Count and contributed to other books from CPH and co-hosts the podcast End Goals. Julianna is a self-proclaimed nerd, coffee snob and obsessive aunt. Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Dr. Karge and Dr. Bratton join Steph to talk about building mental resiliency in ourselves and in our young people.   Bio: Dr. Belinda Karge devotes her career to ensuring that all students have successful opportunities and leaders are equipped with tools to transform education environments. She is a Professor in the School of Education Doctoral Program at Concordia University Irvine. She has taught and served in administrative roles in elementary and secondary schools globally. An expert in research based instructional strategies, she helps educators teach students how to use brain executive functions to navigate mental wellness. She has authored over 140 articles and ten books. She is Lutheran and served in the mission field. Her goal is to share God's light with those around her in whatever way HE directs her.  Dr. Kara Bratton serves as an Assistant Professor in the School of Education in the doctoral programs at Concordia University Irvine, teaching special education and research classes and working as a dissertation chair. Previously, she was the special education director for Lutheran Special Education Ministries (LSEM) for 11 years and spent 11 years teaching K-8 special education in Lutheran Schools in Fort Wayne, IN at the beginning of her career. Kara also serves on the board of directors for the Indiana Non-public Education Association and as an Educator in Residence for the Progress Center. Along with two other professors, Kara is co-author of Resilient Minds: Christ-centered Mental Health Curriculum, which is available from Concordia Publishing House for middle school levels.  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Find Resilient Minds at https://teachthefaith.cph.org/resilient-minds Download the booklet Restoring Hope: Care for Mental Health at https://resources.lcms.org/general/restoring-hope-care-for-mental-health-spiritual-care-companion/  If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Join Steph and Sarah Gulseth as they talk about some very practical ways we can care for our own mental health.   Bio: Sarah Gulseth currently works for KFUO Radio as Digital Media Manager, which includes co-hosting The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge podcast and The Coffee Hour with Andy Bates. She is a baptized child of God, INFJ Lutheran Lady, lover of First Article Gifts, certified #hymnnerd, history nerd, proud Michigan native, coffee enthusiast, chronic illness warrior, and year-round bike commuter who lives in St. Louis with her husband Luther, and kitties Mandy and Vader. Sarah pursuing a master's degree in organizational leadership at Concordia University Irvine, learning how to use her God-given talents and personality to serve her neighbors in love. “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

How do Christians approach the topic of mental health? Why should Christians care about their own mental health, as well as the mental health of those around them? Join Tiffany and Steph as they introduce this season on mental health!  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Download the booklet Restoring Hope: Care for Mental Health at https://resources.lcms.org/general/restoring-hope-care-for-mental-health-spiritual-care-companion/ Find a LCMS RSO at lcms.org/rso  If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Neural implants, eyeglasses, heart transplants: what do these all have in common? Join Steph and guest Trevor Sutton as they discuss emerging advances in the world of biotechnology and what it has to do with our soteriology...our view of life, death, and salvation. Bio: Rev. Dr. A. Trevor Sutton is Senior Pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Lansing, Michigan. Sutton has written several books, including Redeeming Technology (coauthored with Brian Smith, M.D.) and Authentic Christianity (coauthored with Gene Edward Veith Jr.). He teaches, writes, and speaks frequently about technology and the church in a digital age. Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor. We believe that God is the author and sustainer of all life. We also know it can be hard to speak about the intrinsic value of life, health and the family when it feels like the world is trying to drown us out. We're right here beside you. In this podcast of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod's Life, Health and Family Ministries, we're coming alongside one another as a community of Christ's redeemed people. Together we'll explore life, health and family issues in a way that honors our heavenly Father's value of human life, serves our neighbor, shares the faith and connects us to others who are doing the same. Join us, so that together we can be friends for life.

What are the effects of modern-day technology on our relationships, our church, our selves? How can we help guide the next generation in using technology wisely? Join Steph and guest Dr. Rick Serina as they talk about the rapid changes of tech at our fingertips. Bio: Rev. Dr. Richard J. Serina, Jr., is Associate Executive Director of the Commission on Theology and Church Relations. Serina came to the CTCR in 2020 after serving parishes in urban Dallas, rural West Texas, and suburban New Jersey. He earned his doctorate in Reformation Studies at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, has taught at Concordia Seminary and Concordia College-Bronxville, edits book reviews for the journal LOGIA, and has written one book (Nicholas of Cusa's Brixen Sermons and the Late Medieval Church Reform; Brill, 2016), has edited two others, and has published numerous essays and book chapters dealing mostly with ecclesiology, the late medieval church, and Reformation theology. He is married to Christina and has six children. Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor. We believe that God is the author and sustainer of all life. We also know it can be hard to speak about the intrinsic value of life, health and the family when it feels like the world is trying to drown us out. We're right here beside you. In this podcast of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod's Life, Health and Family Ministries, we're coming alongside one another as a community of Christ's redeemed people. Together we'll explore life, health and family issues in a way that honors our heavenly Father's value of human life, serves our neighbor, shares the faith and connects us to others who are doing the same. Join us, so that together we can be friends for life.

Join Steph and Rev. Tim Bayer as they talk about the fundamentals of technology – what it is, what it's for, and how Christians can use technology responsibly. Is technology good, bad, or a-moral? How can Christians steward technology well so that the kingdom of God is served? How do Law and Gospel guide us as we engage with technology? Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor. We believe that God is the author and sustainer of all life. We also know it can be hard to speak about the intrinsic value of life, health and the family when it feels like the world is trying to drown us out. We're right here beside you. In this podcast of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod's Life, Health and Family Ministries, we're coming alongside one another as a community of Christ's redeemed people. Together we'll explore life, health and family issues in a way that honors our heavenly Father's value of human life, serves our neighbor, shares the faith and connects us to others who are doing the same. Join us, so that together we can be friends for life.

Amidst a culture that disdains aging, how can the Christian family embrace the Scriptural call to honor the older generations and revere their wisdom? How can older people serve and mentor young people in both faith and life? Listen in as guest Rev. Dr. Geoffrey Robinson shares why old and young need each other. Bio: Rev. Dr. Geoffrey L. Robinson has served as the Executive for Outreach, Human Care, and Stewardship for the Indiana District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod since August 1, 2007. His areas of service are: Mission Development, Evangelism, Parish Revitalization, Senior Adult Ministry, Parish Nurses, Stewardship, and Lutheran Early Response Teams. He is also the Indiana District Outreach Counselor for the LWML.   Rev. Geoffrey L. Robinson served 25 years in the parish ministry prior to receiving and accepting the call to become the Executive for Outreach for the Indiana District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. Rev. Robinson also has served in various synodical and district positions. He has served as circuit counselor of the Hutchinson Circuit in Kansas, Secretary of the Central Illinois District, Assistant Secretary of the Central Illinois District, Rural Ministry committee chairman of the Central Illinois District, Stewardship Commission chairman of the Central Illinois District, Mission Commission Chairman of the Central Illinois District, Finance and Management Commission Chairman of the Central Illinois District, Congregational Life commission member for the Central Illinois District, and he served as a member of the floor committee on Missions for the 2004 syndical convention.   Rev. Dr. Robinson has been actively involved in radio, television, and newspaper outreach. He has taught college-level Environmental Science and Biology to both traditional students and incarcerated students.   Rev. Dr. Robinson is married to Teresa (nee St. Onge) Robinson. They have been blessed with four children, three sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, and fourteen grandchildren.   Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Where's the place for singles when it seems the church is filled with families? How do single adults fit in to the larger family of faith? Join Steph and guest Rachel Morton as they talk about singleness, the propensity to feel invisible, and the family that exists beyond what is visible. Bio: Rachel Morton is a transplanted Texan living in Wisconsin. She is the oldest of nine children, the proud auntie of 5 nieces and nephews, and "bonus auntie" and godmother to her best friend's little girls. She is an extroverted introvert who loves connecting with others through conversations over a cup of coffee. Rachel has worked for the LCMS as a DPM since July 2012 serving St. John's West Bend as their Assistant Director of Worship. She also helps to oversee Women's Ministry and their yearly Women's Retreat. Her whole life would mean nothing, though, if she were not a baptized and dearly loved child of God. Her life's mission is to help others see their lives through that lens, empowering them to both know and share the life-changing love of Jesus.  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Parenting is hard...ever wish you had a guidebook for it? Dr. Randy Schroeder joins us to share the top takeaways from his book, Simple Habits for Effective Parenting. You won't want to miss this!  Bio: Dr. Randy Schroeder wrote the 2020 three-time national award-winning Christian marriage book, Simple Habits for Marital Happiness. The only marriage book that provides practical, specific words, actions, and essential knowledge in the seven major areas of a relationship to help every couple achieve a gratifying marriage. He has helped thousands of spouses achieve a consistently satisfying happy marriage with these simple, yet very effective habits.   His 2021 two-time national award-winning book, Simple Habits for Effective Parenting is the only parenting book that provides detailed guidance in the seven key aspects of parenting. Happy, confident children driven to reach their full potential with self-motivation, good decision-making skills, a positive attitude, and determination are raised by parents who use these simple successful habits.    Dr. Schroeder joined Jim Daly, President, and John Fuller, Vice President, on FOCUS ON THE FAMILY national broadcasts for six interviews: Simple Habits to Embrace in Your Marriage – January (BEST of 2022); Forming New Habits for Your Marriage I – September 2022; Forming New Habits for Your Marriage II – September 2022; Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting – July (BEST of 2021); More Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting I – November 2022; and More Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting II – November 2022. These six FOCUS ON THE FAMILY interviews can be found on YouTube.    Dr. Schroeder was born and raised in Austin, Texas.  He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University Chicago and received a Master of Education in Administration from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.  He also earned a Master of Divinity from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana and holds a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Chicago Theological Seminary.    The first eight years of his professional career were spent as a Lutheran high school teacher, assistant principal, athletic director, and head varsity basketball and football coach. In 1982, after eight years as an educator, he felt called to serve the Lord as an LCMS pastor and left the teaching ministry to prepare for the pastoral ministry.   After graduating from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1986, Dr. Schroeder became a Professor of Pastoral Counseling, Vice President of Student Personnel Services, and Dean of Students.  For nearly 25 years he taught pastoral counseling classes including Premarital Counseling, Marriage Counseling, Family Counseling, Crisis Counseling, Ministry to the Sick & Dying, and Pastor as Counselor. He also wrote a Family Counselor column for the Lutheran Witness magazine for 15 years.    In 2010, after being an educator for 36 years, he strongly desired to serve God and others as a full-time Christian counselor to help individuals, marriages, and families with the practical wisdom that makes a profound positive difference.  Dr. Schroeder is a Marriage and Family Counselor and has a successful practice at Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel, Indiana.   For over four decades, Dr. Schroeder has spoken to and counseled thousands of individuals, spouses, and parents about the simple, yet effective habits that are essential for an enjoyable life, a happy marriage, and for effectively parenting a child. Dr. Schroeder believes a lack of valuable knowledge about specific practical words, actions, and skills, not a lack of desire, is what holds people back from accomplishing their individual, marriage, parenting, and relationship goals.    Randy and his wife, Ginny, have been married since 1975 and have two married sons and seven grandchildren. Learn more about Dr. Schroeder at his website, DrRandySchroeder.com and enjoy his educational videos at Dr. Randy Schroeder - YouTube Channel  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

A lot of motherhood involves learning from other mothers. Join Steph and her friend Kelly as they talk about the unique role that moms play in the family and why every part of motherhood – even the mundane, monotonous, and messy – matters. Bio: Kelly has a passion for kids and teaching and teaching kids about Jesus! She has worked as a Lutheran elementary school teacher, a Sunday School director, a stay-at-home mom and now currently serves on the NextGen team at Hales Corners Lutheran Church, Hales Corners, WI. In her role, she works with families and kids of all ages and stages of life including leading Sunday School, VBS, large kid & family events, and assisting in the middle school Confirmation program. Kelly is married to an energetic pastor and is often on some sort of adventure with her three super-awesome kids! Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Fathers are vital to families. Good fathers are an irreplaceable part of thriving societies. Looking for some tips on fatherhood? Want to know how you can encourage the dads in your life? Then listen in as family members Steph and Aaron talk about fatherhood. Bio: Pastor Aaron Neugebauer is pastor of the best church ever, St. John's Lutheran Church in Lafe, Arkansas. He is the proud husband to his entrepreneur wife, Megan, and the father to 5 awesome kids. If you're open to talking about Larry Bird, comic books, word etymologies, or the onomatopoetic nature of languages, you've got a friend in him!  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

To call the family an “estate” may sound dated, but it turns out that Luther's theology on the three estates is perhaps more timely than ever. What does Luther mean when he identifies the three estates of family, church, and state? How is the family the foundation of them all? What does this actually mean for modern families today? Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller joins Steph on this episode of Friends for Life! Bio: Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller is pastor of St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX. He is the author of Lord, Teach Us to Pray (2023), Take They Our Life: Martin Luther's Theology of Martyrdom (2019), A Martyr's Faith for a Faithless World (CPH, 2019), Has American Christianity Failed? (CPH, 2016) and Final Victory: Contemplating the Death and Funeral of a Christian (CPH, 2010). He is host of What-Not, The Podcast, posts videos on YouTube at wolfmueller1, and has a number of other theological projects that all end up on his blog, www.wolfmueller.co. Bryan is a member of the Doxology Collegium. He and his wife Keri live with their children in Round Rock, TX.  Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What's it mean to be in a family these days? Are blood relations what decide family ties? How does Jesus shake up our understanding of family and broaden its definition? How does baptismal water bring people closer together than genetics or bloodline? Listen in as Dr. Dave Rueter leads us in the fundamentals of family. Bio: Dr. Dave Rueter is a rostered DCE and the author of Teaching the Faith at Home and Called to Serve (both CPH) as well as a contributor to Relationships Count and Connected for Life (also both CPH). Dave is married to Andrea and has two sons, James and Wesley. Since 1998 he has served as DCE for congregations in Huntington Beach, Rancho Cucamonga, and now Livermore, CA as well as on faculty at Concordia University Irvine and the staff of the Pacific Southwest District. Dr. Rueter is certified by the Fuller Youth Institute as the official LCMS Growing Young speaker. Learn more at teachingthefaithathome.org. Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

In the beginning, God created the family. And it was good. Listen in as Steph and Tiffany talk about the importance of upholding the family as an institution created by God and why the family still matters. Resources in this episode: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life, Health and Family Ministries: lcmslife.org For resources on the family: lcmslife.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Pornography isn't all that bad, is it? This is the lie that culture is telling and our children's peers are pushing. Listen as guest Daniel Weiss and Steph talk about the dangers of pornography, how it misses the mark for God's plan for sexuality, and why God's vision for sex is good and beautiful and altogether better than the counterfeit of porn. Bio: Daniel Weiss is the executive director of the Sexual Integrity Leadership Summit, which equips, supports, and collaborates with Christian leaders to promote Gospel-centered sexuality in the Church. Daniel has a passion for the sexually broken and the need for pastors, parents, and Christian leaders to respond with courage, compassion, and truth to the sexual challenges of our age. In addition to his professional work, Daniel and his wife work daily to create a home of faith, forgiveness, laughter, and love in the Wisconsin countryside where they live with their five children.  Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What is a compassionate Christian response to people within the LGBTQ+ community? Rev. Brian Barlow joins Steph to talk about the Church's role in bringing compassion and truth to people struggling with their sexuality. Bio: Reverend Brian Barlow has invested over 20 years in ministry to those who struggle with relational and sexual brokenness. Having been reconciled out of gender broken past, Reverend Barlow offers a life-giving testimony of God's healing grace. He has held leadership positions for local and international para ministries specifically focused in providing pastoral care to individuals and families impacted by gender dysphoria. Rev. Barlow offers a voice of hope individuals, pastors, church leaders, and parents of gay and transgender children. He and his family reside in Southern California and serve at Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church, Quartz Hill, California.  Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Having once lived in the gay community, guest Rev. Brian Barlow shares his story of self-discovery and re-discovery and how Jesus changes everything. Bio: Reverend Brian Barlow has invested over 20 years in ministry to those who struggle with relational and sexual brokenness. Having been reconciled out of gender broken past, Reverend Barlow offers a life-giving testimony of God's healing grace. He has held leadership positions for local and international para ministries specifically focused in providing pastoral care to individuals and families impacted by gender dysphoria. Rev. Barlow offers a voice of hope individuals, pastors, church leaders, and parents of gay and transgender children. He and his family reside in Southern California and serve at Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church, Quartz Hill, California.  Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What does it mean to identify as Trans today? What seems to be behind the trend in the growing number of teens and adolescents who identify as transgender? How do Christians respond in compassion and care while remaining true to God's Word? Clinical psychologist Dr. Beverly Yahnke helps us to navigate these questions. Bio: Dr. Beverly Yahnke is a clinical psychologist serving DOXOLOGY, a RSO of the LCMS, dedicated to providing care, counsel and advanced instruction for LCMS pastors and their parishes. From 2010-2015 she served as Chair and Professor of Psychology at Concordia University Wisconsin. Previously, Dr. Yahnke spent over 20 years in private practice serving church workers and their families in the clinical group she founded in Milwaukee. Dr. Yahnke has written numerous articles about psychology, education and faith, and is a frequently invited speaker for clergy and educator conferences. Concordia Theological Seminary has awarded her with the Doctor of Humane Letters Degree, Honoris Causa and Concordia Seminary honored her with the Christos Vivit Award. She currently serves as a member of the Ft. Wayne Seminary's Board of Regents.  Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Is sex a social construct, or is a person created male and female by design? Concordia Seminary professor Dr. Joel Biermann lays the groundwork for a biblical discussion of gender and sexual identity. Access Dr. Joel Biermann's “Woman and Man According to God's Plan” Lay Bible Institute class at scholar.csl.edu/lbiwomanandman. Bio: A full-time member of the faculty at Concordia Seminary since 2002, Joel Biermann revels in teaching doctrinal theology to Concordia's students – and to anyone else he can persuade to listen. He was ordained in 1987 and spent eleven years as a parish pastor serving congregations in Minnesota and Michigan before returning to the seminary for graduate work. He and his wife, Jeannalee, enjoy spending time pursuing a variety of activities afforded by the city, but most especially they cherish time with their three children and their spouses and their ten grandchildren all who live in the St. Louis area.  Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Why do Christians care so much about issues around sexuality? Isn't it a private matter? Listen as Tiffany and Steph introduce the “why” behind this season and how God's written and natural law change everything. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Dr. Robert Kolb's article can be found at witness.lcms.org/2023/lutheran-witness-october-2023. Find Every One His Witness Resources at everyonehiswitness.org/course/witnessing-to-lgbtq-people. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

You won't want to miss this short but sweet episode!   Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.