The Coffee Hour from KFUO Radio

How is colloquizing to become a rostered Lutheran educator a benefit to both the educator and the school? Robi Flach (Administrator of Altamont Lutheran Interparish School in Altamont, IL) and Annie O'Donoghue (Manager with Standing Partnership and the Set Apart to Serve team) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about Robi's background and how she decided to become a Lutheran teacher, why the decision to colloquize to be a rostered teacher was important to her, how colloquy has benefited her and her school, and details on the upcoming webinar to learn more about the colloquy process. You can learn more and register for the webinar on October 15th at 7pm CDT at  LCMS.org/colloquywebinar. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What is catechesis, and why does it matter for us in our daily lives? The Rev. Dr. Peter Bender (Senior Pastor of Peace Lutheran Church and Academy President of the Concordia Catechetical Academy (CCA) in Sussex, Wisconsin) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what catechesis is and is not, why catechesis is important for us in our daily rhythms of life, how Recognized Service Organization (RSO) status has benefitted the Concordia Catechetical Academy, how CCA's resources benefit the church at large, and the recent work that's been done to translate and distribute the Small Catechism. Learn more about Concordia Catechetical Academy at peacesussex.org/cca and lutherancatechesis.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How is the Concordia University System helping young people attend Concordia Universities? The Rev. Dr. Jamison Hardy (President of Concordia University System) and the Rev. Dr. Douglas Spittel (Vice President of Concordia University System) join Andy and Sarah for the monthly update from the Concordia University System, including what's been happening in the first few weeks of classes at our universities, how LCMS church work programs are funded, feedback from students receiving scholarships, and how CUS is related to the LCMS District Presidents. Learn more about CUS and sign up to receive their e-newsletter at cus.edu. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does LESA make Lutheran education possible for families in St. Louis? Amee Colvin (Director of Fund Development and Marketing, Lutheran Elementary School Association, St. Louis, Justine Eckhoff (parent of students at St. Paul's Lutheran School, Des Peres, MO) and Laura Montgomery (Director of Education Resources, Lutheran Elementary School Association, St. Louis) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA) does for schools and families, how they accomplish their work, why Lutheran schools are a priority for the Eckhoff family, how LESA has helped the Eckhoff family make Lutheran education a reality, and all the exciting things happening at this year's Brew in the Lou. Learn more about how to attend Brew in the Lou or to support LESA at LESAstl.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Why should we study what the Church Fathers taught? Flame (Grammy-Nominated and Stellar Award-Winning rap artist and author of Extra Nos: Discovering Grace Outside Myself and his newest book, Because Jesus Taught It: Christianity through the Eyes of the Church Fathers) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about where the idea for his newest book began, who the Church Fathers are, and why he chose to study what they taught. He shares what he found when he began studying them, how this knowledge influenced what he believes and confesses today, and what was most challenging and compelling about reading the Church Fathers. As a bonus for this episode, 3rd-7th grade students in the Quest program at St. Mark's Lutheran School in Eureka, MO join Andy and Sarah as co-hosts to ask Flame their own questions. Find everything from Flame at extranosacademy.com, including his podcast "The Study." Find his latest book at cph.org/because-jesus-taught-it-christianity-through-the-eyes-of-the-church-fathers. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Where did Glenn Rollins get to travel this summer to share about Set Apart to Serve? Mr. Glenn Rollins (Manager, Set Apart to Serve) joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about the opportunities he's had this summer to meet with leaders and youth about futures in church work. He shares about the duties of the Young Adult Representatives at Higher Things conferences and what their interactions looked like at the conferences, the events he's been preparing for this Fall and how these events help leaders engage youth and adults in conversations about church work, and how he connects with leadership in LCMS districts to enable them to reach potential future church workers. You can learn more about the church work opportunities available in the Concordia University System and Seminaries at lcms.org/sas. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Who is the Buszin family, and how did they influence the writing of a book about the history of American Lutheran Sacred Music? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 available from Concordia Publishing House) and the Rev. Scott Schilbe (Assistant Pastor/Minister of Music at Our Redeemer in Overland, MO, and Theology Teacher at Metro-East Lutheran High School in Edwardsville, IL), join Andy and Sarah for the BONUS episode in our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin and Rev. Schilbe talk about who Walter Buszin was, his vision for sharing the history of American Lutheran sacred music, how his daughter Connie Buszin Seddon spoke about her father's work, Benjamin and Rev. Schilbe's thoughts about stewarding the research and stories collected by the Buszin family, how the materials that Connie shared with Rev. Schilbe at the Good Shepherd Institute in 2022 began a research project like no other, how Benjamin's research developed from that box of materials, and why it was important to CPH that the stories of these significant musicians be published. Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music.  As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

We're looking at upcoming hymns of the day in our church year! The Rev. Sean Daenzer (LCMS Director of Worship and LCMS IC Chaplain) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about three beautiful hymns people may sing this weekend in church, covering themes of anxiety, trust, hope, comfort, and angels. Chaplain Daenzer talks about LSB 760 "What God Ordains Is Always Good" (15th Sunday after Trinity, One Year Lectionary), LSB 708 "Lord, Thee I Love With All My Heart" (16th Sunday after Pentecost / Proper 21, Three Year Lectionary), and LSB 522 "Lord God, To Thee We Give All Praise" (for St. Michael and All Angels). Grab your hymnals and follow along! As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How can high schoolers learn more about all that the Concordia Universities have to offer? Joshua Swartz (LCMS Missouri District Director of Schools) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what makes a Concordia University experience unique and valuable, what will happen at the Missouri District Lutheran College Fair on November 15, and what students and parents will learn about futures in church work as well as other programs available at Concordia Universities. Learn more and register under the Events tab at mo.lcms.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this crossover episode with The Lutheran Witness podcast, The Rev Roy Askins continues his conversation with LCMS Secretary Rev. Dr. John Sias on nominations for offices, boards, and commissions of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.  As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this crossover episode with The Lutheran Witness podcast, The Rev Roy Askins talks with LCMS Secretary the Rev. Dr. John Sias on nominations for offices, boards, and commissions of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. They discuss why the Synod needs nominations, who to nominate, the types of roles these nominees fill and much more.  To learn more about the nomination process within the LCMS, visit lcms.org/nominate. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does a family culture encourage young people to consider church work? Kevin and Jen Siek, along with their son Keith, join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about Keith's experiences growing up in a strong faith family, how his experiences at Christ Academy shaped his future vocational path, and his decision to attend Concordia University, Nebraska, this fall. His parents talk about who shaped their faith, their support of Keith in his vocational journey, and what faith formation looks like in their home. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Who is Friedrich Lochner and how did his vocation as a pastor shape congregational singing for the future of LCMS congregations? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 available from Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 6 of our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin talks about Friedrich Lochner (an LCMS founder), what brought the Lochner family to the United States, how rationalism and pietism were shaping the church's music at that time, why hymnology was important to immigrant Lutherans, the place of hymnology in the church as well as the formation of church workers, and the partnership between Lochner and his kantor Christian Diez. Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. For more information on the book release event in Missouri this weekend, visit facebook.com/events/1500931187738079. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does Christian Friends of New Americans serve our new neighbors in the St. Louis community? Rev. Dr. Stanish Stanley (Executive Director, Christian Friends of New Americans) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how long CFNA has served immigrants and refugees in the St. Louis area, the ways that CFNA serves these new neighbors, how LCMS congregations partner with CFNA to support this work of mercy, how the Peace Center played a key role in the work of CFNA and the need for a new Peace Center building, and the Open House happening at the new Peace Center. To learn more about CFNA, visit cfna-stl.org. New Building Dedication: Sunday, September 21 5515 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63111 Open House 2:00-4:30pm Dedication at 2:30pm As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How can we remember and learn more about our Lutheran heritage in Perry County, MO? Denise Hellwege (Director of Lutheran Heritage Center and Museum, KFUO's Organization of the week) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the group of German Lutherans who left their homes for a new one in Missouri, why they left and why they chose to settle in Missouri, what they found when they arrived and the hardships they faced. She also shares what the Lutheran Heritage Center and Museum does to document and present this history, and details about the Biennial Immigration History Conference happening October 23-25. You can learn more and register for the conference at lutheranmuseum.com.  As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How can organizations show the love of Christ to mothers in need? Deaconess Grace Rao (Executive Director of A Place of Refuge) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how A Place of Refuge (APOR) began, how APOR is helping women and children today, how women and babies supported after their time with APOR, the roles of volunteers within A Place of Refuge, and why A Place of Refuge is important to her. Learn more about APOR at aplaceofrefuge.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How are high school teachers formed for their vocations? Elizabeth Henschen (English teacher at Lutheran High in Sheboygan, WI) joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about her formation at Concordia University, Nebraska, why she chose to pursue church work, what she loves about teaching English, and her advice to high school students who are thinking of pursuing church work. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What did typical worship services in the late 19th century look like? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 available from Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 5 of our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin talks about the kinds of cultural influences at play during this time, the liturgical traditions that the Lutherans brought with them from Germany, how early LCMS services might have looked the same or different from the motherland, how liturgy and hymns walked together in a worship service, who was influential in the style of liturgy of the church in America, and the expectations of the pastor, organist, choir, and congregation during the service. Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. For more information on the book release event in Missouri this month, visit facebook.com/events/1500931187738079. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How do poetry and fantasy literature connect us to God's eternal truth? KFUO Radio went on the road to the Sing! Conference in Nashville, TN, to share Lutheran hymnody and teaching heard on KFUO. In this special crossover episode, Sarah interviews Dr. Malcolm Guite (poet-in-residence at the Sing! Conference and prolific writer) for a Lutheran Ladies' Lounge podcast episode about his journey in the Christian church, poetry, fantasy literature, and God's eternal truths. The full interview will be shared in a November episode of The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge podcast, which you can find at kfuo.org/category/lutheran-ladies-lounge. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Have you ever wondered what inspires the writing of hymns? The Coffee Hour went on the road to the Sing! Conference in Nashville, TN, to share Lutheran hymnody and teaching heard on KFUO Radio and to connect with church musicians. Sandra McCracken (singer-songwriter) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the faith tradition from which she comes, how hymns have shaped her faith and life, why she is passionate about writing hymns that point to Jesus, and what's important to her when writing a new hymn. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What makes a good modern hymn? The Coffee Hour went on the road to the Sing! Conference in Nashville, TN to share Lutheran hymnody and teaching heard on KFUO Radio and to connect with church musicians. Andrew Osenga (hymnwriter with Anchor Hymns) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the faith tradition from which he comes, how hymns have shaped his faith and life, why he is passionate about writing hymns that point to Jesus, and what's important to him when writing a new hymn. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Have you ever wondered what inspires the writing of hymns? The Coffee Hour went on the road to the Sing! Conference in Nashville, TN to share Lutheran hymnody and teaching heard on KFUO Radio, and to connect with church musicians. Jordan Kauflin (Worship Pastor at Christ Covenant Church in Atlanta, GA, and songwriter) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the faith tradition from which he comes, how hymns have shaped his faith and life, why he is passionate about writing hymns that point to Jesus, and what's important to him when writing a new hymn. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does a Christian school flourish while remaining faithful to God's Word? Dr. Bernard Bull (President of Concordia University, Nebraska, and author of Faithful and Flourishing: Strategies for Leading Your Christian School with Excellence) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about his new book available from Concordia Publishing House. He explains why Christian schools are important today, the research that led to this book, how being distinct and intentional is related to being faithful and flourishing in a Christian school, what establishes the formative message that impacts the lives of students and families in every school, what he looks for when seeking to know the mission of a school, and who would find this book helpful.

What does the Bible say about Jesus descending into hell? The Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District and host of KFUO Radio's Concord Matters, joins Andy to talk about the Formula of Concord reading plan he created for 2025, including the questions concerning The Descent into Hell that are addressed in September's readings. What does the Bible say about Jesus descending to hell? Why did Jesus descend into hell? What are the ideas and theories about what 1 Peter 3:18 means by “he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison”? What do we do with the questions not answered by God's Word? Find the full reading plan from The Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org/2024/reading-plan, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. September | The Descent Into Hell WEEK 1: Ep IX 1–4 (p. 495) SA Part I (p. 262) SC Part II, Article II (p. 329) WEEK 2: LC Part II, Article II (p.401–402) WEEK 3: SD IX (p. 596–597) WEEK 4: 1 Peter 3:18–22; Heb. 10:10–13; Psalm 16 As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What kind of hymns would Lutherans have been singing in Germany before coming to America? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 available from Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 4 of our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin talks about the influence of rationalism on hymnody at this time, C.F.W. Walther's preferred style of singing, what would have been considered Lutheran hymns at this time, how Lutherans created a new hymn book, what congregational singing looked, and where we see the legacy of these opinions and practices today. Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. For more information on the book release event in Missouri this month, visit facebook.com/events/1500931187738079. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this crossover episode with The Lutheran Witness podcast, The Rev Roy Askins shares his interview with Sandra, an American living in Germany. This edition of The Lutheran Witness podcast was recorded almost a year ago in Berlin-Steglitz, Germany. In this episode, we speak with Sandra, an American living in Germany and working with the members of Trinity Lutheran Church, Berlin-Steglitz, Germany. She discusses her life between Germany and the USA, and the great privilege and opportunity she has to help care for refugees in Germany.   For the full story, visit engage.lcms.org/persian-project-winter-2025. To learn more about the Independent Evangelical — Lutheran Church (SELK), visit lcms.org/partner-church-bodies/independent-evangelical-lutheran-church. Photo credit: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford  As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Anyone who has studied the Third Commandment in confirmation class has encountered Colossians 2:16–17, which answers the question, “Why don't Christians have to worship on Saturday (the Sabbath) as the Israelites did in the Old Testament?” St. Paul writes, “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance [literally, “body”] belongs to Christ.” Not only does this passage teach that under the New Testament Christians are not obligated to keep Old Testament ceremonial or political laws (although the moral Law does continue to apply to all people of all times and all places), but it also leads Christians to ask, “Why would we try to cling to mere shadows of our Savior, when He is really present in His Body, the church?” We have Jesus as our Bridegroom, so we lack nothing. Nevertheless, the New Testament does use types, examples and shadows from the Old Testament to teach us about life in Christ and in the church. We can gain insights into the New Testament Means of Grace by opening the Old Testament. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the September 2025 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Sacramental Shadows” on Exodus 13 & 14. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Opening the Old Testament” and will walk through ways that the Old Testament witnesses to Jesus Christ and His grace, mercy and peace, delivered through the holy Christian church. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us! Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What hymns bring you comfort when seeking peace? In this episode, Chaplain Brian Hamer joins Andy to explore the significance of hymns in the context of war and peace. They discuss the origins and historical contexts of three hymns: 'Silent Night', 'Now Thank We All Our God' and ‘O God, Our Help in Ages Past'. The conversation highlights how these hymns have provided comfort and hope during times of conflict, emphasizing their enduring relevance and trans-cultural nature. To view Chaplain Hamer's article, visit whatdoesthismean.org/lifted-voice--brian-hamer. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How was Set Apart to Serve part of summer activities for youth around the Synod? The Rev. Dr. James Baneck (LCMS Executive Director of Pastoral Education and Set Apart to Serve) joins Andy for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about the extensive summer travel that took SAS around the country, the work he sees other people doing to recruit future church workers, why SAS is such a passion for him, and an important message for our listeners. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How can we further understand C.F.W. Walther as not just a theologian but also as an immensely talented musician? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 available from Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 3 of our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin talks about Walther's formation as a church musician, how he was a talented composer and conductor, Walther's organ designs, and where we see the influence of C.F.W. Walther on American Lutheran Sacred Music today. Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this crossover episode with The Lutheran Witness podcast, The Rev Roy Askins shares his interview with Sebastian, an Iranian convert in Germany. This edition of The Lutheran Witness podcast was recorded almost a year ago in Berlin-Steglitz, Germany. In it, we speak to Sebastian, who was baptized during our trip to Germany. In this podcast, he discusses the importance of dreams in Iranian culture, how he came to faith, and how the Lord is working through Trinity Lutheran Church, Berlin-Steglitz, Germany.   For the full story, visit engage.lcms.org/persian-project-winter-2025. To learn more about the Independent Evangelical — Lutheran Church (SELK), visit lcms.org/partner-church-bodies/independent-evangelical-lutheran-church. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What does it mean to be an artist in the church? Michael Scheer (Director, Center for Liturgical Art) and Deb Jurchen (Director, University Institutes at Concordia Nebraska) join Andy to discuss the significance of the Center for Liturgical Art at Concordia University, Nebraska, sharing about its history, mission, and the role of visual arts in the church.  To learn more about the Center for Liturgical Art, visit liturgicalart.org. To register for the CLA's 20th anniversary celebration, visit CUNE.edu/homecoming. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Movies have the power to both shape and reflect our society. But what can happen when we look at film through the lens of faith? Andy Bates and guest host Jordan Harms sit down with professors from Concordia University and Concordia Seminary to discuss the intersection of film and Christian faith. They explore how cinema can reflect and shape societal values, the importance of recognizing biblical themes in various films, and share about an upcoming continuing education course that aims to equip pastors with tools to use movies as a means of witness. To learn more about the six-week virtual continuing education course, visit csl.edu/2025/08/movies-and-mission-explores-film-through-biblical-lens/. To register for "Movies and Mission", visit one.csp.edu/s/286/20/interior.aspx?sid=286&gid=1&pgid=3149&cid=11384&ecid=11384. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does a family legacy of church work influence younger generations? The Rev. Dr. Todd Allen Jenks (pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ames, IA) joins Andy for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about his journey into the pastoral ministry, who had the greatest influence on his decision to consider and enter the pastoral ministry, the story of his family of church workers including his father and siblings, an endowed scholarship in honor and memory of his father at Concordia Seminary St. Louis, how a scholarship like this helps others pursue the pastoral ministry, and his encouragement for those who are considering entering the pastoral ministry. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How did the vocation of "church musician" develop in the 19th century Missouri Synod? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 available from Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 2 of our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin talks about the vocation of teacher/musician, what Luther taught about the vocation of teacher and musician, the key figures in retaining this understanding, an introduction to Friedrich Lochner, and how musicians and teachers at this time shared valuable information about their profession.   Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947 at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this crossover episode with The Lutheran Witness podcast, The Rev Roy Askins shares his interview with missionaries serving Germany. The Rev. Dr. Gottfried Martens, the Rev. Dr. David Preus and the Rev. Dr. Christian Tiews join the podcast to discuss the work at Trinity Lutheran Church, Berlin-Steglitz, Germany. This congregation of the Independent Evangelical — Lutheran Church (SELK) cares for Persian immigrants seeking asylum in Germany. The conversation includes an explanation of the political situation in Germany, and the LCMS mission with Farsi speakers in Germany and beyond.   For the full story, visit engage.lcms.org/persian-project-winter-2025. To learn more about the Independent Evangelical — Lutheran Church (SELK), visit lcms.org/partner-church-bodies/independent-evangelical-lutheran-church. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What are the latest updates on Concordia University System scholarships and the new school year? The Rev. Dr. Jamison Hardy (President of Concordia University System) and the Rev. Dr. Douglas Spittel (Vice President of Concordia University System) join Andy and Sarah to talk about their time at the LCMS Youth Gathering, what it was like for them to represent CUS and meet thousands of Lutheran youth, the scholarships available from CUS, what these scholarships mean for CUS students entering a new school year, where Dr. Hardy and Dr. Spittel will be present for opening services, and upcoming conferences. Learn more about CUS and how you can support the scholarship fund at cus.edu. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What is still relevant today as we celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea? Dr. Joel Elowsky (Professor of Historical Theology, Dean of Advanced Studies and Director of the Center for the Study of Early Christian Texts at Concordia Seminary St. Louis) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the upcoming Theological Symposium at Concordia Seminary all about "Nicaea 1700," including the state of the church at the time of the Council of Nicaea, why the Council was called, who was present or represented, what it accomplished, and what Symposium attendees will learn about the Council, the Nicene Creed, and its contemporary applications. Learn more about the Theological Symposium happening September 16-17 at Concordia Seminary St. Louis by visiting csl.edu/resources/continuing-education/theological-symposium. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does learning to witness the faith to others help form future church workers? The Rev. Andrew Jagow (Pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church in Alexandria, VA) joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about his congregation and the community it serves, his journey into the pastoral vocation, how his experiences sharing his faith in high school provided a space for formation into church work, the Set Apart to Serve pilot program he is participating in, and how he and his congregation are encouraging young people to consider church work vocations. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Why has sacred music always been important to the Lutheran church, and who is Ferdinand Winter in this story? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist, author of "Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947" available from Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 1 of our series on Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music. Benjamin talks about the development of sacred music pedagogy (teaching), the development of Addison Seminary (1864-1913) and then its successor institution Concordia Teachers College River Forest, how the teachers of sacred music ensured this treasured gift of sacred music would be retained in the church throughout time, and why this history is so important to retain and share. Find Benjamin Kolodziej's book "Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847-1947" at cph.org/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/portraits-in-american-lutheran-sacred-music. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Do you know the history of Lutheranism in Brazil? The Rev. Dr. Daniel Harmelink, Executive Director of Concordia Historical Institute (CHI), joins Andy and Sarah to talk about a new exhibit coming to CHI celebrating 120 years of Lutheranism in Brazil, including the planning process to create the exhibit, the history of the LCMS's mission work in Brazil, the challenges missionaries faced, how these missionaries were connected to Lutherans in the United States, and what to expect in this exciting exhibit. Learn more about Concordia Historical Institute and how to visit at concordiahistoricalinstitute.org. This episode originally aired on July 17, 2025. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How does the LCMS prepare and train people to respond to disasters with the mercy of Christ? The Rev. Michael Meyer (Managing Director, LCMS National Mission) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how Disaster Response has grown among LCMS districts and congregations over the last ten years, why Disaster Response and mercy work are an important part of who we are as LCMS Lutherans, why it is important for us to consider both physical and spiritual care together, and the theme and details of this year's LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference, "Serving the Suffering: The Church's Role in Recovery." Learn more and register here: calendar.lcms.org/event/2025-lcms-national-disaster-response-and-training-conference. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.