Podcasts about coffee hour

What does it mean to love your neighbor? In this crossover series with the Friends for Life podcast, we're exploring "loving your neighbor" from a variety of perspectives! In Episode 1, Rev. Dr. James Fickenscher (Assistant Professor of Exegetical Theology and Director of Certification, Concordia Seminary St. Louis) joins Sarah and guest co-host Steph Neugebauer (host, Friends for Life podcast) to talk about "love" in Scripture. Dr. Fickenscher explores where "loving your neighbor" is recorded in Scripture, various Old and New Testament examples of love, gives an exegetical study of the words "love" and "neighbor," and shares what these words mean for us today as we live out our God-given vocations in our contexts. Find the Friends for Life podcast at kfuo.org/friendsforlife. 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 head to southern Wisconsin for today's conversation! The Rev. Dr. Nathan Meador (President, South Wisconsin District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about his early life and journey through school, his pathway to seminary, stories from his service in the parish after seminary, his duties as a district president and how he sees the district serving the local parish, how his service in the parish influences how he serves as President, what makes the South Wisconsin District unique, and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS today. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Finland? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, Bishop Juhana Pohjola (Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland) joins Sarah Gulseth (co-host of The Coffee Hour) and the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about where he lives and works, the history of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland, the recent challenges this church body and he personally have faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, how the church fits into the broader culture of Finland, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland at lhpk.fi. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org.

What does Lutheranism look like in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Mark Schroeder (President, Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod) joins Sarah Gulseth (co-host of The Coffee Hour) and the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about the history of WELS, the relationship between WELS and LCMS, what WELS looks like today in the United States and abroad, the current emphases of the WELS, how WELS does pastoral formation, challenges they've faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and what he's enjoyed about being among Lutherans from around the globe. Find the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod at wels.net. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org.

What does Lutheranism look like in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Mark Schroeder (President, Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod) joins Sarah and guest co-host the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about the history of WELS, the relationship between WELS and LCMS, what WELS looks like today in the United States and abroad, the current emphases of the WELS, how WELS does pastoral formation, challenges they've faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and what he's enjoyed about being among Lutherans from around the globe. Find the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod at wels.net. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Finland? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, Bishop Juhana Pohjola (Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland) joins Sarah and guest co-host the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about where he lives and works, the history of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland, the recent challenges this church body and he personally have faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, how the church fits into the broader culture of Finland, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland at lhpk.fi. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Finland? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, Bishop Juhana Pohjola (Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland) joins Sarah and guest co-host the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about where he lives and works, the history of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland, the recent challenges this church body and he personally have faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, how the church fits into the broader culture of Finland, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Diocese of Finland at lhpk.fi. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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 collection of church music serve the church at large? Dr. Elisabeth Urtel (Interim Director, Center for Church Music; Adjunct Instructor at Martin Luther College, New Ulm, MN) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the Center for Church Music housed on the campus of Concordia University, Chicago, including her extensive background in church music and hymnology, her recent dissertation studies on The Lutheran Hymnal, what the Center for Church Music is and how it serves the church, some of the exciting things you'll find in the Center's archives, and why this is an important resource for the church at large. Find the Center for Church Music at cuchicago.edu/academics/centers-of-excellence/center-for-church-music. Other resources mentioned in this episode: hymnary.org Lectures in Church Music - cuchicago.edu/events/2026/10/lectures-in-church-music Anna B. Hoppe: Her Life and Hymnody by Elisabeth Urtel - fortresspress.com/store/product/9781942304333/Anna-B-Hoppe 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 a pastor, deaconess, and principal work together for faith formation and encouraging future church workers? The Rev. Dr. Matthew Durance (Pastor, Zion Lutheran Church and School, Harbor Beach, MI), Deaconess Rachel Bulgrien (Zion Lutheran Church and School, Harbor Beach, MI), and Julie Metzger (Principal, Zion Lutheran Church and School, Harbor Beach, MI) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about how each of them serves in their unique vocations, their individual journeys into church work, how they each have a hand in faith formation of children and adults at Zion, how forming our children in the faith is also key to forming them toward full-time church work, and how the congregation is involved in robust faith formation. 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 are the challenges of New Testament archeology, and what exciting things have been discovered just recently? Dr. Steven Notley (Dean of Religious Studies at Pillar College, Newark, NJ) and the Rev. Dr. Stephen Pietsch (Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of Theological Research and Publication, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the third annual "These Stones Will Shout" biblical archaeology lecture set for Sept. 29th at Concordia Seminary. They discuss Dr. Notley's background and interest in biblical archaeology, the excavations at Khirbet el Araj, its historical and Biblical significance, how historical geography and New Testament archeology help us understand the scriptures more, where the el Araj excavation fits in the grand timeline of excavations in this part of the world, the challenges that come with New Testament archeology, and what attendees will hear at the upcoming lecture. Learn more about the lecture at csl.edu/2026/06/third-annual-these-stones-will-shout-biblical-archaeology-lecture-set-for-sept-29. 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 head to the northern third of Illinois for today's conversation! The Rev. Dr. Allan Buss (President, Northern Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about where he grew up, his journey to seminary, where he served in parishes and what he learned from those experiences, why visitation is so important to him in his vocation, his duties as a district president, what makes the Northern Illinois District unique, and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS today. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 Gospel of Christ bring peace, forgiveness, and restoration to women who are struggling after an abortion? Deaconess Dr. Chrissie Gillet (Director, Word of Hope, a ministry of Lutherans for Life) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about an upcoming retreat for women struggling after abortion. They talk about what inspired this retreat, who it is for, what attendees will experience, how this retreat will bring the hope and healing of Christ to women, and what makes this retreat different from others. Learn more at word-of-hope.org/rgr, 888-217-8679, or info@word-of-hope.org. Redeeming Grace Retreat October 1-4, 2026 Registration deadline: September 15 A Place of Peace, Forgiveness, and Restoration Wildwood Hills Ranch, St. Charles, Iowa 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 express joy even in sorrow? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church, Austin, TX) joins Andy and Sarah for Part 3 of 3 on “serious joy” to talk about what "countenance" is and how it's related to joy, how we practice joy in sorrow, some misconceptions about joy, the difference between joy and happiness, and where we can turn to in Scripture for encouragement. Find everything from Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller at wolfmueller.co and youtube.com/@PastorBryanWolfmueller. 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 Church Work Scholarships make a difference for church work students? The Rev. Patrick Gumz (Mission Executive, Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod), Nicholas Seibert (Vicar at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, Springfield, IL) and Oliver Braaten (Freshman, Concordia University, Nebraska) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about Pastor Gumz's story of church work formation, what Christian formation has looked like for all three of them, their individual stories of considering church work vocations, how congregations are a part of the culture helping to form church workers, how church work scholarships are important for students in their formation journey, and why it is important for LCMS Districts to support church worker formation. 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.

In the 16th century, there were some disputes among Lutherans over the phrase of the Apostles' Creed, “He descended into hell.” The FC explains its meaning: Christ “destroyed hell for all believers, and delivered them from the power of death and of the devil, from eternal condemnation and the jaws of hell” (FC Ep IX 4). The FC also holds up Martin Luther's 1533 sermon on this topic (WA 37:62–67) as a model for how to preach it. Luther's sermon teaches that we must not rely on our reason or five senses to understand this (or any other) article of the faith but rather should trust God's Word as articulated in the Creed, which leads us to confess everywhere and always, “Christ is risen!” This Bible study will examine passages that show how in Christ we are victorious over all these enemies. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the September 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article IX: Christ's Descent into Hell” on Article VIX in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month! This year, “Searching Scripture” is walking through the Formula of Concord (FC) from our Lutheran Confessions, exploring the biblical foundations for each topic. Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep IX on Christ's Descent into Hell (p. 495) in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions (CPH, 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan. Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article VIX at kfuo.org/2025/09/05/coffee-hour-090525-the-descent-into-hell-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.

In the 16th century, there were some disputes among Lutherans over the phrase of the Apostles' Creed, “He descended into hell.” The FC explains its meaning: Christ “destroyed hell for all believers, and delivered them from the power of death and of the devil, from eternal condemnation and the jaws of hell” (FC Ep IX 4). The FC also holds up Martin Luther's 1533 sermon on this topic (WA 37:62–67) as a model for how to preach it. Luther's sermon teaches that we must not rely on our reason or five senses to understand this (or any other) article of the faith but rather should trust God's Word as articulated in the Creed, which leads us to confess everywhere and always, “Christ is risen!” This Bible study will examine passages that show how in Christ we are victorious over all these enemies. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the September 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article IX: Christ's Descent into Hell” on Article VIX in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month! This year, “Searching Scripture” is walking through the Formula of Concord (FC) from our Lutheran Confessions, exploring the biblical foundations for each topic. Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep IX on Christ's Descent into Hell (p. 495) in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions (CPH, 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan. Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article VIX at kfuo.org/2025/09/05/coffee-hour-090525-the-descent-into-hell-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

We head to the great state of Texas for today's conversation! The Rev. Dr. Jon Braunersreuther (President, Texas District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about his early life and journey to seminary, how his service after seminary influences how he serves today, his duties as a district president and how he sees the district serving the local parish, what makes the Texas District unique, and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS today. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Bolivia? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Limberth Fernandez Coronado (President, Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia) joins Sarah Gulseth (co-host of The Coffee Hour), Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications), and translator Rev. Tyler McMiller (LCMS Missionary serving the Lord in Italy) to talk about where he lives and works, the history and culture of the Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia, how the church fits into the broader culture of Bolivia, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, challenges the church body has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org.

What does the confessional Lutheran church look like in Brazil? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Geraldo Schüler (President, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil - IELB) joins Sarah Gulseth (co-host of The Coffee Hour), Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications), and translator Rev. Airton Schroeder (Vice President of Mercy Work, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil - IELB) to talk about where he lives and works, the history and culture of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil, the long history between the IELB and the LCMS, how the church fits into the broader culture of Argentina, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, challenges the church body has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil (IELB: Igreja Evangélica Luterana do Brasil) at ielb.org.br. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org.

What does the confessional Lutheran church look like in Brazil? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Geraldo Schüler (President, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil - IELB) joins Sarah, guest co-host Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications), and translator Rev. Airton Schroeder (Vice President of Mercy Work, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil - IELB) to talk about where he lives and works, the history and culture of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil, the long history between the IELB and the LCMS, how the church fits into the broader culture of Argentina, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, challenges the church body has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil (IELB: Igreja Evangélica Luterana do Brasil) at ielb.org.br. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Bolivia? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Limberth Fernandez Coronado (President, Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia) joins Sarah, guest co-host Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications), and translator Rev. Tyler McMiller (LCMS Missionary serving the Lord in Italy) to talk about where he lives and works, the history and culture of the Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia, how the church fits into the broader culture of Bolivia, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, challenges the church body has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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.

Can you have joy even when you're suffering? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church, Austin, TX) joins Andy and Sarah for Part 2 of 3 on “serious joy” to talk about whether we can have joy in the midst of suffering, what joy looks like in these situations, whether joy must be felt, how we actually find joy or even happiness, and where Jesus comes to us to bring us joy. Find everything from Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller at wolfmueller.co and youtube.com/@PastorBryanWolfmueller. 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 congregation's care for her church workers impact the congregation and the recruitment of future church workers? David Kuschel (Assistant Vice President of Ministry Engagement, Concordia Plan Services) and Kelly Menke (Ministry Wellness Advisor, Concordia Plan Services) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about how they get to care for church workers in their roles with Concordia Plan Services, what care looks like from various facets of wellness, how congregations can care for their workers, how appropriate compensation contributes to church worker health and joy, how caring for church workers impacts the overall health and joy of a congregation, the relationship between church worker wellness and worker recruitment, and some tips for caring for church workers. Find Concordia Plan Services at concordiaplans.org. Resources mentioned in this episode: Compensation Decision Support Tool - concordiaplans.org/employers/resources/compensation-decision-support-tool Wellness Champion Center - concordiaplans.org/employers/keep-my-ministry-well/wellness-champion-center 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 do Concordia Universities prepare students for their next chapter in life and service to their neighbor? Maybe even a career in the lively world of Banana Ball? Blake Benson – #17, Pitcher for the Loco Beach Coconuts (Banana Ball) joins Andy and Sarah on his trip to St. Louis to face off against the Savannah Bananas to talk about what Banana Ball is, how pitching in Banana Ball is different from what we might call “regular” baseball, the flair he adds to the game as a break dancer, how his journey to Banana Ball went through Concordia University, Nebraska, how his time at CUNE shaped him into the player he is today, and what he learned in his first year playing Banana Ball. Learn more about the Banana Ball phenomenon at bananaball.com and the baseball program at CUNE at cune.edu/athletics/teams/baseball. 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 duties of the 3rd Vice President of the LCMS? The Rev. Dr. Scott Murray (retiring as 3rd Vice President of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about his early life and journey through schooling, the journey that took him to the seminary, his service to parishes along the way, his work as 3rd Vice President, and what he has loved about being a pastor in the LCMS. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Argentina? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Arturo Truenow (President, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina) joins Sarah Gulseth (co-host of The Coffee Hour), Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications), and translator Rev. Tyler McMiller (LCMS Missionary serving the Lord in Italy) to talk about where he lives and works, the history and culture of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina, how the church fits into the broader culture of Argentina, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, challenges the church body has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina at iela.org.ar. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members.

What does the confessional Lutheran church look like in Australia? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Matt Anker (President, Lutheran Mission – Australia) joins Sarah Gulseth (co-host of The Coffee Hour) and Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about the general landscape of religion and Lutheranism in Australia, the current state of the Lutheran Mission - Australia and exciting things coming up, the seminary currently in development for LMA students, the first Synodical Assembly happening in August 2026, challenges LMA has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy Rev. Anker has found in being in fellowship with other Lutherans at ICRC. Find Lutheran Mission - Australia at lutheranmissionaustralia.org.au. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members.

What does the confessional Lutheran church look like in Australia? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Matt Anker (President, Lutheran Mission – Australia) joins Sarah and guest co-host the Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about the general landscape of religion and Lutheranism in Australia, the current state of the Lutheran Mission - Australia and exciting things coming up, the seminary currently in development for LMA students, the first Synodical Assembly happening in August 2026, challenges LMA has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy Rev. Anker has found in being in fellowship with other Lutherans at ICRC. Find Lutheran Mission - Australia at lutheranmissionaustralia.org.au. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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 the confessional Lutheran church look like in Argentina? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Arturo Truenow (President, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina) joins Sarah, guest co-host the Rachel Bomberger (managing editor of The Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications), and translator Rev. Tyler McMiller (LCMS Missionary serving the Lord in Italy) to talk about where he lives and works, the history and culture of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina, how the church fits into the broader culture of Argentina, how they are able to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ, challenges the church body has faced as they seek to be faithful to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, and the joy he's found among fellowship with fellow Lutherans. Find Evangelical Lutheran Church of Argentina at iela.org.ar. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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 joy? What is serious joy? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church, Austin, TX) joins Andy and Sarah for Part 1 of 3 on "serious joy" to talk about how we define joy, the four quadrants of the human heart, the distinction between joy and happiness, where and how Scripture speaks about joy, how joy is expressed in action and in trial, and whether joy can be serious. Find everything from Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller at wolfmueller.co and youtube.com/@PastorBryanWolfmueller. 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 classical Lutheran education, and how are young people being prepared to serve as educators in classical settings? The Rev. Dr. Charles Schulz (Professor of Theology and Classical Lutheran Educator Program Leader at Concordia University, Chicago) and Macy Froetschner (Deaconess student and rising senior in the Classical Lutheran Educator program at Concordia University, Chicago) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about Dr. Schulz's work at Concordia Chicago, what classical Lutheran education is and how the Classical Lutheran Educator program prepares students to serve in classical schools, the demand for classical Lutheran educators, Macy's story of choosing Concordia Chicago for her education, why she loves classical education and deaconess work, and why this program offers students a unique opportunity to serve the church in classical schools. Learn more about the Classical Lutheran Educator program at Concordia University Chicago at catalog.cuchicago.edu/undergraduate/classical-lutheran-educator-program. 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 does mission work look like across the continent of Africa? The Rev. Shauen Trump (Regional Director, Africa, LCMS Office of International Mission) joins Andy and Sarah at the LCMS Synod Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, to talk about the Africa Region for the LCMS, the various ministries across the region, why it's important to work with the local church bodies when doing mission work, the history of some of these church bodies, the ways churches have mercy work across the region, how church planting happens in different countries, how theological education happens across the region, and how short-term teams play a role in the Africa Region. Learn more about Rev. Trump and how to support his work at lcms.org/trump. Find your opportunity to serve at servenow.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.

We head to the Rocky Mountains for today's conversation! Rev. James Maxwell (President, Rocky Mountain District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and serving Rock of Ages Lutheran Church – Colorado Springs, CO) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about his early life and journey to seminary, how his service after seminary influences how he serves today, his duties as a district president and what makes the Rocky Mountain District unique, and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS today. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 the Lutheran church look like in Canada? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Timothy Teuscher (President/Bishop, Lutheran Church—Canada) joins Andy Bates (co-host of The Coffee Hour) and the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about where he gets to live and work, a history of Lutheran Church–Canada and how the LCMS uniquely shares some of that history, the relationship between the LCMS and LCC, how the Lutheran church fits into the broader cultural context in Canada, challenges the Church faces in Canada, and his message to the members of the LCMS during his time in Phoenix. Find Lutheran Church—Canada at lutheranchurchcanada.ca. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org.

What does a Professional Parliamentarian do, and why is this role important at the LCMS Convention? Al Gage (current Parliamentarian for the National Association of Parliamentarians, CPP-T, PRP, PAP; past president of the American Institute of Parliamentarians) joins Andy Bates (co-host of The Coffee Hour) and the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to share his story and why he became a parliamentarian, what exactly a professional parliamentarian is, the purpose and intention behind Robert's Rules of Order, what these rules accomplish and how they do it, how congregational voter's assembly can get the benefits of Robert's Rules without having to have a full time parliamentarian, one of the most creative ways Al has seen Robert's Rules used, and how congregations can implement Robert's Rules of Order in their congregations. For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org.

What does a Professional Parliamentarian do, and why is this role important at the LCMS Convention? Al Gage (current Parliamentarian for the National Association of Parliamentarians, CPP-T, PRP, PAP; past president of the American Institute of Parliamentarians) joins Andy and guest co-host the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to share his story and why he became a parliamentarian, what exactly a professional parliamentarian is, the purpose and intention behind Robert's Rules of Order, what these rules accomplish and how they do it, how congregational voter's assembly can get the benefits of Robert's Rules without having to have a full time parliamentarian, one of the most creative ways Al has seen Robert's Rules used, and how congregations can implement Robert's Rules of Order in their congregations. 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 the Lutheran church look like in Canada? We were honored to meet and share stories of global Lutheran church leaders at the International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held during the LCMS Synod Convention. In this conversation, the Rev. Timothy Teuscher (President/Bishop, Lutheran Church—Canada) joins Andy and guest co-host the Rev. Roy Askins (executive editor of the Lutheran Witness, LCMS Communications) to talk about where he gets to live and work, a history of Lutheran Church–Canada and how the LCMS uniquely shares some of that history, the relationship between the LCMS and LCC, how the Lutheran church fits into the broader cultural context in Canada, challenges the Church faces in Canada, and his message to the members of the LCMS during his time in Phoenix. To learn more about Global Lutheranism: Read more about the 2026 International Church Relations Conference at reporter.lcms.org/2026/global-lutheran-leaders-challenges-abound-contentment-rules. Learn more about partner churches around the globe at lcms.org/how-we-serve/international/partner-church-bodies. Find the International Lutheran Council at ilc-online.org/members. 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.

Over half of the congregations of the LCMS are in rural or small-town communities. What is unique about ministry in these communities? Erika Petsch (Director of Continuing Education, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis), the Rev. Russ Sommerfeld (Professor Emeritus, Concordia University, Nebraska; former President of the LCMS Nebraska District), and the Rev. Dr. David J. Peter (Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of Faculty, Concordia Seminary St. Louis) join Andy to talk about the partnership between Concordia University, Nebraska and Concordia Seminary to provide insights and learning about serving in rural and small-town communities. They discuss what rural and small-town ministry is, experiences from Dr. Peter and Rev. Sommerfeld about serving in these communities, what is unique about rural and small-town culture and relationships, distinctives of small congregation life, challenges rural and small-town congregations may face, who would benefit most from this Studia Vitae course, and why Concordia Seminary and Concordia Nebraska partnered for this course. Learn more about this and other Studia Vitae courses by visiting cune.edu/ceu or ceu.cune.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 can we use conversation to connect with young people in church? Tim Oberdieck (Youth Director at St. John's Lutheran Church in Seward, NE) and Annie Ryan (Director of Church Ministries at Bethlehem Lutheran in Delmar, NY) join Andy and Sarah to talk about how they each get to serve in their ministry contexts, how they see personal relationships making a difference when connecting with young people, how changes in social media and technology pave the way for investing in real-life and in-person leadership opportunities, how they see youth and adults in the church interacting in informal yet meaningful ways, and how youth perceive interaction with adults in the church. Resources mentioned in this episode: Faithfully Formed by Andy Wright - cph.org/faithfully-formed-the-lutheran-confessions-in-daily-life My First Catechism from Concordia Publishing House - cph.org/p-34256-my-first-catechism Luther's Small Catechism for Kids from Concordia Publishing House - cph.org/luthers-small-catechism-for-kids 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 does Lutheran theology contribute to the care of souls, especially those struggling with mental health issues? Erika Petsch (Director, Continuing Education, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) and the Rev. Dr. Rick Marrs (Licensed Psychologist, Senior Professor of Practical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the 2026 Theological Symposium at CSL: "I Will Uphold You: Ministry in Mental Health." They discuss the relationship between the care of souls and mental health, the changes or significant challenges to mental health we've seen in the past 10 years, how we've also seen changes in mental health and spiritual care during this time, what we can learn in this year's Theological Symposium, the long and exciting list of presenters and their presentations, and why this topic is especially important to Erika and Dr. Marrs. Find more details about the Symposium happening September 22-23, 2026, at Concordia Seminary at csl.edu/symposium. Resources mentioned in this episode: Heidi Goehmann's series on "Emotions and the Gospel" - kfuo.org/tag/emotions-and-the-gospel Coffee Hour conversations with Dr. Marrs - kfuo.org/tag/rick-marrs Coffee Hour conversations with Dr. Pietsch - kfuo.org/tag/stephen-pietsch Issues, Etc., series on Christianity and Psychiatry with Dr. John Flo - issuesetc.org/tag/john-flo 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 duties of the 4th Vice President of the LCMS? The Rev. Nabil Nour (4th Vice President of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about his early life and seminary journey, his work in the Executive Synod District as 4th Vice President, and what he loves about being a pastor in the LCMS today. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 the Lutheran Church look like in Italy today? The Rev. Tyler McMiller (LCMS Missionary serving the Lord in Italy) joins Andy and Sarah at the LCMS Synod Convention to talk about a brief history of the Lutheran church in Italy and the state of Lutherans in Italy today, what his mission work looks like across the peninsula, who is being served by the mission efforts, the team he gets to work with, what worship and congregational life look like, the native Italian pastors who were recently ordained, how his experience as a missionary kid servs him as a missionary today, and what his family life in Italy looks like. Learn more about Rev. McMiller's work and how to support him at lcms.org/mcmiller. 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 Deaf ministry look like at Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas? The Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller (Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas) joins Andy and Sarah at the LCMS Synod Convention to talk about the need for Gospel ministry among the Deaf, what Pastor Wolfmueller learned as a newcomer to Deaf ministry, his experiences learning ASL in a ministry context, what he found to be most helpful in learning a new language and culture, some misconceptions he had about Deaf culture and ministry prior to entering into Deaf ministry, how his prior work has been helpful in caring for souls who are Deaf, and how his experience in Deaf ministry has shaped his approach to new opportunities and challenges. Learn more at stpaulaustin.org and jesusdeafchurch.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.

What role do athletics play in the formation of future church workers? Coach Matt Beisel (Head Cross Country and Track & Field Coach – Concordia University, Nebraska) and Coach Josh Schumacher (Head Football Coach, Concordia University, St. Paul) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about their respective positions and why they love being coaches, how sports have been a key part of their development both physically and as a whole person, the importance of the physical development of a person for their future vocations, how stewardship of the body and physical health impact how a church worker serves, and their philosophy/theology when they coach men and women at our Concordia universities. Learn more about CUNE athletics at cune.edu/athletics and CSP athletics at cspbears.com. 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 does Lutheran Heritage Foundation work around the globe? The Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise (executive director, Lutheran Heritage Foundation), the Rev. Dr. Dinku Bato (Translation Coordinator, Africa, Lutheran Heritage Foundation), and the Rev. Dr. Ted NaThalang (Translation Coordinator, Southeast Asia, Lutheran Heritage Foundation) join Sarah at the LCMS Synod Convention to share updates in Icelandic and Norwegian languages, the Spanish Book of Prayer, materials in Swahili, the African translation seminary, pastors seeking Lutheranism in South Sudan, materials in Chinese and Indonesian, a new regional office in Malaysia, and how LHF approaches materials for second-generation immigrants around the globe. Learn more about Lutheran Heritage Foundation at lhfmissions.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.

We head Southeast for our conversation, recorded at the LCMS Synod Convention. The Rev. Dr. Bill Harmon (President, Southeastern District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, also serving King of Glory, Williamsburg, VA) joins Andy and Sarah to answer the now infamous Lightning Round of Favorites (which every COP member will be subjected to) and to talk about his upbringing and school journey, how he became a pastor, how he serves as President of the Southeastern District, what makes this district unique, and why he loves being a pastor in the LCMS. Learn more about the LCMS President and Vice Presidents at lcms.org/about/leadership/president and the 35 LCMS Districts at lcms.org/districts. 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 the origin story of Lutheran Heritage Foundation? The Rev. Dr. Robert Rahn (Founder of Lutheran Heritage Foundation) and the Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise (executive director, Lutheran Heritage Foundation) join Andy and Sarah at the LCMS Synod Convention to talk about where Lutheran Heritage Foundation began, the challenges Dr. Rahn and his colleagues faced in cultivating relationships and partnerships, what he learned about the Church as he met and built relationships with brothers and sisters in Christ around the globe, the first books or materials LHF translated when venturing into a new language, and how they've seen LHF grow over the years. Learn more about Lutheran Heritage Foundation at lhfmissions.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.

Article VIII of the Formula of Concord (FC), “The Person of Christ,” is closely related to Article VII, “The Holy Supper of Christ.” After Luther's death in 1546, Calvinist errors about Communion and Christ found their way into some Lutheran churches and schools. The FC criticizes Calvinists for attempting to explain the mysteries of the Supper and the Savior in terms acceptable to human reason rather than simply following the truth of God's Word. It is helpful that the FC has separated articles VII and VIII, because they answer slightly different questions, though both originated in the debate over the Lord's Supper. Article VII answers what the Sacrament is, taking its answer directly from the Words of Institution (for example, Matt. 26:26–28). Article VIII answers the challenge, “How can the true body and true blood of Christ be present in, with and under the bread and wine in all the countless places where the Sacrament is celebrated, and in heaven with the ascended Christ, at once?” It does so by taking up Christology (the theology of the person and work of Christ), providing an answer from Scripture. The answer is that the God-man can cause His Word to do what it says it does, for as He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (MATT. 28:18). This study will search Scripture for its teachings on the divine and human natures personally united in the one Lord Jesus Christ. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the August 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article VIII: The Person of Christ" on Article VIII in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month! This year, “Searching Scripture” is walking through the Formula of Concord (FC) from our Lutheran Confessions, exploring the biblical foundations for each topic. Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read Formula of Concord Epitome VIII on the Person of Christ (p. 491–493) in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions (CPH 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan. Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article VII at kfuo.org/2025/08/11/coffee-hour-081125-the-person-of-christ-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.

Article VIII of the Formula of Concord (FC), “The Person of Christ,” is closely related to Article VII, “The Holy Supper of Christ.” After Luther's death in 1546, Calvinist errors about Communion and Christ found their way into some Lutheran churches and schools. The FC criticizes Calvinists for attempting to explain the mysteries of the Supper and the Savior in terms acceptable to human reason rather than simply following the truth of God's Word. It is helpful that the FC has separated articles VII and VIII, because they answer slightly different questions, though both originated in the debate over the Lord's Supper. Article VII answers what the Sacrament is, taking its answer directly from the Words of Institution (for example, Matt. 26:26–28). Article VIII answers the challenge, “How can the true body and true blood of Christ be present in, with and under the bread and wine in all the countless places where the Sacrament is celebrated, and in heaven with the ascended Christ, at once?” It does so by taking up Christology (the theology of the person and work of Christ), providing an answer from Scripture. The answer is that the God-man can cause His Word to do what it says it does, for as He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (MATT. 28:18). This study will search Scripture for its teachings on the divine and human natures personally united in the one Lord Jesus Christ. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the August 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article VIII: The Person of Christ" on Article VIII in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month! This year, “Searching Scripture” is walking through the Formula of Concord (FC) from our Lutheran Confessions, exploring the biblical foundations for each topic. Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read Formula of Concord Epitome VIII on the Person of Christ (p. 491–493) in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions (CPH 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan. Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article VII at kfuo.org/2025/08/11/coffee-hour-081125-the-person-of-christ-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

It's Bach Week! This week, we commemorate legendary church musician J.S. Bach with conversations about his work and influence on the church's song over centuries. How has the music of J.S. Bach helped to form church workers over the years? The Rev. Dr. Christopher Ahlman (Associate Pastor and Director of Parish Music, Memorial Lutheran Church and School, Houston, TX) and Deaconess Elizabeth Ahlman (upper school teacher, Memorial Lutheran Church and School, Houston, TX) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about their own individual journeys into church work, how each of them now serves at Memorial Lutheran, the role of music in their journeys, Bach's influence on each of their paths, the role of the organ in the ministry of the church, and the role of Bach's music in the spiritual formation of the people they serve, both in the school and the church. Learn more about Memorial Lutheran Church and School at mlchouston.org. 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.