Podcasts about coffee hour

How did unity in doctrine and practice affect the formation of the Synodical Conference? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the evolution of American Lutheranism, the formation of the Synodical Conference, and the significant role of the Norwegian Synod. Dr. MacKenzie highlights the educational and mission efforts undertaken by the synods, particularly towards African Americans in the South, and reflects on the challenges faced by the synods in maintaining confessional integrity. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of unity in doctrine and practice among Lutherans. Learn more about Rosa Young's story on these Lutheran Ladies' Lounge episodes: kfuo.org/2020/02/07/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-020-story-time-with-sarah-the-first-rosa kfuo.org/2020/09/25/lutheran-ladies-lounge-episode-052-light-in-the-dark-belt-book-club-wrap-with-special-guest-kaye-wolff. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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 Litany and why is it important in the life of the Church? The Rev. Sean Daenzer (Director of Worship for the LCMS and International Center Chaplain) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what the Litany is, where it came from in our church history, the format and flow of the prayers, why it seems to rise up at different parts of the church year, how it's different from other prayers, and how we can incorporate it into our prayer life. 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.

Dr. Robert Sorensen, Professor of Theology and Foreign Languages at Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, Illinois, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about St. Matthias, whose commemoration day is February 24, including where we hear about St. Matthias in Scripture, what is unique about how he became an apostle, how he served the Church, and what we can learn from Matthias' story and service to the Church. This episode originally aired on February 24, 2022. Feature image: Peter Paul Rubens, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons 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. Today's episode of The Coffee Hour is underwritten in part by Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor.  You can learn more about Concordia University Wisconsin at cuw.edu and Concordia University Ann Arbor at cuaa.edu. Live Uncommon. 

How are church work students formed at Concordia St. Paul? The Rev. Dr. Reed Lessing (Professor of Theology & Ministry; Director of the Pre-Seminary Program; Director of the Center for Biblical Studies; Concordia University, St. Paul) and the Rev. Dr. Mark Koschmann (Vice President of Faith and Ministry; Theology Department Chair; Chief Mission Officer; Concordia University, St. Paul) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what they love about their vocations at CSP, how their individual areas of expertise are important in forming future church workers, the academic and social experience at CSP, how students are fed spiritually, and their wisdom for future church work students. 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.

Has God chosen some to go to heaven and some to go to hell before they were even born? The Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer (Executive Director, LCMS Commission on Theology and Church Relations) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the "crux theologorum" or main theological question of "why some and not others" in the doctrine of election, including what Scripture says about election, the historic Lutheran teaching on election, what other denominations believe about election or predestination, and how the doctrine of election is really about the hope we have in Christ. Resources: "Walther's Works: Predestination" (CPH) "Bondage of the Will" by Martin Luther "Bound Choice" by Robert Kolb Formula of Concord: Article XI  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 did early Lutheran synods join in fellowship? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the breakup of the General Synod, the significance of the Free Conferences, the challenges faced by the General Council, and the Missouri Synod's efforts to establish fellowship with other Lutheran synods, ultimately leading to the formation of the Synodical Conference. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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 churches prepare to celebrate Armed Forces Sunday? Chaplain Craig Muehler (Director, LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces) joins Sarah to share the work of LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, how LCMS chaplains support service personnel and their families, stories of chaplains in action, what Armed Forces Sunday is and how congregations can pray for our national military, and how Operation Barnabas supported military-connected families. Learn more at lcms.org/armedforces. 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.

For several decades the Rev. Dr. Paul W. Devantier served both the church and his neighbors graciously.  You may recognize his voice from the long-running program By the Way. The Lord, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, called His servant, Paul, to eternal rest on Nov. 30, 2025. Today, we give thanks to God and remember Rev. Dr. Paul W. Devantier. Joanie Harwell (former KFUO Radio Director of Development), Jenny Williams (former KFUO Radio Lead Producer), and John Devantier (son of Paul and Ellen Devantier join Andy and Sarah for this special episode. Joanie and Jenny talk about when they first met Paul, how his service and leadership impacted their lives and roles at KFUO, how technology and innovation played a role during Paul's leadership for KFUO, and how Paul's leadership shaped the future of KFUO Radio. John shares his memories of his father's service to the church, KFUO, and LCMS Communications. He also shares stories of his parents' role as foster parents and what life looked like with a full house of children. Finally, John shares how his father's life of service has been an example for him. Find Paul Devantier's obituary at legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/paul-devantier-obituary?id=60188942. Watch Paul Devantier share about KFUO's 100-year legacy in the Centennial Documentary at youtu.be/T97rxnzYqcA?si=AmcQwUDEdLu5E3kP Hear Paul Devantier share stories about his time at KFUO Radio at youtu.be/Y8aPCTKgAww?si=fcaqCuNyWQkm5uqf Watch the video about the Supreme Court case at youtu.be/m5puWeYv7Mg?si=b1YARi2Uo0puALjW 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 church workers formed at Concordia University Chicago? The Rev. Dr. Kirk Clayton (Assistant Professor of Theology, Director Pre-Seminary program, Concordia University Chicago) and the Rev. Simeon Raddatz (University Chaplain, Concordia University Chicago) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what they love about what they get to do at Concordia Chicago, how their individual areas of expertise are important in the forming of future church workers, what students can experience academically and socially on campus, how students are fed spiritually at CUC, wisdom for parents who are anxious about sending their children to college, and their encouragement for young people to consider church work formation at a Concordia University. 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 is it important for the Church to encourage the creation of theologically rich and musically beautiful hymnody? Dr. Jon Vieker (Associate Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of Chapel, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis), Katie Schuermann (author and storyteller, most notably of the Anthems of Zion series from CPH), and Dr. Lisa Clark (hymn writer, Senior Editor of Curriculum Resources at CPH) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the upcoming Prevallet Hymn Writing Workshop. They share what each of them will be speaking on at the workshop, why this workshop is so important for the future of hymn writing, the companion hymn festival celebrating women hymn writers, and how community members can attend each event. Learn more about the Prevallet Hymn Writing Workshop at csl.edu/event/prevallet-hymn-writing-workshop-2026 and the companion Hymn Festival at csl.edu/event/a-hymn-festival-featuring-the-hymns-of-lisa-clark-and-katie-schuermann. 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 did small synods fight for church unity during the Civil War years? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the historical context and implications of the breakup of the General Synod during the Civil War era, the formation of the General Council, and the Missouri Synod's perspective on confessional theology and church unity. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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 LCMS Youth Ministry team learn from each Gathering's Youth Poll? The Rev. Mark Kiessling (director, LCMS Youth Ministry) and DCE Julianna Shults (program manager, LCMS Youth Ministry) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the history of the Youth Poll, how this poll helps inform those who care about young people, the topics usually covered in the poll, what we've learned from past polls, and interesting insights from this year's poll. Find the summary of the poll at youthesource.com/2026/01/2025-lutheran-youth-and-adult-leader-poll-executive-summary. 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 community market support the mission of CFNA to support new Americans? Amy Ziegler (Community Engagement Associate, Christian Friends of New Americans) and Grand Market vendor Edit Daliri join Andy and Sarah to talk about how Edit became involved in CFNA; where the idea for the Grand Market began; what happens at the Grand Market; Edit's creative outlet through her jewelry-making business, Zeenora; how Edit and other vendors have been supported through this creative outlet; and how community members can attend. Learn more at cfna-stl.org. Market Dates: February 14 April 25 May 16 Times & Location: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 5515 S. Grand Blvd 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.

Are you ready to be refreshed through an evening of poetry, storytelling, and music? Tanner Olson (author, poet, speaker) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what he's been working on in the last few years, including his most recent book Getting Through What You're Going Through. He shares his upcoming tour dates, what he loves about traveling and presenting poetry for an audience, and why he thinks you'll enjoy poetry more than you think you might. Learn more about Tanner at writtentospeak.com. The "Getting Through What You're Going Through" Show: An Evening with Tanner Olson & Matt Doering Thursday, February 19, 7:00pm Lutheran South, Duesenberg Theater webstergardens.org/event/24256180-2026-02-19-the-getting-through-what-youre-going-through-show 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 laypersons involved in church worker formation? John Schmall and DoRena Wirgau join Andy and Sarah to talk about where they live and how they serve in their congregations, their experiences in the SAS Pilot Program and what they learned about church worker formation, how large and small churches can engage youth in the Divine Service, how they see the Church supporting and mentoring youth to consider church work, and conversations they've had with youth and adults who might be considering 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.

“Free will” is not a phrase found in the Bible. The concept seems to have been brought into Christian theology by the church father Tertullian (160–240), who likely borrowed it from Stoic philosophy. Augustine (354–430) wrote a treatise called "On Free Choice of the Will" early in his career but altered some of his views later, which led to much debate and confusion on the issue throughout the Middle Ages. The Roman Catholic Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536) wrote a treatise on free will against Martin Luther, to which Luther replied with his "Bondage of the Will" in 1525. The second article of the Formula of Concord upholds Luther's biblical teachings on free will but also clarifies misunderstandings about Luther's teachings that had persisted in the decades after 1525. The central question of this article is: After the fall, what are unregenerate human beings able to do, from their own will and intellect, toward their conversion and regeneration? (See FC SD II 2.) The answer logically follows from the preceding article on original sin, which exposes us as guilty, condemned sinners under God's wrath. Until the Holy Spirit converts us to Christ, we are powerless to enter a saving relationship with God or even prepare ourselves to receive God's grace. This teaching also safeguards the truth of the Gospel: God does everything necessary to save us and we, by faith, receive His salvation totally as a gift. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the February 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article II: Free Will” on Article II 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! Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep II on Free Will (p. 477–479 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 II at kfuo.org/2025/02/03/coffee-hour-020425-free-will-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.

“Free will” is not a phrase found in the Bible. The concept seems to have been brought into Christian theology by the church father Tertullian (160–240), who likely borrowed it from Stoic philosophy. Augustine (354–430) wrote a treatise called "On Free Choice of the Will" early in his career but altered some of his views later, which led to much debate and confusion on the issue throughout the Middle Ages. The Roman Catholic Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536) wrote a treatise on free will against Martin Luther, to which Luther replied with his "Bondage of the Will" in 1525. The second article of the Formula of Concord upholds Luther's biblical teachings on free will but also clarifies misunderstandings about Luther's teachings that had persisted in the decades after 1525. The central question of this article is: After the fall, what are unregenerate human beings able to do, from their own will and intellect, toward their conversion and regeneration? (See FC SD II 2.) The answer logically follows from the preceding article on original sin, which exposes us as guilty, condemned sinners under God's wrath. Until the Holy Spirit converts us to Christ, we are powerless to enter a saving relationship with God or even prepare ourselves to receive God's grace. This teaching also safeguards the truth of the Gospel: God does everything necessary to save us and we, by faith, receive His salvation totally as a gift. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the February 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article II: Free Will” on Article II 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! Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep II on Free Will (p. 477–479 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 II at kfuo.org/2025/02/03/coffee-hour-020425-free-will-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.

How did Samuel Simon Schmucker and Benjamin Kurtz influence the development of American Lutheranism? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle for the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the historical tensions within American Lutheranism during the 19th century, including the rise of American Lutheranism, the conflicts within the General Synod, and the attempts to establish a definitive platform that reflected American values while grappling with traditional Lutheran confessions. Dr. MacKenzie highlights key figures, such as Samuel Simon Schmucker and Benjamin Kurtz, and the formation of new synods, including the Melanchthon Synod, as they navigated the complexities of faith and identity in a changing America. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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.

Concordia Publishing House has launched free online access to the Book of Concord! The Rev. Dr. Jacob Corzine (Vice President of Publishing, Concordia Publishing House) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why it's important to CPH to make the Reader's Edition of the Lutheran Confessions accessible, why it's important for lay people to have easy access to the Lutheran Confessions, who they had in mind as they developed the functionality of the online Book of Concord, features users will find helpful, how this edition is different from other editions of the Book of Concord published by CPH, and where to begin reading! Find the online Book of Concord at bookofconcord.cph.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 can families participate in MO Scholars for next school year? Joshua Swartz (Director of Schools, Missouri District – LCMS) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what MO Scholars is, who is eligible, how this program makes a difference for families, and the application deadline. Find all the details at mo.lcms.org/mo-scholars. 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 are we in the current convention cycle? The Rev. Dr. John Sias (Secretary, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about where we currently are in the convention cycle, including President/Vice President nominations, President/Vice President voter registration, overture submissions, what happens during Floor Committee weekend, and what documents to watch for in the coming weeks. Find everything about this summer's convention at lcms.org/convention. 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 church work students formed at Concordia University Wisconsin? The Rev. Dr. Aaron Moldenhauer (Vice President for Mission and Church Relations and Associate Professor of Theology, Concordia University Wisconsin) and the Rev. Dr. Brian German (Department Chair and Associate Professor of Theology, Concordia University Wisconsin, and host of Christ in Every Word, Concordia Bible Institute) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about what they love about what they get to do at CUW, their favorite area of theology and how that area is important in the forming of future church workers, what they want students to experience at CUW academically and socially, how the students are fed spiritually, and their encouragement for students considering church work formation programs at CUW. Learn more at cuw.edu. 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 Concordia University Chicago help graduate students Advance with Purpose? The Rev. Dr. Chad Kendall (Associate Vice President for Church Relations and Mission, Concordia University Chicago) and Sean Yerkes (Associate Vice President for Graduate and Accelerated Admission, Concordia University Chicago) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what they get to do with Concordia University Chicago (CUC), examples of how graduate studies at CUC have helped alumni grow in their areas of expertise and advance in their work and service to others, the graduate programs available on campus and online at CUC, the Advance with Purpose program, why this program is important to CUC, who is eligible, and how to take advantage of this program. Learn more at cuchicago.edu/advance-with-purpose. 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 did Samuel Simon Schmucker and Benjamin Kurtz influence the development of American Lutheranism? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle of the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the development of American Lutheranism in the 19th century, focusing on key figures like Samuel Simon Schmucker and Benjamin Kurtz. They discus Schmucker's vision for a uniquely American form of Lutheranism, the influence of the Second Great Awakening, and the internal conflicts within the General Synod as confessional Lutheranism began to assert itself against the backdrop of American religious life. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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.

It is National Lutheran Schools Week, and we're celebrating the gift of Lutheran schools in our communities! Dan Snyder (Headmaster, Concordia Academy, Wichita, KS) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the original dream for opening a classical Lutheran school in the Wichita area, the need for a classical school in the community, how this dream moved from vision to reality, the community's response to a classical Lutheran school, what the transition looks like for students coming to Concordia Academy from other school settings, and the feedback students and families have given about their experience at Concordia Academy. Learn more about Concordia Academy at cawichita.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.

It is National Lutheran Schools Week, and we're celebrating the gift of Lutheran schools in our communities! Mr. Sam Eckman (Principal, Christ the King Lutheran High School, Washington, MO) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about this brand-new Lutheran school, now enrolling for Fall 2026! Eckman shares about the need they saw for a Lutheran high school in the community surrounding Washington, what it has taken to bring this dream from vision to reality, how the school is preparing for its first year, what he expects students will experience in the inaugural class of Christ the King Lutheran High School, and the upcoming opportunities for families to learn about enrolling at Christ the King for Fall 2026. Learn more at christthekinglhs.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.

It is National Lutheran Schools Week, and we're celebrating the gift of Lutheran schools in our communities! The Rev. Joey Bluege (Executive Director and Pastor, Faith Lutheran Church & School, Branson, MO) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the community of Branson, and the need for a Lutheran high school there. He describes the journey toward opening Faith Lutheran, what he loves about his part in this school, and what families have shared about how Faith Lutheran School is making a difference for them. Learn more about FLHS at faithls.org, facebook.com/flsbranson, and the feature article in Lutherans Engage Winter 2025 at engage.lcms.org/branson-school-winter-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.

It is National Lutheran Schools Week, and we're celebrating the gift of Lutheran schools in our communities! Stephanie Grandestaff (Executive Director, Springfield Lutheran High School, Springfield, MO) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the original dream of opening a Lutheran high school in Springfield, the need for a Lutheran high school in the community, how the dream became a reality, and what students and families are enjoying in their first year at Springfield Lutheran High School. Learn more about SLHS at springfieldlutheranhs.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.

Today we continue our Set Apart to Serve series, now hearing from the layperson's perspective! Tom Jennings and Blake Pieper join Andy and Sarah to talk about where they live and how they serve in their congregations, their experiences in the SAS Pilot Program and what they learned about church worker formation, how engaging youth in district or synod events and service trips has borne fruit for formation, how they see the Church supporting and mentoring youth to consider church work, and conversations they've had with youth and adults who might be considering 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.

How does a congregation foster faith that lasts in the young people of the church? The Rev. Roger Drinnon (Associate Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Bourbonnais, IL) and Katrina Drinnon (Director of the Youth Ministry Board, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Bourbonnais, IL) join Andy and Sarah to talk about the call they received to serve at St. Paul's and the assignment they were given: working with the church's youth ministry. They share why it was important to them and the congregation to revitalize youth ministry, what that journey looked like for them and the congregation, how LCMS Youth Ministry's Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry has been a great resource for them, what youth ministry looks like now, and their encouragement to other congregations in their youth ministry efforts. Read the Drinnons' story in Lutherans Engage at engage.lcms.org/youth-ministry-winter-2026. 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 happens to Lutheran identity when faced with cultural decisions, like adopting the English language? The Rev. Dr. Cameron MacKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle of the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the impact of the American Revolution on Lutheran immigration patterns, noting a significant decline in German immigrants and the subsequent assimilation of Lutheran communities into English-speaking culture. This assimilation raises concerns about the preservation of Lutheran identity, particularly as many second and third-generation Lutherans begin to abandon their German heritage and language, leading to a potential loss of their religious roots. Dr. MacKenzie highlights the challenges faced by Lutheranism during westward expansion, where the demand for preachers outstrips the supply, resulting in many untrained individuals leading congregations. He also introduces Samuel Simon Schmucker, a pivotal figure in American Lutheranism, who seeks to establish a national Lutheran church body and seminary to preserve Lutheran identity amidst the changing American landscape. Schmucker's approach, however, leads to a redefinition of Lutheranism that aligns more closely with American evangelical Protestantism, raising questions about the future of traditional Lutheran beliefs in the face of evolving cultural dynamics. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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's the latest from our Concordia Universities? The Rev. Dr. Douglas Spittel (Vice President of Concordia University System) joins Andy and Sarah for the monthly Concordia University System update to talk about formal and informal visits, the summit had with the CU Admissions Officers, the current state of enrollment, Christmas at the Concordias, and the upcoming scholarship round. Learn more 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.

Today, we're introducing our current KFUO Radio Intern, Callia Nutt! She has been with us for Fall 2025 and will continue for Spring 2026. Maybe you've heard her voice on air! She joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why the KFUO internship interested her, some of the things she's gotten to do in her internship so far, the hardest skill she's had to learn, the most exciting thing she's been a part of, and advice she would give to future interns. 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 a prelude, and why does it happen (or not happen) before a church service? Dr. Mark Bender (retired Minister of Music from St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Des Peres, MO), Phillip Magness (Cantor at Village Lutheran Church in Ladue, MO) and Cheryl Magness (Managing Editor of Reporter with LCMS Communications and International Center chapel musician) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what a prelude is and why we have it, how a person in the pew can make good use of the prelude, the thought and preparation that goes into picking and playing the prelude, whether there are times when it is more suitable to not have a prelude, and helpful ways to appreciate this musical offering. This episode is a rebroadcast from April 29, 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.

In many of our Set Apart to Serve conversations, we've spoken with church workers about their experience becoming and serving as a church worker. Today we begin conversations from another perspective: you, the people in the pew, laity and lay leaders on the role of church workers in your lives and why encouraging your fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to consider church work is important to you.     Mark Wolters and Debbie Larson join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about their lives and service to the church, their own experiences with lay leadership and encouraging young people to consider church work, how LWML women have a special role to play in encouraging future church workers, the analogy of farming and harvest in relation to church worker recruitment and formation, and the role of the layperson in encouraging those around them 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.

What do we learn from The Feast of the Confession of St. Peter, celebrated by the Church on January 18? The Rev. Dr. David Lewis (associate professor of Exegetical Theology, director of the Master of Divinity and Residential Alternate Route Programs, Student Association adviser and the Dr. Jack Dean Kingsbury Professor of New Testament Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about The Confession of St. Peter, including this Sunday's Gospel reading from Mark 8:27–9:1, what we discover in Jesus' words to his disciples and Peter's reply, and how we can learn about our own lives in the church from this story of St. Peter. 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 happens to the Augsburg Confession as Lutherans cross the ocean to settle in America? The Rev. Dr. Cameron McKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle of the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the transition of the Augsburg Confession and Lutheranism from Germany to America, focusing on the role of German and Scandinavian immigrants, the influence of Henry Muhlenberg and the Pietist movement, and the challenges faced in preacher training and ordination. Their conversation also touches on the impact of the American Revolution on the Lutheran Church and its future in the new nation. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-for-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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 look like for laypeople and rostered church workers to spread the Gospel overseas? The Rev. Dr. Mark Rabe (Director of Missionary Recruitment, LCMS Office of International Mission) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about his own story of serving as a missionary in Africa, what he learned during his time of service that helps him encourage others to serve internationally, the current opportunities available to serve with LCMS International Mission, who is well-suited to serve in these positions, and how the LCMS trains and forms new missionaries for success on the field. Learn more and find your own 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.

What are the benefits of being a member of Lutheran Federal Credit Union? The Rev. Tom Schlund (Synod Relations & Marketing Director, Lutheran Federal Credit Union) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about why someone would want to join LutheranFCU and who is eligible to participate. Pastor Schlund also shares about the new Relationship Rewards program, explaining the benefits available at each level, and how members can take advantage of these rewards. Learn more at lutheranfcu.org/relationshiprewards#Perks. 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 Gospel of Jesus being brought to all nations? The Rev. Stephen Heimer (Manager, LCMS All Nations Ministry) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about what All Nations Ministry is and the idea that led to the organization of the All Nations Council. He explains who is represented in this group and what everyone learned in the council's initial meeting. He also shares some of the challenges faced by ethnic groups in America and in the LCMS, the unique challenges faced by second generation immigrants, and how the council's meeting benefitted the groups represented. Read more about this Council at reporter.lcms.org/2025/all-nations-council and learn about LCMS All Nations Ministry at lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/all-nations-ministry. 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 Lutheran School Teachers inspiring children to learn and also consider future careers in church work? Austin Albers (High School History Teacher, Sioux Falls Lutheran School, Sioux Falls, SD) and Jon Pinn (5th Grade Teacher, Sioux Falls Lutheran School, Sioux Falls, SD) join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about their respective journeys toward becoming Lutheran School teachers, their education backgrounds and who inspired them to become teachers, what gives them joy in teaching, how they see themselves influencing the life and faith of their students, and the opportunities they have to encourage youth in their future vocations. Hear the episode that inspired this conversation at kfuo.org/2025/10/24/coffee-hour-102425-set-apart-to-serve-brothers-in-cune-church-work-programs. 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.

Readers of The Lutheran Witness are likely familiar with the Formula of Concord (FC) — not only from its inclusion in the Lutheran Book of Concord, but also from the monthly reading plan published in these pages last year. This year's “Searching Scripture” will walk through the 12 topics explored by the Formula — original sin, free will, election, Law and Gospel, and so on — in order to examine the biblical basis for what Lutherans confess in this edifying and timeless statement of faith. Almost 450 years after its publication, the Formula remains relevant. Its topics continue to be points of contention among various Christian denominations. As the Formula confesses, Lutherans unite in concord around teachings drawn from “the true, firm ground of the holy, divine Scriptures” (FC SD Summary 17). Along with the other documents in the Book of Concord, the Formula is not “unnecessary and useless wrangling,” but addresses “articles of faith or the chief points of Christian doctrine” and demonstrates what we “should regard and receive as right and true according to God's Word of the prophetic and apostolic Scriptures.” It also tells what we “should reject, shun, and avoid as false and wrong” — lest we seek the wrong salvation. “The truth must be preserved distinctly and clearly and distinguished from all errors” (FC SD Summary 15–16). This truth can only be established from God's Word, which Jesus says “is truth” (John 17:17). We respond, “The sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous rules endures forever” (Psalm 119:160). Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the January 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article I: Original Sin” on Article I 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! Before starting, it may be helpful to read FC Ep I on Original Sin (p. 474–477 in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions, CPH 2005). 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 I at kfuo.org/2025/01/07/coffee-hour-010725-studying-original-sin-in-the-book-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.

How does the Augsburg Confession define what it means to be Lutheran, and how has this affected the development of Lutheran identity over the centuries? The Rev. Dr. Cameron McKenzie (the Forrest E. and Frances H. Ellis Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah for a series on the Battle of the Augsburg Confession in American Lutheranism to explore the history of Lutheranism in America, focusing on the significance of the Augsburg Confession. Their discussion delves into the dual role of the Augsburg Confession as both a theological and legal document during the Reformation, its impact on Lutheran identity, and its evolution as Lutheranism spread to North America. This episode sets the stage for further exploration of American Lutheran history in upcoming episodes in this series. Find all episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/battle-of-the-augsburg-confession-series. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. James Fickenscher (Assistant Professor of Exegetical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO) who joins us to talk about Jesus being the Light in John 1 during the Christmas season. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. Leopoldo Sanchez (Professor of Systematic Theology, Werner R.H. Krause and Elizabeth Ringger Krause Professor of Hispanic Ministries, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO) who joins us to talk about the Holy Spirit's work in the Christmas story. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. Carl Fickenscher (Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN) who joins us to talk about where we find Christmas in the Divine Service during the Christmas season. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. Peter Scaer (Professor and Chairman of Exegetical Theology, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN) who joins us to talk about how God used Caesar Augustus for good in the Christmas story. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. Adam Hensley (Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO) who joins us to talk about Christ Incarnate in Hebrews and the Psalms during the Christmas Season. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. Thomas Egger (President, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO) who talks about Old Testament types of Christ during the Christmas Season. 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.

It's a Fireside Chat with the Rev. Dr. Kevin Golden (Associate Professor of Exegetical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO) who joins us to talk about Old Testament prophecy in Hosea during the Christmas Season. 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.