Podcasts about LCMS

Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, takes some time during the Gathering to talk about Christ's life and Christian love for all human life.   Bio: The Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison has served as president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) since 2010. As president, he is the chief ecclesiastical supervisor of the Synod and is responsible for the ministries directed by LCMS International Center staff, including the Office of International Mission and its nearly 150 missionaries serving around the globe. Before becoming president, Harrison served for nine years as executive director of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (2001–2010), which expended over $100 million for mercy efforts done in the clear name of Christ. These efforts included caring for people after 9-11, Katrina and many hurricanes, the great Asia tsunami, the Haiti earthquake, and many other disasters and humanitarian efforts. Harrison also managed relationships with some 120 LCMS Recognized Service Organizations and other inter-Lutheran social ministry organizations, worked in consultation with LCMS partner/sister churches to build capacity during numerous mercy outreach efforts, and managed LCMS pro-life efforts. From 1995 to 2001, Harrison served as pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Ind. Prior to that, he served St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Westgate, Iowa (1991–1995). Ordained in 1991, he has served in a number of elected and appointed positions in the LCMS and on various entity boards of directors. Harrison is co-founder and chairman of the board of The International Lutheran Society of Wittenberg (Old Latin School), which hosts some 40 students and church planters from the European Union and beyond who are studying to become ordained pastors. In addition, Harrison chairs the board of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty and serves on the executive committee of the International Lutheran Council. Harrison is also active in the prolife movement and frequently speaks at such events. A native of Sioux City, Iowa, Harrison holds a bachelor's degree in religious studies from Morningside University in Sioux City, Iowa. He attended Concordia University, Nebraska, in 1984. He has M.Div. and S.T.M. degrees from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Harrison has pursued additional graduate study at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Furthermore, he has received honorary doctorates from Concordia University Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, Mich., and Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Since 2010, Harrison has served as assistant pastor of Village Lutheran Church, Ladue, Mo. He has translated and edited five volumes of essays and letters by Lutheran theologian Hermann Sasse (published through Concordia Publishing House [CPH]). He has also revised C.F.W. Walther's The Church and the Office of the Ministry (CPH) and written several other books, including Christ Have Mercy, A Little Book on Joy and At Home in the House of My Fathers. Harrison has been married to Kathy (Schimm) Harrison since 1981, and they have two sons (Matthew M.L. married to Courtney, and Mark M.C. married to Tara). The Harrisons have two grandchildren, Rosie and Shiloh. In his spare time, Harrison enjoys reading, writing, vintage Jeeps, old banjos and books, and — most of all — time with family. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Grant and Sam take the mic to New Orleans for the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering!  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Hear from a high school and university student about why LCMS Life Ministry is so important for youth!   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Jonathan Petzold shares how he delivers Christ's hope and forgiveness to his people as they face very real life issues.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Dr. Latoya Kuester is an OB/GYN in Jacksonville, FL, and she joined Friends for Life at the Gathering to talk about what life means to her as a physician.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Join Allison Daigle, CEO of Women's New Life Clinic, as she discusses the clinic's partnership with LCMS Life Ministry for the 2025 Gathering. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Kristen Clapper is a local of New Orleans and share her passion for life in a creative way at the 2025 Gathering.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: lcms.org/life  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

If we obey the LORD by offering love and service to our parents and others in authority, there will be blessings. However, if we offend the LORD and do not follow His will, there will be anarchy. This honor is to be extended to civil government, where the LORD has placed officials into their respective offices. Although there may not be agreement on the policies these officials establish, we still honor them as those who keep order in our land. Lord have mercy! Rev. Dr. Jacob Corzine, Vice President of Publishing for Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis, MO, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to continue our study of the 4th commandment. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

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

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

Most LCMS congregations offer some kind of adult education—but is it actually forming mature disciples? Dr. Mark Blanke joins Tim to unpack decades of research showing why quality matters far more than quantity, the eight best practices of effective adult education, and why small, intentional shifts could radically change faith formation across our Synod. They explore how Jesus' question-based teaching style outperforms lecture-heavy models, why evaluation is essential, and how congregations can create a clear vision for what a “maturing disciple” looks like. This is a practical, Spirit-led conversation every church leader should hear.Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

If you care about the future of the LCMS, you won't want to miss this one.Your perspective matters, let's have discussion that honors Christ! New LCMS data reveals a stunning reality: nearly three-quarters of congregations worship fewer than 100 people each week. Tim and Jack unpack what this means for the future of our pastors, our mission, and our very identity as a church body. Are we facing an “emerging emergency” in staffing, sustainability, and representation? From micro-church struggles to the influence of large congregations, this candid conversation doesn't shy away from the hard truths — and the hopeful opportunities.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

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

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

Dr Adam Koontz presents on the training of pastors and expectations for the office of the ministry. Visit our website - A Brief History of Power Dr Adam Koontz - Redeemer Lutheran Church Music thanks to Verny

Ask Anything - Questions Answered: How do we know the Bible is true? What is the new heaven and new earth and how does it differ from the current heaven? Where should Christians draw the line when drinking? How should Christians engage with politics without idolizing a party or politician? Can unbaptized children go to heaven? In your view, what's the most important distinction between LCMS theology and other Lutheran bodies, and why does it matter? How can I repair a broken relationship with my wife? Why would the God of love allow awful things to happen to people while using his name as a reason to do so?

8/10/2025

It's a story of joyful mission service with two LCMS Lutheran Lady Missionaries! In this delightful conversation (recorded in person at the LWML Convention in Omaha), the Ladies welcome Deaconess Carol Halter, the LCMS's longest-serving missionary, and Chelsea Irwin, one of the youngest LCMS missionaries, to share their stories of serving as international missionaries.   Did they always want to serve overseas? What do they actually *do* as a missionary? How have they seen Jesus at work in the lives of the people they serve? Did Carol's story *really* influence Chelsea in her vocational path?  Deaconess Carol Lee Halter has served as an evangelistic missionary among the Chinese people in Hong Kong since 1981. From 1969 to 1981, Carol served as a missionary with the Chinese Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit in San Francisco. For three and a half years before that, she was a volunteer missionary in Hong Kong. Carol does humanitarian, evangelistic and educational work among Chinese people of all ages who live in Hong Kong. Her prayer is that all Chinese people will hear the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ — especially from each other.  Chelsea Irwin serves the Lord through The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) in the Eurasia region as missionary coordinator for volunteer opportunities. Based out of Český Těšín, Czech Republic, she works with LCMS missionaries and local church partners to place and send volunteers to serve in Eurasia. These individuals or groups engage in projects such as English Bible Camps, theological education and mission education, to name a few. Chelsea seeks to challenge volunteers to live out the Great Commission by viewing each day as a mission trip. She encourages them to support and stay connected to the Eurasia region, as well as serving in their own churches and communities.    To learn more, check out the following links:    Deaconess Carol Halter – The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod  Chelsea Irwin – The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod  International Mission – The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod   LCMS International Mission Facebook Page  How you can serve: Missionary Service – The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod   Erin's *other* podcast: 5 Minutes with a Missionary Archives – KFUO Radio   Connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Follow Sarah (@hymnnerd), Rachel (@rachbomberger), and Erin (@erinaltered) on Instagram! Sign up for the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge monthly e-newsletter here, and email the Ladies at lutheranladies@kfuo.org.

It's Set Apart to Serve at the LCMS Youth Gathering! Ben Honkomp (Pre-Seminary student entering his first year at Concordia University, Nebraska) joins Andy and Sarah at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering to talk about his hometown and high school, what and who influenced him to consider studying for pastoral ministry, his journey in contemplating seminary, why he chose CUNE for his studies, and what he's looking forward to at CUNE his first year. Concordia University, Nebraska, president Dr. Bernard Bull makes a surprise appearance at the end of our conversation to encourage Ben in his studies and time at CUNE. Learn more about CUNE at cune.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.

How do youth learn about the Lutheran Confessions in LCMS Youth Gathering Sessions? We sit down with the Rev. Dr. Jason Lane (Associate Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis) at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering to talk about what he's experienced at this Gathering, how he sees this as a valuable experience for youth, and what youth learned in his two sessions: "Learning to Confess like Luther" and "Conversion in Lutheran Theology." Learn more about the LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.

How do youth learn about applying the Lutheran faith to the culture around them in LCMS Youth Gathering sessions? We sit down with the Rev. Dr. Scott Stiegemeyer (professor of theology, church history, and bioethics at Concordia University Irvine) at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering to talk about what he's experienced at this Gathering, how he sees this as a valuable experience for youth, and what youth learned in his two sessions: "Male and Female, Gender in the Light of God's Word" and "Christianity, Disability, and Our Own Personal Easter." Learn more about the LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com. Hear Dr. Stiegemeyer on The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge episode "Kitchen Table Talk: Transgenderism, Sexuality, and God's Design for Humanity."

Our very own Concord Matters host was also Mass Event Host at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! The Rev. Brady Finnern (President of the LCMS Minnesota North District and Host of Concord Matters on KFUO Radio) joins Andy and Sarah at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering to talk about his experiences at previous Gatherings, how he got selected to host Mass Events at this summer's Gathering, what a Mass Event is, the preparation behind each night's Mass Event, and what he wants youth to gain from the Gathering. Learn more about the LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.

We caught up with FLAME at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! Grammy-nominated Christian rap artist Flame (author of Extra Nos and Because Jesus Taught It, Mass Event Speaker and Mass Event Plus performer) joins Andy and Sarah at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering to talk about what he's been experiencing at this summer's Gathering, his preparation for being a Mass Event Speaker and Mass Event Plus performer, what it's like to perform for 20,000 Lutherans, why a gathering like this is important for youth, the best part of meeting and talking with so many youth, and how an experience like this informs his artistic work. You can find Flame's work at extranosacademy.com and his books from Concordia Publishing House at cph.org/flame.

If you care about the future of the LCMS, you won't want to miss this one.

Start your day with Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla as we reflect on Psalm 9:7–10: “The Lord sits enthroned forever.”In this powerful devotion, Pastor Balla reminds us that God's justice is unshakable, His throne eternal, and His care for the oppressed unwavering. This video is perfect for Christians seeking encouragement, Lutheran Bible study resources, daily Scripture reflections, and strong Gospel-centered teaching rooted in the LCMS tradition. Discover how God remains your stronghold in times of trouble and why trusting in His name leads to unshakable hope. Subscribe for daily devotions grounded in God's Word and Christ's real presence.☕ Support this ministry: https://buymeacoffee.com/whitegandalphOr visit: buymeacoffee.com/whitegandalphPlease like, comment, share, and subscribe to spread the Good News!Hashtags:#LutheranDevotion#DailyBibleVerse#Psalm9Devotion#ChristOurStronghold#PastorBallaDevotions

How is LCMS Disaster Response responding to the tragic flooding in Texas Hill Country? Julie Tucker (Emergency Management Director, LCMS Texas District) and the Rev. Dan Mueller (Pastor at Hosanna Lutheran Church in Kerrville, TX) join Andy and Sarah to talk about what the situation currently looks like in Texas Hill Country, how the flooding affected the Kerrville community and the members of Hosanna Lutheran Church, how churches in Texas have responded in mercy, and ways we can support LCMS Disaster Response and the LCMS churches across Texas in the relief effort. Give now to support the relief effort at lcms.org/disaster. 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.

7/26/2025

Crude Materialism / Luke 12:13-21Get the episode here.                                                                                           

To make the Sabbath holy is to keep God's Word at the center of it. Without the Word, all well-intentioned work or observances cannot be holy. God's Word is the treasure that sanctifies everything, especially God's people (1 Timothy 4:5, 1 Corinthians 6:11). As we live in the devil's kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14), we must keep the Sabbath by always having the Word in our hearts, upon our lips, and in our ears. Rev. Mark Bestul, pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church, Elgin, IL, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to conclude our study of the 3rd commandment. To learn more about Calvary Lutheran, visit clce.org/home. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

In this Christ-centered sermon based on Luke 12:13–21, Pastor Balla of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod delivers a powerful proclamation of Law and Gospel: the soul that clings to Christ is the soul prepared when God requires it. Through the Parable of the Rich Fool, Jesus warns against the idolatry of possessions and calls us to treasure what cannot be stored in barns—faith in Him. This sermon confronts the vanity of worldly wealth, exposes the sin of covetousness, and offers the eternal riches found only in Jesus Christ. Rooted in Lutheran confessional theology and faithful to the ESV text, this message is ideal for anyone seeking solid Lutheran preaching, LCMS stewardship reflections, or teaching on eternal preparedness. Perfect for Bible study, devotional meditation, and pastoral encouragement. Join us as we confess the riches of God's grace in Christ alone. Subscribe for weekly Word-and-Sacrament preaching that proclaims Christ crucified for sinners.Hashtags:#LutheranSermon#LCMSPreaching#Luke121321#ChristAlone#RichTowardGod

The Executive Director of Lutheran Family Service expands upon the Gospel-driven mercy work LFS carries out across several LCMS districts, from adoption, pregnancy counseling, mental health services, life advocacy in the public square, and crisis response for churches and schools. Also addressed is the recent confusion surrounding similarly named organizations targeted by the government and affirmed LFS's commitment to serving the Church without government funding.  The Rev. Max Phillips, pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Bouton and Zion Lutheran Church in Ogden, IA, Executive Director of Lutheran Family Service, and CEO of Perry Lutheran Homes, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe for a special Free Text First Friday episode.  To learn more about Lutheran Family Service, visit lutheranfamilyservice.org. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

In this podcast recorded almost a year ago, the Rev. Dr. Gottfried Martens, the Rev. Dr. David Preus and the Rev. Dr. Christian Tiews join the podcast to discuss the work at Trinity Lutheran Church, Berlin-Steglitz, Germany. This congregation of the Independent Evangelical — Lutheran Church (SELK) cares for Persian immigrants seeking asylum in Germany. The conversation includes an explanation of the political situation in Germany, and the LCMS mission with Farsi speakers in Germany and beyond.   For the full story, visit engage.lcms.org/persian-project-winter-2025.  To learn more about the Independent Evangelical — Lutheran Church (SELK), visit lcms.org/partner-church-bodies/independent-evangelical-lutheran-church.  For more information on The Lutheran Witness or to subscribe to the magazine, please visit witness.lcms.org. Sound effect obtained from zapsplat.com.

It's Bach Week! How can we successfully teach Bach to our children and youth? Dr. Jerrode Marsh (Director of Music at St. Paul Lutheran High School, Concordia, MO; Executive Director of Concordia Music Conservatory; and artistic director and conductor for the Sedalia Symphony Orchestra), joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about how Bach has influenced her life and work, formative experiences as a musician where Bach played a role in her love of music, why it's important to her that children and youth learn Bach, her approach to teaching Bach in German to children and youth, the benefits of learning to sing Bach in German for her students, how students also learn about the life and history of J.S. Bach, and what benefits her former students have shared with her about their experience of learning Bach. Learn more about St. Paul Lutheran High School in Concordia, MO at splhs.org. Find all Bach Week episodes at kfuo.org/tag/bach-week. 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.

It's Bach Week! How can the works of J.S. Bach be used in support of our vocations at home and in our worship? The Rev. Brian Hamer (U.S. Navy Chaplain) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about Omnibus Bach: “All of Bach” with the Netherlands Bach Society and Bach in the Parish: “Bach through the Year,” a resource for incorporating Bach music into the three-year lectionary. They discuss how Bach has influenced Chaplain Hamer's life and faith, examples of how listening to Bach at home can be helpful, the amazing project "All of Bach" from the Netherlands Bach Society, how Bach's compositions were intended to support faithful liturgical life in the Church, the lectionary in use at the time of J.S. Bach, how this lectionary is similar and different from the lectionary used by many churches today, and what has helped him utilize the works of Bach in support of a faithful liturgical life for those he serves. Find All of Bach from The Netherlands Bach Society at bachvereniging.nl/en/allofbach and "Bach Through the Year" by John S. Setterlund at kirkhousepublishers.com/product-page/bach-through-the-year-by-john-s-setterlund. Find all Bach Week episodes at kfuo.org/tag/bach-week. 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 Bach Week! How can someone learn to listen to Bach? Kantor Kevin Hildebrand (Kantor of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how Bach has influenced his work and faith, how Bach played a role in his love of music, how we can marvel at the beauty of Bach's music and also let it wash over us as something good and beautiful, insights for understanding the significance of Bach's music, what is key when listening to Bach's organ and choral music, and examples of where to start a listening journey. Find all Bach Week episodes at kfuo.org/tag/bach-week. 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.

Let's start having the hard conversations that move the Church forward.Is church planting just a trendy distraction from revitalization? Or is it exactly what the LCMS needs right now?In this powerful conversation, Tim Ahlman sits down with Mark and Laura Pulliam—founders of Lazarus Church in Spring, Texas—who planted just 10 weeks before the pandemic… and thrived. Together they confront outdated models of ministry, risk-aversion in Lutheran leadership, and why launching new churches might be our best tool for reaching the de-churched and unchurched.Hear why their church didn't worship publicly for 18 months, why being “Lutheran” isn't always on the sign, and why church planting is more accessible than most think.Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Subscribe to Lead Time for real talk about leading in the LCMS today.Why are so many LCMS churches stuck in cycles of insecurity, burnout, and unhealthy culture? In this episode, Dr. Kirk Triplett joins Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg to expose the deeper issues plaguing leadership culture in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. From toxic feedback loops to forgotten celebration, from unclear mission to constant comparison—this conversation digs deep into what's quietly killing joy and mission in our churches.We explore:- How the LCMS avoids clarity by hiding behind “love God, love people”- The difference between behavioral values and organizational values- Why too many pastors are driven by insecurity and the 2% who complain- What the church can learn from Starbucks, big toes, and baby baptismsIt's time to rest, rejoice, and relax—without losing momentum.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

It's Bach Week! What was the liturgical life of the church like at the time of J.S. Bach? Benjamin Kolodziej (Church Organist and Musicologist) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how Bach has influenced his life and work, formative experiences where Bach played a role in his learning music, the liturgical life of the church in Leipzig at the time of J.S. Bach, the external influences impacting churches at this time, how orthodox Lutheran chorales were included in the services of the church, how the work of Bach influenced or shaped liturgical life even through to today, and how he encounters theological symbolism in Bach's music as a church organist. Find all Bach Week episodes at kfuo.org/tag/bach-week. 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 Bach Week! Is J.S. Bach considered a "Fifth Evangelist"? Dr. Martin Dicke (former LCMS missionary, Member of Board of Directors for David's Harp, Composer of settings for Hymns of the Reformation from David's Harp) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about how Bach has influenced his life and work, formative experiences as a musician and missionary where Bach played a role in his love of music, where the phrase “the fifth evangelist” began as a description of J.S. Bach, how Bach approached scripture and who influenced his understanding and handling of the Word of God, and how his understanding of scripture is apparent in his compositions. Learn more about David's Harp at davidsharpmusic.org, including the Hymns for the Reformation at davidsharpmusic.org/product/hymns-of-the-reformation-occasional-series. Find all Bach Week episodes at kfuo.org/tag/bach-week. 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.

Our Communications / Colossians 2:6-19Get the episode here.                                                                                          

Luther reminds us that people must have a holiday, that is, to “cease from labor.” Yet, while the Sabbath is meant for rest, it is not just rest from work, but rest in Christ. The Sabbath is to be made holy by occupation with holy words, works, and life. This Sabbath is not restricted to a particular day or time but is grounded in Christ who is the Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:8). Rev. John Pless, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft. Wayne, IN, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the 3rd commandment. To learn more about Concordia Theological Seminary, visit ctsfw.edu. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

Caleb, Scott, and Adam take up the question: was Peter the first pope? They follow this with a conversation about why contemporary Lutherans need not long for the ecclesiology of Rome or the papacy. In the second half of the episode, the Fellows discuss the growing number of pastoral vacancies in the LCMS. They encourage patience and thoughtful reflection as congregations navigate this challenging reality.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

To put the question even more pointedly, with lots of stereotyping to go round, when do Lutherans of German descent who settled mainly in the northern mid-western states pay attention to Baptists in the South? This was the subject of the recent recording when co-hosts, Korey Maas (Lutheran), Miles Smith (Anglican), and D. G. Hart (Presbyterian) discussed Scott Yenor's article on what Southern Baptist conservatives might learn from Missouri Synod Lutherans about "the left's" attack on denominational institutions.  Part of the discussion involved the Southern Baptist Convention's place in conservative politics and the New Calvinist movement.  Another part involved the dark side of church politics -- how much officers and members need to strategize and organize to defeat opponents within a communion where everyone is supposed to agree.    Articles the co-hosts mentioned included: Korey Maas on the controversy in the LCMS over Concordia Seminary, St. Louis; and the place of civil rights politics in the LCMS controversy. For any Presbyterians who might see parallels in the Lutheran and Baptist controversies with the Presbyterian conflict of the 1920s, especially over control of seminaries, this discussion at The Reformed Forum may be of use. This episode's sponor is the National Public Radio show, "Wait Wait Don't Tell Me." 

We're talking church work recruitment and worker wellness at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor (Managing Director, LCMS Office of National Mission) and the Rev. Dr. James Baneck (Executive Director of Pastoral Education and Set Apart to Serve) join Andy and Sarah on the KFUO Stage for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about the role of the lay person in worker wellness, how worker wellness is a part of Set Apart to Serve, what concerns we have about the wellness of church workers, what we mean by personal stewardship, and some examples of excellent worker wellness and personal stewardship from the parish and Deaconess Tiffany and Rev. Baneck's prior service. 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.

Meet international participants at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! James from Korea and Lilly from Hong Kong join Andy and Sarah on the KFUO Stage to talk about their home countries and the church bodies in each country, what makes their Lutheran church body unique, what they want their friends and family back home to know about the LCMS Youth Gathering, how they got the privilege of serving as an international representative, and their favorite foods from their home countries! 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.

Meet the President at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! The Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison (President of the LCMS) joins Andy and Sarah on the KFUO Stage to talk about his experiences at the LCMS Gathering, youth ministry in the Synod, and what he's hopeful of for the youth of the Lutheran Church. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Meet international participants at the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! Isabel from Brazil, Elisabeth from Germany, Lulu from Shanghai, and Andreas from Belgium join Andy and Sarah on the KFUO Stage to talk about their home countries and the church bodies in each country, what makes their Lutheran church body unique, what they want their friends and family back home to know about the LCMS Youth Gathering, how they got the privilege of serving as an international representative, and their favorite foods from their home countries! 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.

Whether you're a traditionalist, a missional reformer, or somewhere in between, this episode will challenge your assumptions and stir your heart for unity, clarity, and bold gospel witness.Rod Zwonitzer—a second-career pastor with a background in corporate marketing—joins Lead Time to drop some hard truth: the LCMS is great at feeding the sheep but terrible at fishing for the lost. In this rich, candid conversation, Rod explores the tension between doctrinal purity and outreach, confessional liturgy and contemporary music, and why the term “church growth” sends some Lutherans into panic mode.From defending contemporary worship (with his Stratocaster in hand) to later questioning whether pop culture fits in the sanctuary, Rod shares his journey through marketing, ministry, and the Book of Proverbs—all while urging the church to stop fighting and start fishing.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Meet the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering Media Team! Members of the Media Team Lauren Humphrey (LCMS Gathering Facebook host), Nina Chuang (LCMS Gathering TikTok host), and PJ Aarsvold (LCMS Gathering Instagram host) join Andy and Sarah on the KFUO Stage to talk about how they first got involved with the LCMS Youth Gathering, what the work of the Media Team is, how the many members of the media team work together to produce a wide variety of content, what they've learned about creating content for viewers on social media, and what they want their viewers to know about the LCMS Youth Gathering. Find LCMS Gathering on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok and learn more about the LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.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.

Inspired by the LCMS Youth Gathering, the Ladies embark on part two of a three-part summer series celebrating young Lutheran ladies.   In this inspiring conversation, the Leading Ladies series gets aged way down, as Sarah, Erin, and Rachel welcome LCMS YouthLead executive team and participants Reagan, Ava, and Lucy to the Lounge to share their stories and perspectives on leadership.   How did these audacious young women first step into leadership roles in their churches?  What is YouthLead, and how did they get involved? How have they grown through leadership opportunities, including YouthLead? What do they think is important for other young Lutheran Ladies to know about leading in their own communities and congregations?  About YouthLead (from LCMS.org):  For 40 years, YouthLead (formerly Lutheran Youth Fellowship) has equipped teens to develop and use their leadership skills as they serve Christ within their congregations and communities. We offer resources and training to equip teens to lead and mentor each other.  Our annual leadership training event is facilitated by the teen YL Leadership Team. The event makes use of leadership resources developed to give teens the tools they need to mature in their faith, become leaders in their congregations, and reach out to their peers with the love of Christ.  Click to learn more about YouthLead, LCMS Youth Ministry, and the LCMS Youth Gathering. Connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Follow Sarah (@hymnnerd), Rachel (@rachbomberger), and Erin (@erinaltered) on Instagram! Sign up for the Lutheran Ladies' Lounge monthly e-newsletter here, and email the Ladies at lutheranladies@kfuo.org.