The Lutheran Layman

THE

LUTHERAN L AYMAN

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

July - August 2017

1917 - 2017

Stepping into the Second Century with see page 3

you!

Bott Boosts Outreach. . . . . . . 7 Ret. Major Speaks from His Heart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 LWML’s Inclusive Mission. . . . 10 Go With THRED. . . . . . . . . . 13 Election Results. . . . . . . . . . . 15 70 Years in Brazil. . . . . . . . . . 17

Lutheran Hour Ministries 660 Mason Ridge Center Drive St. Louis, Missouri 63141-8557

SPEAKING UP

™

SURROUNDED by GRACE

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his is the year of anniversaries. The LLL is celebrating its 100th anniversary and many are celebrating the 500th anniversary of the work and life of Martin Luther. In celebratory years like this, it’s important to remember that WHAT we are celebrating is absolutely essential! We are not celebrating our unique traditions or our particular human wisdom or prowess. We are not celebrating the unique sacrifices that many have made to bring celebrations like this to pass, wonderful and important as those are. The key to it all, the reason that lives like Luther’s and like so many in the LLL have come to pass, is this: the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the real-present Jesus Christ who still surrounds His people with His grace.

Ephesians 2 tells us that we are “saved by grace through faith, and this is not of ourselves, this is a gift from/of God.” It can’t be any clearer. This is what Luther rediscovered 500 years ago. In a world that had turned God’s grace into religious human effort, in a world that approached Jesus as a demanding judge, bought off by our efforts and cash, Luther proclaimed a God who would settle for nothing less than a perfectly righteous and enduring life on His terms. More incredibly, He proclaimed a God who would lavishly love the world by paying an eternal price for every sinner’s salvation and offering His abundant life to all by grace ALONE,

By Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz Speaker of The Lutheran Hour®

in Christ ALONE. Wow! Even more incredibly, this grace surrounds sinners like you and me. It comes in words we can understand, water that splashes with the power of the name of Jesus, and a supper where Jesus literally challenges us to “taste and see that He is good.” What a message—a totally different way to live today and forever!

Into a world of gracelessness and darkness, such a message will always meet resistance and persecution. But, by its power, others who formerly lived in such darkness would also come to believe and to follow this Jesus, now and forever. That’s the ultimate legacy of Luther. That’s the legacy of the LLL. That is the message and motivation for what is still being done at The Lutheran Hour and LHM. Again, in a big celebration year like now, it’s tempting to look back at the unique things that happened. There’s nothing wrong with celebrating what God has done through unique individuals in the past. Yet, the key to the kind of celebrating that we are doing this year is the message—the power of the Gospel in the world and in our lives. There is no other message like this because there is no other Savior like Jesus.

So, with a Gospel message that surrounds us with God’s grace, let’s proclaim it any way we can, through television, radio, and the internet, indeed.

Let’s never forget that Jesus is ultimately a “face-toface” Savior who comes to us through His body the church with a level message of enduring grace—

There is no other message like this because there is no other Savior like Jesus. “words, water, bread and wine.” I’m proud to be part of that body with you. I’m excited to see what God has yet for us to do in His name for others.

More importantly, I’m thankful for the message that animates all we do, a grace in Jesus that not only surrounds us but astounds us and continues to reach others through people like you and me.

Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church, HIS Church! Let the celebration continue! n

Hear Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz on The Lutheran Hour and online at www.lhm.org!

L AYMAN The Lutheran

Vol. 88, No. 4 July - August 2017

Dr. Gerald Perschbacher (LL.D.), Editor • Andrea Thompson, Layout Subscription: $5. Printed bi-monthly. Send color photos for use. Photos sent to the paper may not be returned. Lutheran Hour Ministries, The Lutheran Hour®, Bringing Christ to the Nations, BCTN, This is the Life, Ayer, Hoy y Siempre, Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones, Esta Es La Vida, Para el Camino, and The Hoffmann Society are ® registered marks, or SM service marks. The Puzzle Club is a service mark and trademark of Int’l LLL. All rights reserved, 2017 Int’l LLL. LHM Response Center: 1-800-876-9880

Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

Seltz Accepts Call to LCRL Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, has accepted a call from the board of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty (LCRL) in Washington, D.C. to serve as the LCRL’s executive director. Seltz is slated to leave his role as Speaker later this summer, though he is committed to fulfilling all duties of the Speaker in the transition months to come.

“It’s been a blessing to have Pastor Seltz serve in the long line of gifted speakers who have shared the Gospel with millions over the airwaves since The Lutheran Hour’s first broadcast in 1930,” says LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz. “Pastor Seltz and I are confident that God has a plan for this important ministry that is a critical part of LHM’s focus on media outreach. We ask for continued prayers for Pastor Seltz and his family as he transitions into this new role with the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty.”

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to follow in the footsteps of Dr. Walter A. Maier, Dr. Oswald Hoffmann, Dr. Dale Meyer, Dr. Ken Klaus, and all the other great speakers on The Lutheran Hour over the past 87 years,” says Seltz. “What a privilege to serve the wonderful people of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and the churches of the LCMS in carrying out ministry alongside the tremendous and dedicated LHM staff. Together, we have advanced the cause of the Gospel and reached so many people each week on the radio.

“I do believe, though, there exists a great challenge before Christ’s church in the current milieu of the American culture. My new position will seek to ensure, maintain, and defend religious liberty protections for our churches, schools, universities, and fellow believers so that the Gospel may indeed have free course in our culture, calling all people to faith in Christ. I believe my work with the National Religious Broadcasters, my previous work with Concordia, Irvine, and my many years in urban ministry have indeed prepared me to engage such things by God’s grace and power.”

Based in Washington, D.C., the goal of the LCRL is to monitor and protect First Amendment rights in the public square from a uniquely Lutheran perspective. n

More news on the last page of this issue.

Stepping into the second Century…

By Brad Neathery

I

f you received and enjoyed The Lutheran Layman since last October, you likely noticed that the International Lutheran Laymen’s League, through its Lutheran Hour Ministries, is celebrating a major milestone. This year marks the 100th anniversary of our Gospel mission for the world!

It makes sense to get excited when a special moment in history like this is reached. We can look back and see God’s fingerprints all over the history of this ministry organization. More than that, we can look forward and fathom God’s vision for the future of this ministry and people like you who are part of what God is doing through LHM. As Lutheran Hour Ministries steps forward into our second century, we want to walk together with you! Through the Holy Spirit, you are God’s hands and feet to share the Gospel with a world in need. Lutheran Hour Ministries is moving forward with new strategies for outreach, encouraging the partnership of God’s people to make an impact in this world.

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Through the Holy Spirit, you are God’s hands and feet to share the Gospel with a world in need.

You are Now Entering the Digital Mission Field THRED, LHM’s new digital outreach strategy, has been active for almost half a year. What is THRED? The answer is quite simple. THRED is a large and growing collection of online written content including blogs, articles, videos, graphics, etc.

This content comes from people with a range of backgrounds: pastors, Christians, non-Christians, and those who aren’t sure where they fit.

Before going any further, it’s worth asking another basic question: How can you find out more about THRED online?

Fortunately, that answer is simple: visit lhm.org/thred. Also, go to Facebook and YouTube and search for THRED. The goal of THRED is to offer multiple perspectives so that we can form something that is rare and elusive today: open and honest dialogue. Lutheran Hour Ministries believes that when people let their guard down and enter into real conversations, the Holy Spirit can work in those interactions. Ultimately, it is always the Spirit that takes a human conversation and turns it into a lifechanging opportunity to experience the love of our Savior.

In some ways, this strategy is straightforward—and that’s exactly the idea. God’s Word has always been shared most effectively when people openly talk to each other about their hopes, fears, ideas, struggles, and more. Jesus did, and His people have been striving to do it ever since.

THRED’s ambition is to take this approach online and start

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these interactions through new channels of communication.

Of course, that’s where it starts to get less simple. The digital landscape constantly is changing along with people’s views, expectations, and habits. Since the internet has become global, we see a digital culture that can be very difficult to adapt to and be noticed amid the noise.

Working in the digital mission field requires Lutheran Hour Ministries to constantly be creating new content and approaches to spur dialogue. Though we do our best to follow God’s lead, we can never know for sure if a video, blog post, or something else will gain any traction online. That means we are prone to be adventurous, thick-skinned, and willing to test things. Lutheran Hour Ministries relies on dedicated staff and volunteers who embrace the mission of THRED and work every day to move this mission forward by the grace of God. Beyond doubt, God is blessing Lutheran Hour Ministries tremendously as He sends THRED forward in its Gospel mission. The early results have seen more than 150,000 people reached weekly through THRED content! Contained in these numbers are souls who are not connected to God or the church. THRED is giving them, perhaps for the first time, a chance to discuss the barriers of life that separate them from God’s love.

The staff and volunteers of THRED are not here to overwhelm them with the Gospel. Their role is to listen, accept people as they are, and let Jesus do the hard part. This is true whether you are talking to someone online or in the same room. see next page

As you feel challenged and inspired by THRED content, prayerfully consider sharing and see how God sparks conversations. God can work through you!

Subscribe to THRED on YouTube. People love watching videos online. In fact, many of us will watch a video about something that we wouldn’t take time to read. That’s why THRED offers fun and thoughtprovoking videos for you to watch and share.

Like THRED on Facebook. This will make sure THRED shows up in your feed.

Sign up to receive THRED content in your inbox every month. Go to lhm.org/thred and fill out the SUBSCRIBE TO THRED box on the right side of the page. This will make it easy to stay up-to-date on THRED content and share it with your friends and family.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Stepping into the second Century… from previous page

No Borders for the Gospel There is no barrier that can block God’s love.

Lutheran Hour Ministries is so certain in this belief that it drives much of our global Gospelsharing strategy. Around the world, LHM is focused on working in areas …

— with dense concentrations of people, primarily in urban centers; — where people have little opportunity to hear the Gospel; and — with large populations of young people.

Just as Lutheran Hour Ministries is answering a changing landscape for Gospel outreach through THRED, we are finding new ways to share the Good News globally.

Many Christians find it unsettling when they think of difficulties in the Middle East and North Africa. As God’s people, we want to share the hope of the Gospel with people in those areas, but many wonder how this can be done in a part of the world with such a turbulent history.

Lutheran Hour Ministries has been present in this region for more than 50 years and we are planning to do more. How have we been able to successfully work in this complex area for so long? The answer begins and ends with God’s love.

LHM has always been focused on sharing the light of God’s love and on supporting Christians throughout the region. This can be seen today through our Arabic radio broadcasts which reach 10 Arabic-speaking countries. It also can be seen in relief efforts for refugees displaced from Iraq and Syria.

Beginning this year, Lutheran Hour Ministries will begin a new television broadcast, based out of Egypt, that will have the ability to reach millions of souls throughout the Middle East and North Africa

every week. This television program will continue to share the light of God’s love in a way that embraces all people.

“This new work in the Middle East and North Africa is something we have never done before. It’s really exciting,” says Eric Gates, LHM’s regional director for Africa and the Middle East.

Half a world away, LHM just launched www.vivenciar.net. This project, developed by LHM staff and volunteers in Brazil, follows the same digital mission strategy laid out by

There is no barrier that can block God’s love.

what can you do?

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THRED. Www.vivenciar.net will create online content that can be shared through its website as well as tools like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, and Snapchat, plus radio and newspaper ads.

Much like THRED, www.vivenciar.net attempts to create a space where honest conversations take place around topics like relationships, anxiety, loneliness, and much more. These are human issues, but the ultimate answer is found in Christ Jesus. That’s why the staff and volunteers of www.vivenciar.net rely on the Holy Spirit to work through their efforts and reach people where they are.

Lutheran Hour Ministries has been present in this region for more than 50 years and we are planning to do more.

“We are hoping this project opens up opportunities,” shares Nilo Figur, LHM’s regional director for Latin America. LHM’s prayer is that God will work through these opportunities to reach souls with the Gospel.

Www.vivenciar.net began in Brazil, but the reach of this ministry is not confined to one country. LHM staff and volunteers in 10 countries are working together to expand the reach of this online resource. Truly, www.vivenciar.net currently has a potential reach of more than 650 million people throughout Latin America!

Digitally-based outreach strategies are taking place through Lutheran Hour Ministries’ work in countries like Russia, Latvia, Thailand, India, and beyond. Finding new ways to share God’s love online is powerful proof that there are no borders that can block God’s love.

Be alert to learn more about how LHM is sharing the Gospel in the Middle East and North Africa.

Share what God is doing through LHM globally. You can be part of this Gospel mission and show others how they, too, can serve.

Visit our global blog to see the creative ways that LHM is sharing the Gospel. Go to lhm.org/global and see inspiring Gospel impact stories along with updates on new ministry taking place worldwide.

Even if you never journey to another country, you can pray for God’s people there. Remember LHM’s staff and volunteers in your prayers as we share the Gospel in diverse areas of the world.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

Building on Decades of Experience In the media realm, LHM has decades of experience sharing the Gospel on radio and TV, through animation and booklets, plus online videos, to name a few. But reaching people today does not come simply by talking about the past.

Reaching people NOW with the Gospel requires God’s people to be guided by the Holy Spirit to work in today’s world with its unique media culture.

The Lutheran Hour has been sharing the Gospel message through the radio for nearly 90 years. Nielsen ratings report that 93% of Americans listen to the radio on a weekly basis. This makes it a highly-relevant area for LHM to be present, but strategies must advance to go farther.

Reaching people NOW with the Gospel requires God’s people to be guided by the Holy Spirit to work in today’s world with its unique media culture.

In addition to being present on more than 1,700 radio stations every week, The Lutheran Hour is available online at www.lutheranhour.org, where visitors can read the transcript, listen to the weekly podcast, or learn how to download the smartphone app for Android or iPhone. Also, individuals can sign up to receive The Lutheran Hour sermon in their inbox every week.

Lutheran Hour Ministries is now featuring videos from Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, on our Facebook page. These short videos apply the miraculous work of Christ through the lens of everyday life.

As God connects with people, they begin to understand His grace and love in their lives. That is the goal of these online videos. Sharing them through email or social media is an easy and non-invasive way to help people you know begin that journey.

As people respond to videos from The Lutheran Hour, you don’t have to stop there. You can visit lhm.org/resources to find hours of video and other content suitable to share with various people in your life. From engaging promos to topical booklets, LHM has a vast media catalog to connect and share Christ with others in your daily walk. see next page

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Visit lhm.org/newsroom to sign up for The Lutheran Hour weekly email, as well as Daily Devotions and other LHM email subscriptions. Share the Gospel through these media resources.

Listen to The Lutheran Hour every week and visit www.lutheranhour.org. You will receive weekly encouragement from God’s Word and hear how God is at work through Lutheran Hour Ministries.

“Like” Lutheran Hour Ministries on Facebook so that videos from The Lutheran Hour, along with a lot of other great content, will show up in your feed. You’ll receive daily opportunities to share the hope of the Gospel through LHM content and resources.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Stepping into the second Century… from previous page

You are God’s Plan for the World You have likely noticed a recurring theme as we move into the second century of God’s work through Lutheran Hour Ministries. The world is increasingly shaped and connected by the internet.

As people become more and more present online, God’s people must be there as well to share the Gospel in this space. That is why LHM is launching THRED and www.vivenciar.net, as well as exploring online strategies in places like India and in North America through The Lutheran Hour.

There is an ultimate question that this article asks— and that all believers must ask themselves—WHAT MORE CAN I DO? As online evangelism grows, God’s followers must not forget that sharing the Good News is part of their Christian commissioning. You can reflect Jesus in your words and actions, whether they take place in the grocery store or online. People need to know Jesus through you.

This creates a unique challenge for Christians. Many wonder how they can live for Christ in an internet culture where God is not appreciated. LHM wants to do more than find ways to share the Gospel more effectively as an organization.

LHM wants to help you discover how to live for Christ in all aspects of life!

This has led LHM to undertake a new research project with the Barna Group.

The Barna Group is an evangelical Christian research firm that seeks to understand the forces that influence culture, beliefs, and actions in today’s world. Many people know that younger generations are disconnected from the church. The Barna Group studies that phenomenon and wants to understand the reasons behind it. As God’s people gain a deeper understanding of what is happening in the world, they can respond in a way that meets people where they are and shows them that God is VERY relevant for their lives.

What more can I do?

As God’s people gain a deeper understanding of what is happening in the world, they can respond in a way that meets people where they are and shows them that God is VERY relevant for their lives.

To advance this cause, LHM is beginning a research project with the Barna Group that has one main goal: understanding how evangelism can be effective in this digital age.

Findings from this project can encourage LHM to create materials, training, and special resources to aid Christians in living their faith in the digital era.

You are part of God’s plan for the world; what you can do by God’s grace is incredible! God has given you the ability to reach this world with His love. But sharing your faith can be scary, whether it’s talking about what you believe or just sharing an article online. That’s why Lutheran Hour Ministries wants to come alongside you, every step of the way.

As God moves Lutheran Hour Ministries into its second century, let the ministries move forward with you. Thank you for being part of the Priesthood of Believers whom God is sending forth to share His Gospel with the world. n Brad Neathery works with philanthropic supporters of Lutheran Hour Ministries.

What you can do by God’s grace is incredible!

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

As Lutheran Hour Ministries steps into its second century with you, the logo above centers our thoughts and activities on key ministry priorities. Segments of this logo have been appearing in The Lutheran Layman for the last year and will continue to accompany articles in the future.

The purpose is to celebrate progress in these priority areas and show how you can continue to be involved with your prayers and support. Join LHM in praying for the numerous souls that will be reached with the life-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Bott Network Boosts the

Outreach

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he Bott Radio Network signed with LHM to carry each weekly broadcast of The Lutheran Hour beginning on May 31, 2015, amid high hopes for expansion. Rich Bott, network executive, recently was asked by the editor of The Lutheran Layman to share some thoughts of the 100th anniversary of the Lutheran Laymen’s League and its far-ranging Gospel reach via LHM.

Editor: Since initial news of The Lutheran Hour being carried on the Bott Radio Network was announced in the May-June 2015 issue of The Lutheran Layman, what results do you notice?

Rich Bott: The Lutheran Hour broadcast continues to be an excellent fit with our quality Bible teaching and Christian information programming format. In fact, The Lutheran Hour’s time of 8:00 Sunday morning continues to be one of our most popular weekend listening times on the radio and online. We have many listeners who listen to our web stream and on our digital mobile apps, as well as radio.

Has there been a growth in station coverage since The Lutheran Hour was aired on the Bott Radio network? If so, how has this increased the potential listenership of the program?

Yes. We have added 32 new signals since The Lutheran Hour began broadcasting with us, with a combined coverage gain of 6.3 million new population. By the end of 2017 we plan for that number to reach 10.9 million new population gain. By the end of 2017 we expect to be broadcasting with 120 radio signals reaching into 15 states with a combined coverage exceeding 60 million people.

What broadcast subjects do listeners tend to prefer?

There is a tremendous interest in quality, consistent Bible teaching. There is some recent Barna research which bears this out in the Church and on radio. People are hungry for the Word of God and to have it taught by dependable teachers who regard the Bible as the authoritative Word of God. Following that is Biblical application, “How do we apply the Bible and its teachings in our daily lives?”

Any idea what the future holds for the impact and growth of radio?

Future radio, in all its forms, continues to grow. Bott Radio Network is expanding with terrestrial radio and all forms of new digital media including web streaming, mobile apps, and social media. Researchers are finding that as these new delivery devices become more popular, the total listenership to audio content is growing. So, by expanding our terrestrial radio footprint, together with embracing digital media devices, our audience continues to grow. And we thank God for this expanding outreach potential.

We have listeners across the country and around the world in many foreign countries. This never ceases to amaze, inspire, and bless us in our work. In fact, we have two new stations going on the air in June: FM 90.3 in Rapid City, South Dakota, and FM 88.9 in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

The Lutheran Hour broadcast continues to be an excellent fit with our quality Bible teaching and Christian information programming format.

Any further comments you would like to make in conclusion?

Congratulations to The Lutheran Hour as we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation as Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the Wittenberg door. We are grateful for our partnership with you as, together, we boldly proclaim the Word of God to our generation which so desperately needs to hear. “Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” n

Pointing to the picture of Rev. Dr. Seltz, Rich Bott and regional representative Fred Zielonko have been pleased with the increasing outreach of The Lutheran Hour on the Bott Radio Network. So are contributors who prayerfully support the effort.

People need the Gospel!

More people than ever are living without the hope of Christ. The Lutheran Hour® shares the hope of the Gospel every day. You can support this mission and have your gift matched!

Lutheran Hour Ministries partnered with The Lutheran Legacy Foundation, who is matching 40% of the first one million given towards a special endowment for public Gospel proclamation.

Learn more at lhm.org/llf today!

May the growth of The Lutheran Hour continue, thanks to the grace of God and the prayerful financial support of contributors.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Vieth Speaks from the Heart

“He said one thing that I remember very distinctly: that the love of Jesus Christ will be there forever. The only thing you have to do is receive it. …”

By Paul Schreiber

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ecently, we had the chance to speak with retired Air Force Major Benjamin “Ken” Vieth.

The 88-year-old lives in Amarillo, Texas, with his wife of 65 years, Mabel (see picture above).

Growing up, he lived in the tiny town of Lone Elm, in central Missouri. We wanted to know a little bit about his life, his career, and what made him a longtime supporter of The Lutheran Hour and Lutheran Hour Ministries. His story begins with a recollection of attending Zion Lutheran Church in Lone Elm in the 1930s, in the wintertime.

When snows blew heavy and the Vieth family couldn’t get to church because of bad roads, they’d visit a relative’s house to get their Sunday preaching.

“I’ll never forget my aunt, who lived about a mile north of us, had a Zenith radio. It was about five feet high. My dad would tell me, ‘I’m going to walk up there through the field and make the tracks. Then you put your feet in the tracks I made because we’re going to go listen to The Lutheran Hour.’ We didn’t have electricity. We would do this if the wind blew enough to charge up the batteries on my aunt’s Wincharger (a windmill-like device with six-foot propellers that would charge Zenith’s six-volt farm radio). We’d get up there and there was a guy on the radio that had a sermon; his name was Dr. Walter A. Maier.”

From all the WAM sermons he listened to, Vieth recalled something in particular: “He said one thing that I remember very distinctly: that the love of Jesus Christ will be there forever. The only thing you have to do is receive it. He had a knack about him, very simply, ‘he put it to ya.’ And you know, you start to appreciate the message he put out. And that message hasn’t changed and, hopefully, The Lutheran Hour will never change that message—the love of Jesus Christ for all the people in the world.”

Later on, Vieth entered the United States Air

Force at 17, and it was during his military service, specifically while commissioned as a Missile Launch Officer in Taranto, Italy, that he was still regularly able to tap into the life-giving message of The Lutheran Hour. “In Taranto, we were way down there in the arch of Italy’s boot heel, right on the Mediterranean. We had Jupiter missiles, and one of my responsibilities was to carry the key and launch it if we ever had the proper authority. Thank God, we never did! But at any rate, while I was down there, there was something I could get on my radio, and that was The Lutheran Hour out of Germany.

I appreciated that immensely.”

It was in 1951 when Vieth was stationed at Amarillo Air Force Base that he met his wife-to-be, Mabel. “I was number 21 when they reopened this base. They didn’t have a place for us to stay on the base so they let us stay in town. I noticed a place named Minneapolis Motel. Well, I kind of figured, maybe, it might be Lutheran-run, you know, with a name like Minneapolis. And sure enough it was, so I decided to have a little fun.”

“Back then most motels had a church directory posted for their guests. Today, they don’t do that. At any rate, I went over to the directory and the lady working there said, ‘Are you looking for a church?’ I looked at her and said, ‘No, ma’am, I’m an atheist.’

She looked at me and gave me a little lecture. Of course, the next morning I went to Trinity Lutheran Church in Amarillo and, lo and behold, here she comes. She looked at me sitting in the pew and sat down next to me, jabbing me in the ribs. She said, ‘I must’ve had a big impact on you.’”

“Of course, later I told her I was lifetime Lutheran.

You gotta have a little fun in life.”

When asked if there was any secret to living life well through 65 years of marriage, Vieth replied, “I tell everybody the one thing that’s important: put

“I tell everybody the one thing that’s important: put God in the center of your life, and then you won’t have any problem.”

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

God in the center of your life, and then you won’t have any problem. Don’t go to bed at night mad at your spouse. If you can’t forgive—you know the Lord teaches us very clearly to forgive—if you can’t do that, well, you better start over again. But if you have God in the center of your life—let Him guide everything you do—you will have a very successful life. He’ll be there because Jesus Christ was crucified for every one of us, and He rose from the dead. It’s very simple. People need to know Jesus Christ and realize He died for every single soul on this earth.

We must get the word out. The Lutheran Hour is a fantastic avenue to do that. n Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.

ON THE MOVE

By Phil Johnson, Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors

There is no Substitute for YOU! Each of us is a unique part of God’s creation. No two of us are exactly the same, and so each of us has a unique place in His kingdom work.

Our call to discipleship is so very personal. In Psalm 139:14-16 the writer exclaims, “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.” Each of us is a unique part of God’s creation. No two of us are exactly the same, and so each of us has a unique place in His kingdom work.

At the end of Matthew 9 the many people who gathered around Jesus looking for hope and healing moved Him deeply. He called on His disciples to pray for “the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest field.” The next thing we read

Jesus is giving His disciples authority and sending them out.

Imagine what Jesus’ reaction would have been if Philip, Thomas, or one of the other disciples had said, “You know, I’m not real comfortable with this assignment, and I have a little money saved up, so I am going to pay someone else to go in my place.” I can imagine Jesus saying something like, “If it is My will that they should be sent, I will send them—but I am sending you into the harvest field.” The disciples couldn’t send a substitute because they had no substitute. Each one of them was unique, and each had a unique role to play in the harvest.

When it comes to harvest work, there just is no substitute for YOU—your gifts, your talents, your personality, your interests. All these— and so much more—make you

unique. You can’t send a substitute because there is no one else like you.

You can’t ask your pastor to go for you, or your family members, or the outreach committee at your church, or even those who serve at Lutheran Hour Ministries. As my friend Peter Keys, a director of Christian outreach, reminded me, “The Lord tells us to ‘always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you’ (see 1 Peter 3:15). Basically, this is evangelism through genuine relationships. It is living out our faith in public, showing care for others, and humbly giving praise and glory to God.” Do you see that? You are to be prepared to give a reason for the hope given to YOU. No one else can do that for you. Like so many others, you may feel ill-prepared, tonguetied, anxious, or fearful. But God has

formed you as you are. This means there are people that you are able to reach with the Good News better than anyone else. Your caring heart, your listening ear, your encouraging words, your loving service, your passions, skills, hobbies, personality all make you unique. That is why he has called YOU to work in His harvest field. He calls YOU to go, in all of your uniqueness, to the family, friends and community right where you are. But you don’t go alone. He has sent you with His Spirit, and with many other disciples, so that working together we can be Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church, beginning in our own homes and jobs, our local communities, and congregations.

Let us know how we can help YOU! n

Online Mission Trip Heads to Cambodia F or 2018, LHM is excited to announce that the southeast Asian nation of Cambodia is the destination of its seventh annual international Online Mission Trip. The “trip” to Cambodia will be available to Lutheran schools across North America beginning Jan. 22-26, 2018—during National Lutheran Schools Week. This experience is perfect for many different audiences. You can use the Online Mission Trip content yourself and share it with other groups such as friends, family, home schools, people in your church, and anyone else.

“We are blessed beyond imagination to show kids and adults how their mission dollars help share the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ to the people of Cambodia,” says Brad Neathery, associate director of constituent services for Lutheran Hour Ministries. “This year, we look forward to involving even more people beyond the classroom in this exciting international mission experience.”

After successfully introducing the Online Mission Trip concept in 2012 with a virtual trip to Paraguay, LHM has offered students the opportunity to learn about its work sharing the Gospel with the people of Thailand, Kenya,

Guatemala, Latvia, and Madagascar. Last year an estimated 50,000 students from around 500 schools participated.

LHM reaches out in Cambodia with strategies that are tailored to share the Gospel in a culture that is slowly recovering from being devastated and impoverished by a communist dictatorship during the 1970s. Much of Cambodia’s society is rural and agrarian but enjoys a high degree of literacy. In this environment, our ministry’s Bible Correspondence Courses and Equipping the Saints evangelism training programs are effective in educating people in Christian teachings and in reaching others. The ministry’s emphasis on youth outreach makes use of music events, film shows, and technologies such as the internet and text messaging to attract young people, present a Christian message, and offer opportunities to learn more.

Make plans now to journey with us to a country with unique culture, fascinating history, amazing wildlife, and exciting ways to share Jesus. More details about the coming Online Mission Trip, including registration information, will be available this summer by going to lhm.org/onlinemissiontrips. n The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Women of today rejoice in the full salvation by grace through faith that Christ won for them and the reality of being a part of the priesthood of all believers.

The LWML’s Inclusive Mission

By Patti Ross

Editor’s introduction: We are pleased to have this page graced with the words of Patti Ross, president of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, as the organization marks its 75th anniversary in this special year of anniversaries that includes the 500th of the Reformation and the 100th of the Int’l LLL. 10

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

T

Studying God’s Word is a regular motivating factor for the LWML and leads to a “mission.”

For more details go to lwml.org.

hroughout the 75-year history of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML), the Reformation has been revealed in the work of women in this organization. In 1929, a committee of seven women, working with the encouragement of the Lutheran Laymen’s League (Int’l LLL), began to organize district women’s groups under a national umbrella for better coordination of mission support efforts. One of the names they considered for the organization was, “Lutheran Women of the Reformation.” Continuing efforts to organize and be recognized were supported by the LLL and came to a conclusion when LWML was officially organized in 1942. In 1962, LWML became one of the official auxiliaries of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), as is the International Lutheran Laymen’s League with its Lutheran Hour Ministries.

Women of today rejoice in the full salvation by grace through faith that Christ won for them and the reality of being a part of the priesthood of all believers. These components of the Reformation encourage women to share their God-given gifts and talents in representing the church in mission. This inclusive mission of serving all people through sharing of the Gospel and practical application of that Gospel, is key to the LWML as they declare the praises of Jesus.

Earlier women, influenced by Luther’s teachings, exhibited gifts of service that continue in Lutheran women today. The most well-known, Katie Luther, is known for her hospitality, hard work in the garden and on the farm, and hymn writing.

Argula von Grumbach wrote in support of the Reformation. She is remembered for her emphasis on Scripture and her support of the priesthood of all believers, including women. Katherine Zell, a gracious hostess, offered food and lodging to the Protestant travelers and floods of refugees who came through Strasbourg. She

wrote hymns, campaigned for better run hospitals and visited troops in the field during the Peasants’ War (1524-1525). Working with other reformers, Elizabeth von Muenden developed guidelines and orders of service for Protestant worship. This faithfulness in every vocation in life continues in women of the church today. “How can I help?” is a familiar phrase.

In LWML we engage with and equip women to support mission work, write devotions and Bible studies, search for opportunities to serve, learn how to be leaders in their women’s groups, and look outward with Christ’s love.

Just as the Reformation brought major changes for women in the church and necessitated a look into the future, so today we are faced with many changes. New realities in communication, family life, and education have brought changes in human relations. These changes call for a new kind of commitment and focus on God’s mission in His world: new understanding of differing needs, new plans for effective programs, and new support for all Christian women. LWML—Lutheran Women in Mission—continues to bring gifted women together to recognize, identify, and then address these pressing issues.

Equipping women to serve has fostered new family resources in the form of the “Balance” Bible study series on family issues, the “Dear Mother” devotionals for new mothers, and the Together is Better marriage devotion book—all written to address their specific needs. Service opportunities for families and women’s groups are evaluated and posted online. Flexible meeting and activity plans are suggested to involve working women and families in the mission outreach of the church while considering the best use of their time.

Equipping missionaries and missions and educating congregations about them is the work of the national and district LWMLs. These are funded through mission offerings and the familiar LWML Mite Box. Through these grants, missions have been equipped to improve the physical and spiritual lives of families. One recent grant was to Lutheran Hour Ministries for outreach in refugee camps in Lebanon. In the same way that women of the Reformation worked to improve the physical and spiritual lives of God’s people, so we today continue that work in LWML. Engaging, equipping, and encouraging women in the church continues from the Reformation to the present and will go on into the future. The LWML—Lutheran Women in Mission—looks back on 75 years in 2017, but just as importantly, looks ahead to a future as women of the Reformation even now. We are embracing change while enjoying the delight of being a child of God and serving Him with gladness! n

Engaging, equipping, and encouraging women in the church continues from the Reformation to the present and will go on into the future.

The LWML maintains a strong emphasis on mission work that takes witnessing far beyond national and regional borders.

Maria heard the Gospel because of you.

THANK YOU! God uses your support to reach millions of people like Maria with the Gospel, many for the first time!

You can learn more about the amazing impact of your giving at

LHM.ORG/MARIA

Sources: Marlys Taege Moberg, Women In League With the Lord, The Story of Lutheran Women in Mission and Their Christian Predecessors. St. Louis, LWML, 2005. Also Ruth Fritz Meyer, Women on a Mission, St. Louis, Concordia Publishing House, 1967.

“How can I help?” is a familiar phrase.

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Celebrating with the LWML

Lutheran Hour Ministries was blessed to be a part of LWML’s 37th Biennial Convention in Albuquerque, New Mexico, June 22-25.

Here are some highlights of LHM’s presence at the convention.

Above: Katia from LHM–Lebanon provided an update

on work within refugee camps as part of the LWML’s Mites in Action program. The convention approved a $100,000 grant to expand LHM’s Gospel outreach in the Middle East. LHM is blessed by the support of LWML and looks forward to partnership in HIS mission.

Last MISSION U Workshop Sets Stage for Online Courses

Right: Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz,

Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, signed copies of his Lord’s Prayer book for a long line of excited convention attendees. Seltz also spoke at a Saturday luncheon and reminded everyone to live our lives through Christ for our neighbors and to put God’s love to work in the lives of others—and to expect JOY!

By Paul Schreiber

Left: On the big screen—LHM President & CEO Kurt Buchholz presented LWML President Patti Ross the Luther Seal from the LHM float on which she rode during the 2017 Rose Parade. The seal was made with red and yellow strawflower, black seaweed, powdered white rice, onion seed, blue stasis, and black beans.

Right: At the LHM exhibit

booth, LHM Ministry Resource Manager Dionne Lovstad-Jones shared what God is doing through LHM’s global ministry. It is a joy to partner with members of the LWML, especially in this year of our dual anniversaries.

Photos courtesy of Lorri Hackett

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“I know the Kingdom has expanded because of the work LHM has done, and I give all glory to God.”

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

This spring a MISSION U (MU) event in Ohio signaled the start of a new era in Lutheran Hour Ministries’ offering of outreach resources. In Willoughby, presenter Rich Cohrs hosted a workshop— one of dozens he’s conducted over the years. Noteworthy about this gathering was its marking the transition from LHM’s onsite workshops to its upcoming schedule of new online courses rolling out this summer. These interactive courses will target vital outreach concerns while providing researched-based content and outreach strategies to users. You can read more about LHM’s upcoming FREE online courses and webinars in a related article in this issue.

Information of the type presented in the MU course, “Equipping to Share, Culture of Outreach,” which Cohrs shared at Trinity Lutheran Church, will be expanded significantly in the online courses LHM will launch August 1. “The instructional foundation laid by LHM’s expert presenters at onsite events served well those who were physically present, but the number now able to benefit online from LHM’s new web-based resources is virtually unlimited,” said Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, who directs LHM’s U.S. Ministries.

This instructional paradigm shift from onsite to online is significant as Cohrs, a former teacher and administrator, can attest to. After his presentation he said, “Over the years, by working with Parish Media Teams, and leading Equipping to Share, and MU workshops, I’ve been humbled to hear reports from class members as they shared their faith, and I’ve watched the power of the Holy Spirit at work in the lives of others. I know the Kingdom has expanded because of the work LHM has done, and I give all glory to God.” Cohrs agrees that whether onsite or online, LHM’s goal has remained the same through the years: give the individual believer the best Christ-centered tools possible for sharing the Gospel in a confident manner while remaining sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s work in transforming lives. “I thank God for His protection during my travels, for the people who attended the events, and for LHM’s long history of working hard to give people the resources they need to share the Gospel in whatever context they find themselves,” he said. n

LHM’s Newest U.S. Ministry—

For Engaging Conversation, Go With THRED! “My goal is to be a Christian witness by responding to comments and engaging in relationships with people. … And I’m not trying to force anything on you; that’s not my job. I can merely plant seeds.”

By Greg Koenig

M

ichael and Annie are trained volunteers tasked to respond to comments left by participants on the Facebook page of LHM’s THRED digital ministry. Recently, Michael and Annie engaged with a participant in a long discussion thread on the topic of hope.

“Hope is a lie we tell ourselves,” wrote Robert in response to a video posted on THRED’s Facebook page in May. Annie countered by asking Robert whether he might think otherwise if he were told that hope is “being certain of things you can’t see.”

“I’ve already read Hebrews 11,” answered Robert, establishing himself as someone acquainted with the Scripture to which Annie had alluded.

This was shaping up to be a deeper conversation than you’ll see in most social media.

Then Michael joined in and ventured that “placing one’s hope in the wrong things can lead to disappointment. ... When I put my hope in the things that Jesus has promised, I won’t be let down.” Then he re-engaged: “What are your thoughts on that?”

“Not everybody believes in the sovereignty of Christ,” Robert replied. “Not everyone shares your experiences with hope.”

Michael persisted. “My hope in Christ can be true for all those that believe. Do you believe in the sovereignty of Christ?”

For some participants, this may be the clearest Gospel witness they will ever have received.

“I choose to believe despite my lack of hope and certainty,” Robert confessed. Then, in a surprise move, Robert “pulled back the curtain,” so to speak: “Michael and Annie, who trained you guys? You are clever by making comments to interact with me, feeding my ego as though I’m important enough to create a conversation around.”

Undeterred, Michael acknowledged Robert’s insight: “I’ll level with you ... I do volunteer for THRED. My goal is to be a Christian witness by responding to comments and engaging in relationships with

THRED: Just for Millennials?

people. I’d say that’s been successful, because we’ve made it this far [in our discussion]. And I’m not trying to force anything on you; that’s not my job. I can merely plant seeds.”

The THRED moderator joined in soon afterward to affirm what Michael had explained and to thank Robert for “so articulately sharing” his thoughts.

“I enjoy the conversations, THRED,” Robert concluded.

In a nutshell, this demonstrates that THRED is operating as designed! Our volunteers work hard to give participants the assurance that they are “important enough to create a conversation around” (because they are); they encourage participants to share their heartfelt concerns; and they respond to each participant with genuine respect and compassion. Relationships often result— relationships into which the seeds of the Gospel can be planted. For some participants, this may be the clearest Gospel witness they will ever have received. n Greg Koenig reports on the impact of LHM’s THRED outreach.

“Hey, that’s great for the Millennials; we need to reach out to them—but I’m sure there won’t be anything for me.”

By Phil Krauss A few years ago, when I learned that LHM was going to start a digital ministry, I thought, “Hey, that’s great for the Millennials; we need to reach out to them—but I’m sure there won’t be anything for me.”

I’m not a social media guru. I have a Twitter account, but I haven’t done much “tweeting.” My daughter tells me I should check out Instagram or SnapChat, but I just haven’t done that yet. However, I am into Facebook—I have enjoyed many good discussions (some people might even call them “debates”) over posts about issues ranging from politics (hard to avoid on Facebook this past year) to my grandchildren (even harder to avoid if you’re one of my friends).

Not long ago I noticed a re-post from LHM’s THRED outreach. It looked interesting, I’m into LHM, and I’d heard about this new ministry, so I “Liked” THRED on Facebook. Since then I have found a lot of links to interesting articles, helpful or uplifting “memes,” and yes, even some good discussions. I have found nothing “preachy” but lots that is apologetic—a particular interest of mine.

I have particularly enjoyed the THRED policy of keeping the conversations on Facebook germane and friendly. Discussions are monitored to keep things congenial—another interest of mine. I have seen a few specific admonitions to responses of people who were getting off topic and/or downright mean.

So far I like what I have seen on THRED. Is it just for Millennials? Maybe not! n

Experience the groundbreaking, exciting, sometimes “messy” ministry of THRED. Visit www.facebook.com/ourTHRED now!

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Bending for GOOD GROWTH

“I’m not a minister or missionary, but … I will be a participant in this organization into the future.”

By Brad Neathery

E

d Ellerman still draws upon a piece of wisdom that his father passed along to him as a child: “As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.”

Ed grew up in a family committed to Christian service. Elder family members were lay workers in the church. They actively supported and served in leadership positions for Lutheran organizations like Concordia Historical Institute and Radio Station KFUO. His great-grandfather was even active in the early establishment of the Lutheran Laymen’s League. That focus on Christian service made a real impression on Ed. Family life was centered around the Lord as well. “My parents demonstrated their faith through everyday actions—morning devotions at breakfast, prayers before every meal, and evening devotions multiple times a week,” Ed recalls. This background has inspired Ed to want to follow the path that his family set for him.

The example of Ed’s family is one of the primary motivators for Ed as he has made important decisions in the last few years regarding how he can give to LHM through his will. “As I was redoing my will, I spent a lot of time prayerfully thinking about my life, my parents’ lives, and my family’s impact today and into the future.” He had to face the question, “Do I want my money doing something that I don’t want after I’m gone?”

So he thought about charities he wanted to continue to support into perpetuity.

Ed decided that LHM was his top priority to support through his estate. To honor his parents, he established The Edgar and Nelda Ellerman Endowment Fund.

Proceeds are not restricted in any way. For Ed, this was a very intentional choice:

“I wanted the money to be able to go where it’s most necessary.” The bulk of the funding for this endowment will come through a bequest from Ed’s estate.

“I started this endowment in my parents’ names so my family could get involved and support the fund,” Ed said. By honoring his family in this manner, he shows them an example that he prays they will follow. He is following his father’s wisdom: “As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” Ed is nurturing a new offshoot of that tree that makes a lasting impact for God’s kingdom.

Like anyone, Ed finds it uncomfortable to think about his death, but he realizes, “I’m not a spring chicken. It was time to get serious in planning my will.” He is concerned by today’s lack of manners, morals, and religion. “People around the world need to know that God loves them and they are supported by other Christians around the world. I believe that LHM is doing that work.” Ed related, “I’m not a minister or missionary, but my gift helps me feel like I’m part of that work—and I will be a participant in this organization into the future. As I think about the impact I want to make with the blessings God has given me, this is an easy way to give.”

In addition to feeling involved in Gospel outreach, Ed has gained a great sense of contentment as he thinks about his future. “Now I feel I have faced my future and planned my future support. It took me from a place of dissatisfaction to true satisfaction.”

If you find yourself working through the same questions as Ed, LHM is honored to help you work through questions like, “How can I honor my family’s legacy?” and “Can I make a difference and take care of my loved ones?” n

For details, please contact LHM’s Gift Planning department at lhm.org/giftplan, 1-877-333-1963, or lhm-gift@lhm.org

New Kazakh Program Brings Adults & Children Together

Providing a welcoming environment where people see that Christians are open-minded and interesting people.

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

Christianity is the second most practiced religion in Kazakhstan. But ministry there is often more complex due to a law that prohibits public evangelism and restricts religious activity to church properties.

To comply with restrictions like these, LHM undertakes strategies that involve partnering with local congregations to shine the light of Christ into communities throughout Kazakhstan. One example is a new program called Znaika, which means “very clever child” in the Russian language. The focus of this project is to bring children and adults together at topical training events to help them

use their unique individual talents to communicate more effectively with each other.

One church may host an interesting photography workshop while another congregation may share its expertise in technology. Different workshops or master classes are held each month and the host church invites their members, individuals from nearby congregations, and interested people from the community. Znaika is starting as a city-wide project for Almaty and will eventually move to other cities.

“The hope is that advertising such topical workshops will help motivate

people from the community to attend,” says LHM’s director in Kazakhstan.

“We want to provide a welcoming environment where people can come to learn new things and see for themselves that Christians are openminded and interesting people.”

Once the initial round of workshops has been completed, the second step will be training church leaders so they can continue the project on their own.

A holistic component of the program will involve working with local mayors and politicians to identify the poor in their communities so that the churches can reach out to help. n

ON THE MOVE

By Kurt Buchholz, President & CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries

I Truly LOVE It! Enlisting you and me in God’s endeavor to bring salvation to ALL!

O

ne aspect of the International Lutheran Laymen’s League/Lutheran Hour Ministries that I truly love is that it is intergenerational. I often hear stories of how individuals or entire families came to faith through LHM. I see congregations where LHM was a key part of their formation story. I see workers and volunteers in our international ministry centers who came to faith through the efforts of those they now call brothers and sisters. I see the hundreds of thousands of responses to LHM’s ongoing proclamation efforts.

And just in the last months I have seen new efforts in the Digital Mission Field engaging unchurched people from around the globe in faith-filled conversation and relationships.

All of this is happening because people of all ages are coming together to see it done. On one side, we have volunteers and workers from youth to mature adults who tirelessly bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all who will hear. On the other side, we have

those who generously give as they are able, whether they are school children through their chapel offerings, adults who actively support the ongoing ministry, or those who have included LHM in their estate plan. God uses a combination of all of these to make sure the voice of the Gospel does not go silent in our world that so desperately needs it.

These resources do not come about by accident. We must continue to lift up the plight of the unchurched and God’s plan of love for each and every one of them.

We give back to God’s work what he has blessed and entrusted to us—volunteer time, resources, prayers, advocacy, and praise and encouragement.

Much of what we do today to reach around 60 million people each week with the Gospel is due to the generosity of those already sainted and with Jesus in our heavenly home. It is said that when the Speaker of The Lutheran Hour Oswald Hoffmann would

Results of LHM’s 2017 Election More than 60 percent of LHM’s registered voting members cast ballots in the recent election to fill seats on the organization’s Board of Directors. This marked the first time that the voting registration process, which was approved by members last year, was used. This new process helped to decrease the cost of organizational elections by nearly two-thirds and means the 10 percent quorum required by Missouri (where LHM is headquartered) for a certified election now applies to only members who register to vote.

Gene Partlow of Williamsburg, Virginia, was elected to the position of vice chairman. He had been filling the remaining one year on Phil Johnson’s term as vice chairman after Johnson was elected to chairman last spring. The following individuals were re-elected to three-year terms on the Board as Directors: Richard “Dick” Gast of Mission Viejo, California (second term); Leonard Pranschke of St. Louis, Missouri (second term); Andreas Schwabe of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (second term); and Janice Wendorf of Neenah, Wisconsin (second term).

In addition to selecting individuals for the Board, voters also passed two proposed Bylaws changes that appeared on the ballot: • Eliminating the separate election of chairman and vice chairman in the future and giving the Board the authority to appoint these officer positions annually from among the 14 sitting Board members (just as the Board already does for the officer positions of secretary and treasurer).

• Making revisions of a stylistic nature to create internal consistency and linguistic clarity within the Bylaws. These changes do not reflect changes to Int’l LLL policies or procedures.

Thanks to everyone who participated in the new election process! Want to vote in 2018? Anyone who gives a gift to LHM between July 1, 2016, and Dec. 31, 2017, will be eligible to register for next year’s voting membership. Details on how to register will be provided in an early 2018 mailing. n

speak in congregations, he would often challenge the members to remember to put LHM in their will.

That’s one reason why I call it intergenerational. The enormous impact and expansion we are seeing today is made possible by the combined generosity of many generations, both here and gone.

Praise be to God that He has chosen to enlist you and me in His endeavor to bring salvation to ALL! I guess you are like me, that you love to see God’s people come together and do something that really matters. LHM was created and supported for that very reason. Members like you never fail to encourage me to keep focused on the mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. There is so much more to do and so much more that can be done today. n

Connect with Us Online!

Videos, events, and other LHM news and updates are available on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram.

Join the conversation by liking and following us today!

lutheranhourministries @LHMglobalmin lutheranhourmin LHM

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Outreach Winner Chosen for Men’s NetWork WORK DAY

By Paul Schreiber

G

etting out, helping others: this would be a good summation of what happens during the annual Men’s NetWork WORK DAY, now in its fifth year. This year nearly 30 men’s groups participated in a wide range of projects.

Their work involved tasks like roadside and spring cleanups, giving assistance to the elderly, handicap ramp construction, painting, digging, sweeping, hauling, building, working at a school or church, helping people move, and more.

While all jobs undertaken are beneficial, LHM officials were especially interested in those efforts that had an outreach component to them. This was probably most easily achieved when groups worked off their church campus and even more when the recipient of their effort had a minimal or zero affiliation with a church.

Taking the prize (a hefty grab bag of Men’s NetWork goodies) was the men’s group from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Alexandria, Virginia. In the words of Rodney Smith, here’s what they did: “St. John’s Lutheran Church Men’s Work Day involved 23 men from different churches serving the Alexandria, Virginia, community through projects helping the Carpenter’s Shelter for the Homeless, Franconia Elementary School, and the Early

Dr. Nunes (right): “Dr. Buchholz not only embraces the fundamental Lutheran idea that technology should be used in service of the Gospel, but he confesses it concretely in his daily work.”

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Childhood Education Center at St. John’s Lutheran Church (SJLC).” The purpose of the event was to give back to the community by assisting other organizations in the mission to educate and assist others. “The Gospel tells us to serve and spread the message of Good News. The group met at SJLC for a continental breakfast, devotion, and final instructions before heading out to serve the community. The men did a great job completing these three projects: “Carpenter’s Shelter for the Homeless: Two teams tackled projects ranging from lawn beautification to constructing and painting seven bookcases. Myra Cruz, volunteer coordinator for Carpenter’s Shelter, stated: ‘We are thankful that they spent Saturday morning improving the outside of the shelter, making it more welcoming for our clients! Also, our clients will really appreciate the bookcases they built, something very useful while they are in shelter, and something to take with them to their new homes.’

“Franconia Elementary School: The team turned six garden beds providing the sixth-graders a place to plant corn and flowers as they learn not only how things grow, but the care required for a fertile harvest. Ms. Martha McCash, student information assistant, directed

Getting out, helping others: this would be a good summation of what happens during the annual Men’s NetWork WORK DAY … and provided insight of the school’s goals as well as shared her knowledge of herbs planted in the garden.

“Early Childhood Education Center: The team undertook numerous duties to improve the overall appearance of the children’s playground and church building. They painted the playground’s chain linked fence, the church sacristy, and the front portion of the stage located in the fellowship hall. Mulch was spread, the playground equipment powerwashed, and windows cleaned.”

For its widespread outreach efforts, the men’s group of St. John’s Lutheran

Church will receive a Men’s NetWork duffel bag, an assortment of Lutheran Hour Ministries shirts, a selection from LHM’s video-based Bible study collection, and a few more items of interest. Congratulations and nice job to the men from St. John’s!

Remember, if you participated this year and have yet to send us a brief project summary and pictures, please do so. Send them to LHM’s Facebook page at www.facebook. com/LutheranHourMinistries or forward them in an e-mail to us at mensnetwork@lhm.org. n

Buchholz Awarded Honorary Doctorate LHM President and CEO Kurt Buchholz received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Concordia College New York during the college’s commencement ceremonies in Bronxville, New York, May 13. Buchholz was recognized for distinguished service in international mission outreach through leadership positions with LHM, LCMS World Mission, and Lutheran World Relief (LWR), as well as his dedication for using today’s digital media resources to reach more people than ever before with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

“Dr. Buchholz not only embraces the fundamental Lutheran idea that technology should be used in service of the Gospel, but he confesses it concretely in his daily work,” said the Rev. Dr. John Nunes, president of Concordia College New York. “His futuristic, digital-era vision for LHM aligns

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

historically with the lifelong mission of someone who is now his fellow-alum, Dr. Walter A. Maier, a 1912 Concordia New York graduate.” Maier was the original speaker of The Lutheran Hour who fulfilled his vision of sharing the Gospel far and wide through the relatively new medium of radio.

As LHM’s Chief Executive, Buchholz lives out his passion for the personal call and vocation of laity leading to full engagement in boldly proclaiming the Gospel worldwide to nearly 60 million people each week. Prior to joining LHM, he was instrumental in LWR’s efforts to mobilize U.S. Lutherans in the global effort to eliminate malaria deaths in Africa, raised funds for the church to expand missionary efforts, and directed and managed school start-ups in Taiwan, where Buchholz and his wife, Jenny, served as missionaries themselves for nearly a decade. n

Celebrating 70 Years of Ministry in Brazil

By Chad Fix

S

even decades ago, on Easter Sunday, 1947, Dr. Rodolpho Hasse preached the message of salvation by grace through faith in Christ in Portuguese for the first time under the banner of A Hora Luterana—A Voz da Cruz (The Lutheran Hour—The Voice of the Cross) on 10 powerful radio stations spanning most of Brazil. While he first preached over the airwaves in 1929, this broadcast launched a new ministry operation in Brazil under Hasse’s management, one of the first offices established as the Lutheran Laymen’s League began its rapid expansion around the world. Today, the LLL/LHM shares the Gospel in more than 50 nations worldwide.

That first broadcast paved the way for an outreach that has been instrumental in the lives of Brazilians over the past 70 years, especially those suffering from inequalities in social class, insufficient education, health care, and basic needs. Outreach programs now include text messaging, podcasts, emails, smart phone messaging, print materials, Bible Correspondence Courses, and person-toperson evangelism. The center’s Messages of Hope voicemail service receives more than 10,000 calls every month; each call is answered with a Gospel-based message with words of comfort and hope in Jesus Christ.

Above: LHM–Brazil staff

At right: Pictures from the past: Rev. Fred Pankow (seated) signs documents for the LCMS as Rev. Johannes Gedrat (left), LLL branch manager for Brazil, and Rev. Rodolpho Warth (speaker), witness the event.

“It’s a wonderful, ambitious goal that is well planned, under God’s blessings, to extend LHM’s proclamation.”

To celebrate all that God has done and is currently doing through the staff and volunteers of LHM— Brazil, the ministry kicked off a celebration of its 70th anniversary on April 2 with the first of seven events scheduled nationwide. The initial event was a rally at Peace Lutheran Church in Rio de Janeiro with participation from all congregations in the metropolitan area as well as a sermon preached by the president of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of

Brazil, Rev. Egon Kopereck. Additional regional events will take place later this summer and fall.

LHM’s work continues to be highly regarded by the church in Brazil. Mission expansion toward the north and northeast parts of the country was strongly based on The Lutheran Hour programs aired on powerful radio stations throughout the region. In fact, most of the Lutheran congregations that exist in Brazil today started from among listeners of the broadcasts. While the original 15-minute broadcasts of The Lutheran Hour no longer exist, they have been replaced with a popular Five Minutes with Jesus program that airs on more than 150 stations and is paid for by local congregations.

Paulo Warth is a firsthand witness to much of the ministry center’s longstanding success during his service with LHM–Brazil since 1966, including nearly three decades as director. His father, Rev. Rodolfo

The ribbon cutting ceremony for the office in Brazil included, from left, manager Gedrat, Dr. Oswald Hoffmann, and Breno Hasse, president of Hora Luterana in Brazil.

Warth, was the speaker of The Lutheran Hour in Brazil for more than 40 years. The celebration of the 70th anniversary inspired Paulo, the staff, and the local Board to embark on a challenging project of becoming a self-sustained ministry center within three years. The project includes detailed plans to maintain a strong partnership with LHM after becoming financially independent.

“It’s a wonderful, ambitious goal that is well planned, under God’s blessings, to extend LHM’s proclamation,” says Rev. Nilo Figur, LHM’s regional director for Latin America. “The seed planted by the pioneers of LHM in 1947 has resulted in a beautiful harvest for the expansion of God’s kingdom in Brazil and throughout Latin America.” n Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of Lutheran Hour Ministries.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Individuals and Small Groups are the Online Focus By Paul Schreiber

O

utreach resources are coming to your fingertips! On August 1, LHM is launching online courses and live webinars designed to assist you in gaining a hearing for the Gospel.

“All our online courses will feature content designed to help users with doing outreach,” said Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, who directs LHM’s U.S. Ministries.

“Each three-to-five session course can be used by individuals and in self-paced classes. There’s a printable journal for each course, so users can take time to reflect on the text and video, then jot down their answers. Afterwards, they can take their journals to a small group meeting where their notes will facilitate conversation and allow everyone present to address questions they had from their self-study. Utilizing the journal will make sure everybody has a common foundation to begin to talk from. A small group discussion guide will make for easy congregational use as well.”

Cook added, “It’s for adult learners and employs a self-check system throughout the course. There’s an assessment at the end that triggers completion. Afterwards, a virtual certificate can be printed.”

Courses will be offered in five categories: • Christian Foundation – Basics of Christianity from Biblical, theological, and historical perspectives; • Cultural Concepts – Understanding different demographics, cultures, and religions in our world today; • Everyday Insights – Thoughts about the good and bad that life throws your way; • Outreach Essentials – Personal evangelism and tools to reach others with the Gospel; • Spiritual Reflections – Devotional thoughts meant to strengthen and encourage.

Each online course includes the following: • Individual, self-paced learning; • Time for self-reflection and journaling; • Optional small group discussion guides for home and congregational use; • Easy access on any digital device, including a computer, tablet, or smartphone; • A variety of learning methods designed for the adult learner.

"We feel our online courses and webinars will provide a place where anyone can learn to share their faith with confidence.”

First among the online course offerings will be Intergenerational Mentoring and Sharing Your Faith Stories, according to Ashley Bayless, instructional designer: “These fall under the banner of our Outreach Essentials category and will be followed by three more courses by the end of 2017.”

The landing page lhm.org/learn is the place to begin. Here, people will register for courses, and new courses will be announced. The website is responsive and is designed to automatically adjust to any device size—computer, tablet, cell phone—so it can be mobile, if the user prefers.

“Our goal is to produce five new multi-session courses a year,” Cook said.

“It’s a tall order that involves planning, writing, video shoots, editing, and final production, i.e., the whole gamut of tasks that goes into an ongoing project like this. We’re up for it, though, and it will be well worth it. We feel our online courses and webinars will provide a place where anyone can learn to share their faith with confidence.” n

Gasts Honored for Exemplary Service

“As laypeople, it was a humbling experience to receive this award among so many dignitaries who are active in ministry within the church.”

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

LHM Board member Dick Gast and his wife Lynn were honored with the Christus Vivit Award during Concordia Seminary’s commencement ceremonies in St. Louis May 19. The award is presented each year to those who demonstrate exemplary service within the church. The Gasts were chosen as this year’s recipients for their 27 years of sacrificial, visionary leadership of the Lutheran Hour Ministries Float and the 5,000 Petal Pushers volunteers who decorate it and several others for the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California.

“What a delight for our faculty, seminary, and for me personally to celebrate God’s goodness and mission through Dick and Lynn Gast,” said Dr. Dale A. Meyer, president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. “Christus vivit; Christ lives!” Meyer, who served as Speaker of The Lutheran Hour from 1989 through 2001, was one of the riders on the LHM float, “Celebrate Jesus,” during the 2017 parade.

“As laypeople, it was a humbling experience to receive this award among so many dignitaries who are active in ministry within the church,” says Dick Gast. “To have the float and its volunteer efforts recognized as an important international outreach by the seminary, one of the focal parts of the church, is a true blessing. Lynn and I are honored to be able to lead a multi-prong witnessing opportunity each year during one of the largest secular events in the country.”

The 2018 LHM float will mark 68 years of participation in the annual New Year’s event. Under a parade theme of “Making a Difference,” the LHM float will reflect its standing as the only Christian float in the parade with a theme of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. Learn more about the float and the work of the Petal Pushers at www.petalpushers.org. n

Increasing Persecution of Christians Opens Doors for Gospel Proclamation

By Chad Fix

E

ach month, 322 Christians are killed for their faith, 214 churches are destroyed, and 772 forms of violence are committed against Christians. These numbers provided by Open Doors USA are shocking. But even more shocking is the fact that persecution is no longer happening just in places that are best known for extremist ideology; it’s happening all around the world.

According to Open Doors USA and the Pew Research Center, more than 75 percent of the world’s population today live in areas with severe religious restrictions, and 215 million believers suffer “high, very high, or extreme persecution” in the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian. From verbal harassment to hostile feelings, attitudes, and actions, Christians in areas with severe religious restrictions pay a heavy price for their faith. Beatings, physical torture, confinement, isolation, rape, severe punishment, imprisonment, slavery, discrimination in education and employment, and even death are several examples of what is faced daily.

“While you would think that persecution would have a negative effect on Christianity, we see quite the opposite,” says Rev. Peter Kirby, LHM’s regional director for Europe. “It really does open doors for the Gospel.”

“Stand up for those who are weak and for those whose fathers have died. See to it that those who are poor and those who are beaten down are treated fairly.”

Many persecuted Christians often feel isolated and alone, since they are unable to fellowship with other believers.

However, prayers from Christians half a world away have brought the same amount of encouragement that fellowship would have for these persecuted Christians. Prayer is vital— not only as a direct line to God, but to encourage our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world.

The Bible calls us to be a voice for the voiceless and take a stand for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. Psalm 82:3 says, “Stand up for those who are weak and for those whose fathers have died. See to it that those who are poor and those who are beaten down are treated fairly.”

As a ministry proclaiming the Gospel in places where other Christian organizations are often not present, the Lord has positioned Lutheran Hour Ministries to respond. While much of LHM’s global work focuses on sharing the Gospel with individuals who have not heard the Good News, LHM operates in many parts of the world where opportunities also exist for sharing hope with Christians living in situations that often seem hopeless.

This is the case in the Middle East, where LHM has worked for the past several years among Syrian and Iraqi Christian refugees in a region where the Christian population has rapidly shrunk in recent years. During frequent visits to refugee camps, LHM staff builds one-on-one relationships with refugee families and large groups of children that allow them to share the Gospel while also providing care for their physical needs that larger refugee-assistance agencies may not realize. To date, LHM has served tens of thousands of refugees with humanitarian assistance and a personal witness of Christ’s love by providing food, medicine, blankets, diapers and formula for infants, and New Testaments and Arch books.

The continued conflict and unrest in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is directly impacting millions of lives. As a result, there is a spiritual hunger for truth, change, and peace. Amidst danger and uncertainty, Christians living there are grappling to live faithfully for God. This provides LHM with great opportunity to expand ministry and shine the light of Christ into as many as 15 countries throughout a region where individuals are desperate for hope.

LHM will soon begin working with local production studios to develop an original program in Arabic on satellite television. One possible partner channel averages an estimated 6.9 million

viewers per week. Program format and content are being finalized and the debut is anticipated for fall 2017. This effort will complement LHM’s Middle East radio broadcasts, which already reach most of the Arabic-speaking world.

“We know that in times like these, people search for answers,” says Eric Gates, LHM’s regional director for Africa and the Middle East. “Governments have fallen and societies have been disrupted. We believe this recent context gives us great opportunity across the region both with Christians and nonChristians.”

Watch for more details about this exciting new endeavor in the next issue of The Lutheran Layman! n

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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What’s your ‘Take’ on LUTHER and the REFORMATION?

How do YOU view Martin Luther?

By Gerald Perschbacher

H

ow do YOU view Martin Luther? Equally important, how was Luther assessed in the past? How do people from various walks of life and countries view the Reformer now?

If Luther walked among us today, it is likely he would be first to humbly point out that he was not perfect. While the Good News of our perfect Savior was true, Luther and others (right up to the present) were empowered by the Holy Spirit to do countless holy things while wrestling with the saint-and-sinner aspects in their lives.

In 1517, after university professor and friar Dr. Luther posted the 95 Theses on the door of the castle church in Wittenberg, those became a point of heated discussion among clerics. If you survey the responses that have survived from that time, you will quickly note that religious leaders settled into at least three camps.

There were those who urged reform in a time when reform movements in previous years had revised the legal operations of regional governments and lifted the growing “burgher” class of merchants. Also, there were clerics who found Luther’s pointed statements completely off beam since he seemed to buck the authority of the higher “religious,” from Pope on down. Lastly, there were people who simply wondered about what was transpiring. Some were willing to wait and see the outcome. Some were negative to a degree that led to skepticism.

Rev. Dr. Robert Bugbee, president of Lutheran Church–Canada, recently told his church body that “down the years, people have remembered Luther’s Reformation in countless ways” (The Canadian Lutheran, March-April 2017, page 42). Some saw Luther’s virtues from unique perspectives. Years ago, when Bugbee visited Luther sites in communist East Germany, “official government tour guides stressed how Luther—the ‘little guy’—stood up to corrupt power-structures of his time.” Others extolled “Luther’s decision to follow his own conscience rather than to comply with the demands of the authorities. In other words, he stressed the rights of the individual. Oddly enough, these voices often muffle the fact that Luther did not consider his conscience to be the ultimate authority, but stressed the importance of conscience ‘held captive to the Word of God’ … a very different concept, indeed!”

Go back to the first question in this article. How do YOU view Martin Luther? Will you commemorate what he did or celebrate it? Or will you simply let it ride by as a blip in time that recalled some nearly ancient series of events that seem to have little bearing on 21st century life?

To state it succinctly, as President Bugbee and others agree, the heart of the Reformation was that Jesus Christ, the Savior of the entire world, took His place front and center so that ordinary people could come to know and trust Him. That’s at the heart of reformed lives, the manifestation of a 180-degree turn from sinful selfishness to a sacrificial and

If Luther walked among us today, it is likely he would be first to humbly point out that he was not perfect.

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

holy walk with the Lord.

“The teaching of the young professor [Luther] attracted attention beyond his classroom.

Among those who came to hear … was Martin Pollich, an eminent doctor of philosophy, who had aided … in the founding of Wittenberg University. He was deeply impressed with the originality and spiritual insight with which Luther opened up the ‘riches of grace’ in the writing of the great apostle [St. Paul],” wrote Dr. Elias B. Sanford in A History of the Reformation (Harvard College Library edition, The S.S. Scranton Company, Hartford, Connecticut, 1917, page 68). Pollich stated that Luther “will put all the doctors to rout; he will introduce a new style of doctrine, and will reform the whole Church; he builds upon the Word of Christ and no one in this world can either resist or overthrow the Word ….”

Still, Dr. Paul Robinson, professor of Historical Theology, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, recently

At left: Luther was fond of marriage and spoke highly of it in his sermons and writings.

“As Luther experienced marriage, he wrote a great deal about it … marriage is the God-appointed and legitimate union of man and woman … living to the glory of God … to obey God.”

At right: The Good News of Christ for all circumstances in life is boldly proclaimed on the airwaves today through The Lutheran Hour.

wrote in Concordia Seminary magazine for Spring 2017 (pages 1416), that “the Reformation had to be a political event.”

In reviewing his comments, he stresses that the Reformation is cast in spiritual terms as a renewed understanding of “the Gospel, the work of Christ” plus the role played by Scripture “in the life of the church.” The reformers “themselves had no choice but to be involved in politics.” Luther was perhaps the wariest of the major reformers when it came to politics. “Although he appealed to the princes to institute his reforms, he did not trust politics to achieve the aims of his reformation.”

deal about it … marriage is the God-appointed and legitimate union of man and woman … living to the glory of God … to obey God.” In a lighter tone, it noted, “Let the wife make the husband glad to come home, and let him make her sorry to see him leave.” Further, “There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage.” Finally, “The union of flesh does nothing.

There must also be a union of the manners and mind.”

For many years Lutheran Hour Ministries has taken to heart the necessity to share the Gospel in Asia, Latin America, Africa, and other distant lands in modes not far removed from the Reformation. Printed pieces have been offered in several languages in recent years to maximize the beauty of sharing God’s Word in reading—anywhere, any time, and for individual edification, not far removed from the burgeoning use of the relatively new moveable-type printing press of Western Europe that cradled the spread of the Word at the time of Luther. In that respect, the huge jump of Reformation thinking into mass communication is still very much alive in the present, even in current applications of personal media.

Broadcasting far and near has been a hallmark of The Lutheran Hour as far back as 1930, and to good effect. The plenteous broadcasts and downloadables sent by very active churches and individuals add to the messaging. Future historians may see such electronic movements as a further extension of the Reformation. Television, of course, has made its own headways with the same identical Good News that filled Luther’s heart and speech. Thus, the Reformation continues.

Once again, consider: How do YOU view Martin Luther? If we affirm that the Reformation begun in 1517 was instituted by Divine Authority, then the Reformation was and is from our timeless and eternal Lord. As His Word remains, it goes and it grows, wafted by the Holy Spirit into the lives of church goers and those being introduced to the Word—to those who are neophytes and those who are life-long believers—each one craving for the everlasting Message and the peace, joy, and trust it brings.

THAT may be one of the very BEST things to commemorate and celebrate in the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. n

This writer will add that the Roman Catholic Church had become very political and militaristic during Luther’s time, the Pope heading the Papal States as a military leader and, at times, a conqueror. Church and State were seldom separated.

Writing in Separated Brethren–A Survey of NonCatholic Christian Denominations in the United States (The Bruce Publishing Company, Milwaukee, 1958, page 40) by devout Catholic William J. Whalen, he said, “Where later Reformers attempted to dispense with everything not specifically commanded or authorized by the Bible, Luther preserved whatever was not specifically forbidden by Scripture.”

Reformation thinking speedily permeated daily life. One point Luther emphasized later in his life was marriage, after having experienced it himself. To mark its windup to the Reformation celebration, the Rocky Mountain District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod reported the following in its May 2017 issue of the district-wide publication, Peaks and Valleys (page 2): “As Luther experienced marriage, he wrote a great

Dr. Gerald Perschbacher serves as editor of The Lutheran Layman and manages the LHM Research Center Archives.

Will you COMMEMORATE what he did or CELEBRATE it?

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Radio Drama Helps Kenyans Resolve Conflict

Archives August Features

By Chad Fix

Dale Meyer

By Paul Schreiber

S

tepping back in time is what Archives August is all about. You can make the trip yourself this August when Lutheran Hour Ministries airs two prerecorded sermons from former Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, the Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer (1989-2001). He can be heard on Sunday August 6 and 13. Today Meyer is the president of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis.

These two classic messages, dating to the late 1990s, focus on the resurrection life we share as Christians and the role that prayer plays in our relationship to God the Father.

Highlighting each of these messages will be an Action in Ministry (AIM) conversation between Meyer and current Speaker for The Lutheran Hour, the Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz.

“On Thee the High and Lowly” originally aired April 27, 1997. It makes the point that every Sunday is a celebration of the resurrection we cherish through faith in our Redeemer, Jesus. Meyer said, “When you participate in worship, when you join in the continuing celebration of Easter, you are in a better position to put your conflicts, your troubles around the house, even death, into a better perspective. You can do that because you’re not chained to your present problems.

Let me explain. Christian worship is done in the name of the Triune God. A worship service usually starts with these words, ‘In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.’ Those words are the same words that were spoken over you when you were baptized. So, as worship continues the Easter celebration, it also reminds you of your Baptism.”

In “Looking for a Good Speaker,” which originally aired June 7, 1998, Meyer began a series of messages on the Lord’s Prayer and how it speaks to our relationship with God our Father. He writes, “This is what I want to urge upon you now. In your private times, say the Lord’s Prayer slowly so you will think about what Jesus teaches and how you can put works and relationships in a proper 22

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer

Archives August is another way The Lutheran Hour celebrates the message that echoes in Christian churches worldwide: “Christ is risen.

He is risen, indeed!” perspective. Pause to think about what the word ‘Father’ means. It means that God has brought you into His family. Pause to think about what the word ‘Our’ means. It’s not ‘My Father who art in heaven,’ but rather ‘Our Father who art in heaven.’ Whether you say it alone or in a group, the Lord’s Prayer is about our relationships as children of the Heavenly Father.”

Archives August is another way The Lutheran Hour celebrates the message that echoes in Christian churches worldwide: “Christ is risen. He is risen, indeed!” It’s also an appreciative acknowledgment of those individuals who were the public “face” of this organization during their tenure, preaching far and wide over the airwaves, and at remote locations, around the world. Often, too, these men had other demanding responsibilities as well. Readers will also remember that Meyer was the host of the long-running weekly TV talk show, On Main Street.

You can listen to The Lutheran Hour on radio stations across North America and Canada, on the American Forces Network (AFN), and on the internet wherever you are.

Go to www.lutheranhour.org to consult our broadcast guide, read about the program’s history, see where Dr. Seltz is speaking next, and more. n

Widespread access allows radio to maintain its important global outreach strategy for Lutheran Hour Ministries. That’s why recent increased funding designated for additional proclamation programs around the world led Lutheran Hour Ministries to invest in a new radio program in Kenya following a 15-year hiatus.

The new program, called That’s It!, launched about a year ago to dramatize common struggles and offer a Biblical perspective in resolving conflict. This program is unique in the region by using actors to modernize parables in vernacular languages. The plot follows a familiar path with characters discussing a societal issue such as witchcraft or polygamy. Each week one of the characters follows traditional practices until the damage of his or her behaviors are pointed out by another character. The plot then deepens until the person finally exclaims, “That’s it! I get it now!”

The scripts are easily adaptable to other languages, which has led to airing broadcasts in the vernacular language of Dholuo, the primary language of the Luo tribe and one of the largest vernacular languages in Kenya. About 3.5 million people currently listen to the Luo station, Ramogi.

Several LHM staff and board members participated in a Board Monitoring Trip earlier this spring during which they visited the headquarters of Royal Media, the company used to produce and air LHM’s programming.

The group met with radio hosts, producers, “That’s it! I get it now!” actors, and business managers, each of whom helped LHM learn how the station engages listeners and measures the audience for each program. Royal Media owns 13 radio stations and two television stations throughout the country, each in a unique vernacular language of Kenya.

“We learned more about how Royal Media leads market share in each language group and even how individual program producers compete with one another in-house to produce the best programs,” says Eric Gates, LHM’s regional director for Africa and the Middle East.

“This knowledge is helping us consistently improve the quality of our radio program and steadily build an audience. Our hope is that due to the program’s popularity, radio stations will begin carrying it at free or reduced airtime fees.”

Royal Media also shared insights about what makes LHM’s program attractive and unique in Kenya: • It is the only Christian program utilizing drama and not relying on sermons or hymns; • It is the only Christian program that airs during prime listening time, not on a Sunday morning; • The cast members are all Luo and engage the audience directly; • It is the only program utilizing comedy to truly capture the attention of the audience; and “It’s great to see the impact that this program makes by teaching Christian values in ways that entertain the audience,” says Gates. n

The Reformation’s 500th Anniversary and The Movement

I

n the DVD packets A Man Named Martin, Parts 1 and 2, viewers stepped inside the life of Martin Luther to uncover the complex interplay of characters and events that marked his world and times. In A Man Named Martin–Part 3: The Movement, viewers will see how the work of Luther, John Calvin, and other reformers set in motion societal changes that still affect us today.

Luther’s step onto the world’s stage was marked by the posting of his 95 Theses: a bold action he hoped would spark a constructive and ongoing discussion with Roman Catholic Church superiors on clerical abuses and other matters. It produced discussion, to be sure, along with a whirlwind of church dissent against this brazen friar from Germany—a professor who presumed he could buck centuries-old tradition with radical ideas from the Scriptures he cherished.

Five centuries ago, Luther’s posting at Wittenberg put him at the center of a storm of opposition that sought his recanting and, if that proved undoable, his life. In reality, the church’s antagonism against Luther was explosive and unfounded. “Luther did not hate the church; he loved the church. Luther wanted to get rid of things in the church that were against the Word of God,” said Dr. Ken Schurb in the new DVD. But Rome’s defensive hostility had been stoked against Luther’s assertions, and what followed were bitter debates over questionable doctrine, abusive church practices, and even the power and legitimacy of the pope.

“The greatest thing about the Reformation are the solas: grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone, Scripture alone—because, in reality … it establishes the worth of a human being before God in a way that can’t be done by people; it’s done by God in Jesus Christ.”

In the years between Martin Luther’s 95 Theses (1517) to the signing of the Peace of Westphalia (1648), there were tumultuous changes in the social, political, and theological fabric of Europe. In this new DVD, viewers will see how the Reformation accelerated the transformation of a world already in flux. While bloody wars and crises in the arenas of politics and theology put a strain on millions in medieval Europe, the march of the Reformation left its imprint on culture and citizen alike. Everything from education, politics, science, theology, marriage, and the family—and even extending to one’s view of vocation and his or her relationship to God—came under the shaping and seminal influence of the Reformation.

“There are certain trends within European society that the Reformation is going to emphasize, this notion of the individual. So, Luther’s concern was for the

By Paul Schreiber

individual to establish a relationship with God, by grace through faith. This notion of the individual is going to be a very important element in modern society,” said historian Dr. Susan Mobley. “Changing social patterns, the changing structure of the family, many of these are legacies of the Reformation,” she added.

From our vantage point, Luther would have been amazed to realize the revolutionary nature of his action as he stood before the church door at Wittenberg, his list of theses in hand. “Luther starts small. It starts innocently, but God has other intentions for this. His intention is to bring truth back to His church, and that’s what the real legacy is. The Gospel’s being proclaimed again. The promise is there. The clarity of God’s truth is there. That’s the great heritage. And that, I think, is the responsibility that we who carry the name ‘Lutheran’ have today,” said seminary professor Dr. Joel Biermann.

According to Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, program host and Speaker for The Lutheran Hour, “The greatest thing about the Reformation are the solas: grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone, Scripture alone—because, in reality … it establishes the worth of a human being before God in a way that can’t be done by people; it’s done by God in Jesus Christ.”

A Man Named Martin–Part 3: The Movement features four sessions, along with a discussion guide. Check out lhm.org/studies for a full listing of LHM Bible studies. n

Coming Soon!

From Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517 to the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, God was at work in the Reformation. In A Man Named Martin– Part 3: The Movement, viewers will see how the Reformation transformed European society and, eventually, left a profound impression around the globe.

Before the release, catch up on A Man Named Martin: Parts 1 and 2 today! Download for FREE or purchase on DVD at lhm.org/studies!

Go to lhm.org/martin3 to learn more!

For questions or help with your order, please call 1-800-876-9880.

The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

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Rev. Dr. Seltz in Action for the Lord in Recent Years

R

ev. Dr. Gregory Seltz’s first message on The Lutheran Hour aired Easter Sunday 2011 and echoed what had been shared by the Speakers coming before him: “God’s free gift of salvation to this fallen world is the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ on our behalf. Believe on Him and you will be saved.”

Sharing this message of eternal hope has been Seltz’s passion throughout his ministry—whether serving behind TLH microphone; founding the first new Lutheran mission start in New York City in more than 40 years (Church For All Nations—LCMS); training students at Concordia University in Irvine, California, to launch ministries in various cultural settings; or planting a mission church in Dallas.

Since becoming Speaker, Seltz was motivated to seek new opportunities for presenting that same Good News to an increasingly multi-cultural and diverse world. He developed a bold vision for expanding the reach of The Lutheran Hour through live broadcasts and other twenty-first century media and saw the reach of the program expand to more than 1,700 stations and one million listeners each week. Seltz was honored with the Legacy & Leadership Award from Bott Radio Network during

the 2016 National Religious Broadcasters Conference in recognition for his service as a Christian leader as well as the long-standing history of TLH program.

In addition to preaching on nearly 250 broadcasts of The Lutheran Hour, Seltz hosted numerous LHM video Bible studies (including Telly Award winners and one that aired nationally on Fox Business Channel), led LHM tours to Israel, Germany, and southern Europe, and created the GodConnects video-based adult confirmation course. He was also in high demand for speaking engagements about entrepreneurial leadership development, team ministry within the city, and evangelism. His messages often provided attendees with knowledge and encouragement about how to respond to God’s call and more effectively share their faith.

“The Bible talks about being ready to take up the challenge of sharing the Good News of the Gospel so that other people in their roller-coaster lives might

know about this Lord Jesus,” says Seltz. “We have a message to share, a joyous message of real life and real salvation, which makes life worth living and people worth loving and work worth doing and leisure worth taking and sacrifices worth making and hope worth having. There will be people in heaven just because they got to know Jesus, just because they got to know you. Now go—be SENT!” As he prepares to move to his new call as executive director of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty of the LCMS, Seltz reflected on being one of the “select few” chosen to be behind The Lutheran Hour microphone. “It has been a great honor. Those names, they do loom very large—Maier, Acker, Oldsen, Hoffmann, Schulz, Meyer, Klaus, Melendez.

You know, I think that the ministry of Jesus Christ has always loomed large. And what amazes me is that He can do great things, even with people like us. I’ve been very honored to follow in their footsteps.” n

Outreach Resources at your fingertips!

LHM will offer equipping resources to help you reach out with the love and Good News of Jesus Christ in your everyday lives. These online courses and webinars covering faith-strengthening topics will use multimedia elements to help you gain an audience for the Gospel message.

Go to lhm.org/learn for more information and to sign up for updates!

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The Lutheran Layman July - August 2017

Launching AUGUST 1