The Lutheran Layman

THE

LUTHERAN L AYMAN

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS

May - June 2017

1917 - 2017

ThankYou,

Martin Luther!

Reformation Benefits for the 21st Century Woman

see page 3

Hardly Indescribable . . . . . . 2 THRED Update . . . . . . . . . . 9 Glimpse into the Future . . 11 Vietnam Vet’s Outlook . . . . 13 Liberian Outreach . . . . . . . 17 ‘Life’ Shaped Executive . . .20

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SPEAKING UP

™

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

We here at LHM exist to “help you to be the best YOU IN JESUS that YOU can be so that others might come to KNOW JESUS, just because they got to KNOW YOU!”

Hardly INDESCRIBABLE!

A

favorite quote of mine from a sermon is by Dr. S.M. Lockridge in “He’s my King!” The late pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in San Diego (from 1953-1993) delivered a powerful illustration that still “preaches.”

That pastor said: “He’s enduringly strong, He’s entirely sincere, He’s eternally steadfast. He’s immortally graceful. He’s imperially powerful.

He’s impartially merciful. He’s God’s Son. He’s a sinner’s Savior. He’s the centerpiece of civilization.

He stands alone in Himself. He’s unparalleled. He’s unprecedented. He’s supreme. He’s preeminent.

He’s the loftiest idea in literature. He’s the highest idea in philosophy. He’s the fundamental truth in theology. He’s the miracle of the age. He’s the only One able to supply all of our needs simultaneously.

He supplies strength for the weak. He’s available for the tempted and the tried. He sympathizes and He saves. He guards and He guides. He heals the sick, He cleans the lepers. He forgives sinners, He discharges debtors, He delivers captives, He defends the feeble, He blesses the young, He serves the unfortunate, He regards the aged, He rewards the diligent, He beautifies the meek. Do you know Him? “He always has been, and He always will be. I’m talking about He [who] had no predecessor and He [who] has no successor. There was nobody before Him and there will be nobody after Him. You can’t impeach Him, and He’s not going to resign. We try to

get prestige and honor and glory to ourselves, but the glory is all His. Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever, and ever, and ever, and ever. How long is that? And ever, and ever, and ever, and ever, and when you get through with all of the forevers, then ‘Amen’.

“Oh, I wish I could describe Him to you.”

I love that last line. But, here’s the thing, even in our limited ability—describing Him is the essential task of witnessing. Understanding witnessing as ultimately describing Jesus, actually takes all the pressure off, if you think about it. Sharing our faith is really sharing our confidence in Jesus. It’s not bragging, it’s not being condescending, it’s not being judgmental. Why? Because it is sharing Jesus to people just like us, sinners in need of grace, fellow strugglers in need of strength, and fellow seekers looking for purpose and hope that lasts.

Whenever I speak about witnessing I try to keep it simple. I think that the life of faith is an adventure meant to be enjoyed and shared. We here at LHM exist to “help you to be the best YOU IN JESUS that YOU can be so that others might come to KNOW JESUS, just because they got to KNOW YOU!” That’s a way of life where you get up every morning in God’s grace, excited to see what and who He’ll bring into your life. You can strive for excellence in all you do to give Him glory and to serve others in His Name. Then, at the end of the day, it’s off to sleep in peace, ready to face another day!

Go ahead, get to know what makes your friends and neighbors tick—their joys and struggles, the ups and downs of the lives of those who matter to us. It’s great to share this life with others. But the thing that matters most is that life and salvation are available for all because of who Jesus is and what He has done.

“If we could only could describe Him to others ….”

Well, by the power of the Spirit; equipped with the knowledge of His Word, His promises; reliant on Him prayerfully throughout your life—You can! n

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L AYMAN The Lutheran

Vol. 88, No. 3 May - June 2017

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

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The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

W W W. L H M . O R G

Thank You , Martin Luther!

Reformation Benefits for the 21st Century Woman H

How faith enriching it is to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses posted on the Wittenberg Castle Church doors!

ow faith enriching it is to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses posted on the Wittenberg Castle Church doors! That was a common way to post things, pre-twitter/tweet. Not so common was the impact of the longedfor Reformation on women! As a 21st century woman, blessed with the fine tuning of LHM, I hosted the Woman to Woman talk-radio show from 1993 to 2011, on hundreds of stations, 60 percent of which were secular. I think Martin would approve spiritual growth opportunities for post-Reformation women!

My life is richer through changes wrought by Luther’s stunning scholarship and total devotion to knowing Christ and making Him known. I recall feminist friends who dissected a sermon and found no “redeeming value” because there were no female examples. Yet, from the same sermon with what I considered human examples, I had jotted notes for a children’s chapel talk plus two articles!

What made the difference?

I was open to learning from whoever taught Truth. I chalked up my reaction to being immersed in family issues, husband plus four children, and leading a Bible study of 100 women in my church. I was totally dependent on God’s Word for sustenance of all kinds, especially daily hope and good cheer. Thankfully, while some ladies were neither cheerful nor hopeful about women and the Church, they did embrace life as Christians.

“To have the privilege of lifting Jesus higher through people’s stories of faith under fire has been awesome.”

– Phyllis Wallace

by Phyllis Wallace

Incidentily, I come from “boat people.” My great-great-grandfather, Rev. Ernst Kyle, sailed in 1838 on the Johann Georg from Bremen, Germany, to New Orleans where, in 1839, passengers knelt on the ground to thank God for safe passage and seek boldness in sharing Christ in this new land! They settled in Perry County, Missouri. C.F.W. Walther, on the same ship, is related through marriage on my father’s side. These courageous Christians risked their lives for religious freedom.

To connect the dots of the Reformation with today’s woman, I can go toe to toe with “ain’t it awful” stories from courting to career, being dismissed and disconnected, ignored or adored, spiritually and otherwise. In my rearview mirror, it’s a lesson in humility in serving the Living God! Were the negatives stumbling blocks or stepping stones? More on that later.

I address both men and women.

At women’s events, men and their reactions stand out. One pastoral advisor shared his notes on my talk.

More than a woman speaking, the Holy Spirit impressed him with Jesus proclaimed as the Savior through the Word and my stories! He heard Jesus proclaimed as the Savior made an impact through me by the Holy Spirit. How does God’s Word permeate YOUR life? see next page

My life is richer through changes wrought

by Luther’s stunning scholarship and total devotion to knowing Christ and making Him known.

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

3

Thank You , Martin Luther!

Reformation Benefits for the 21st Century Woman from previous page Luther-related trivia: In 1995 my Richard and I went to a Lutheran high school auction. Early in the bidding the complete works of Martin Luther, hardbound, came up. My husband started the bidding and upped it once to keep it going. We took home the complete works of Martin Luther that night!

Our pastor smiled and said, “All of our parishioners have the complete works of Martin Luther!” I understand that more articles and books are devoted to him than any other person in history, except for St. Paul. Luther penned 60,000 pages and wrote 100 hymns. Two centuries later he inspired another Lutheran, J.S. Bach, who is lauded for the best “musical biography” of Martin Luther. Both were from Eisenach.

The 500th anniversary honors our forefathers’ struggle to preserve Biblical truth amid the joys and sorrows of being a Christ-follower. The Reformation was not spontaneous combustion out of a vacuum. Luther was in the right place at the right time. Martyrs of the faith from Biblical times paved the way. Then came the likes of Joan of Arc and John Wycliffe. Luther’s hero John (Jan) Hus (his name means Goose in Czech), as he was burned at the stake, said, “You cook this goose now, but in a short time a swan will come along whom you will not be able to silence.” A century later Luther was that “swan,” knowing he stood on the shoulders of giants of the faith.

Luther was born in Eisenach, Germany, in 1483. Scholars and even some

Pioneers of the Reformation

These courageous Christians risked their lives for religious freedom.

Top left to right: Joan of Arc, John Wycliffe, Jan Hus. Bottom left and right: Martin Luther, Luther’s wife: Kathryn “Katie” von Bora 4

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

How does God’s Word permeate YOUR life? psychologists debate how harsh discipline at home and school impacted Martin.

Luther’s bright and curious mind was directed to the study of law by his father.

Young Luther excelled, but after three friends died and a lightning storm threatened his life, he entered the monastery under parental protest to sort things out with God. Was his mind altered to see the Almighty God as angry? Did it lead to lifelong bouts of depression or was it the pressures of his life and the medieval mindset of the Roman Catholic Church that allowed no opportunity for questions when busy trying to appease an angry God? Limited education and few books put the Roman Catholic Church in Europe out of reach for most people. Mainly priests read and interpreted the Bible. A short life span precluded the leisure of waiting on the Lord for a higher truth, if you dared question things.

For Martin the monk, too much was never enough to earn God’s forgiveness, so initially Luther’s monkery ran amuck. As a priest, peace with God generally eluded him. His supervisor, Johann von Staupitz, sent him to Rome to find peace.

Initially for Luther, going to the Holy City was a dream come true! But he was sadly disillusioned by corruption among the people he esteemed. The papacy’s regard for holy things, including Christ Himself, led Luther to see Rome as a trap, an organized

system where believers were forced to submit to manmade rules without knowing Christ through God’s Word.

A theological doctorate did not keep him from continued struggle with God’s “demands.” Later in Wittenberg as professor of Biblical studies, Martin interpreted commentators. The ah-ha’s began. The Greek New Testament didn’t always match with man-endorsed church teachings.

The Greek for repentance had been mistranslated by St. Jerome in the 400s.

St. Jerome saw “turning away from” sin as penance, to earn forgiveness, rather than a turning toward God. Thanks to the Holy Spirit, it became evident to Luther that he did not have to scramble to get to God. God came to him through Christ. God does the forgiving. What a relief!

Romans 1:17 made a breakthrough: “For in it [the Gospel] the righteousness of

She used her freedom in Christ to serve, sometimes as an Alpha female, but with “the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious”

God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’”

Voila! Luther didn’t have to BE the righteous one. Luther knew he couldn’t get “right” enough with God to save himself. Such saving grace had to come from outside, through the righteousness of Christ. Luther said, “When I discovered that, I was born again of the Holy Ghost. The doors of paradise swung open, and I walked through.” (1) Not far away from Luther, the wily John Tetzel sold indulgences to guarantee forgiveness of sins and to reduce time in purgatory, instigating a one-sided public denial of Luther’s 95 Theses. Luther thought the Pope would be shocked if he knew what Tetzel said. Actually, the Pope sanctioned the practice to fund the construction of St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome. Luther had no clue the deck was stacked against him. Tetzel’s fake news labeled Luther a heretic, out to erode the Pope’s authority. Believers knew Hus had been burned at the stake for this in 1415, so Tetzel aimed to delegitimize Luther’s credibility. Still, Luther thought of himself as a staunch Roman Catholic, never imagining his words would lead to a warrant for his arrest, dead or alive!

After the 95 Theses, the cat was out of the bag and the monkey was off Luther’s back! The “curse” of the Church fathers was on his head, but he no longer feared death. His confidence was in God’s forgiveness and grace. He pressed on, questioning purgatory, saints and relics, and man-made celibacy rules for priests that were launched in 304 A.D. and became widespread practice in the 11th century as church law. The greatest Reformation gift is the Lutheran statement of faith—by Scripture alone, by Grace alone, through Faith alone, on account of Christ alone.

Martin Luther wasn’t exactly Mr. Debonair!

When Kathryn von Bora and friends fled the convent, he helped a band of runaway nuns under penalty of death. In lieu of an online marriage service, he matched a handful of exnuns with suitors. As for Katie, she said it was Martin or no one. Martin picked up on this “subtle lead,” and they married, he at age 42, she 24—done to please his father, to spite the Pope; and, in view of his certain martyrdom, the union was a testimony that marriage is good for all who choose it! After their marriage vows love blossomed, modeling the Biblical concept of two becoming one flesh in Christ.

I’ve been told Katie organized Martin, even see next page

(1 Peter 3:4).

“The greatest Reformation gift is the Lutheran statement of faith—by Scripture alone,

by Grace alone, through on account WORD Faithofalone, Christ alone.”

HOW DOES GOD’S PERMEATE YOUR LIFE? Statue of Katie Luther, Wittenberg, Germany

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Thank You , Martin Luther!

Reformation Benefits for the 21st Century Woman from previous page edited him, saying, “That’s too raw,” when he misspoke in front of his students. She used her freedom in Christ to serve, sometimes as an Alpha female, but with “the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious” (1 Peter 3:4). I think she would be appalled at women using their freedom to publicly curse and disparage today. She home schooled, took in orphaned relatives, and typically seated 25 at dinner. On her shoestring budget, she had gardens, livestock, an orchard, and was licensed to brew beer. Standing by her statue at the Black Cloister in Germany, I marveled at Katie helping oppressed single and married women discover their Godgiven gifts. Luther put her on the search committee for a new pastor (previously unheard of!) saying her judgment excelled his. He sought “Dr. Katie’s” counsel intellectually, politically, and in publishing.

Luther’s marriage set the tone of German domestic relations for the next four centuries. He reveled in the playfulness, now touted by researchers as key to a successful marriage. “The world is forever grateful to the students who had the foresight to take up pen,” Dr. Paul L. Maier lectured, “as well as fork, to record the master’s words as he presided at the table.” (2) Luther’s humor permeates his writings and

What did the Reformation give a woman? As I see it, the Reformation gave her a voice within the church and into the culture. snippets recorded by students at dinner, to become Luther’s Table Talk. His penchant for seeing human bumblings as ludicrous and laughable buoyed him above the massive muck of Reform challenges. He met his match in Katie, who bested the “late night shows” during one of Luther’s periods of depression, standing at his study door in a black mourning dress. “Who died?” Luther asked. “God,” she answered. “You foolish thing!” Luther replied.

“It is true,” she kept on. “God must have died, or Doctor Luther would not be so sorrowful.” Martin advised, “Let the wife make her husband glad to come home and the husband make her sorry to see him leave!” (3) What did the Reformation give a woman? As I see it, the Reformation gave her a voice within the church and into the culture. Women found a love in Christ they could not earn and that they should not lose, to become points of light, restoring hope and kindness around them. Johann Cochlaeus, German humanist,

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The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

God’s Word is Get into it so it gets

bewailed the power of the Gospel unlocked by the press: “Yea, even women … who had accepted this new Lutheran Gospel, and could read a little German, studied it with the greatest avidity as the fountain of all truth. Some committed it to memory … not ashamed to dispute about faith and the Gospel.” (4) I can imagine Luther tweeting, GOD’S WORD IS LIFE GIVING. GET INTO IT SO IT GETS INTO YOU! As I survey today’s women, writer Rebecca Curtis is clear on Reformation benefits. (5) She noted, “I never receive more genuine respect and cordiality as a career housewife/athome mom than I do among the adherents of the Augsburg Confession. In the world now or the world in 1500, I am a failure and/or a second-class citizen. In my church today—my local parish and my larger confession—I am a sister in Christ.

My neighbors in the faith value what I do as a wife/mom, as opposed to either a nun or a ‘professional.’ Martin Luther gave

Three women who boldly lived their faith.

Rosa J. Young

Jean Garton, Ph.D.

Doris Christopher

Today’s woman is BOLD!

life giving. into YOU!

the world that. His everyday theology was more penetrating than he himself imagined.”

Through the Bible the Holy Spirit pushed me to seek God who makes crooked places straight and rough places smooth. Stumbling blocks became stepping stones and still do. I like to say God’s phone number is “Jere 33:3” for it shows me great and mighty things I do not know. I did not plot or plan my broadcasting and speaking privilege as a Lutheran woman.

God’s Word and His Holy Spirit prepared me for Him to draw listeners to have their challenges reframed from a Biblical perspective.

Women’s history in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod may not be cutting edge. We first voted on a congregational level in 1969! Oddly enough, before a woman could vote in a congregational assembly she could veto a pastor being called to serve her congregation! Lutheran women standouts prolifically span generations. In the 1900s Rosa J. Young was a Lutheran confessor, educator, and church planter in Alabama.

Jean Garton, Ph.D., was the first woman on the

Women found a love in Christ they could not earn and that they should not lose, to became points of light, restoring hope and kindness around them.

LCMS Board of Directors in 1995. In 1985 she had been honored as American Church Woman of the Year by Religious Heritage Foundation and was among The 10 Most Influential Lutherans in America. She spoke Biblically on pro-life issues for 50 years in more than 30 countries! “As we look at our culture today with its declining morality, increasing violence, and callous disregard for human life, it appears that God’s Book is the most neglected of all,” said Dr. Garton. “I cherish the freedom we have to read the Bible where we can discover God’s loving heart and His will for our daily living.” (6) Doris Christopher, founder of Pampered Chef, Ltd., in 1980, energized the home chef to celebrate family mealtime and benefit thousands of women worldwide through her foundation. For Doris, family ideals— including faith practices—are part of the experience of shared meals. She says, “The kitchen table is where we mark milestones, divulge dreams, bury hatchets, make deals, give thanks, plan vacations, and tell jokes.

It’s also where children learn the lessons that families teach: manners, cooperation, communication, selfcontrol, values.”

How will 21st century women build on the Reformers’ defense of the faith? The Lord worked through Luther’s Biblical boldness to launch the Protestant Reformation. Today’s woman is bold. The “Woman to Woman” theme verse Acts 4:29, asks, “Now Lord, consider their threats and enable your servant to speak Your Word with great boldness.” With good cheer we debate the doubters. We don’t just tell the Truth in Christ, we live it because someone is watching and God shows up. What people do with His Truth is not up to us. That’s God’s work. What is up to us is to show! Not show off, showcase, showboat, or be a showstopper. Women march in droves, feeling see next page The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

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Thank You , Martin Luther!

Reformation Benefits for the 21st Century Woman from previous page empowered. It’s not about the attention you garner or the hat you wear. It’s about the CROSS you bear. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Do all things God-pleasing, sharing His Love. We do what we can with all our might, resisting the temptation to expect any organization, government, or person to do what only God can do. It is bold to “be anxious for nothing!”

Now, 500 years later, progress gives us more and more, faster and faster. Doors open to women for education, lofty careers, louder voices, raised expectations in boardrooms, and we want more. Of what? Beware! There may be at least “95 theses” on the doors we enter, but they’re revolving too fast to read! Let’s slow down and ask, “Just because I can …, is it wise?” Ruth Senter notes our remarkable accomplishments, adding, “Contentment is not what I see and hear and feel among women today. I feel constant yearning, restless longing, deepening discontent—as though we’ve made it over the mountain but can’t bring ourselves to settle in and call the place home.” (7) 21st century women network in abundant and often dark times, as souls search amid confusion and angst. May we be tried and true lights that contrast with brightness, to mentor and lead the way to what truly satisfies in Christ.

We reflect Christ’s Light from knowing God’s Word to discern “truth decay”! So much is happening so fast (progress) that it seems impossible to sort out. God urges us in 1 John 1:4 to “test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Networking rightly is His work through our gifts, high visibility or low. God places every Christian in a witness network. As I see it,

There’s a world to be reached for Christ! you’re either networking or you’re NOT working in Me through their message, that all of them may your light for Jesus Christ! Reformation sends us to be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. love the misinformed, the uninformed, and the illMay they also be in Us so that the world may believe informed when we are well informed in Christ. that You have sent Me.” This isn’t about “ecclesiastical My take-away from thousands of women is to avoid onesies” (9) but doctrinal purity that focuses each of us victim boldness, the mantra du jour, an excuse for

by God’s Spirit to seek God’s Truth. discontent. Do not wear that label. Trust the Lord to THERE’S A WORLD TO BE REACHED FOR use your gifts. Luther’s words guide us to say: Do you CHRIST! The Reformation is a spiritual “I.V.” for us to really think God cannot magnify Himself as much if be emboldened by God’s promises and wisdom in you’re doing one thing rather than another? God’s addressing the issues of our day. plans for us are not dependent on role, rank, or sex.

Thank you, Martin Luther! But especially, thank Beware the feminization of the soul to the risk of losing You, Lord! n the full benefits of being His child. Jesus is enough.

Phyllis Wallace is a freelance writer and speaker.

Skip the add-ons! Get in on what God is doing.

Three years of the Woman to Woman® show Martin Luther’s spunk and sass slashed interviews can be heard on womantowomanradio.com. through church secrets to put the NOTES: Bible in people’s hands. They were (1) Luther’s study of Romans 1:17 made a strong impact on changing transformed in multitudes, one the course of his thinking and his life. More details are revealed in by by one, by the renewing of their Luther in volume 34 of Luther’s Works, (Philadelphia: Fortress Press, minds. As we are free in Christ 1960), pp. 36-37.

(2) I heard popular lecturer and Biblical scholar Dr. Paul Maier say to choose which hill in life to this.

I double checked with him recently, and he affirmed the quote. defend, one thing matters. Only (3) The conversation between Dr. and Mrs. Luther is found in Philip one. That is the One True God, Schaff ’s book, History of the Christian Church (Charles Scribner’s the Living God, who raises the Sons, New York; 1910 edition).

(4) dead to eternal life with Him in Ibid.

(5) Rebecca Curtis co-authored the book, LadyLike: Living Biblically, heaven forever where the dust available from Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis (cph.org; or of the past settles and we see for 1-800-325-3040). ourselves the Three Persons of The (6) From the article on Dr. Garton in the Fall 2007 issue of Lutheran Trinity, in whom we are one in the faith Women’s Quarterly.

(7) unto life everlasting. (8) Ruth Senter, Have We Really Come a Long Way? Bethany House Publishers; currently out of print; copies may be available from Your great-great grandfather may not have sailed from Germany to spread the Gospel here, like online sources.

(8) For a penetrating look at our continuing quest for truth, enjoy LHM’s mine did. But you have a great lineage. Jesus prayed three-part DVD series and discussion options for “A Man Named for you in John 17:20-21: “My prayer is not for the Martin” by going to lhm.org/studies or calling 1-800-876-9880. disciples alone. I pray also for those who will believe (9) The term “ecclesiastical onesies” has been used online by Anthony

May we be tried and true lights that contrast with brightness, to mentor and lead the way to what truly satisfies in Christ.

Sacramone of the Federalist.

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The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

THRED Outreach Launches—

The Conversation Begins

“I wish more people could sit down and talk about things like this with each other. I really think this world would be a better place if we could sit down and be rational and loving toward each other’s individual views.”

“Religion is a big passion of mine.

As I reject all claims, I still find the topic very interesting.”

“This is beautiful. The essence of tolerance doesn’t mean we agree ....

The essence of tolerance is respect.”

“I love this! People with different ideals congregating peacefully and being open to listen to and understand each other’s thoughts, feelings, and opinions on an otherwise controversial topic.”

These are quotes from people of various backgrounds who came together online to share in a thoughtful (and respectful) conversation about life, faith, and Jesus.

This is THRED. In the November-December 2016 issue of The Lutheran Layman, Lutheran Hour Ministries invited readers to watch for the Feb. 1 launch of its newest ministry, called THRED. As you read this, THRED

The face of THRED at THRED.org invites responses and exchanges of ideas on faith.

has been live for more than three months! THRED is a primarily digital outreach, with a Facebook page as its initial focal point. People of all beliefs—or no beliefs—are welcomed and encouraged to engage in discussions about thought-provoking topics.

The whole idea of THRED is for it to be a safe place

by Greg Koenig

for people to converse about things they care about, officials explain. While THRED unapologetically presents a Christian point of view, it also presents an environment that is open to all perspectives. As a result, there are surprising early reactions.

One standout example is the discussion generated by “What Did Jesus Say About Heaven?”, a video in the “THRED Dialogues” series, posted Feb. 9 on the THRED Facebook page. The video depicts roundtable chats in which both Christians and non-Christians wrestle with Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

Viewers engaged in a big way. The post has had more than 67,000 views; more than 200 people— and they’re not just Christians—have shared it in their own Facebook feeds. And the seventy-plus comments in the discussion thread reveal quite a few of the diverse ideas people have about heaven.

For anyone who has questions or who desires to dig a little deeper into other contemporary issues dealing with relationships, community, culture, God & Christianity, and a host of others, THRED’s Web site, THRED.org, publishes short and long articles on life and faith themes.

THRED also has a presence on YouTube, where a collection of videos— including THRED’s newest video series, named THREDPops, delivered by Matt Popovits—is based.

THRED has also recruited a team of ministry volunteers who can offer Christian perspectives and help build relationships, because THRED is also designed to serve as a path. Someone who engages with THRED’s content can move through THRED into closer and closer engagement with thoughtful people of faith—whether through specific-topic Facebook groups, in-depth one-on-one private conversations, or connection with local faith communities.

Officials envision THRED Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church—in new ways.

Visit facebook.com/ourTHRED (don’t forget to Like it!) and THRED.org to learn more! n Greg Koenig reports on the impact of LHM’s THRED outreach.

For more news on THRED, see page 18.

Be a part of the

Online Ministry Response Team!

Get involved at lhm.org/volunteer

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

9

Q &

A

with

Gunya Na Thalang

Asia to America and Back, the Word is on the Move

Often it takes a special person to do a special job. Gunya Na Thalang is one of those people.

Recently, in this her 25th anniversary year with Lutheran Hour Ministries, she dedicated time to be interviewed by the editor of The Lutheran Layman. Since 2002, Gunya serves as Regional Director for Asia for Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM). As such, Gunya nurtures the development, expansion, and promotion of LHM’s reach in Asia through high-impact programming and focused distribution of materials. The results are admirable as significant responses, referrals, and connections result.

By now you may guess that Gunya has roots in Asia, specifically in Phuket, Thailand. She earned her Bachelor of Education degree at Srinakarinwirote University in Songkla, Thailand, and her Master of Education at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok. Her exposure to American culture deepened as she completed the colloquy program at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1990. From November 1991 to May of 2002 she had connections with LHM as director of LHM–Thailand, known locally as Journey Into Light.

Mrs. Na Thalang and her husband, Reverend Ted Na Thalang, currently reside in St. Charles, Missouri, where they attend Zion Lutheran Church of Harvester.

They have two grown children, Annie and Peter.

Gunya, how did you come to faith in Christ, and how did that change your life?

“I was born and raised as a Buddhist, like most people in Thailand. During my childhood, my parents taught me to try very hard to do good deeds to earn as much merit as possible, so that I could pay off my bad karma from ‘my previous life,’ for this life and for my next life. I lived with fear that I never earned enough merit and that bad spirits would harm me. I was afraid that if I died, I would go to hell to be punished for all the sins I had committed.

“When I was 27 years of age, the Holy Spirit led my husband to introduce Christ to me. By the grace of God, I came to know Him to be my Lord and Savior.

From then onward, my life was completely changed. Now I live my life in and for Him with His love, hope, peace, and joy. I no longer fear that I’ll be punished in hell. I have no worries about my next life, because Jesus has paid for my sins and has promised to take me to live with Him in heaven.”

How has this changed the lives of others through your work?

“I humbly thank God for calling me to serve Him with LHM for more than 25 years.

Through my former work as the director of LHM–Thailand and now regional director for Asia, I have seen many people come to know Christ and receive Him as their Savior and Lord.

“For example, in Thailand hundreds of people have heard the Gospel and have been Gunya Na Thalang connected to local churches (above) has seen many through radio outreach successes with the programs I hosted. Among Gospel over the past thousands of listeners who 25 years with LHM. heard my programs over the years, one example stands out. Nucha and his mother started to listen to my radio program—and God changed their lives forever! They began coming to our church and later were baptized. Nucha enrolled in a theological school five years later. Now he and his wife are serving at Into Light Lutheran Church in Bangkok.”

What are three very exciting LHM achievements that happened in the last two years?

“With the help of the Holy Spirit, I successfully reopened the LHM ministry center in Laos.

“I oversaw the printing and distribution in China of the book, The Christian Faith—A Lutheran Exposition by Robert Kolb in simplified Chinese characters.

“I helped to coordinate the 65th Anniversary of LHM–India.”

What is your hope for the future?

“God willing, I would like to expand Lutheran Hour Ministries in many more countries in Asia.” n

Note:

Gunya employs creative ways to share God’s Word with groups and individuals.

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Rev. Ted Na Thalang adds to the couple’s depth for outreach. Born into a Buddhist family, he relocated to Indiana in 1968 where he was baptized. He holds a degree in business earned in Indiana and a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. He is active in Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Gospel work in Asia, even working on translating Luther’s Small Catechism into Vietnamese, Cambodian, Lao, Indonesian, and Burmese.

ON THE MOVE

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

A Glimpse into the Future from a Distant Country I had the great privilege of traveling with a team from Lutheran Hour Ministries to visit Nuru Lutheran Media Ministry, our LHM ministry center in Kenya, Africa. Allow me to share some of what I “saw” during the time I spent with the staff of Nuru Ministry Center:

Focus on People— Not Buildings, Programs, and Structure

Challenging Conditions and Fortitude of Faith Almost like an Army M.A.S.H. unit, this team of dedicated disciples was reaching out to others in Jesus’ Name under difficult circumstances, mostly with the most basic provisions making the most of the gifts, talents, and treasures God has given them.

A Focus on Team Relationships were the Key I often heard the terms “we” and “us” and “our” when team members referred to the ministry that was taking place. I don’t recall a single instance of someone on the Nuru Ministry team referring to her or his personal ministry. What the team did, they did together, so that Jesus Christ might be the central focus.

An emphasis on the Priesthood of All Believers—Everyone Serving It was difficult to distinguish the paid workers from the volunteers. Each person employed the gifts and talents God had given, for the sake of others. No one sat on the sidelines. Everyone was involved in the task of “building up the Body” (1 Corinthians 12).

Reaching Beyond the Barriers— Making a Way Some of the barriers I saw were cultural, like different languages or lifestyle choices.

Some of the barriers were physical, like miles on a map or prison bars. The team was finding ways to move beyond the barriers to connect with people in the Name of Jesus.

Kenyans and American guests from LHM worshipped at the new congregation in Kinango, southeast Kenya, under the mango tree.

I had the opportunity to worship with a congregation of believers who have been together for about three years. They are one of seven congregations in a 350-square-kilometer area that is served by one pastor and three lay evangelists. They gather for worship each week under a designated mango tree. The Sunday our team was with them their pastor was there to lead the worship and, because this was his first visit in several weeks, to

At Langata Women’s Prison, LHM offers dramatic performances about the Gospel in order to restore hope for prisoners.

baptize 12 adults and 24 children who had been brought to faith in Jesus since his last visit. No building, but “the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).

So what did I really see while I was in Kenya?

I believe I saw a glimpse into our future. In John 4:35 Jesus calls on His disciples to “open your eyes and look at the fields. I tell you, they are ripe for harvest.” God has brought the nations to our doorstep. Like our brothers and sisters at the Nuru Ministry Center, we need to center our field of vision. We have been called to work together to reach across barriers—cultural, linguistic, ethnic, and physical—with the saving Gospel. We are called

by Jesus to “lift up our eyes” so that the center of our vision is on His harvest field, on people for whom He died, not on buildings, programs, or self.

Over and over again the Spirit brought to my mind Revelation 7:9—“After these things I saw a large crowd from every nation, tribe, people, and language. No one was able to count how many people there were. They were standing in front of the throne and the Lamb. They were wearing white robes, holding palm branches in their hands, and crying out in a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’” Can you see it? We have been given a glimpse into our future. This is the very reason all of us together are dedicated to Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church. n The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

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Faces come and go, some lost to memory or vaguely familiar—but each was part of the Gospel’s advance in Bringing Christ to the Nations— and the Nations to the Church.

LLL/LHM’s Countless Names

T

he successful history of the International Lutheran Laymen’s League and its Lutheran Hour Ministries goes far beyond staff involvement and high-level elected leadership. The names and efforts of countless people have been blessed by the Lord over the century as the Good News is shared around the globe.

Twenty-five years ago, 98-year-old Arthur C. Boeker from the area of Edwardsville, Illinois, recalled how his father and uncle heard about the formation of a special effort in 1917 that led to the establishment of the LLL. In 1918 and 1919 those two men were “up front” in helping to raise the then-substantial amount of $764 for an endowment fund to help the Missouri Synod. Arthur was in his twenties when that took place, but the example of faith stuck with him. He became very active in his community and church — plus the LLL. He was among many whose names may not be in a news article, a book, or even on the roll call of LLL — for he strove for the Lord with no regard for personal glory or gain. Yet, many others were the spiritual beneficiaries through the God-blessed efforts.

Stove-maker A. G. Brauer of St. Louis worked as one of twelve founders to give rise to the LLL. He passed to glory in the early 1930s, having watched and worked toward the launch of The Lutheran Hour, but left the earth before the program rose to phenomenal heights. He did not claim longevity to enjoy seeing the fruits of his formative labor, but numerous souls since

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1917 have delighted in the Gospel due to his fervent efforts.

A good number of names surface in the Research Center Archives of the Int’l LLL, but little is known of them. William Schulze of Chicago was among the early strivers of faith. So was George Harms of Peoria and John Leschen of St. Louis, William C. Traub of Minneapolis, Otto Bock of Denver, and A. K. Engel of Seattle who were regional livewires for the LLL and augmented growth of what became Lutheran Hour Ministries.

Outside of a little information, not much more is available. Do YOU know of other names that may not be known widely but represented the prayerful labor toward the Gospel proclamation?

Not long ago a special letter was received at the LHM office. It was written by Helen Lasky, who took time to ponder on the century of grace the world has received through The Lutheran Hour and the variety of creative outreach efforts of the Int’l LLL. What triggered her hand-written epistle was a comment in an issue of The Lutheran Layman, the Good Newspaper of the LLL/LHM. Her husband entered heavenly bliss in 2012 but not without making his mark for the furtherance of the Gospel. He “was the pastor of a mission church in Connecticut. He had studied under a seminary grant, and then at Yale after his time in Heidelberg, Germany.

While in Connecticut, he also contributed many behind-the-scenes sermons for the radio preacher, [Dr.] Walter Maier … I’m hoping someone else helps celebrate what

by Gerald Perschbacher

he did. I was very proud of his helping The Lutheran Hour.”

For men such as Pastor Lasky and others referenced in this article, we lift words of thanks and prayers of joy that their witness in years past was part of the human momentum used by the Holy Spirit to keep the flow of Good News going forth on radio, on television, through DVDs, and in a multitude of formats from print to social media.

In the case of Pastor Lasky, he chose the path of education and in the 1960s became a professor of theology and ethics at Valparaiso University. Others by the name of Gockel, Elseroad, Klinck, Kniffel, Koenig, Wiese, Cranor, Daniels, Kurt, Schmidt, Hanf, Grosse, Kraemer, Hartwig, Mueller, Melde, and more, provided their support to educate the nations of the world with the News that saves. It’s not only the voice of a Speaker that was heard on The Lutheran Hour. It was also the quiet voices of a multitude of believers (some now in glory and others still very active) who staunchly worked without notice or accolades to carry the Savior’s voice of victory, comfort, guidance, and peace to a world in dire need.

As you prayerfully support the Int’l LLL and LHM, you are joining in support of a glorious endeavor with a heavenly cause. You become part of the faithfulness and fabric of the outreach. n Dr. Gerald Perschbacher serves as editor of The Lutheran Layman and manages the LHM Research Center Archives.

It was also the quiet voices of a multitude of believers ... who staunchly worked without notice or accolades to carry the Savior’s voice of victory, comfort, guidance, and peace to a world in dire need.

Vietnam Vet Has a Special Outlook

by Brad Neathery

Bible-believing church led by men who sought to know what God’s Word really said.” Soon Tom became very active in his church and met Lawrence Limback, who invited him to join the Lutheran Laymen’s League. Tom determined to be active in his local zone of the Central Illinois LLL District and eventually became district president, which expanded his ability to share the Gospel with millions through the LLL and its Lutheran Hour Ministries.

Tom was overjoyed in attending last October’s 100th anniversary kickoff. Then thoughts of his military past welled up inside when he heard LHM’s ministry center director from Vietnam describe the work that God is doing over there. Tom realized he could be part of a vital effort in bringing Christ to that nation! “I don’t mind telling

“I helped destroy some of that country, and now I’m hoping we can rebuild some of that destruction spiritually.”

“I helped destroy some of that country, and now I’m hoping we can rebuild some of that destruction spiritually,” says Tom Blessman.

Tom (shown above) was among millions of baby boomers that came of age in the 1960s. An influential factor shaping the direction of America at that time was the war in Vietnam. Tom, then 18 years old, was eligible to be drafted but his number was high in the draft order. Even so, Tom chose to volunteer for a two-year enlistment in 1969. “My mom tried everything to keep me from signing up,” he says. But Tom was determined out of a sense of duty and a desire to take advantage of the GI plan in later life.

He became a machine gunner deployed around Da Nang by the South China Sea. Tom’s team was given an area covering “nine clicks” (square kilometers) to look for enemy activity. After several days they reported on their mission.

His recon team was not to engage. It was simply to get information and get out.

They knew as little as possible militarily so that details could not come out under torture. If they were in danger of being captured, he was to use a thermite grenade to destroy all information, shackles, codes, etc., they gathered during patrol. It was a challenge to stay vigilant and be ready when action occurred. This made enlisted military life “99% boredom, half a percent anticipation, and half a percent sheer terror.”

There were heart-stopping moments. Over 28 patrols, Tom’s team directly engaged the enemy twice. Fighting in Vietnam took place in impossibly thick jungle.

“I couldn’t see the enemy right in front of me,” he recalls.

Living in constant mortal danger can foster a sense of fatalism. As for loss of life, Tom says, “If it’s going to happen, it’s going to happen.” The Northern Vietnamese Army and VCA (Victor Charlie, “Vietcong”) were his main threats to take American lives. Tom’s hostility toward the enemy grew during his brief assignment as an aid at a medical base. Some individuals were terribly injured. He was relieved to return to normal service, but memories stay with him.

“The basic population was made of normal, hard-working people who would be wealthy if they lived on more than $2 a day. We were trying to help them, but there was only so much we could do.” Soldiers were under orders not to intentionally do anything to make life harder. “What we take for granted they just learn to make do without,” adds Tom. Villagers lived in abject despair without hope.

When Tom returned home, he was perplexed by the generally negative reaction of Americans to his service. He suppressed his experiences and moved forward. “You learn to push it to the back of your mind. God made people incredibly tough enough to be able to handle and survive so many things.”

Tom was raised southern Baptist but married Dolores, a Lutheran. Through her encouragement, he was confirmed and learned that “the Lutheran church was a

you that there were tears in my eyes as I heard what LHM is doing in Vietnam.”

Tom concluded that LHM’s approach of hiring local staff is effective and economical for ministry. “I can’t think of a better way than working WITH people from that country. A spiritual war is being waged. This time the war is not between opposing forces—it is a mission of hope and life in Christ.”

Tom has made a personal commitment to support LHM’s work in Vietnam by praying for the ministry center there and by giving every month to carry the Gospel forward. He has a personal message for the countless Americans for whom Vietnam was part of life. “I ask them to join me in becoming part of what God is doing in Vietnam or somewhere else around the world. LHM is sharing the Good News globally, and we can help make it happen.”

Discover how by visiting lhm.org/Vietnamimpact. n Brad Neathery works with philanthropic supporters of LHM.

It’s a blessing, not a burden.

“”

Many who own farms, land, or other property worry about what to do with these assets as they look to the future. You can donate your property to make a huge impact on Gospel outreach worldwide!

To learn more, contact Lutheran Hour Ministries at 1-877-333-1963 or lhm-gift@lhm.org.

lhm.org/giftplan The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

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Third Luther DVD Highlights the Impact

A Man Named Martin three part DVD series

G

od’s grace and mankind’s redemption through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ is the prevailing truth of the Reformation. If promoting this liberating truth was Dr. Martin Luther’s single triumph, history books would still mark this German friar’s colossal contribution, but there was more to the Reformation. In A Man Named Martin– Part Three: The Movement, DVD viewers will see how the Reformation sparked changes in the church and throughout Western civilization that still are in play today.

Before those changes ensued, the true Gospel needed to be known. In the 16th century, the Gospel largely was hidden beneath institutional machinery and works-based practices of the Late Medieval Church. As Professor Joel Biermann of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, pointed out, “The church in the Middle Ages—the church that Luther was part of and growing up in—was so far away from the teachings of the apostles that it had become buried under all these layers of practices and rules and obligations. The Gospel was … there somewhere but … it was so hard to find; Luther himself was not aware of it.”

It has been said, perhaps more rightly, that through the Holy Spirit the Gospel discovered him. When it did, it impacted Luther like nothing else. He was no longer burdened with the weight of impossible obligations, rules, and demands to earn salvation. Instead, God led him to understand that it is Scripture alone, grace alone, and Christ alone that make the eternal difference for believers. The crux is that it’s “not about what we do to earn righteousness with God, but it’s what God

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by Paul Schreiber

Lutherans in the mid-16th century, both internal and external, the Lutheran faith, as set forth in the Book of Concord, also called the Lutheran Confessions, continues to be the foundation of the confessional Lutheran church. It didn’t happen by luck or chance. It can clearly be seen that God was preserving the living faith as delivered to the prophets and writers of the New Testament by the Holy Spirit, through the rediscovery of the Gospel by Martin Luther,” says Jim Likens, who has been deeply involved in the production.

In A Man Named Martin–Part Three: The Movement, viewers will see how the Reformation ultimately led to changes in marriage, education, work, and government.

To take one example: education, Luther felt it should be available to everyone. “In opposition to those who saw education as the privilege of only a few, Luther argued vociferously for compulsory education for all, recognizing the value of each individual before God,” Seltz said. “For the 16th-century reformer, education would enable Christians to read, understand, and meditate upon the Scripture for themselves, without dependence on a religious authority for interpretation.

Luther correctly perceived that literacy furthers freedom and independence,” he added.

Each of the three parts of A Man Named Martin has involved Likens’ work as a writer and videographer. In considering the trilogy, he compared his involvement to a search. “I really enjoy watching television programs

does for us,” Biermann added.

“What Luther did was to tear away the curtain in the temple of the Vatican, much like the curtain in the temple on Good Friday. And he revealed a loving God filled with grace that people could have a relationship with, apart from the priest himself. The Reformation moved from one man’s attempt to challenge the sale of indulgences and became a movement that changed the world,” said the Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour and host of the Martin Luther trilogy.

From Luther’s posting of his 95 Theses in 1517 to the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, marking the end of religious wars in Europe, the years of the Reformation were known for their contentious debates, denouncing edicts, bitter disputes, and caustic wrangling. As learned reformers contested long-held doctrines and practices in the Late Medieval Church, their theological positions were taking shape and solidifying. From their study, doctrinal statements Book of Concord emerged. These gave the laity a clearer grasp of the Bible, in their own language; an understanding about adventurers digging for treasure. This threeof God’s work in the world; and the year project has really been a treasure hunt. I have radical truth that the church is the discovered things about Luther and others I probably body of believers—wherever would not have even looked for. This entire series points the faithful are out one thing: by God’s grace one man really can change gathered—and not the world,” he added.

A Man Named Martin–Part Three: The Movement some inaccessible institution in Rome. features four sessions, along with a discussion guide.

Through it all, You can find a full listing of LHM Bible studies at God was at work. lhm.org/studies. n “Despite all the Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry attacks against the work in the United States.

Plans Shift into High Gear for the 500th

by Gerald Perschbacher

The 500th anniversary of the the new and young Emperor Charles V, a Lutheran church bodies have been Reformation is practically around the wealthy Spaniard by lineage. It was there active in anticipatory adulation for corner and will be commemorated that Luther was grilled by opponents the launch of the 500th. Among them numerous ways. Tours to Germany, and held his ground, explaining that he are church bodies in Germany, some especially sites where Luther lived, stood on Scripture with the help of God. self-governed verses the governmentworked, or visited, have been ramping So, you see, the 500th anniversary of the sanctioned evangelical church. Church up for the occasion. Towns have spruced Wittenberg event will be followed by the organizations and many individual up, historic sites have been renovated, 500th of the Heidelberg Disputation, congregations also are preparing. The and hotel accommodations have been which will be followed by the 500th at Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod is improved in anticipation of the banner Worms, and more 500ths in succeeding among the active church bodies already year of celebration. decades well into the 2050s by the fostering much activity as the date nears.

Technically, the nailing of the Ninety- least. People of the current and next “Fundamentally, the anniversary Five Theses on the door of the Castle generations will is not about Luther, but the One who Church in Wittenberg on forgave Luther freely by grace through Oct. 31, 1518, was a first shot faith,” reports Dr. Randall Golter, who meant for debate, discussion, directed international missions of the and deliberation. Dr. Martin Luther, a professor at the young university which traced its origin to 1502, was emboldened to draft the long list which significantly aimed at the selling of indulgences. Such an act, he proposed, lessened an appreciation for the true grace of God in Christ Jesus and put money ahead of morals, mindsets, and mercy.

Being the logical first shot in what soon became a war of words (spiritually and politically), there was to be a long string of events that surfaced along the trail of the Reformation. Luther’s Heidelberg Disputation came on April 25, 1518, nearly six months after the Wittenberg nailing. It was there At left: Movie poster of Martin Luther: The Idea that Changed the World that Luther was asked to defend Right: Coloring book on the 500th anniversary produced by Rev. Scott R. Blazek the Theses. Instead, he promoted the Good News that we are saved by grace alone through faith in Christ, have a firsthand exposure to the long LCMS and currently is special assistant and no actions of our own will win period over which the Reformation took to the LCMS president, responsible salvation. This fresh look at theology was place and the refreshed belief took hold. for leading the LCMS in planning the reported as spiritually invigorating by But for now, we ponder the initial anniversary celebration. “It’s the perfect many of the several hundreds privileged launch of the Reformation. time to confess Jesus Christ alone as our to attend that restricted meeting of the Germans have avidly been preparing Conscience Cleanser! In other words, it Augustinian Order. Yes, there were some for the initial celebration. Germany can is still all about Jesus!” who still were not certain of Luther’s use the boost, having spent long years Visit LutheranReformation.org (LCMS thrust and needed to ponder it carefully, from 1945 up to the 1990 reunification Web site) to see substantial and while others wondered if they should as the split countries of communist creative ways for congregations and race to disclaim it and the man who East Germany and free West Germany. organizations to commemorate the big lectured on it.

Most of the prevailing Luther points of anniversary. For some, the celebrating In 1581 Luther was called to the interest were in East Germany, which was launched last November. The congress or Diet (pronounced DEET) of is still improving living conditions and site offers what it calls “Reformation the Holy Roman Empire of the German circumstances blamed on years under opportunities and resources” with “a Nation. It was the first event chaired by godless rule. renewed focus on preaching.” Items may

be customized with the congregation’s name and contact information.

The film Martin Luther: The Idea that Changed the World premiered in February. It was funded by a grant from Thrivent Financial and explores basic human and spiritual questions that resound today. LCMS congregations or organizations may be able to host a screening at a local movie theater. For details, visit newluthermovie.com/lcms.

A way in which the Reformation is being marked in Germany is through the Luther500 Festival, an entire week’s travel to Luther sites meant to revitalize schools, congregations, and personal faith as travelers face the actual spots where religious history unfolded. See LutheranReformation.org.

Researchers may opt on their own to set up tour arrangements with privately owned companies and organize their own trips. Having contacts in Germany may be a helpful boost to their studies and findings.

For those who choose not to travel, a trip “in time” can be theirs through the outstanding three-DVD series on Luther and the spiritual challenges of his era that are available (with study literature) at lhm.org/studies.

A privately issued coloring book on the 500th anniversary is available. It is produced by Rev. Scott R. Blazek, who has a pastoral career in the LCMS. His expert hand drawings of Luther events and enlarged text makes this a potential blessing for the young and elderly. It is a refreshing historical walk through the early events of the Reformation in 36 interesting pages. This work of faith

by Rev. Blazek concludes with a printed song called Hammer Blows Heard ‘Round the World. It seems timely for the book to be available for use in schools, Sunday school settings, vacation Bible schools, and family gatherings. Blazek may be contacted directly at 5 Pineway Blvd., Clovis NM 88101-8464 (online at scottrblazek.com). Details about various items including a set of commemorative medallions he designed may be examined online via the American Lutheran Publicity Bureau at alpb.org.

Make your plans soon, or the initial launch of the 500th may slip by! n

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

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Three voices of the LHM Response Center in St. Louis serve the needs of many.

From left: Nancy Kellerhals, Cindy Morley, and Linda Cox.

Response Center is LHM’s Frontline The Response Center at the Lutheran Hour Ministries head office in St. Louis, is a busy place.

The center is the frontline between callers and the internal operations of LHM. It is the point where LHM interfaces with the outside world.

In this undertaking, Linda Cox, Cindy Morley, and Nancy Kellerhals have the responsibility of keeping the work flowing while addressing a variety of issues in a timely and effective manner.

In other words, there is always plenty to do.

Tasked with handling customer calls of all kinds, the staff must be up-to-date on current and past LHM products and resources as they answer questions, fulfill product orders, and suggest LHM resources that best fit the situation. In the course of a day Cox, Morley, and Kellerhals field questions on everything from a topical booklet offer or a children’s television special to a video Bible study or The Lutheran Hour. Their work doesn’t end there, however. They also assemble products with multiple components; field operational queries for downloading and using LHM materials online; take prayer requests; duplicate DVDs and CDs; refer callers to churches; fulfill internet orders; answer e-mails; help callers locate area radio stations; take donations; receive prayers offered from callers for LHM’s staff and ongoing mission; and more.

Cox, the center’s lead representative, previously worked as a realtor and with a media brokerage business. She says her primary responsibility is to “represent LHM as an organization and serve Christ with a servant’s heart, by assisting those who contact LHM.” This sentiment is shared by Morley, a center representative with customer 16

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

by Paul Schreiber

service experience as a corporate travel agent with American Express and a Christian mail-order company. Kellerhals, distribution and support specialist, agrees. Before coming to LHM her work in the insurance industry focused on cargo and auto insurance in South America. Together these three women use their varied professional backgrounds in fulfilling LHM’s mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church.

Kellerhals enjoys listening to LHM’s callers and finding solutions to their needs, which can range from questions of a faith-based nature to maximizing the use of our online products and resources. “It’s very rewarding to learn how many devoted Christians there are in the United States.

When we receive a question of a theological nature, we redirect it to one of our pastors on staff who can address the particular issue the person has.

When someone is using our Web site and having problems, I sometimes walk the caller through the site to get to what he or she needs,” she says.

As the Response Center’s name implies, it’s the response—the connection—made by Cox, Morley, and

“The kindness of the callers who phone in is worth mentioning, and I enjoy speaking with them.

My heart breaks for those who are dealing with tragedy and storms in their lives.”

Kellerhals with the callers that is the richest source of satisfaction in their work. “The kindness of the callers who phone in is worth mentioning, and I enjoy speaking with them. My heart breaks for those who are dealing with tragedy and storms in their lives,” Morley says. “One letter, in particular, made a huge impact on me. It was from an inmate who had served more than seven years. He is now released, but in his letter he thanked us profusely for our prayers on his behalf and for the ministry resources we sent him.

Through this man behind bars, we saw how God is at work. While in prison his life was changed and turned around when he asked God for forgiveness,” she adds.

Prayer calls affect Cox the most, as people share their heartfelt concerns by phone. “It is a blessing to pray with and for the needs of our listeners,” she notes. “Of course, since we are a ministry we do get calls from people who are experiencing a hardship or dealing with the loss of a loved one. Most times all they require is a listening ear, but at times one of the pastors on staff here at LHM will take time to talk with them and pray with them,” she added.

Dave Dawson, associate director for the U.S. Ministries division of LHM, sees the Response Center as an integral part of the LHM family, especially in respect to the service rendered the public. “While these women are prepared to answer questions or comments about anything going on at LHM, whether it involves a compliment or a concern, I would say that prayer is probably the numberone service they provide that people may not realize. They get several calls a week from people who request a prayer; other times the caller will ask the Response Center to pray for them!” n

With vests promoting safe driving, LHM is gaining a fresh attention among motorists in Africa.

Voting Ends May 15!

Liberian Outreach and Motorcycle Safety

by Chad Fix

O

ne of the advantages to Lutheran Hour Ministries’ work around the world is that each of its ministry centers is staffed by local people who have grown up as cultural insiders, who know the local language(s), and who know how to communicate the Gospel in ways that are understandable in their own culture. This ensures maximum impact of the message of the Gospel because the ministry touches people’s hearts by addressing issues and problems that affect people within each region.

Lutheran Hour Ministries–Liberia tackled an issue that has become a major concern to government officials in recent years. The use of commercial motorcycles is now the choice of many commuters throughout Liberia, especially in and around the capital city of Monrovia. Their popularity is largely due to much lower costs than taking taxi cabs to get around and their general acceptance as a source of employment among poor youth in urban areas. While offering additional transportation advantages like easy maneuverability, ability to travel on poor roads, and less likelihood of causing traffic jams, commercial motorcycle service growth has also led to an increase in road accidents, traffic management problems, pervasive noise, and an increase in crime.

“Events like this are successful in helping more and more people come to know about our programs and how they can become a part of what we do.”

LHM–Liberia held a “Ride Safely” campaign on Feb. 23 at the Parker Paint Junction in the city of Paynesville, not far from Monrovia. The ministry educated riders about road safety, awareness against sharing motorcycles, working too many hours, and alcohol consumption. Reflective vests were given to attendees. The event also offered an opportunity to share the Good News.

Staff informed riders about ministry efforts such as the Words of Hope radio broadcast that discusses topical issues from a Christian perspective. Staff also talked about rallies, Christian films, and discussion groups aimed at introducing participants to the church. The Kick for Christ youth sporting program was explained. Also, attendees were encouraged to sign up for LHM–Liberia’s Bible Correspondence Courses that are available in English as well as the Bassa and Krahn dialects.

“Events like this are successful in helping more and more people come to know about our programs and how they can become a part of what we do,” says the director of LHM–Liberia. “Apart from the people who were direct beneficiaries, many more onlookers and community inhabitants became aware of the Gospelsharing activities of Lutheran Hour Ministries in Liberia.” n Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of Lutheran Hour Ministries.

Thanks to the more than 3,000 members who registered to vote in Lutheran Hour Ministries’ 2017 election. Voting is currently underway to fill open positions on the Board of Directors and weigh in on two potential Bylaws changes.

If you registered before March 15 and received a ballot either electronically or through the mail, please remember that your vote must be submitted by May 15. Election results will be available online by the end of May and will be announced in the July-August issue of The Lutheran Layman. n

Messages from

GOD’S WORD for

YOUR LIFE every day

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! lhm.org/dailydevotions The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

17

Online ‘Mentoring’ is Among Offerings from LHM

A

s LHM’s MISSION U transitions its content into an online Learning Management System (LMS) format, three courses will be available in the near future: Sharing Faith Stories, Intergenerational Mentoring, and Utilizing Social Media to Share One’s Faith.

“All three courses have been written in their draft form. Our target this summer is to release the first one, Intergenerational Mentoring, in July,” says Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, who directs United States Ministries for LHM. “Over the next 12 months, courses will be scheduled and released throughout the year, with a total of five core courses introduced each year,” he adds.

According to Cook, the Intergenerational Mentoring course is now being put through its paces. “The course is being beta-tested, and we’re collecting information based on user experience, and we’re also having an outside group of instructional designers look at it to help us understand and make sure that we built it in a way that’s userfriendly and that achieves the curricular goals we’ve established for it.”

In respect to LHM’s MISSION U workshop content, it’s being carefully reviewed for possible inclusion into future LHM training modules. “We’re currently in the process of building the online version of the courses. In other words, we’re taking the information that was written and putting this data into the LMS. As we do this, we’re working with LHM’s marketing, graphics, and video personnel to develop the right course elements to make each offering as functional and interactive as possible.”

Each online course can be easily adapted to an individual or small group learning environment. For instance, the Intergenerational Mentoring course is comprised of

by Paul Schreiber

video and text elements that highlight and emphasize the value of mentoring; define what “intergenerational” means; offer ideas on how we can break down barriers to mentoring relationships; and relay how we can start building connections among people that foster mentoring relationships.

As one proceeds through the module, there’s time for reflecting on the concepts encountered, additional video to watch, Scriptures to read, ideas for journaling on the topic, and suggestions for prayers.

Once completed, users can print a Certificate of Achievement to mark their progress before moving on to the next online course offering.

Lutheran Hour Ministries’ LMS with its initial course offerings for 2017 and targeted plans will be an essential resource for Christians as they grow in their faith and in their enthusiasm to share it. “To sharpen our focus and make the most of our in-house resources, we’ve entered into a partnership with the Barna Group to conduct quantitative and qualitative research for our LMS,” explains Cook.

“Every year we’ll choose a topic and then engage Barna to research groups of people, inside and outside the church. Then we will reflect on that research and determine what products, services, and offerings we’re going to create to address those findings, according to different demographics.”

The Barna research will be critical to developing online courses that best serve the community of faith. “As we tailor future courses to zero in on the specific needs and outreach concerns of believers, I see the LMS course catalog as becoming a vital resource in the lives of Christians,” concludes Cook. n

Each online course can be easily adapted to an individual or small group learning environment.

Digital ‘Pilot’ is a Result of Shared Goals Since 2015, Lutheran Hour Ministries has been blessed to establish a philanthropic partnership with Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis regarding a digital ministries pilot. The Foundation’s generous support helped provide funding for Lutheran Hour Ministries to research and develop various digital platforms that ultimately became part of the recent launch of THRED on Feb. 1.

President and CEO Ann Vazquez, of Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis, says, “We were blessed to be a part of the beginning phases of development for THRED and we are thankful to be a part of this work that shares the Gospel in innovative ways with 18

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

people who may not be involved with the church but are open to discovering what the Bible says.”

Reaching this digital mission field allows LHM to begin online conversations with people who are disconnected from the church and facilitates more opportunities for connecting these individuals with Christian communities. Results from the first two months of THRED have been extremely promising:

• 1,956,848 total impressions (number of times a post is displayed); • 1,507,561 total reach (number of people who received impressions of a page post); • 370,424 video views; • 63,271 likes, comments, and shares of THRED content.

“We thank God for the support of Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis and deeply appreciate this special partnership,” says LHM President and CEO Kurt Buchholz. “Their investment allows us to engage unchurched people in conversations about life issues and provides a path to grow those conversations into relationships and to grow relationships into connections to faith communities.” n

“… we are thankful to be a part of this work that shares the Gospel in innovative ways with people who may not be involved with the church but are open to discovering what the Bible says.”

God’s Word brings joy to those in darkness—spiritually and physically.

An LHM official at left gives Braille material to Alfred and his brother.

th Anniversary 0 0 1 ’s M LH te ra f Commemo rabilia, videos o o m e m h it w g n more! all year lo eakers, and much sp h ac e tr u o g engagin

Bringing the Light of Christ to a Blind Man

by Chad Fix

In India, Alfred and his twin brother encountered many obstacles that started early in life. When their parents found out the boys were blind, they initially wanted to abandon the twins before ultimately placing them in a school for the blind to continue their education. Both boys are now grown up and in their early 20s, but have found difficulty locating jobs following their college graduation. However, Alfred has found great joy in sharing the Gospel.

Awhile ago, Alfred encountered Lutheran Hour Ministries–India while their staff was distributing free materials at a local event for the blind. Even though his parents were followers of a different religion, he wanted to learn more about Christ and frequently traveled a great distance to take bundles of tracts produced in Braille to continue studying the Word of God. As he learned more, he began participating in the ministry center’s Bible Correspondence Courses. Eventually he and his brother were baptized and now regularly attend church services.

But Alfred’s story with LHM does not end there. He has begun volunteering for the ministry and eagerly distributes Gospel booklets plus cassettes on trains traveling throughout the country. While most people he meets are interested in hearing about the Gospel, he sometimes faces opposition that places him in uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situations. In one case, a passenger tried to push him off the moving train.

“His stories and experiences with tract distribution bring tears to our eyes.”

“His stories and experiences with tract distribution bring tears to our eyes,” says the director of LHM–India. “But he says the Lord is always with him and he will carry out our ministry as long as the dear Savior allows him to live in this world. We praise God for giving us the opportunity to meet Alfred and partner with him in sharing the Gospel with those who do not yet know Christ.”

In addition to holistic events such as eye clinics where tracts are distributed, LHM–India broadcasts a weekly radio program in the southern portion of the nation that is produced in two major languages: Tamil and the national language, Hindi.

Recognizing the cultural influences of music, song, and drama, the ministry also brings the Gospel to listeners through devotional songs, dialogues, stage plays, dance, and rallies for large audiences in big cities and remote villages. n

Visit shoplhm.org

or call 1-800-876-9880 today!

Watch video highlights at lhm.org/100years for FREE!

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

19

Hollywood TV Executive’s Faith Life Shaped by ‘This is the Life’

by Chad Fix

G

ary Hall has had many accomplishments in his career as senior vice president of post production for Twentieth Century Fox Television, where he oversaw post production for all scripted network and cable series. His responsibilities included past and present hits like 24, The Simpsons, Bones, and Homeland. He has also written and produced for shows like 21 Jump Street and A-Team. He also continues his part-time work as a 35-year veteran police officer for LAPD, with multiple commendations for bravery and service.

Even with these many accomplishments, he says he is most proud of his Christian faith and how it has shaped his path in life.

“I did not grow up in a Christian home,” he says.

“My parents were good parents, good people, but they weren’t Christ followers. They sent me to an elementary school in sixth grade that happened to be a Christian school in Florida. They didn’t do it because the school was Christian, but because

it was good academically. That’s where I first learned about Christ. The problem was, as an 11-year-old it’s hard to drive to church. For me, the only way to get fed was by watching television. I watched a lot of Billy Graham and This is the Life. The show meant so much to me.”

Hall shared the program’s profound impact while attending Lutheran Hour Ministries’ 100th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration in St. Louis last October. “I often wondered what happened to the series that had meant

Staging introductions to classic episodes of This is the Life— Dr. Gregory Seltz is filmed at left.

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The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

Gary Hall speaking to prisoners.

so much to me as a child,” he says. “Through the years, God kept tapping me on the shoulder, and so, after making a few rounds of calls I finally got in touch with someone at LHM and told him what a big fan I was.”

Gary received a few episodes of This is the Life in the mail. The first one he popped in was titled

“Missing Ingredient” starring Jack Nicholson.

“First of all, this show was terrific,” says Gary. “I called back and asked if they had any episodes with other stars and they said they did.” The program had also featured Angie Dickinson, Leonard Nimoy, Lawrence HiltonJacobs, and others on various episodes long before they “hit the big time.”

That’s when Gary started thinking about ways to relaunch the series. He came up with an idea of writing some wrap-arounds for the old episodes where someone comes out and talks about the program at the beginning and end, much like many programs that you see on the American classics channel. He reached out to LHM staff in St. Louis and was soon developing scripts in collaboration with Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour; Dr. Ardon Albrecht, former producer of This is the Life; and Jim Arand, associate director of The Lutheran Hour. Shortly thereafter, Seltz traveled to Los Angeles to begin filming the wrap-arounds at the Melody Ranch Western Set, where legendary programs such as The Roy Rogers Show, Gunsmoke, The Lone Ranger, and others were once filmed.

“I spent my entire career producing secular television, some shows like the A-Team and 21 Jump Street which were fine and some that were not quite as positive as I would have liked,” says Gary. “Now that I took an early retirement package from Fox, I want to spend the rest of my life producing content that is life affirming and lifts our culture and preaches the Gospel.

“This is the Life, even though it is several decades old, still talks to people,” he continues. “As we were going through the post production process, we sent the episodes out to the sound effects people. I received a

From left: Gary Hall, Dr. Ardon Albrecht, and Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, converse on the potent impact of This is the Life in the past and for the future.

call from a Jewish man who said he and his wife had sat down and watched all the episodes. He said these are so powerful and, in his own words, he was saying he could hear the message. There is a lot of Gospel in those episodes and they cannot sit on the shelf.”

A relaunch of This is the Life is just the type of project that aligns with one of the goals of the faith-based prison ministry that Gary and his wife Cyndi founded several years ago. Hollywood Impact Studios (hollywoodimpactstudios.com) teaches the careers of the television industry to inmates inside the Los Angeles County Jail. Gary also desires for Hollywood Impact Studios to become a studio producing high-quality, family friendly programming that hires employees from among the very students they are reaching, thus producing two products: great entertainment and changed lives for those who truly need it.

“Our goal with this ministry is to bring new hope and a brighter future to those individuals,” says Gary. “By using the art of television and filmmaking to change lives, we provide a training ground where Hollywood professionals mentor these individuals to identify and develop their individual God-given talents and passions to choose a new path for their lives.”

Gary continues to work with his contacts throughout Hollywood on possible syndication opportunities for re-releasing This is the Life; stay tuned for more information. For now, you can catch some of the old episodes on DVD to witness how God reigns through every event in our lives, and it is by faith in His Son—following and honoring Him—that our lives find their fullest meaning. Two options are available by visiting lhm.org/classics: 1) This is the Life: Classics on DVD for $34.95. This includes nine episodes—each featuring stories of God’s extraordinary love in action in the lives of ordinary people.

2) This is the Life: Classics Deluxe DVD set for $39.95. This option includes the nine episodes plus a bonus CD disc with behind-thescenes photos, small-group discussion sheets, PDFs of the TV scripts, a promotional video, and more. n

I want to spend the rest of my life producing content that is life affirming and lifts our culture and preaches the Gospel.

Featured on classic episodes were, from top: Jack Nicholson, Leonard Nimoy, and Angie Dickinson. The episodes can still change lives today.

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

21

75 Years Ago: The LWML’s Purposeful Start

A

s the Holy Spirit “calls, gathers, and enlightens” dedicated Christian women, they will respond in expectedly high numbers for the 37th Biennial Convention of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, June 22-25, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The event theme is “Jesus Christ Above All.” The gathering marks the 75th anniversary of the LWML. Years before the LWML’s founding, there was a movement within the Lutheran Laymen’s League to form a Lutheran Women’s League as an auxiliary of the LLL. A prevailing reason for NOT proceeding was the Great Depression.

Life was tough, travel was especially costly when people lost their jobs, and periods of spotty social unrest plus vagabond seekers of a better life made people jittery.

Pent-up frustration at times was released in rioting and violence. The 1930s did not seem to be the best time to form a new organization.

Besides, that could have lessened human involvement with The Lutheran Hour which had become a signature purpose for the LLL. The idea of a women’s organization was afoot by 1929. Alfred Rehwinkel, then-president of St. John’s College in Winfield, Kansas, said this: “One of the most interesting meetings that I have ever attended was the recent convention of the Lutheran Women of Oklahoma … It occurred to me that here was the beginning of a movement that is bound to spread to wider circles.” Those words were recorded in the Lutheran Laymen’s League Bulletin (later named The Lutheran Layman).

Those women in Oklahoma came from six cities and resolved to provide bedding and linens for the college, plus take on added projects. Even earlier in 1927, LLL files indicate that the first LLL district (Central Illinois) had wished to form a district-wide women’s missionary association. For whatever reasons, no organizing effort of structure was formed at that time.

When the LWL eventually added the word “Missionary” to its name, its purpose was solidified.

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The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

by Gerald Perschbacher

But the idea must have pleased Hulda Maier, wife of the founding Speaker of The Lutheran Hour. She had followed the rise of women’s groups in other churches during the 1930s. By 1938 the Presbyterian women’s association claimed 247,000 members who gave $1.5 million each year. The Episcopalians were not far behind.

When 1942 came along, the trend was evident. When the LWL eventually added the word “Missionary” to its name, its purpose was solidified. Within five years of its existence, the LWML involved 2,000 societies.

Since its formation, the LWML has been a blessing in the support of special projects domestically and internationally, including projects and efforts by Lutheran Hour Ministries. The coming convention will determine the mission direction of the LWML well into the foreseeable future. Supporters of the LLL and its Lutheran Hour Ministries will be in prayer for the LWML, its convention, and the special projects it adopts as President Patti Ross brings down the gavel for the first session. Find more on the subject at lwml.org. n Above: A visual on the Web site lwml.org relating to MiteBoxes. Women of the LWML have been internationally lifting high the cross of the Savior for 75 years.

Below: Many LHM projects have been supported by the LWML, domestically and internationally.

At left: The New Wells Lutheran school, circa 1915.

Right: The faithfulness of children extended into adulthood, resulting in Int’l LLL activities in New Wells even in recent years.

Book on New Wells Strives to Keep it Remembered It’s only 90 pages, spiral bound, but it carries a rural story of faith in America unlike most others. Truly, the book must be unique. After all, have you heard of many other books on the subject of New Wells in Cape Girardeau County, Missouri?

With a quality effort in content, visuals, and overall layout, compiler Mary Beth Mueller Dillon recently issued this mainly pictorial history of the town, because there were stories circulating through the descendants of that community, fond stories, delightful little tales, the type that form the fabric of a small-town society with a Lutheran heritage.

Creek Walther wished to cross on a Sunday morning, a church being the destination. “Not realizing the force of the swift current, he urged the horse he was riding into the stream. It wasn’t very long before he and the horse were separated … Both fortunately made it to the opposite shore, the pastor, thoroughly soaked and without his top hat. It was this experience that brought about an illness for Pastor Walther for quite some time.”

Danger crept up again. On a later occasion in 1853 Pastor Walther “almost drowned. He was saved … only because of the outcry of the professor’s young

by ship. By 1855 a church building was being constructed, which seemed to be a favored endeavor of newly settled Germans and Austrians. Church and school held precious experiences for the people. Logically, those topics verbally and visually have substantial sections in the book. Pastors are noted with nice details, the progress of a congregation stretching through the careers of various pastors in succession. Stores are shown at their peak about a century ago and through years of

by Gerald Perschbacher

abandonment or decline. People make a community, so it is people, families, and faith that gain a major portion of the book.

Capping off the entire effort is a study of Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery, with dates of birth and death alongside the names of the departed. n Information about the book and its availability may be obtained by contacting Mary Dillon at mary2075@comcast.net or calling (317) 244-7513.

It was opportunity that brought early settlers to Missouri: cheap land, bountiful forest lands, abundant fresh water, and freedom of worship.

It was opportunity that brought early settlers to Missouri: cheap land, bountiful forest lands, abundant fresh water, and freedom of worship.

There was no human crowding in that area during the first half of the 1800s.

Space was good for growth. The area that became known as New Wells was reached with the Gospel of Christ thanks to the foresight of Pastor C.F. W. Walther, a leader in the Saxon movement of 1839 and the future first president of what became The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod. There were former Austrians in the area, as well, and they looked for spiritual nourishment.

Being a rural preacher was dangerous at times. Walter Richter’s comment about a young Walther is in the book. It related to the nearby Apple

son, Adolph. Walther’s gratitude is attested by the still extant silver loving cup given … as a present.” The book notes that there may have been six times that Walther nearly lost his life due to high water.

New Wells was settled in 1854, just northeast of Jackson, and northwest of Neely’s Landing. “It had one general store, one wagon and saddler’s shop, a public school and a Lutheran Church.”

In 1874 the population was about 65 …

The town was built in the midst of farms which produced wheat, corn, and oats … much of the land was used for grazing” and much of the yield was sent by rail to St. Louis, Missouri.

Anecdotes are told about families, challenging times, and newcomers who ventured to America on a 72-day journey

We Want to Hear from You! If you participated in this year’s Men’s NetWork WORK DAY, please write us about your experience!

We want to hear all about your group’s community outreach project. Please include photos with your submission. All entries will receive a FREE MNW pocket knife. The group that sends the best story and photos will be featured in The Lutheran Layman and receive the grand prize of two LHM folding camp chairs!

SUBMIT STORIES AND PHOTOS to mensnetwork@lhm.org by June 30

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017

23

Celebrating the Success of Project JOEL

by Chad Fix

I

n many countries around the During the two-day meeting, world there is a “population attendees talked about the history bulge” of younger people. In and development of Project JOEL, fact, today more than 50 percent presented the work done in each of the world’s population is now of their countries, discussed the under the age of 25. Because of program’s vision, and shared the realities such as broken families issues and challenges that each and secularism, many of these country faces in working with young people receive little moral schools and communities. They or spiritual education in their also heard a powerful testimonial homes. Often, their values are given by Griselda Aguilar, who is shaped instead by potentially a volunteer and contact of Dios negative influences such as the es Grande Lutheran Church, and media, music, or their peers. learned about Project Timoteo, As part of a global strategy a new program being used by for reaching youth, Lutheran LHM–Panama to reach out to Hour Ministries offers Project children and integrate them into JOEL in a growing number of the church. countries. The name JOEL stands Since its introduction by LHM– for Jóvenes con Espíritu Libre, or Panama in 1996, Project JOEL … the program is designed to provide “youth with a free spirit,” and the program has been recognized by the governmental youth with Biblically-based guidance is designed to provide youth with BiblicallyMinistry of Justice offices in Panama based guidance in making healthy lifestyle and in Guatemala for its positive impact in making healthy lifestyle choices. choices. Project JOEL has been integrated on youth. In addition to its use in Latin into school curriculum in some countries — America, the program has been adapted for particularly in Latin America — but it also supplements its educational content implementation in other ministry centers around the world. by incorporating opportunities for holding sporting and cultural events.

“We thank God for this opportunity to get together with the Project JOEL LHM recently celebrated the 20-year anniversary of the program’s launch by coordinators and for their participation and support,” says Rev. Nilo Figur, LHM’s hosting the first meeting of the Promoters of Project JOEL at its Christ for All Nations regional director for Latin America. “We know that we were called by God and office in Panama City. The meeting was attended by LHM ministry representatives that He will use the gifts and talents of our staff and volunteers to bless the from Panama, Peru, Nicaragua, Mexico, and Guatemala, as well as the president of students and parents who have been and will continue to be cared for through the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Panama, the director of theological education in Project JOEL.” n Panama, local pastors, and Project JOEL founders: Ken Peterson and Porfirio Franco.

New Latin America Web Site Addresses Topical Issues

by Chad Fix

Individuals throughout Latin America who seek answers to common issues of today now have a new online resource. LHM launched vivenciar.net April 4 during a ceremony at the LHM–Brazil ministry center in Sao Paulo.

Much like LHM’s new THRED project in the United States, the purpose of vivenciar.net is to reach out and digitally connect to the non-believer and non-Christian populations by sharing information about issues that are of concern to them. Once visitors arrive at the Web site, they are invited to look deeper into their selected topic, which may include marriage and family, anxiety, loneliness, relationships, online pornography, and much more.

“We are hoping that this project opens up opportunities to start an online relationship between visitors and the trained volunteers from our ministry centers in Latin America in Spanish and Portuguese,” says Rev. Nilo Figur, LHM’s regional director for Latin America.

“By sharing messages of hope with the millions of people immersed in an increasingly virtual world, we can provide answers and the peace that can only be found in Jesus Christ, the One who is the Way, the Truth and the Life.”

Attendees of the ceremony heard words of encouragement via Skype from Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt, LHM’s director of international ministries, and were offered an important piece of advice learned following the rollout of THRED: always be authentic.

Vivenciar.net has a potential reach of 650 million people throughout 10 Latin American countries. Individuals will be brought to the Web site using Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, Pinterest, Snapchat, and other online tools, as well as newspaper and radio advertisements. n 24

The Lutheran Layman May - June 2017