The Lutheran Layman - Spring 2022

Spring 2022

Responding to a Growing Need for

H I S PA N I C MINISTRY see page 3

see page 3

New Books & Digital Kits. . . . . . . . 8 Nurturing Your Faith. . . . . . . . . . 9-10 Gospel Adventures. . . . . . . . . 12-13 Vibrant Conversations Deck. . 15 LHM Presence at Events. . . 16-17 Changing Lives Globally. . . . 20-21 LWML Grant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

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

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Incomplete Projects God’s relational work—is far from done.

by REV. DR. MICHAEL ZEIGLER, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour

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n the summer of 2007, my wife, Amy, and architecture of hope. He didn’t swoop in with I traveled with some church friends to the big box appliances and low-interest loans. Yes, country of Guatemala. It was a serviceHe miraculously fed people, healed people, immersion trip. I have vivid memories from this even raised some from the dead. But again visit: the beautiful people, lush landscapes, jamand again, He said this wasn’t God’s complete packed cities—and lots and lots of incomplete work (John 6:26). For Jesus, God’s Word made building projects. There were half-finished flesh, the goal was and is still to build up trust cinderblock structures, one-story houses with between God and humankind. When the Word spindly steel rods sticking out of the top, and became human, He accompanied people on rusty lines of rebar pointing hopefully toward a the way. He took the long walk, building God’s second story that may or may not materialize. kingdom one relationship at a time, at the Recently, I spoke with a friend who went on an ambling rate of two-and-a-half miles per hour. immersion trip to Mexico. He had seen the same Jesus embraced the slow process, even as it thing. In some places, most buildings had the would pass through His death on the cross, leftover ends of rebar rods protruding from the leading people into a Resurrection Life that has tops of the concrete walls. And from our cultural begun, but won’t be complete within the span perspective (as U.S. Americans like to say, “gitof our mortal lives. er-dun!”), this building practice initially struck John McLaughlin, in an article titled, us as half-hearted, at best.

“Unfinished Houses: Building the kingdom on But often there was a hopeGod’s time,” helps U.S. Americans filled story behind that unfinished appreciate an architecture of For Jesus, God’s building, constructed as it was with When he led serviceWord made flesh, hope. an architecture of hope. My friend immersion trips to the Dominican the goal was and Republic, people involved in the who went to Mexico explained how he had stayed with a host-family. is still to build up building project would often They lived in the city but had trust between God ask him, “Why can’t we finish scraped together enough cash to this house?” When they realized and humankind. buy some land on the outskirts of they weren’t going to see the town. They didn’t have access to a project completed, they felt like low-interest home loan. But over the years, they they had failed. Through the years, John has had built a foundation and walls, leaving the grown to value building, not just structures, rebar exposed so they could tie into it later. And but relationships. He has learned that the while they waited for the next building season, goal is less about accomplishment and more on a Saturday morning, dad, mom, and their two about accompaniment—accompanying people, children would ride out to see their in-process walking with them, talking with them, working home and tend the garden they had planted alongside them over years. An incomplete there. Mom and dad knew they might not live to building project is a gift. Rebar protruding see it finished. But it could be for their children from the tops of the walls reminds us that or grandchildren. the deeper, unfinished human project—God’s When it came to establishing God’s kingdom relational work—is far from done. “on earth as it is in heaven,” Jesus built with an Would you accompany us in this work? =

Vol. 93, No. 2 Spring 2022 Chad Fix, Editor

•

Andrea Thompson, Layout

Subscription: $5. Printed quarterly. Send color photos for use. Photos sent to the paper may not be returned. Lutheran Hour Ministries, The Lutheran Hour, Bringing Christ to the Nations, BCTN, This is the Life, Ayer, Hoy y Siempre, Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones, Esta Es La Vida, Para el Camino, THRED, and The Hoffmann Society are ® registered marks, or SM service marks. The Puzzle Club is a service mark and trademark of Int’l LLL. All rights reserved, 2022 Int’l LLL.

LHM Response Center: 1-800-876-9880

2 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

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

19-year-old Loubna saw a Facebook ad and reached out to LHM staff in the Middle East and North Africa explaining that she was lonely and felt like her life was incomplete. They told her about the Gospel; while she was skeptical at first, she realized the staff members cared for her and she could trust them.

Following ongoing conversations, because of God’s saving grace, Loubna became a Christian and continues to use LHM materials to grow in her faith.

Help us share the Gospel with people like Loubna by visiting LHM.ORG/GIVE or sending a gift in the enclosed envelope.

Responding to a Growing Need for Hispanic Ministry

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n the United States, Hispanics are the secondlargest ethnic population. By 2060, it is expected that Hispanics will constitute more than 27 percent of the American population. As a mass media Gospel outreach organization, LHM is committed to reaching this rapidly growing audience with the Good News of the Gospel.

About half of those who identify as Hispanic in the United States today speak Spanish primarily.

LHM can reach more than 30 million people with our dedicated Spanish-language content. What’s more, Hispanics are deeply relational people, using a variety of means to grow and extend their communities and stay connected. For LHM, that means that digital pathways for nurturing faith and sharing the Gospel with Hispanics abound.

Like communicating with any culture, some opportunities and challenges come with it. Today’s Hispanics are digital-first so that they can be reached across all social media platforms and channels. They are hungry for resources that bring them hope and courage in today’s challenging times, and they long for good family relationships, but they don’t always know how to foster or encourage them. While some older Latinos may not know how to access our digital content, some Hispanics are hesitant to ask for help, so resources quickly accessible from home are very attractive to them. Religion—or the practice of—is a private matter for many, so meaningful interactions

that may spark conversations about Jesus usually take time.

These opportunities have led LHM to pour significant energy into growing our engagement with Hispanics in the last few years. And we’re not stopping.

“We’re partnering with the growing number of ministry leaders, churches, districts, universities, and seminaries serving and training Hispanics for ministry,” says Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies, LHM’s regional director for North America. “The future is bright for connecting with Hispanics in North America. Join us in these efforts with your prayers that God reaches down through LHM to bring the Gospel to those who have yet to hear, that they might meet Jesus and find a home in His church.”

Responding to the growing need for Spanish resources in the United States, LHM continues developing and growing our Hispanic ministry efforts. Noemí Guerra, program developer for Hispanic ministry at LHM, says, “It’s important for LHM to continue to develop additional ways to reach out to Hispanics with the Gospel and equip others to do so. Hispanics are our friends, coworkers, neighbors, and family members. So, we’re doing more than just translating materials written for Englishspeaking audiences. We’re crafting programming and media content for Hispanics by Hispanics.” see next page

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

Lutheran Hour Ministries is committed to reaching this rapidly growing audience of Hispanics with the Good News of the Gospel.

The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 3

Responding to a Growing Need … continued

LHM’s Spanish Resources at a Glance PARAE LCAMIN O.C OM A Hub for All LHM Spanish Resources On Para el Camino’s website, users will find practical, Christcentered resources to help them successfully manage their daily lives in the United States. Biblebased teaching, sermons, videos, devotionals, and more benefit Christians and non-Christians alike, encouraging them to grow in their knowledge of God and to follow in His footsteps.

Steady demand for sermons from Para el Camino (For the Journey)— Lutheran Hour Ministries’ Spanishlanguage broadcast—has led LHM to restart production and offer them in a podcast format.

Between 2008 and 2014, the weekly sermons were translations from The Lutheran Hour. Since then, those sermons have been available through website archives. However, with increasing numbers listening to the Good News online, the demand is there for the accelerated production of new messages.

“Due to the consistently significant number of people who access these sermons monthly, we decided to restart production and offer it in a podcast format,” said Beatriz Hoppe, Hispanic coordinator for LHM’s North America region.

Since restarting this program in September 2019, we have been able to transition from translations to original Spanish sermons and have added the downloadable Sermon Notes where listeners can read additional information about the sermon text and find questions for personal or small group reflection.

The Para el Camino website also offers Daily and Seasonal Devotions, Bible studies, topical Project Connect booklets, children’s booklets, a radio drama (Ayer, Hoy y Siempre), an option to chat one-onone with a team member, and links to the Sentido Latino and Vivenciar websites.

SEN T I D O L AT I N O.C O M Weekly Podcast Launched in 2017, Sentido Latino aired its 15-20-minute podcast bi-weekly and transitioned to weekly episodes in 2019. The shift to a weekly format gave the program’s growing listener base greater frequency to tap into its diverse topic list. These focus on issues both immediate and relevant to Hispanics integrating into the cultural fabric of the U.S. Drawing from a rich and time-honored Christian-Hispanic perspective, program hosts tackle issues with insight and humor, engaging listeners with a lively exchange of good advice and godly wisdom for their journey.

The podcast’s vision and mission are born out in its title.

“Sentido Latino” means Latin sense, and its tagline, “Donde tu vida tiene Sentido,” means where your life makes sense. The program objective is to raise and discuss issues and values that directly impact U.S. Hispanics’ family, spiritual, and community life. According to Producer Beatriz Hoppe, “Through Sentido Latino, we want to accompany you in this adventure called ‘life.’ And if during our walk together you get to meet the Author and Giver of life, we will have achieved our goal.”

In addition to the weekly episodes, Sentido Latino offers a weekly one-minute reflection, downloadable resources, and a chat option. sentidolatino.c

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sentidolatino.com

Cómo ayudar a tu hijo

a tener una relación con Dios Mary Oldfield la vida espiritual de y sueños con respecto a Los padres tenemos esperanzas del pecado en sus vidas que comprendan la realidad nuestros hijos. Queremos reconozcan la voz de Dios de Dios. Queremos que y la necesidad del perdón mantenga firmes en los que tengan una fe que los En resumen, queremos y la obedezcan. Queremos proteja de conductas dañinas. problemas de la vida y los profunda con Dios. una relación saludable y que nuestros hijos tengan a que la tengan, lo que qué hacer para ayudarlos Pero no siempre sabemos madre, abuela y ex caer en el desánimo. Como luchas fácilmente puede hacernos carne propia las muchas para niños, conozco en vida directora de un ministerio en lo que respecta a su de los hijos, especialmente involucradas en la crianza espiritual. con abrumadoras. He hablado de los hijos pueden ser con Las demandas de la crianza la vida, que han rezado por el ritmo acelerado de sentimos muchos padres, agotados para hacerlo. Algunos nos tiempo el encuentran estar no muchos otros que en la fe, pero no creemos a nuestros hijos a crecer culpables por no ayudar preparados para hacerlo.

una buena noticia. de ellos, permíteme compartir (LHM) ha revelado que Si te identificas con alguno y Lutheran Hour Ministries Un estudio del Grupo Barna espiritualmente un hogar. que pueden ayudar a nutrir los existen tres hábitos diarios en la fe es más sólida en nos dice que la formación ¿Cuáles son? El estudio hogares que:

ESPIRITUALES 1. PRACTICAN DISCIPLINAS 2. EJERCEN LA HOSPITALIDAD ESPIRITUALES 3. TIENEN CONVERSACIONES

difícil y abrumadora a tu hijo se vuelve menos el La tarea de nutrir espiritualmente Y la buena noticia es que tres hábitos cotidianos. cuando se divide en estos cultivar en cualquier hogar. que estos hábitos se pueden estudio también muestra te invito a que sigas criando a tus hijos o nietos, Por lo tanto, sea que estés de nuestros hijos ayudándoles nutrir la salud espiritual espirituales o ejerciendo leyendo. Todos podemos Dios, teniendo conversaciones a tener una relación con la hospitalidad.

Cuando los hijos se van

INTRODUCCIÓN

Como padres sabemos su libro “El Profeta”: que, tarde o temprano, nuestros hijos “Tus hijos no ti, sino a través se van a ir de de ti. Y, aunque son tus hijos. Son hijos casa. Porque, Cuando los e hijas de la estén a tu como bien hijos se van, vida, ansiosa cuando su pieza lado, no te pertenecen.” por perpetuarse dice Khalil Gibran en Pero queda vacía, cuando la casa del saber a vivir el hecho, . Ellos no vienen de Más allá de la calidad del se llena de silencio, hay una gran vínculo afectivo diferencia. radical: tanto sobreviene en la vida de que existe entre una gran desolación. quien se va, proceso de transformac padres e hijos, como en la de la partida de quien se queda. ellos, de despertarlos ión, pues en él se un hijo siempre produce un Lo que varía significa un , de recibirlos cambio, y se cambio ... termina un rol: es la forma particular de vivir este el rol de cocinar ¿Qué pasa cuando para ellos, de los hijos crecen de convivencia, jugar con y dejan el ven partir a sus hijos para hogar? ¿Qué sienten una que estos vuelvan madre En este folleto sólo de visita? y un padre cuando, después le invitamos de tantos años a reflexionar brindamos sugerencias que le ayudarán juntos sobre las cosas momento de que ocurren a sobrellevar nuestro peregrinaje en este adecuadame por esta vida. nte esta etapa, proceso de separación, a la vez sabiendo que Dios está presente que le EL NIDO VACÍO en cada Cuando los hijos se van del hogar, los proyecto de padres se ven vida, ya sea forzados a reflexionar solos, o como pareja. sobre su lugar Este fenómeno en el mundo, se y la validez de especies. Muchos conoce como “Síndrome su del nido vacío”. se han planteado mantienen el si esta comparación Esta alegoría compara apego por sus el hogar humano “polluelos” que hijos, sino que es válida, ya que en el reino más bien cierran con se han ido. animal raramente el nido de algunas un ciclo reproductivo los padres y continúan Lo cierto es con otro, sin que, penar por los aquellas mujeres cuando los hijos comienzan a tomar vuelo que han construido este cambio propio, se plantea carezca de significado; su proyecto de uno de los momentos vida sobre la no se modificará sólo que, por más difíciles radicalmente lo general, los base de una familia regular. paterno-filia para hombres mantienen Y no es les, hayan basado . Pero también puede haber resulta dramático. una vida activa que para el padre su cotidianeida hombres que, fuera del hogar por su manera d en el cuidado En realidad, para continuar no depende que encontrando de ser hombre de los hijos y la casa, para particular de vivir las relaciones sentido a la o mujer, sino los cuales el existencia. de cuáles son cambio también En la aparición los recursos con que se cuenta y padres dentro desarrollo del síndrome están de la estructura familiar, y las implicados distintos factores amistades o contactos sociales como: la personalidad previa, el rol de que dispongan de los los padres.

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Impact of SENTIDO LATINO Impact of PARA EL CAMINO Doris is a faithful reader of our Daily Devotions. She called our dedicated 1-800 Spanish line asking for advice since her marriage was falling into pieces. She wanted to do the right thing, but she didn’t know how or where to start, and she didn’t feel comfortable talking with her pastor. After a 40-minute conversation and prayer, she had a clearer vision of her situation and a plan to start moving forward.

A listener to the sermons shared, “Thank you for this morning’s message. It was very encouraging. It is excellent to see how LHM has invested again in Spanish-speaking ministries.”

A pastor shared, “This is an exemplary message of the Good News of Jesus Christ for us in this Holy Week. Listen to it, and you will be richly blessed and strengthened in your faith in Christ!”

4 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

Angie messaged us saying that she listened to our podcast on Feb. 14 and found it healing. She asked for Bible verses of encouragement because she was going through difficult times. She was reassured of God’s continued presence in her life.

Berta, a woman from New York, had been listening to our Sentido Latino podcast on healthy boundaries and wanted advice on her relationship. She said she was going through a challenging moment because she found out that her husband was unfaithful to her. She felt like her life had collapsed and she was at the end of her rope. After talking for a few minutes, we asked if she would like us to pray for her. She said: “Yes, I ask that God would unite my family again ... my home is divided. My 14-year marriage is falling to the ground.

I don’t know how to accept this reality”. LHM staff assured her that they would be praying for her and offered to have a local pastor contact her, which she graciously accepted.

VIVE NCIAR.NE T A Digital Platform Offering Spiritual Guidance to Life’s Issues Pioneered and developed by LHM ministry center staff in the Latin America region, Vivenciar.net is a bi-lingual platform that reaches Spanish and Portuguese-speaking individuals. Since it began in 2017, the purpose of Vivenciar.net has been to start conversations with non-Christians who are looking for help and guidance about relevant topical issues on the internet.

Young adults are gravitating to the internet seeking help, including millions who are curious—or have doubts—about Christianity.

Vivenciar.net serves as a hub for digital outreach throughout Latin America and now North America. Through the website, staff and volunteers enter into digital conversations with individuals and provide biblically-based answers for their lives. Since its expansion into the U.S. in 2021, Vivenciar.net has offered help, support, and direction to Spanishspeaking individuals. The live chat, blogs, courses, and e-books give additional support to those seeking answers to their questions.

C PT L N M O B I L E A P P Coming Soon!

Later this year, we’ll release our first smartphone app entirely in Spanish with access to all the resources from Para el Camino, Sentido Latino, and Vivenciar. With this app, we aim to offer a convenient way to connect Hispanics to Jesus and to equip them to share the Good News of the Gospel with others.

The CPTLN (Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones: Christ for All Nations) app will be a mobile hub for Para el Camino sermons, sermon notes, Daily Devotions, Project Connect booklets, Bible studies, reflections, Vivenciar, a Bible app, and a chat function. Hispanics use their phones all the time. When they are working outside the home or otherwise away from a computer, they nevertheless always have access to their phones and can conveniently use our resources on the go.

“The coolest thing to me is that all the resources can be shared through the other apps on your phone,” says Beatriz Hoppe. “For example, we use WhatsApp all the time, and with this new app, you can take anything and send it through WhatsApp. It’s so easy to share our resources.”

Look for more information in upcoming issues of The Lutheran Layman!

Impact of VIVENCIAR Rosa, suffering from terminal cancer, wanted to talk to someone because she was scared and could not find peace. She accepted the invitation to be referred to a pastor, who called her right away.

Rosa told him she had heard about Jesus, but she wasn’t sure about her salvation or what happens after we die. The pastor patiently and lovingly talked with her about the life, suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus and what that means for each of us, including her. He also talked about repentance and the forgiveness of sins Jesus provides. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, at the end of the call and after praying, Rosa confessed Jesus as her Lord and Savior. She was assured of her salvation and at peace with herself and with God. Bianca messaged us sharing that she had depression and anxiety symptoms. We chatted for a while, and she asked for resources. She was sent two articles from Vivenciar and two podcasts of ours on those topics.

see next page The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 5

Responding to a Growing Need … continued Key Demographics of the Hispanic Population in the United States At 62.1 million, Hispanics comprise 18.8 percent of the total U.S population. This means that:

Timeline of LHM’s Spanish Resources in North America

• Nearly 1 in 5 people in the U.S. is Hispanic.

• 1 in 4 elementary-school students is Hispanic.

• The U.S. is the 2nd largest Spanish-speaking country in the world after Mexico.

• If U.S. Hispanics were their own country, they would rank as the 8th largest economy in the world.

Key Cultural Values Among Hispanics • Harmonious family relationships are the top priority. The family is the survival net for its members, who have a strong sense of duty to and across generations.

• Respect. All family members are expected to be respected and respect each other. The elders are highly valued and play a significant role in the family dynamics by contributing their knowledge and experience and serving as repositories of history, tradition, and values.

• Faith and church are often central to family and community life: the baptism of infants and the anointing of the sick are required in life-threatening situations.

• Women’s most important roles are as wives and mothers. » Women are expected to be the primary force holding the family and home together through work and cultural wisdom as well as serving as primary caregivers who are most responsible for parenting. » Women are expected to show respect and even submission to their husbands, although privately, most of them hold a greater degree of power than men. » Women are idealized in some respects and oppressed in others (Marianismo).

• The husband is the protector, provider, and decision-maker for the family. Traditional male roles are defined as machismo, which is the expectation that a man will be honorable, responsible, and loving towards his family in the Latino world.

• Spiritual and religious influences play a significant role in health, illness, and daily life. = Megan McDaniel reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work around the world.

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1980s Radio Drama Ayer, Hoy y Siempre

1990s Daily Devotions translated into Spanish

1940 Radio program La Hora Luterana (The Lutheran Hour), with Dr. Andrew Meléndez as Spanish Speaker from 1941-1972

1985 Topical Booklets translated into Spanish

2000 Evangelism Training Equipando a los Santos (Equipping to Share)

2008 Para el Camino (Spanish version of The Lutheran Hour) and a dedicated website

2014 Bible Study on video ‘Dios se revela’ (God Connects)

2018 Sentido Latino social media pages

2020 Para el Camino social media pages

Outreach Media Campaigns Viviendo Sabiamente (Living for Tomorrow)

2010 Translation of Bible studies on DVD/video.

Seven studies available by 2013.

2017 Sentido Latino podcast and a dedicated website

2019 Para el Camino podcast

2021 Vivenciar.net comes to the U.S. Barna workshops

The Plan Has Not Changed

by KURT BUCHHOLZ, President & CEO, Lutheran Hour Ministries

Working together to be on His plan, on His mission, to make His Name known around the world.

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ore than 2,000 years ago, a Man named Jesus brought people along the road with Him, to walk with Him, learn from Him, and carry out His mission of sharing messages of hope and love with those in their path whom they encountered. Today, many voices are trying to tell us that this plan has changed, that the church is dying, that Christianity has become less and less. I hope you don’t accept this misinformation like I don’t accept it.

When we look at the world today it is not about a church that is shrinking. There are more Christians than at any other point in history. While things may look different than when you or I were growing up, that does not mean that God’s mission has changed.

An important aspect of that plan is that He includes you and me in His plans for salvation.

When I think of Lutheran Hour Ministries and the work that has been done through this organization for more than 100 years, I think of a movement of people with a common passion to bring the Gospel message to a world that has not yet heard it. As we go into the future, it is exciting to see how God is blessing us. Individuals around the world experience the Gospel more than 150 million times each week through our efforts. That just seems incredible; tens of millions of people each week hearing the

Gospel message in their language, in their context, from someone they can relate to. But we know that God wants that to be even more.

LHM continues to push forward, not only out of our home office in North America, but from each of our ministry centers around the world to find new ways to share the Gospel. One way God has blessed us is through the digital mission field. This is something we launched a few years ago by focusing on research that tells us what is happening with upcoming generations. How are they interacting with one another? How do they want to hear about Jesus in their lives and what He means to them? The digital mission field has grown here in North America, but it is also being picked up quickly in other regions around the world.

I just came back from the Middle East and North Africa, where we have seen one of our fastest-growing areas of ministry, primarily through mass media and digital means. Not only can we get the Gospel to people through satellite television, but we can use cell phones, instant messaging, and social media of all kinds to communicate one on one with individuals as they ask, ‘Who is this Jesus Christ and what should He mean to me?’

We also see the breaking down of our neighborhoods. We get into our cars, drive to work, and pass hundreds of people that God

I think of a movement of people with a common passion to bring the Gospel message to a world that has not yet heard it.

has put in our path without ever talking to them. Our Hopeful Neighborhood Project is tackling this challenge, so people take notice of all the wonderful things God has put into our lives. These neighbors, whether they are Christians or non-Christians, are people gifted by God with gifts to share. We want to create opportunities for people to reach out and bless their own communities.

Our last area of focus is global expansion. We are lifting up local leaders in specific areas around the world to identify and recruit new workers who will be trained

so they can then go back to their own countries and start ministries where we can bring the Gospel message in new languages, new places, new cultures, in a new way.

None of what we are doing can be done, will be done, or will ultimately be successful if you had not responded to the call and said, “Lord, You have blessed me with resources, the ability to pray, and excitement about mission and ministry.” Thank you for being part of LHM’s global family. I look forward to seeing what God will do as we work together to be on His plan, on His mission, to make His Name known around the world. =

LHM Learn Our self-paced online learning platform offers a wide variety of courses to choose from within five faith-strengthening categories, giving you the freedom to enrich your faith life on your time.

Start learning for FREE today at lhm.org/learn.

The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 7

Books, Digital Research Kit: Fresh Tools to Discover Congregational Gifts by PAUL SCHREIBER

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o you ever wonder if your church is making the most of its members’ God-given gifts? Ever wonder if you are using your God-given gifts to their fullest—or if you even understand what God has given you? Exploring this exciting topic are two new works produced by Lutheran Hour Ministries in partnership with Barna Group. Published by InterVarsity Press, Discover Your Gifts by Don Everts, and the companion Discover Your Gifts Workbook by Rev. Dr. Tony Cook and Don Everts, are now available.

Discover Your Gifts ($15) helps readers realize what they may have missed their entire lives: that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” by God (Psalm 139:14b).

Seeing people as God sees them, discovering our God-given gifts, naming our God-given vocations, helping others grow in their gifts, and encouraging others to use their gifts are all covered in this easy-to-read volume.

Various appendices add depth and definition to Everts’ work and conclude with The EveryGift Inventory: an excellent resource to help you discover the special aptitudes, innate abilities, and acquired skills God has given you across 12 distinct areas.

The Discover Your Gifts Workbook ($9) includes 12 chapters to help readers explore the types of gifts that God has given them.

Naturally, gift types vary widely (technical, artistic, communication, financial, leadership, etc.), and you may very well have more than one of them. This workbook highlights several gift types, notes contexts where they might be used, provides brainstorming exercises for sharing these gifts, offers ideas for helping others determine what gifts they have, and more. Cook and Everts share how our gifts can be used in four distinct areas of life: family, church, work, and society.

In addition to these two texts, LHM is also offering a Gifted for More digital research kit. For $39 you receive a ZIP file which includes a copy of the Gifted for More monograph, a slide deck of Barna’s research to present findings, a video link detailing research data, and a discussion guide for leading conversations. This kit is excellent for congregational leaders interested in discovering and utilizing member giftedness but who don’t know where to begin. As a teaching resource for church leaders, its research-based findings will inspire church co-workers to begin thinking differently about the church members they serve—and all the gifts they have to offer. For more information, go to lhm.org/gifted. = Paul Schreiber reports on the impact of LHM’s ministry work in the United States.

Use Your Purchasing Power to Help LHM Share the Gospel Around the World!

Signing up for the Lutheran Hour Ministries Mastercard through Lutheran Federal Credit Union (LFCU) is an easy way to support Gospel proclamation.

Learn more at LHM.ORG/LFCU today!

8 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

A Life-Changing Gift for Future Generations by CHAD FIX

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o one wants to think about the time that our lives here on earth will end. It can be scary and overwhelming trying to make sure your loved ones will be taken care of without you. You know you will surely be missed by family and friends, but how can you leave a mark on this earth that will positively impact the lives of people you have never met? One way to make a difference is by sharing the gift of the Gospel beyond your lifetime when you remember Lutheran Hour Ministries in your will.

By including LHM in your will, you can ensure that the Gospel can and will continue to spread to future generations. There are several ways to include LHM in your estate.

• Direct your gift to the area of greatest need.

This allows LHM the financial freedom to use your gift in the way that will be most effective in sharing God’s Word with unreached people who desperately need His love.

• Set up an endowment to make sure your gift lasts as long as God’s mission through LHM. • If you feel a strong connection to a certain program or ministry center, choose for your gift to go to that specific area.

In addition, by choosing to include LHM as part of your legacy, you are a member of The Hoffmann Society! This group of around 2,500 members has generously remembered LHM in their estate plans and professed that they want to be a part of our mission of Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church even after they have passed on to their eternal glory. These faithful believers are a key part of LHM’s future planning and ensure that the Gospel is shared with future generations.

Many people have included LHM in their final plans and have not yet shared this decision. If you are one of these people, please let us know! For more information, or to tell us we are in your estate plans, go online to lhm.org/giftplan or contact LHM’s gift planning staff by email at lhm-gift@lhm.org or over the phone at 1-877-333-1963. = Chad Fix oversees the corporate communications of LHM.

NURTURING YO U R FA I T H : PA R T F O U R

A Belonging Place and a Launching Base into the Community

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elcome to this Nurturing Your Faith study on the Christian life together. With your Bible and journal at the ready, begin reading below.

After reading the commentary and studying the Word, you’ll be prompted to watch a video online. May God bless your study!

INTRODUCTION If you have a gray hair or two, you know that church life has changed a lot in recent decades. The good news is, it doesn’t take a neuroscientist to understand what’s been happening. On the other hand, simply going along with people’s opinions, our own included, doesn’t help us contribute in an informed and helpful way to conversations about spiritual life.

Many factors have contributed to the decline of Christian organizational life.

Church-going and Bible-reading are no longer common or respected. Digital technology has transformed how we learn and interact with others, even within families. Growing individualism and reliance on centralized government also contribute to the decline of churches.

Individualism tends to weaken mediating power centers that stand between the individual and the nation as a whole— from families to local communities (including local governments), [and] religious institutions…. In their place, it strengthens individuals, on the one hand, and a central government, on the other, since such a government is most able to treat individuals equally by treating them all impersonally. For this reason, a hyperindividualist culture is likely to be governed by a hyper-centralized government, and each is likely to exacerbate the worst inclinations of the other. (Yuval Levin, The Fractured Republic, 99-100).

Individualism isn’t wrong in moderation, but today’s hyper-individualism often means believing I really don’t need others, such as the church. Government in itself is a gift from God, but it becomes a problem when people are looking to it rather than to God to make life right.

The result of all these factors has been the weakening of what Levin calls “mediating power centers.” These are groups like local congregations that stand between an individual and life out in public—places that make a person feel welcome and show us how to go out, live, and work in impersonal society. And this brings us to our study of 1 Peter today. (Thank you to Bethany Lutheran Church of Austin, Texas, and Pastor William Knippa for the title of this Bible study, “A Belonging Place and a Launching Base into the Community.”)

WATC H Visit lhm.org/studies and watch the video from Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer, Speaker Emeritus of The Lutheran Hour, and then come back here to finish the study.

LEARNING FROM THE WORD Read 1 Peter 2:11-3:12 and 4:7-14.

What comes to mind when you hear the word “church”? Of course, one of the best images is the “body of Christ,” but chances are the word “church” also brought to your mind a place, a building set aside for religious functions. News flash: There were no church buildings in the earliest history of the Christian church.

The first believers met together in the private homes of individuals…. The gathering of Christian believers in private homes (or homes renovated for the purpose of Christian gatherings) continued to be the norm until the early decades of the fourth century when Constantine began erecting the first Christian basilicas. For almost three hundred years the believers met in homes, not in synagogues or edifices constructed for the sole purpose of religious assembly. (Bradley Blue, “Acts and the House Church,” in The Book of Acts in Its First Century Setting, II, 120-121) The New Testament frequently mentions households coming to faith. When the Lord told Peter to go to Cornelius, a Gentile, Peter balked because they were “not our kind of people.” Still, after some prompting from the Lord, he went and entered the home of Cornelius, who “had called together his relatives and close friends.” While Peter was witnessing to Jesus, “the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word” and all were baptized (Acts 10:24, 44). Paul also shared the Gospel with households. He reminded the Ephesian elders he had gone “from house to house” (Acts 20:20b). continued …

The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 9

continued from previous page

Read Romans 16:10-11; 1 Corinthians 1:16, 16:19; Colossians 4:15; and Philemon 2.

What do these verses say about households?

This draws our attention to the word “house” in 1 Peter, which is the Greek word oikos. “You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house [oikos] ...” (1 Peter 2:5a). When those words were read to the Christians in Asia Minor, those hearers didn’t think of themselves as a figurative church building but more in terms of a family home. “House” meant their immediate family, extended family, their slaves, and the other Christians who joined with them because their own families were not Christian. “Being built up as a spiritual house” meant that a household, along with other believers who came for the Christian meetings, were growing in the Spirit of their Lord Jesus. Spiritual growth was a key reason for their weekly gatherings (see 1 Peter 2:2).

When you think about your childhood, you may remember regular times, like meals, when you talked about the experiences of the day and thought through the challenges of tomorrow.

Like such families, the household of the church is meant to be “a belonging place and a launching base into the community.” Twenty centuries after 1 Peter, Christians most commonly gather in buildings specifically designed and erected for the functions of the church, but what happens

in today’s “houses of God” should still be what happened when the first Christians came together in their homes. In the learned words of social scientists, the household of the church is a “mediating institution,” a place between solitary individuals and impersonal life “out there.” It is a place where you’re accepted and where you learn how to live in the world.

That’s the way to understand 1 Peter 2:113:12. As Peter instructs individual Christians in their household and community relationships, he keeps bringing us back to why church is our “belonging place”—that is, because of Jesus Christ.

He suffered unjustly, as we sometimes do also, but trusted Himself to God. Now His sacrifice has been vindicated, and He “has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to Him” (1 Peter 3:22).

By the way, that’s how to understand the commands to submit to others (see 1 Peter 2:13, 18; 3:1, 5, 22; 5:5). When we live conscious of the coming return of Jesus Christ in glory, we think less about our own individual rights and much more about our Savior and example, Jesus. We can go into our communities confident in our Lord, knowing He will soon appear in glory.

How do you see the church’s role as a “mediating institution”?

How has church been a “belonging place” for you? If not, how could it become that way?

Launched for witness, we return each Lord’s Day to the household of faith, our “belonging place.”

Doesn’t 1 Peter 4:7-11 describe a place you want to be? Shouldn’t your church be a winsome and attractive place to invite people who don’t yet know Jesus? The hope we share in our communities (see 1 Peter 3:15) is nurtured by weekly gatherings that are qualitatively different than any other gathering or association people have during the week. “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards (literally, stewards of the oikos) of God’s varied grace… in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:10, 11b).

Why is it important to see the church as a “launching base” into the community?

What do we, as the people of God, have to offer the community?

CONCLUSION We’re a household of faith belonging to the exalted, soon-to-be-seen Lord Jesus. What good news, and what opportunities we have as a result!

The ultimate soul-forming institutions in a free society are frequently religious institutions.

Traditional religion offers a direct challenge to the ethic of the age of fracture. Religious commitments command us to a mixture of responsibility, sympathy, lawfulness, and righteousness that align our wants with our duties.

They help form us to be free.

(Levin, 204) There is a yearning for a different way, especially among the young; a way that has integrity with the historic truths of the faith and the witness of the Spirit and that is adequate to the challenges of the present moment. (James Davison Hunter, To Change the World, 276) Let us be about “Bringing Christ to the Nations—and the Nations to the Church”!

“Blessed are those who dwell in Your house” (Psalm 84:4a). Amen.

D O W N LO A D S T U DY G U I D E A N D V I D E O AT L H M . O R G / S T U D I E S 10 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

Planting Seeds for the Gospel

by DR. KURT SENSKE, Chairman, Int’l LLL Board of Directors

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pring is the time of year in which there are visible signs of how our lives are changed by God’s grace. All around us, the “dead” is “coming back to life” and growing, by the grace of the Holy Spirit. It is the perfect time to reflect upon the new life that Christ brings to us through His death and resurrection, as we see the miracle of new life all around us during this season.

While Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday gives us reason to rejoice, it also reminds us that tens of millions of individuals around the world still live without the hope which Jesus made possible.

His salvation is available to all … and we want the entire world to hear!

As Christians, we are called to go and share the Gospel with everyone, sowing spiritual seeds.

Jesus Christ has commissioned us

to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18-20). While this sounds like an overwhelming task, the apostle Paul addressed our responsibility when he wrote, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6,7 NIV).

Our job is to plant and water seeds, and the good news is you do not have to do it alone. As your partner in God’s mission to proclaim forgiveness and freedom through Jesus Christ, Lutheran Hour Ministries is here to walk alongside you, encourage you, support you, and explore ministry options that we can use together to reach the most remote places on earth with the light of the Gospel.

What does that all mean? Your support allows LHM to share God’s

love using the most relevant and effective means available to reach people in the most impactful ways.

This is accomplished by local staff and volunteers who develop and implement culturally relevant programs and resources like radio and television broadcasts, digital platforms, text messaging, print materials, mass gatherings, music, dramas, holistic ministry, and more to share the Good News.

We know that no one person or organization can reach the world’s entire unchurched population on its own—and that is why it so important for us to walk sideby-side with you to spread the message of salvation and eternal life through Jesus. We have all been sent to fulfill God’s mission— the Body of Christ working as one to reach lost and hurting souls. You are a big part of this effort: you are God’s gifts to this organization—Christ’s followers

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”

1 Corinthians 3:6,7 NIV whose heart and commitment to ministry inspire and motivate all of us at LHM. Thank you so much for your prayers, your time, and your financial support. We have made it our mission to encourage you as you respond to God’s call to action.

Will you tell someone about the resurrection of Jesus Christ? If you sow the seed, He will make it grow. =

Join over 50,000 fellow Christians in prayer and reflection every day by subscribing to our Daily Devotions. This allows you to read, listen to the audio version, and share them with others whenever you like.

The Lutheran Hour proudly proclaims the Gospel every week over radio stations across the country.

And just like our Daily Devotions, you can get these sermons delivered to your inbox every week to read, listen, and share with others.

Subscribe to The Lutheran Hour and the Daily Devotions at LHM.ORG/NEWSROOM, or download the apps from your favorite app store.

The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 11

SPOTTING GOD’S GOODNESS GOSPEL ADVENTURES:

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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n partnership with Group Publishing, Lutheran Hour Ministries takes grade school through middle schoolaged children and some adults on a week-long adventure each year.

Gospel Adventures: Zambia Bound, an informative and interactive virtual learning experience, is complete with five days of FREE curriculum in two formats and bonus materials.

Every year, kids are introduced to kids just like them living in another country who carry their faith with them through day-to-day life. Kids learn about the foods, animals, people, and places of Zambia with Gospel Adventures. Participants of Zambia Bound shared that they appreciate how the materials are organized and that there is plenty of information to use every day. The students especially love the theme song and look forward to the videos and various hands-on activities associated with the program.

Visit gospeladventures.org to sign up today!

Making an Impact on Kids Around the World A main feature of Gospel Adventures is the opportunity for kids in the United States to help raise funds that directly support children in other regions all over the globe. Since 2012, kid donors and schools have given around $250,000 to support the Global Kids Fund, which supports kid-centered LHM ministry efforts in countries around the world.

School expenses in Africa can be very expensive for parents. To avoid the added costs, many young children often need to leave school and help support their families financially. Allowing children to remain in school is one of the most important ways to ensure they receive a foundation for their future. LHM’s ministry centers in Kenya and Madagascar are partnering with local Lutheran congregations to identify children in their communities who are at risk of leaving school. We will supply them with a school supply kit that consists of a backpack filled with pens, paper, workbooks, other school supplies, and a Christian book that shares the Gospel message with the children.

Make the most of your journey by helping LHM fill school supply kits for students in Africa! Gifts made to the Global Kids Fund through Gospel Adventures will lessen the financial burden on families, allowing more children to remain in school to give them a better opportunity for success in their lives.

A gift of $5 will provide a backpack for one kit.

A gift of $10 will provide the school supplies and Christian book for one kit.

A gift of $15 will provide one complete kit of a backpack and supplies.

Here’s what some are saying about Gospel Adventures: Zambia Bound …

“My kindergarten class really enjoyed learning about specific kids and their daily chores, schools, etc. This helped them grasp life there better.

This year’s song was awesome!”

12 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

“My students were very engaged! They learned a lot about the culture, animals, and how kids’ experiences are both similar and different from their own.

The supporting materials were also great!”

Zambia Bound!

Zambia Bound Giveaway!

Giving Kids a Hands-On Outreach Experience Dr. Melissa Sandfort, principal of Child of God Lutheran School in St. Peters, Missouri, shared about her students’ experience with Gospel Adventures: Zambia Bound. “Child of God Lutheran School develops Christ-like character and academic excellence for students beginning in preschool twos through eighth grade,” says Sandfort. “The students participated in Gospel Adventures as part of our National Lutheran Schools Week in January. The Global Kids Fund was selected to receive the students’ chapel offering for the week.”

“We educate the students about first fruits (Proverbs 3:9) and encourage them to honor God,” continues Sandfort. “This includes praying to God, preparing to be good stewards with the blessings He has given us, prioritizing God, and giving back to God what is ultimately His. This is our second year to participate in the Gospel Adventures program. The students absolutely love learning about other cultures especially seeing how students their age live, learn, play, and worship the same God!” Students in grades K through 6 at Christ Community Lutheran School in Watertown, Minnesota, also participated in Gospel Adventures: Zambia Bound during National Lutheran Schools Week. The students in Wendy

“I loved how much material there was! The students and I had so much fun learning about Zambia and God. The class especially loved the videos and learning about the kids. I wish we had these year-round!”

Schilling’s classes, grades 3 and 4, raised money for the Global Kids Fund. “I printed off the banks to color, then I sent them home with the goal of each child bringing five dollars to purchase a backpack for a child in need,” says Schilling.

“Some of the kids really took this to heart and we raised way more than our goal. One child in my class, in particular, felt really moved to help kids in Zambia. He was especially touched by the video of the child who went to school with no chairs, desks, or school supplies. He donated seventy dollars that he had earned mowing lawns last summer and was saving for something special.

He wanted to give it all away. He also made phone calls and collected over half of our total amount of money. Someone saw his mom’s Facebook post about the fundraiser and got her in touch with Vincent Kabaso, a PGA golf professional from Zambia. My student even got to talk to Vincent on the phone and was sent a signed copy of a book he’s written. I’m now sharing that book with the class at read-aloud time.”

“I would say the favorite parts of the program were the song and the videos about the kids. They were fascinated by their lifestyles and how they differ so much from their own. All the pictures of the wildlife were awesome! We really enjoyed the program and thought it was very well done.”

“My five boys absolutely loved learning about Zambia. From the music to the activities and worksheets, they enjoyed it all so much that they were sad when it was over.”

When you donate to the Global Kids Fund this year, you and your students can earn gifts for your classroom. These gifts are limited and only available while supplies last, so the sooner you turn in your donation, the sooner you can decorate your classroom. So far this year, students have raised enough money to fill over 660 backpacks for students in Africa!

A donation of $45 fills three backpacks for children in Africa and earns your class a Zambia Bound poster!

A donation of $90 fills six backpacks and earns your class a Zambia Bound poster and a copy of Good, Gooder, Goodest!

If you donate to the Global Kids Fund as a school, we’ll send posters and books for every set of three or six backpacks filled!

Visit gospeladventures.org and navigate to the Global Kids Fund page to donate now. = The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 13

New LHM Learn course AVAILABLE NOW!

Congregation Spotlight:

How YOU Can Join LHM’s Mission

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

Congregation: St. Peter Lutheran Church Location: Dahlonega, Georgia Congregation size: Around 60 members Contact person: Pastor Michael How does your congregation support LHM? Our support includes prayers for LHM’s work, financial support through our budgetary commitment, individual gifts from members, and the use of LHM’s materials to help us share the love of Christ and His Word more fully and effectively.

What was the motivation behind supporting LHM? We sponsor The Lutheran Hour over the local Christian radio station. It’s another way to witness to our community.

During the season of Reformation, WCDG-FM welcomed me to provide guidance for people to read the entire New Testament in 95 days. We have used LHM’s special devotional booklets for both the Advent and the Lenten seasons to reach out to prospects and friends of the congregation.

What has been your members’ feedback? What do your members like about LHM? Our members’ feedback has been most positive. In addition to the Advent and Lenten devotions, many of our folks enjoy reading your devotions sent to them via email each day. I know I do! The Lutheran Layman newspaper includes encouraging articles for witnessing and serving and helps us know what is happening around the world. The Project Connect booklets help people respond to different challenges and opportunities in their lives. The workshops are most valuable in helping our members realize what it means to be the priesthood of all believers and the privilege we have of witnessing to our Lord wherever we may find ourselves, whether at home, in the neighborhood, at school, the workplace, sports field, or elsewhere. The ministry of LHM is most invaluable.

Photo from Pastor Michael If your congregation would like to learn more about how you can support LHM’s mission, contact Robin Forsythe at 314-317-4152 or robin.forsythe@lhm.org. If you would like to make a gift of support, visit lhm.org/give. = 14 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

Talking To Children About God

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alking about the Christian faith with a child doesn’t have to be the intimidating experience we often make it. In 5 Ways to Talk About Faith with Your Child, you’ll learn how Jesus often used questions, pictures, stories, everyday moments, and God’s kingdom when speaking about spiritual matters with others. You can use these same five strategies when having a spiritual conversation with the kids you know.

As the LHM Learn video introduction from this course says, “Jesus was masterful in the art of spiritual conversations. He often asked thought-provoking questions and responded to questions with questions, in a way that demanded critical thinking and encouraged self-discovery.

He used relevant word pictures and stories. He initiated and responded to everyday encounters with people, and He talked a lot about the kingdom of God.” Featured among the five ways you can talk about your faith are ideas you can use right now. The course gives Bible verses that show Jesus in action, suitable questions to ask kids, images to make teaching points, tips and video from parents who have spiritual conversations with their kids, and some suggestions for talking about God’s kingdom with children. A bonus activity

by PAUL SCHREIBER

gives course users a taste of LHM’s Vibrant Conversations Deck—a fun and exciting resource to spark spiritual conversations while playing cards. (See the next page for details!)

Downloadable resources for the course include a “cheat sheet” highlighting the 5 conversation methods and applicable Bible references plus a page of 20 questions you can use to talk with a child about God and faith. Also included is a link to the Project Connect booklet, Helping Your Child Grow Through Faith Conversations. It’s written by Mary Oldfield, a retired children’s ministry director. Easy-access buttons will link you to two of LHM’s Barna-based resources: the Spiritual Conversation Curve and the Households of Faith Kit. 5 Ways to Talk About Faith with Your Child is the third LHM Learn Christian Foundations course that gives adults tools and resources for relating with children on spiritual topics. The two other courses, 5 Ways to Engage Scripture with Your Child and 5 Ways to Pray with Your Child, likewise contain insights and info to make these adult– child connections more natural and less stressing. For the full list of all LHM Learn courses available, including those in four other faith-enriching categories, please go to lhm.org/learn. =

Jesus was masterful in the art of spiritual conversations.

Vibrant Conversations Deck: 52 Ways to Break the Ice by PAUL SCHREIBER

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ometimes things are not what they seem. Take Lutheran Hour Ministries’ Vibrant Conversations Deck, for instance. At first look, it’s an ordinary deck of playing cards. Ahh but flip one over and you’ll discover their special charm: they can open doors to conversation and exciting revelations. As part of LHM’s Households of Faith Kit, the Deck is one of several resources designed to make a family’s time together more rewarding.

“I love to incorporate family Perfect for enjoying your favorite card ministry in all I do, and this was game, each card in the Deck also poses a a great way to do just that …” question for players to respond to—such as “If you could have lunch with Jesus, what people. Congregations are passing questions would you ask Him?” Or “How them out to families of kids in their preschools many neighbors from your street can you as part of their outreach ministry. Donna name? Can you share one fact about them?”

Einspahr, preschool director of Mountain View Or “What is the hardest thing about being Lutheran Church and School in Las Vegas, your age right now?” The prompts are fun for Nevada, said she used grant money to purchase kids and adults and encourage conversation 85 decks for distribution. participation in an easy-going manner.

Michaela Seeliger is director of Christian The Vibrant Conversations Deck is perfect for education at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church using in church activities with kids and young

in Wichita Falls, Texas. Recently, during Sunday services she’s been doing a series on kids’ board games and what they can teach us about God’s Word. “I ordered the decks of cards as a giveaway for each family for when I wrap up the series in a few weeks. I love to incorporate family ministry in all I do, and this was a great way to do just that, as well as tie into the theme of games I’ve been teaching during the lessons,” she said.

The Vibrant Conversations Deck’s 52 questions center on four categories: spiritual disciplines, hospitality, spiritual conversations, and food & fun. You can get your Deck as a single item for $5 or as part of LHM’s Households of Faith Kit for $37. The kit includes The Spiritually Vibrant Home by Don Everts, a small group study DVD, three kidsoriented booklets for parents, three illustrated children’s booklets, 30-Days of Household Devotions by Dr. Kari Vo, and the Households of Faith monograph. Visit lhm.org/households for details. =

Hundreds Participate in Two Virtual Events

by CHAD FIX

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ore than 260 people registered for the Spring LLL Virtual Event March 5 and participated through a combination of online and inperson watch parties. The theme of “Better Together: Discovering the Gifts in Your Neighborhood” was supported by a devotion from Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour, and a recorded video greeting from President and CEO Kurt Buchholz.

Jennifer Prophete, LHM’s director of community programming, and Sara Johnson, The Hopeful Neighborhood Project coach, led participants through a workshop to help them discover the gifts in their individual neighborhoods.

One attendee shared, “This event explained The Hopeful Neighborhood Project very clearly. I appreciate this as a resource I can take back to my church to better explain the program and the resources that are available for us to use. Many folks in our church are looking for ways to be more engaged in our communities and within our neighborhoods, but do not know where to start. This program provides great materials to do just that, and the replay of this event works great as both an inspirational nudge and a helpful guide.”

A second event, The Hoffmann Society Spring Virtual Event, was held April 11. More than 120 participants logged on through Zoom to hear Buchholz share a short update on how LHM is sharing the Gospel with millions of people around the world. Zeigler also provided a devotional message and LHM Chief Development Officer, Major and Planned Gifts Terry Biesboer offered details about how giving through endowment sustains ministry impact into the future.

One participant shared, “This was my first time attending an event like this. I enjoyed what the speakers had to say and was glad to hear how LHM is adapting and growing during challenging times.”

Plans are already underway for each group’s fall event. Look for more details in the next issue of The Lutheran Layman. =

Register for free today!

GOSPELADVENTURES.ORG The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 15

LHM’s Presence Returns at Nationwide Gatherings

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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s COVID-19 restrictions are lifting in many parts of the United States, staff at LHM are eagerly getting back to many pre-pandemic routines, including attending and presenting at conferences. The face-to-face interaction that comes from these events is a great way for LHM to share some of our new resources with others.

“Now that things are opening back up again, it is so important for LHM to participate in these events and share the Good News of Jesus Christ with attendees,” says Nicole Heerlein, associate director of external relations. “We love meeting new people and seeing how our resources are being used in people’s lives. One woman came up to me at one of the events and said she used the materials in her Households of Faith Kit in her small group. She particularly enjoyed the Vibrant Conversations Decks and shared that she bought additional decks to place on tables as conversation starters at fellowship events that she hosted.”

Here is a quick summary of some of the gatherings and events that LHM has been a part of so far this year.

“LHM is truly blessed to participate in these important events, equipping a significant cross-section of the church with our resources while also sharing how we can support and partner with individuals, schools, and churches to accomplish our common mission in the future.”

– Jeff Craig-Meyer, LHM senior vice president and chief strategy officer 16 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

BEST PRACTICES MINISTRY CONFERENCE PHOENIX, ARIZONA / FEBRUARY 17-19 Rev. Dr. Tony Cook, vice president of Global Ministries, and Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies, regional director for North America, engaged attendees at their sessions, and LHM staff enjoyed conversations at our booth regarding our resources for sharing the Gospel and faith no matter where people are in their faith journey.

Cook presented a session titled “We’re Better Together” that served as an introduction to creating a collaborative network of people committed to improving neighborhood wellbeing. In addition, Cook highlighted LHM’s three-step process that sparks action in our

communities, based on our latest research with Barna Group.

Lakies’ session titled “How NOT to Let Issues Prevent Relationships” offered a biblical vision for how to engage with others who think and believe differently than we do. Together, workshop participants considered their own conversation habits, thought about their thinking, and let Jesus show them a better way. LHM shared booth space with the Rose Parade Petal Pushers at the conference, which provided another tangible approach to connect how we share the Gospel around the world in a very visible way.

* Concordia University Chicago DCE students photo by Debra Arfsten; other event photos provided by Nicole Heerlein.

INTERNATIONAL CONCORDIA SEMINARY, ST. LOUIS STUDENTS ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI / MARCH 22 International students studying at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis visited LHM on March 22 to learn about our global ministry as well as our Barna resources, specifically Households of Faith.

Cook shared about LHM’s history as well as a look at future ministry plans. Each attendee took home a Households of Faith Kit, and each child that attended received a goody bag of their own.

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LUTHERAN SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR’S CONFERENCE ORLANDO, FLORIDA MARCH 27-29 Cook provided a keynote on “Creating Classrooms of Hope” to 250 people at the Lutheran School Administrator’s Conference.

With his keynote, Cook aimed to encourage educators to work together with families to create Gospel-rich classrooms in light of current trends in the church and world.

Each keynote attendee received a copy of LHM’s book The Spiritually Vibrant Home and the three corresponding Households of Faith Project Connect booklets. In addition, Lakies led a breakout session on “Confident Pluralism” and Ashley Bayless, director of production, led a breakout session on “The Welcoming School: Nurturing Faith through the Power of Hospitality.” LHM had a significant booth presence at this event as well.

CONCORDIA SEMINARY, ST. LOUIS ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI APRIL 20 LHM had the recent privilege of honoring Concluding Students of Concordia Theological Seminary and Concordia Seminary, St Louis.

With the help of the Indiana, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas LLL Districts, LHM encouraged the new seminary graduates as they prepare to receive their first calls and reminded them that we’re here to help now and in the future. Pictured are Concluding Students of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, who enjoyed a BBQ dinner to celebrate their accomplishments.

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO DCE STUDENTS ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI MARCH 29 Rev. Dr. Jason Broge, senior director of design and development, and Rachel Tichich, digital development manager, met with DCE students from Concordia University Chicago.

They shared how LHM can support them as they prepare to begin their ministry work.

LHM gifted the students with Barna resources.

Q IDEAS CULTURE SUMMIT NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE APRIL 28-29 During Q Idea’s 16th annual Culture Summit, Cook presented on LHM’s efforts on giftedness, based on research done in partnership with Barna Group. He shared how important it is to discover our gifts, especially in the “crisis of purpose” that we are living in right now. Our gifts are given to us by God and using them to help others honor Him. Cook reminded attendees that we all have a story and meaning in Jesus, and we can all work together to find our purpose. To discover your individual gifts, go to everygift.org and take the EveryGift Inventory. = The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 17

Sharing Their Hearts for International Ministry for Years to Come

by MEGAN MCDANIEL

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ith roots in the United States and families and careers that took them around the world, Clay and Nancy Goehring are no strangers to international ministry.

Growing up, Nancy’s father was a pastor and missionary. Nancy was born in Tampa, Florida, but spent 13 years living in Japan.

Clay’s father was also a pastor, and after living in New Mexico, he served as a pilot in the United States Navy for 24 years. The couple came together in Japan while Clay was stationed there, and Nancy and her family served as missionaries.

Clay rounded out his 40-year flying career as a flight instructor and air ambulance pilot. He now volunteers in a Christian thrift store two days a week. Nancy worked several years at an adoption agency and raised their three children. She has 13 years of experience volunteering with international students.

Together, Clay and Nancy enjoy hiking and spending time with their three children and 14 grandchildren. “Our family is our hobby,” says Nancy. She uses her sewing skills to make quilts for charity, and Clay likes leatherwork and making leather goods.

They have always been familiar with LHM as Clay’s dad was an active listener to The Lutheran Hour his whole life. “I remember as a kid we listened to The Lutheran Hour every Sunday,” says Clay. Clay and Nancy would listen to The Lutheran Hour on Sundays in the car on the way to the early church service.

They recently became familiar with SAT-7, the first and largest Middle East and North African Christian satellite TV network, after they lived in the Middle East for two years while Clay was stationed there years ago.

SAT-7’s mission caught their eyes. They already had the heart to share the Gospel, but living in a country where so many people are desperately searching for hope encouraged Nancy to further explore sharing

the Good News of the Gospel with people living there. After discovering SAT-7, she was excited that Christians in the region could benefit from their programs.

This past Christmas, they received a letter from Ben Marriott, a senior ministry advancement counselor for LHM. They were thrilled to learn how LHM and SAT-7 are partnering together to share the Gospel with people in this area of the world who often face trials and hardships in their lives.

Beyond the New Light talk show reaching young adults throughout the Middle East and North Africa on SAT-7’s Arabic channel, LHM has expanded program support on the SAT-7 PARS channel to reach more Persian-speaking individuals in Central and South Asia. Hashtag is a weekly program focused on older children and youth where the host tells a Bible story and helps viewers apply lessons to their lives. In addition, the weekly Signal program addresses current issues for adults, with guest speakers, positive news stories, Bible study, music, and viewer testimonies included in each episode.

They immediately set up a visit with Ben, where he shared additional ministry updates and offered ways for the Goehrings to help LHM expand its ministry work.

After considering a few different gift options, Clay and Nancy decided they wanted to set up an endowment in honor of Clay’s parents W.T. and Violet Goehring with Lutheran Hour Ministries to continue LHM’s mission for years to come. “We have previously set up an endowment with a seminary since our fathers were both pastors,” says Clay. “Having that experience helped us decide to start an endowment with LHM versus another planned gift.”

They shared that they would highly recommend starting an endowment with LHM. It was an easy process, and they loved working with Ben. “It was so good to meet Ben. He is an excellent representative of LHM and was so knowledgeable,” says Nancy.

Clay and Nancy set up an endowment with Lutheran Hour Ministries in honor of Clay’s parents to continue LHM’s mission for years to come.

Clay and Nancy Goehring

Giving through an endowment provides security and control to supporters. This type of gift sustains your ministry impact into the future while allowing you the freedom to determine how your contributions are used. Lutheran Hour Ministries receives the proceeds of the funds to use for ministry, while the initial investment into the fund is protected for perpetuity.

When endowments are established with The Lutheran Hour Ministries Foundation, you can elect to have the fund support specific areas of ministry or the area of greatest need.

The best part of this type of gift is that as investments grow, the impact on ministry over time will far surpass your initial investment.

If you are interested in supporting LHM’s global ministry through a planned gift, contact LHM’s gift planning staff at 1-877-333-1963 or lhm-gift@lhm.org. =

“I remember as a kid we listened to The Lutheran Hour every Sunday.”

18 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

Sharing the Gospel Through Financial Alphabet Training

S

everal LHM ministry centers use holistic outreach or proclamation programs as an effective way of demonstrating and telling people of the love of Christ. These programs have a comprehensive impact in reaching both body and soul as a ministry to the unchurched in word and deed where both physical and spiritual needs are addressed.

One of the newest holistic programs is taking place in Mongolia, where only three percent of the population has a bank savings account and around 90 percent have costly consumer loans. Since financial literacy is extremely low throughout the country, LHM–Mongolia has implemented Financial Alphabet Training as a way of helping both Christians and non-Christians manage their limited resources while also having a chance to hear about the Gospel through the training modules.

The purpose of this training is to provide financial education to families, youth, and single parents to teach them how to manage their finances wisely and sustainably. It encourages them to apply what they learn during the training into their daily lives to result in stronger families, indepth financial knowledge, and a stable financial outlook where they can overcome debt and avoid a budgetary crisis. The weekly training sessions take place over two months and are focused on

Christian perspectives regarding specific topics each time: • Personal Value: Helping attendees learn more about themselves, their values, the purpose of life, and the roles of a husband and wife within the family dynamic.

• Ownership: Changing attitudes about money and presenting a financial picture from the past, present, and future.

After the training is completed, attendees are encouraged to continue meeting once a month to start a savings group where they review their family finances. In the future, they will potentially help each other learn how to start a business.

“So far the training has been very well received and it is becoming a good outreach tool for us,” says the director of LHM–Mongolia. =

by CHAD FIX

LHM–Mongolia has implemented Financial Alphabet Training as a way of helping both Christians and non-Christians manage their limited resources while also having a chance to hear about the Gospel through the training modules.

• Financial Pressures and Debt: Finding out how debt-relief plans, loans, and internships impact finances.

• Giving: Explaining biblical reasons for giving and the importance and joy of giving to others.

• Preservation: Learning how to protect yourself from risk in future investments.

• Family Finance: Recognizing how dreams and daily practices affect income and expenses and learning how to make a budget to save money.

• Pocket Money: Teaching children the correct financial principles from an early age, how to use pocket money efficiently, and the differences in wants and needs.

• Summary: Tying information from each session together so attendees can apply what they learned moving forward.

Your Legacy. Their Future.

Your life has been saved through the Gospel. You can help share this soul-saving hope with future generations by remembering Lutheran Hour Ministries in your will.

Contact LHM’s gift planning team to learn how you can grow God’s Kingdom through your will.

1-877-333-1963 | lhm-gift@lhm.org | lhm.org/giftplan

The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 19

CHANGING LIVES Around the World with the

byMEGAN MEGANMCDANIEL MCDANIEL by

Gospel

Maria connected with LHM–Nicaragua and has since been using their programs and resources to help encourage children with the Gospel.

Cambodia

Ben is 36 years old and makes a living by traveling to villages to buy secondhand items and resell them. He is married with four children and provides for his father who started living with him after his mother died several months ago. Ben grew up in a nonChristian religious household. In 1998, Ben’s father heard the Gospel for the first time and was led by the Holy Spirit to become a Christian. After that time, Ben was around 14 years old and wanted to challenge his father’s new faith. Now, Ben’s father is a supporter of LHM–Cambodia and uses their booklets for sharing the Gospel with others. Recently, Ben’s father asked him to read the Bible to him because his eyesight was starting to decline, and it was hard for him to read the print. Ben was willing to help his father and figured he could find reasons to back up his plan to avoid Christianity. As he read the Bible, Ben did not find reasons to support his beliefs. He instead realized that he wanted a relationship with God. Through the power of God’s Word, Ben became a Christian. Ben and his family became volunteers for LHM– Cambodia and continue to grow in their faith.

20 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

Maria is a kindergarten teacher and volunteers during her spare time to help educate children in her community. Several years ago, Maria connected with LHM–Nicaragua and has since been using their programs and resources to help encourage children with the Gospel.

LHM–Nicaragua staff are thankful for Maria’s partnership, and they look forward to continuing to make a difference in the lives of children in their community.

Nicaragua

Liberia

Joseph is 23 years old and dropped out of college when he was introduced to drugs. He went to church with his parents as a child, but when he went to school he stopped going to church. Joseph saw one of his friends who was addicted to drugs turn his life around after going to church. He decided to go to a recovery home with his friend and ended up talking to a pastor. At the recovery home, Joseph and his friend joined a youth program led by LHM–Liberia. They participated in discussions and seminars to learn more about Jesus.

Joseph became a member of the local church and through the power of the Holy Spirit, he became a Christian. He enrolled in classes to finish his education and continues to grow his faith.

… through the power of the Holy Spirit, Joseph became a Christian.

Hai is 24 years old and lives in an area that does not have church gatherings now due to COVID-19 restrictions.

He was interested in the architecture of churches in his area and reached out to LHM staff in Central and South Asia through WhatsApp. He began asking questions about church history and the Bible. Hai was encouraged to enroll in LHM’s Bible Correspondence Courses. After enrolling and starting the lessons, Hai wanted to share what he was learning with his girlfriend who then wanted to start the lessons herself. They were able to talk through what they were learning together and through the power of God’s Word, Hai became a Christian. Hai is attending church services and continues to follow LHM on social media to grow in his faith.

Central and South Asia

Individuals around the world are reached more than 150 million times each week with the Gospel through Lutheran Hour Ministries’ culturally relevant programs and resources. Below are just a few examples to show how God has been using LHM recently to change lives around the world with His Good News.

Saw reached out to LHM–Myanmar staff, asking to be connected to a local church.

Ayala is thankful for the LHM–Paraguay staff and is eager to learn about Jesus.

Sri Lanka

Staff at the LHM–Sri Lanka ministry center recently got several responses from listeners to their Time of Hope radio program. A woman who practices a non-Christian religion said she has been listening to the LHM– Sri Lanka radio program for four years and shared that it has been a blessing in her life. She also requested a Bible verse calendar in response to an advertisement she heard during the program.

Nadeesh also called to say he and his wife have been listening to the radio programs for five years.

They also requested a Bible verse calendar and are encouraged by the program to keep listening.

The LHM–Sri Lanka staff know there are many untold stories from individuals who have benefitted from the program.

They are thankful for their supporters and look forward to more opportunities to share the Gospel with others.

Every Friday the LHM–Paraguay staff members set up a table with topical booklets in front of their ministry center office. Each week, they choose a different topic to display. During the week focusing on suicide, a woman named Ayala stopped by and picked up a booklet. After she got home and read through it, she called the ministry center and shared how much it impacted her.

Ayala shared that she is a long-time widow, and she has considered suicide several times in her life. The booklet encouraged her to think about her life and how she can make changes to become more positive. Ayala wanted to learn more about Jesus, so the staff set up a time to meet with her at home and share the Gospel message with her. She is thankful for the LHM–Paraguay staff and is eager to learn about Jesus.

Paraguay

Ghana

David is 27 years old and works as a farmer. Since COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in some areas, LHM– Ghana started hosting outdoor film events again. David heard about the film events through his community radio station, so he went to the event and was encouraged by the message they showed. He admitted he was not very interested in going to the event but decided to go anyway.

David shared that he was touched by the message and the continued relationship he created with the LHM–Ghana staff. Through the power of God’s Spirit, he became a Christian. He wanted to become a local church member, and he is now joyfully attending services as he grows his relationship with Jesus.

Saw is 38 years old. He and his family recently moved to a small town in Myanmar and were facing challenges in their life. They are all Christians but had not gone to church for many years. Saw found the LHM–Myanmar Facebook page and started following it. He also started listening to the LHM– Myanmar radio programs regularly.

Saw also got his children involved with the children’s programs including Bible recitation. When he heard his children practicing their Bible verses at home, he longed to go to church. Saw reached out to LHM–Myanmar staff, asking to be connected to a local church. The whole family is enjoying going to church and learning more about Jesus. =

Myanmar

David was touched by the message and the continued relationship he created with the LHM–Ghana staff.

The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 21

The journey through anxiety can certainly be harrowing, but a substantially different way of life is possible!

Dealing with Anxiety— Focus of New Project Connect Booklet

by PAUL SCHREIBER

A

nxiety can hit us all from time to time. Like a blinking light on our body’s dashboard, our anxieties are telling us it’s time to pay attention to what’s under the hood.

A new Project Connect booklet by licensed counselor AmyRuth Bartlett offers wisdom and hope for those who struggle with anxiety.

Bartlett writes, “If you’ve been a believer for very long, chances are good you’ve heard at least one sermon on Jesus’ words in Matthew 6: ‘And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?’ … However, this passage has also been misused at

times to shame those who struggle with anxiety and fear. … If you have been clobbered with the idea that your anxiety is a result of not having enough faith … I invite you to explore with me the promise and power that God has invested in you beyond the pain.”

For far too many, anxiety is a daily peril, gripping the individual in a chronic state of tension and fear. It can undermine self, sabotage relationships, and test our faith.

Often driven by fear and shame, our anxieties’ root causes may run deep into our past and, left unaddressed, can have negative long-term effects on our well-being.

Bartlett provides ten exercises to help readers develop skills to explore their anxieties. Moving forward often requires a deep dive into the past to uncover and understand those things that make us anxious. The author’s valuable exercises include recording our fears and anxieties, identifying messages of shame, examining how our avoidance can exacerbate our anxiety, slowing down to make better decisions, and learning to confront our anxieties. For those at an impasse with their anxiety, consulting with a doctor, counselor, or pastor is a good place to begin.

Though we believe God has

given us a spirit of power, love, and self-control (see 2 Timothy 1:7), we may find ourselves thinking that His peace is unattainable in our lives. In this, our anxieties can actually point to something that needs our attention, inviting us into creative learning. Bartlett writes, “Ask yourself, ‘What is my anxiety warning me about?’ and ‘What skills would make me less anxious right now?’ … The journey through anxiety can certainly be harrowing, but a substantially different way of life is possible!”

To learn more about Project Connect booklets, visit our website at lhm.org/projectconnect. =

Making Online Connections in Latin America by CHAD FIX

V

ivenciar.net has been an instrumental digital platform for LHM to reach Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking individuals since its launch in 2017. It has become even more significant the past two years as people have grappled with the pandemic’s effects on their daily lives. More people than ever are searching the internet for guidance on topics like stress, anxiety, depression, fear, guilt, toxic relationships, suicide, and other issues.

Vivenciar.net offers relevant content to help these people. It encourages them to download topical e-books, watch videos, and talk to our team of 30 volunteers currently available throughout Latin America. Since the beginning of the pandemic, specific content to help people deal with COVID-related issues such as quarantine and isolation, effects on the family, life in COVID times, and facing disease have been added to the platform’s offerings.

In addition, LHM staff is using a multichannel platform to chat with people who want to interact with us. The Huggy.io platform allows staff and volunteers to communicate

22 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

through an online chat, in addition to using Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and Telegram—which are all popular tools in Latin America. The volunteer support team can respond to any message using a single communication application from Huggy, available for smartphones. Since we started using this system, we tripled the number of people who contact us each month.

Marta from Guatemala shared that she was suffering from strong feelings of fear and stress that resulted from her family relationships. After exchanging online messages back and forth with our volunteer one evening, Marta wrote: “Thank you for listening to me and being with me. You are a good friend, and I hope you have a very good night.” They continued to chat and after a few months she wrote: “You cannot imagine how grateful I am for you and your prayers! God listened to our prayers, and I hope God gives you as much as you are asking in prayers for me.” Marta took our online Bible course, Who is Jesus?, and has continued to stay in contact with our ministry center in Guatemala.

Marcia from Brazil sent an urgent message seeking help: “I am in extreme need and don’t know what to do to avoid seeing my children suffering in hunger. I sold my fridge and my 10-year-old daughter’s bike to provide them with food. I am desperate.” Our staff quickly registered Marcia in a local social program and referred her to a local church.

Stories like these continue to be heard from the more than 135,000 people who have accessed Vivenciar.net from 58 countries over the past 10 months. More than 1,000 of these individuals have started ongoing conversations with trained staff and volunteers. =

LMWL Grant Supports LHM’s Work in Mongolia

New Digital Research Kits!

by CHAD FIX

(l-r) LHM Vice President of Global Ministries Rev. Dr. Tony Cook; LHM Senior Vice President/Chief Strategy Officer Jeff Craig-Meyer; LWML President Debbie Larson; LHM Grants Manager Lois Engfehr; LWML Vice President of Christian Life Susan Brunkow; and LWML Senior Pastoral Counselor Rev. Brian Noack. *Photo by Nicole Heerlein

L

SPIRITUAL CONVERSATIONS INtoTHE DIGITAL AGE utheran Hour Ministries was honored receive a $100,000 check from

SPIRITUAL CONVERSATIONS IN THE DIGITAL AGE

While public opinions about the Church at large are mixed, feelings toward individual Christians are often much warmer. Redeeming the Church’s broader reputation may need to involve recommitting to its personal presence.

Better Together

the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) during a special presentation at the LCMS International Center on March 23. The LWML approved LHM’s Mission “ItSpiritual is a true Thank you for purchasing the Digital Research Kit: Conversations in the Digital Age. Grant titled “Gospel Outreach to Women and Children DISCUSSION GUIDE blessing to come in Mongolia” during its convention lastkitJune OF FAITH This digital research givesin you the opportunity to dig into the research by Lutheran Hour HOUSEHOLDS HOUSEHOLDS OF FAITH Releasing Christians to Build Lexington, Kentucky. LHM wasand oneBarna of 28 recipients to resources, together in Ministries Group.

With these you can share the findings with your team or & Be the Local Church lead your group in conversations about the research and the implications for receive a grant for theorganization 2021-2023and biennium. mission to share your ministry.

Mongolia is a country that is less than one percent God’s Word with Christian, and the people there come In this folder,traditionally you will find four resources to use with your team: those who Thank haveyou for purchasing the Digital Research Kit: Households of Faith. from extremely poor nomadic populations where they BETTER TOGETHER A digital ofBETTER theThis monograph, Spiritualnot Conversations in the Digital Age (can shared have little opportunity to· hear the copy Gospel. grantTOGETHER digital research kitbe gives you the opportunity to dig into the research by Lutheran Hour heardThis it.” with up to 10 users) Ministries and Barna Group. With these resources, you can share the findings with your team or will help LHM focus on three areas: A Barna Report Produced in Partnership with Lutheran Hour Ministries

Barna Group undertook this study to learn more about the types of people who are taking initiative in their communities—who gather, donate, serve, create, teach, mobilize and innovate, alongside other passionate neighbors, to meet needs around them. Better Together, the latest report in an ongoing research partnership with Lutheran Hour Ministries, seeks to understand Christians who love their neighborhoods of their own volition, even outside of professional obligation or the formal structure of ministry programs. Join us in learning from—and following the lead of—an exemplary minority of organized, altruistic individuals who have contributed to outward-focused action in their communities.

Alongside new research and data visualizations, Better Together includes:

• Profiles of different types of people who participate in volunteer groups and what drives them toward compassion and collaboration • Details about how healthy groups form, communicate and grow • Insights about how churches can step up (or step aside) to empower laity and benefit communities • Interviews with Gabe Lyons, Makoto Fujimura, Becca Stevens and a panel of faith and nonprofit leaders from across the U.S.

This report is intended to help churches understand the impact and inner workings of groups of good neighbors, and to help leaders develop a vision for how these members might complement their ministry goals.

organization and lead your group in conversations about the research and the implications for

· A presenter’s deck for sharing theparticipate research in presentation form • Sharing the Gospel with women andslide their children who in your ministry. monthly Women’s Listener groups after hearing our Christian radio in the Digital Age research by LHM · A video presentation about the Spiritual Conversations Thank you purchasing the Digital Research Kit: and Better Together.

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How Christians Can Be a Welcome Influence in Their Neighborhoods

In this folder, you four resources: Thank you for purchasing the Digital Research Kit: Gifted for More.

Physical copies of will the find monograph are available at LHM’s Storefront:

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Each $39 kit includes tools that guide church

A webinar about the Better Together research by Barna and LHM staff Physical copies of the monograph are available at LHM’s Storefront:

• Through religious radio broadcasts, family members and relatives are https:/ o To access the webinar, please visit: In to this /shoplhm.org/households-of-faith/ folder, you willleaders find four resources to use with your research team: through the with ways impacted by the Gospel in their homes.

LHM has the media expertise https:/ /vimeo.com/440830844 ensure the Gospel message is brought to a region where the population· A digital copy of the monograph, Gifted for More (can be shared with up to 10 users) to strengthen outreach efforts. · A discussion guide to reflect on the research and video presentation has not heard the Gospel.

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Physical copies of monograph are available LHM’s Storefront: https://shoplhm.org/gifted-for-more-barna-monograph/ The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022 | 23 lhm.org/households

Prisoners are grateful for our programs and are uplifted hearing about God’s love for them—even while they are incarcerated.

In-Person Activities Resume Across Africa

by CHAD FIX

W

hile only an estimated 14 percent of the population in Africa has received a single dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, recorded cases of the virus and deaths across the continent are among the lowest rates globally. Recent research by the World Health Organization also shows 65 percent of Africans have acquired antibodies to COVID-19.

There are numerous theories—the population is young, people spend more time outdoors in rural areas, the climate is hotter, and more.

No matter the reason, the results have led governments to lift restrictions, which has allowed many of LHM’s in-person programs in Africa to return to normal.

LHM staff and volunteers have regained access to visit prisons in Cameroon, Kenya, and Madagascar. The people there have been cut off from the outside world even more than normal during the pandemic and they thirst for visitors and being able to hear God’s Word.

In Cameroon, we recently held a prisonministry training seminar with more than 40 prison chaplains attending. The four-day workshop taught attendees how to form smallgroup Bible studies in prisons. Staff also offered LHM’s Bible Correspondence Courses (BCC) and three newly translated booklets in the Fulani (Fulfulde) language spoken in the north for use in these Bible studies.

In Kenya, we held a graduation ceremony for 100 students in the Kwale prison who had completed the BCC. Prisoners are grateful for our programs and are uplifted hearing about God’s love for them—even while they are incarcerated. In this prison, staff met Hilary, a man serving a 15-year sentence for a crime he said he did not commit. He had been angry and depressed for many years but recently completed our BCC course. He said he was moved by the Holy Spirit through the lessons and now has joined the Christian club in prison.

He shared that “it has been painful to be jailed while you are innocent. God has used your lessons to touch me and free me from my misery.”

Other in-person events are also reopening with renewed enthusiasm from staff and volunteers as well as the audiences we meet. In the past quarter we have held multiple Equipping the Saints (ETS) seminars, film screenings, and open-air rallies in more than three quarters of the ministry centers throughout the region.

Holistic programs are also fully reopened in Cameroon, Kenya, Liberia, and Madagascar, with young women receiving regular vocational training while also being introduced to the Gospel. In April, LHM–Madagascar staff traveled to Manakara to conduct a holistic program assisting victims of a recent cyclone who lost their crops and livestock. In Liberia, we have begun offering seminars aimed at educating youth about the dangers of drug abuse, which is a growing problem throughout the country. =

Popularity of Lenten Devotions Grows Around the World by CHAD FIX

L

HM’s 2022 Lenten Devotions were a popular resource for congregations, Bible study groups, and individuals throughout North America. Suffering Servant by Dr. Kari Vo and Por ti y por mí (For You and for Me) by Rev. Antonio Schimpf encouraged and edified tens of thousands of individuals during this season of reflection by showing a Savior at work—welcoming, enduring, healing, forgiving, persisting in His push to the cross and the glory that awaited three days later. As with our Daily Devotions offered throughout the year, each Lenten devotion featured three reflection questions to help readers maximize their time in meditation.

In addition to the English and Spanish versions you are accustomed to seeing, the seasonal devotions are increasingly being translated into other languages around the world.

One country where these devotions

24 | The Lutheran Layman Spring 2022

are growing in popularity is Korea.

LHM–Korea translated Child of Promise during Advent 2021 into the Korean language and printed 1,500 copies that quickly sold out.

Due to the strong response during Advent, they increased the quantity to 2,500 for Lent. The tremendous interest from members of the Lutheran Church in Korea as well as other church denominations led to the supply being gone within one week. Since many people were still requesting the booklet after it had sold out, LHM–Korea offered a PDF version on its website. More than 300 individuals downloaded the booklet to share with their family, friends, churches, and communities.

We thank God for our faithful Christian staff members and volunteers worldwide who work hard on translating resources like the devotions to share God’s Word with others. =

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Go to smile.amazon.com today to select us and start shopping with a purpose.