2024 Institute on Liturgy, Preaching and Church Music
2024-07-09 - 2024-07-12 | Concordia University Nebraska: Seward, Neb., 800 N. Columbia Avenue, Seward, NE, 68434, United States
The 2024 Institute on Liturgy, Preaching and Church Music will take place July 9-12 at Concordia University, Nebraska (CUNE) in Seward, Neb.
The Institute, which is being presented by LCMS Worship, returns under the theme, “Songs of Deliverance: Psalms in the Great Congregation.”
With the Psalter as its focal point, this conference will feature fresh and perennial topics on music, leadership, preaching, pastoral care, art and spiritual growth in Lutheran worship.
Participants will be able to choose from a variety of instructive and interactive sessions addressing practical topics of interest to musicians, pastors, teachers, interested laypersons and many others. We’ll also take up a challenge together: pray all 150 psalms.
Online registration is now closed. Limited walk-in registration may be available on July 9 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at a cost of $475. Walk-in registrants may attend workshops only as size permits, are not eligible for on-campus housing and cannot be guaranteed on-campus meals.
If you have any questions about the Institute, email LCMS Deaconess Cara Patton at worship@lcms.org.
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Institute information

Schedule

Session checklist

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LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

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2024 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference
2024-09-18 - 2024-09-20 | LCMS International Center: St. Louis, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO, 63122, United States
The 2024 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 18, through Friday, Sept. 20, at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s International Center in St. Louis.

Schedule
All times Central
SEPT. 18 — ONLY for LCMS District Disaster Response Coordinators (DDRCs) and Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) trainers.

Wednesday, Sept. 18 — 9 a.m. registration to 5 p.m. (dinner on your own)The first day of the conference includes training, particularly on the establishment and operation of volunteer activities.

SEPT. 19-20 — For DDRCs, LERT trainers, and all others with an interest in disaster response.

Thursday, Sept. 19 — 8 a.m. registration to catered banquet starting at 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 20 — 8 a.m. to Itinerarium starting at 11:45 a.m.The sessions, which will cover a variety of topics, will include table-top exercises, case studies and practical breakouts.

View schedule

Questions?
Registration has closed for the 2024 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference.
Contact LCMS Disaster Response and Training at disaster@lcms.org with any questions.

Lutheran Visitation Education
2025-01-06 - 2025-06-23
A new cohort for Lutheran Visitation Education will begin the week of January 6, 2025. This 25-week program will conclude the week of June 23, 2025.
The Lutheran Visitation Education program equips three to six professional church workers in each session with enhanced skills for visitation, integrating helpful caring techniques with the historic Lutheran approach to spiritual care.
The program is open to all rostered LCMS church workers. The program will be administered online.

Learn more
For more information, please contact LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry at SpecializedCare@lcms.org.

YouthLead Training
2025-03-08 - 2025-03-11 | Pallottine Renewal Center: St. Louis, 15270 Old Halls Ferry Road, Florissant, MO, 63034, United States
LCMS Youth Ministry will host a YouthLead Training event Saturday afternoon, March 8, to noon Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at the Pallotine Renewal Center in the St. Louis suburb of Florissant.
Who can attend Youthlead?
Any high school youth who is an active member of an LCMS congregation and desires to be a leader along with adults who desire to mentor young leaders.
It is preferred that teens attend with an adult leader from their congregation, although arrangements can be made for teens to come unaccompanied.
How much does it cost?
Registration is $375 per attendee, which covers food and housing during the training, transportation to and from the airport if needed, supplies and a T-shirt. Attendees are responsible for their transportation to and from St. Louis.
We encourage you to contact your district before you register as some districts have support for those attending this training.
What happens at a YouthLead Training event?
Youth are equipped for leadership in two key ways. First, we engage them in studying God’s Word through a Bible study they experience and are trained to lead back home. Second, we focus on their unique identity and vocations as well as practical leadership skills that will benefit them in all aspects of servant leadership.
This annual training event is led by our teen Executive Team and gives fellow teens the tools they need to mature in their faith, become leaders in their congregations, and reach out to their peers with the love of Christ.
This year’s curriculum will focus on caring for those struggling or in crisis. Our leadership training will develop an attendee’s skill set, including how to communicate as a church leader.
If you have questions about the event, email LCMS Youth Ministry at youth.ministry@lcms.org.
Download flyer
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LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/LCMSyouth

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/LCMSyouth

Mercy: Love Throughout Life conference - 2025
2025-03-14 - 2025-03-15
The Mercy: Love Throughout Life conference, hosted by the LCMS Office of National Mission, will take place March 14–15, 2025.
Conference sessions, all of which will be livestreamed, will take place in three different locations. Participants may attend in-person at one of these locations, or they may watch online.
The three in-person locations will focus on the following subject areas:

Concordia University, Irvine, Calif., will host sessions on marriage, life and the family at its Concordia – Spectrum Campus.

Grace Lutheran Church in St. Petersburg, Fla., will host sessions on spiritual care.

The LCMS International Center in St. Louis, Mo., will host sessions on advocating, teaching and caring for human life.

Featured presenters will include:

Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, LCMS president

Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor, LCMS Office of National Mission managing director

Rev. Michael Salemink, executive director of Lutherans For Life

Rev. Dr. Alfonso Espinosa, senior pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Irvine, Calif.

Rev. Dr. Brian Heller, manager of LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry

Several sessions, conducted in Spanish, will be available to watch online.
Registration
In-person early bird registration, which includes meals and snacks, is $49 per person through Feb. 14. After that, registration will be $74 per person. In-person registration closes on March 7.
Online registration (which can be used by an individual, couple, family or group) is $29 and will be open until the first day of the conference.
Both in-person and online attendees will have access to recorded sessions for 60 days after the conference.
All students at the Concordia universities and seminaries have free admission to this conference. To register, they will need a valid Concordia email address for verification. For more information, email SpecializedCare@lcms.org.
Register now

Created Male and Female Parent Retreat
2025-04-08 - 2025-04-12
The Created Male and Female Parent Retreat, designed to support LCMS parents of children who are dealing with sexual orientation and gender identity issues, will once again be offered next spring, on April 8–12, 2025.
LCMS Family Ministry and the Created Male and Female Task Force have partnered together to offer this retreat.
Participants will leave with a godly approach to caring for children with sexual orientation and gender identity issues.
Retreat leaders include:

The Rev. Christopher Esget, LCMS fifth vice-president and chairman of the Created Male and Female Task Force;

The Rev. Dr. Mark Rockenbach, professor of practical theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and task force member; and

Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor, Office of National Mission managing director, Human Care and Ministerial Support.

Registration for the retreat is now open for all church workers. The deadline to register is Nov. 30. Registration will be capped at four married couples.
After church workers have had a chance to register, registration will be opened up to other LCMS members who have been recommended by their pastors or other church workers.

LCMS U Campus Ministry Staff Conference - 2025
2025-05-28 - 2025-05-30 | Concordia University Irvine — Irvine, Calif., 1530 Concordia West, Irvine, CA, 92612, United States
The LCMS U Campus Ministry Staff Conference is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, through Friday, May 30, 2025, at Concordia University Irvine (CUI) in Irvine, Calif.
Under the theme “Baptized: Identity and Vocation in Campus Life,” the conference will feature plenary presentations by the Rev. Dr. Scott Stiegemeyer, Rev. Dr. David Loy, and Rev. Dr. Oesch.
This conference is for pastors, DCEs, deaconesses and others who are leading campus ministries in the LCMS. Its purpose is to:

Facilitate networking among campus ministry leaders;

Facilitate sharing of ideas; and

Provide theological education and discussion, including plenary presentations, breakout sessions and a panel discussion.

The conference begins at 9 a.m. Pacific time on Wednesday, May 28, and ends with lunch at 12:15 p.m. on Friday, May 30. Read the schedule to see session times, topics and speakers.
There is no fee to attend. Lunch and dinner on May 28 and 29 as well as lunch on May 30 are included at no charge. The conference capacity is 70 participants.
Attendees may also reserve a complimentary room for the nights of May 28 and 29 on a first-come, first-served basis. On-campus dormitory rooms are single occupancy with a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. If a spouse is staying in the room, there will be a cost of $70 per night on May 28 and 29. Additional nights cost $70.
If you are flying, the closest airport to the conference site is John Wayne Airport (SNA), which is about 4 miles away from CUI. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Ontario International Airport (ONT) are both more than an hour away from the university. If you have travel questions, please email lcmsu@lcms.org.
View conference schedule
Register now

Equipping Conference
International Student Ministry, an LCMS Recognized Service Organization, will host its annual Equipping Conference at Concordia University Irvine immediately after the LCMS U Campus Ministry Staff Conference.
While this is a separate event, if you are planning to attend both, please be sure to register for housing for Friday, May 30.
More information is available on isminc.org.

2025 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference
2025-09-17 - 2025-09-19 | LCMS International Center: St. Louis, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO, 63122, United States
The 2025 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference will be held Wednesday, Sept. 17, through Friday, Sept. 19, at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s International Center in St. Louis.
Meeting under the theme “Serving the Suffering: The Church’s Role in Recovery,” attendees will learn how the church can respond in crisis situations with the physical and spiritual care that is so desperately needed by those affected.
Attendees will also hear practical advice and guidance from pastors, disaster response coordinators and others who have responded to significant disasters.

Schedule
All times Central
Sept. 17 — ONLY for LCMS District Disaster Response Coordinators (DDRCs) and Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) trainers.
This day will include training on best practices related to the LERT training, generative conversation, and ample opportunities for learning from one another. The new LERT manual and PowerPoint presentation, which will be the standard for all future basic LERT trainings and modules, will be revealed.

Wednesday, Sept. 17 — 9 a.m. registration to 5 p.m. Lunch and dinner will be provided.

Sept. 18-19 — For DDRCs, LERT trainers, and all others with an interest in disaster response.
Sessions will include presentations on the theology of mercy, table-top exercises, case studies and practical breakouts.

Thursday, Sept. 18 — 8 a.m. registration to 5 p.m. Lunch and a catered banquet dinner will be provided.

Friday, Sept. 19 — 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

Registration, which includes five meals, is $75 per person.
Attendees are responsible for their own lodging, and hotel rooms are available at the Hilton St. Louis Airport at a discounted rate.
Register online

Questions?
Contact LCMS Disaster Response and Training at disaster@lcms.org with any questions.

Teacher Colloquy Webinar
2025-10-15
Do you know an educator who might be interested in teacher colloquy?
A free Teacher Colloquy Webinar will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 7 p.m. (CDT) to go over the process, requirements and benefits of becoming rostered as an LCMS Minister of Religion—Commissioned. Teacher colloquy is a great way for educators who attended a non-LCMS college or university to gain robust theological grounding and roster status.
The webinar, brought to you by Set Apart to Serve, will be hosted by the Rev. Dr. Paul Philp, executive director of Concordia University Education Network (CUEnet), and Wendi Murphy, CUEnet office operations manager and registrar.
The webinar will cover many topics, such as common questions and myths about colloquy; real colloquy stories; a walk-through of the requirements, coursework, timing and financial aid; and the next steps for those who are ready to begin the process.
Interested teachers can register for the live Zoom webinar at thelc.ms/teacher-colloquy-webinar. Schools might consider scheduling a watch party for staff to attend together. The webinar will be recorded and available for on-demand viewing.

FORO: Uruguay
2025-10-21 - 2025-10-22
A collaborative model designed to support missionaries through partnership and shared resources, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in global missions.
Contact

james.sharp@lcms.org

FORO: Puerto Rico
2025-10-24 - 2025-10-25
The FORO concept is simple and its impact is powerful. The word itself is Spanish for “forum.” LCMS International Mission uses FOROs to facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus our resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come. Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. They need relationships. They need support networks. They need people like you to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them and stand with them. FOROs help provide that relationship.
Twice a year, missionaries gather with partners — people from churches, organizations schools. They sit down together, and they talk. They talk about making disciples, planting Lutheran churches and about mission work. They talk about what’s happening on the ground. About the needs of the people they serve. About what’s working — and what’s not. The missionaries speak, and the partners listen. Then, everyone has a chance to respond.
Contact

card@lcmsintl.org

FORO — Chile
2025-11-13 - 2025-11-14
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Chile on Nov. 13-14, 2025.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. James Sharp, LCMS Missionary
james.sharp@lcms.org

FORO — Jamaica (Omaha, Neb.)
2025-11-13 - 2025-11-14
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Jamaica on Nov. 13-14, 2025, in Omaha, Neb.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Ted Krey
LCMS International Mission
Regional Director, Latin America & the Caribbean
ted.krey@lcms.org

FORO — Honduras
2026-02-13 - 2026-02-15
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Honduras on Feb. 13-15, 2026, in La Paz, Honduras.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Herb Burch, LCMS Missionary
herb.burch@lcms.org

FORO — Venezuela
2026-02-24 - 2026-02-25
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Venezuela on Feb. 24-25, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Erin Mackenzie, LCMS Missionary
erin.mackenzie@lcms.org

FORO — The Philippines
2026-02-26 - 2026-03-03
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in The Philippines from Feb. 26 to March 3, 2026. The gathering includes The Lutheran Church in the Philippines.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples and address community needs, emphasizing mutual listening and shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contacts
Matt Wasmund, LCMS Missionary
matthew.wasmund@lcms.org

Rev. Paul Nelson, LCMS Missionary
paul.nelson@lcms.org

FORO — Panama
2026-02-27 - 2026-03-01
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Panama from Feb. 27 to March 1, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Dr. Arthur Rickman, LCMS Missionary
arthur.rickman@lcms.org

FORO — Dominican Republic
2026-03-06 - 2026-03-08
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in the Dominican Republic on March 6-8, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Erin Mackenzie, LCMS Missionary
erin.mackenzie@lcms.org

YouthLead Training — March 2026
2026-03-19 - 2026-03-22 | Pallottine Renewal Center: St. Louis, 15270 Old Halls Ferry Road, Florissant, MO, 63034, United States
LCMS Youth Ministry will host a YouthLead Training event Thursday, March 19, to Sunday, March 22, 2026 in the St. Louis suburb.
YouthLead equips teens to develop and use their leadership skills as they serve Christ within their congregations and communities.
This year’s curriculum focus will be on apologetics, including how to understand and share Scripture and the resurrection of Jesus. Along with learning to teach this curriculum, we will lead youth in leadership skill development and building relationships with other young leaders.
Who can attend Youthlead?
Any high school youth who is an active member of an LCMS congregation and desires to be a leader along with adults who desire to mentor young leaders.
It is preferred that teens attend with an adult leader from their congregation, although arrangements can be made for teens to come unaccompanied.
How much does it cost?
Registration for youth and adult leaders is $425, which covers food and housing during the training, supplies, and a T-shirt. If needed, transportation to and from St. Louis Lambert International Airport is available. Attendees are responsible for their own transportation to and from St. Louis.
Registration will remain open until spots are filled or until February 25.
We encourage attendees to contact your LCMS district before you register as some districts have support for those attending this training.
What happens at a YouthLead Training event?
YouthLead equips teens to develop and use their leadership skills as they serve Christ within their congregations and communities.
The annual training event is led by our teen Executive Team and gives teens the tools they need to mature in their faith, become leaders in their congregations, and reach out to their peers with the love of Christ.
If you have questions about the event, email LCMS Youth Ministry at youth.ministry@lcms.org.
Download flyer
Register

LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/LCMSyouth

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/LCMSyouth

FORO — Belize
2026-03-20 - 2026-03-22
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Belize on March 20-22, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Herb Burch, LCMS Missionary
herb.burch@lcms.org

FORO — Eritrea
2026-04-07 - 2026-04-10
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Eritrea on April 7-10, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. The gathering includes the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Eritrea.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples and address community needs, emphasizing mutual listening and shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Shauen Trump, Regional Director for Africa
LCMS International Mission
shauen.trump@lcms.org

FORO — Rwanda
2026-04-13 - 2026-04-18
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Rwanda on April 13-18, 2026. The gathering includes Lutheran Mission in Africa–Synod of a Thousand Hills.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples and address community needs, emphasizing mutual listening and shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Shauen Trump, Regional Director for Africa
LCMS International Mission
shauen.trump@lcms.org

FORO — Mexico
2026-04-22 - 2026-04-23
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Mexico on April 22-23, 2026, in Mexico City.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Dr. Arthur Rickman, LCMS Missionary
arthur.rickman@lcms.org

FORO — Spain
2026-04-23 - 2026-04-29
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Spain from April 23–29, 2026, in Madrid. The gathering includes the Spanish Evangelical Lutheran Church (Iglesia Evangélica Luterana Española).
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples and address community needs, emphasizing mutual listening and shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contacts
Benjamin Helge, LCMS Missionary
benjamin.helge@lcms.org

FORO — Peru
2026-05-01 - 2026-05-03
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Peru on May 1-3, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Erin Mackenzie, LCMS Missionary
erin.mackenzie@lcms.org

FORO — Uruguay
2026-05-15 - 2026-05-17
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Uruguay on May 15-17, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. James Sharp, LCMS Missionary
james.sharp@lcms.org

YouthLead Servant Event — June 2026
2026-06-14 - 2026-06-19 | Camp Lutheranhaven: Albion, Ind., 1596 S 150 W, Albion, IN, 46701, United States
LCMS Youth Ministry will host its inaugural YouthLead Servant Event from Sunday, June 14, to Friday, June 19, 2026 at Camp Lutherhaven in Albion, Ind.
The gathering blends a week-long servant event and our YouthLead training. Part of each day will serve the Burmese Mission Outreach’s Party in the Park, which shares Christ’s love through fun and fellowship with Burmese refugees in Fort Wayne, Ind.
The remainder of each day will be for large- and small-group time to cultivate Christian leadership skills, including communication development, writing and leading a devotion, and more.
Who can attend Youthlead?
Any high school youth who is an active member of an LCMS congregation and desires to be a leader along with adults who desire to mentor young leaders.
How much does it cost?
Registration is $300, which includes food and housing during the training, supplies, and a T-shirt. Some of the cost of this training is graciously provided by a grant from the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League.
Participants will have to provide their own transportation to and from Camp Lutherhaven.
If you would like to bring a group of more than four youth and two adults, please contact julianna.shults@lcms.org before you register.
What are the accommodations?
Housing will be in Camp Lutherhaven’s Daniel Retreat Center with men and women staying on separate sides of the cabin.
Participants should bring towels, sleeping bags, pillows, and other bedding as everyone will be staying on bunk beds.
Meals and snacks will be provided through Camp Lutherhaven and Burmese Mission Outreach.

Download flyer
Register

LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/LCMSyouth

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/LCMSyouth

FORO — Dominican Republic
2026-09-04 - 2026-09-06
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in the Dominican Republic on Sept. 4-6, 2026.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Erin Mackenzie, LCMS Missionary
erin.mackenzie@lcms.org

FORO — Honduras
2026-09-18 - 2026-09-20
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Honduras on Sept. 18-20, 2026, in Comayagüela, Honduras.
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations, and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools, and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples, address community needs, emphasize mutual listening, and encourage shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them, and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contact
Rev. Herb Burch, LCMS Missionary
herb.burch@lcms.org

FORO — Germany
2026-09-23 - 2026-09-29
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Germany from Sept. 23–29, 2026, in Berlin and Wittenberg. The gathering includes the Independent Evangelical—Lutheran Church (SELK).
What is a FORO?
A FORO — Spanish for “forum” — fosters relationships between missionaries serving on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and mission partners. The meetings facilitate networking, start conversations and focus resources to make disciples of all nations for generations to come.
When do FOROs occur?
Once or twice a year, LCMS missionaries meet with partners — people from churches, organizations, schools and partner churches — in their mission field. They discuss strategies to make disciples and address community needs, emphasizing mutual listening and shared decision-making.
Why are FOROs needed?
Missionaries don’t only need funding and volunteers. Missionaries need relationships. They need support networks. They need people to walk with them, pray with them, listen to them, learn from them and stand with them. FOROs help provide those relationships.
To learn more about FOROs, visit international.lcms.org/foro.

Contacts
Benjamin Helge, LCMS Missionary
benjamin.helge@lcms.org
