LCMS Calendar

2023 Concordia Symphony Orchestra Tour in St. Louis, Mo.
2023-02-25 - 2023-02-28
Admission is FREE for all concerts
The 55-member Concordia Symphony Orchestra is one of Southern California’s most engaging college orchestras. This “cathedral concert” will share professional repertoire in a format that invites the audience to reflect on Christian themes through inventive music curation and program flow. The tour concert will share the music of Bach interspersed with American composers Aaron Copland (Appalachian Spring), Christopher Rouse (Flute Concerto), Alex Guebert (“For All the Saints”) and John Williams (Far and Away). Each will provide musical insight about “peaceful contentment” (Vergnügte — a word Bach regularly used).

Concerts/Performances:

Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023

3:00 p.m. – Concordia Symphony, full concert
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville, Ill.
1300 Beltline Rd., Collinsville, IL 62234

Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023

9:20 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. – Concordia Sinfonietta, worship repertoire
Peace Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Mo.
737 Barracksview Rd., St. Louis, MO 63125
6:00 p.m. – Concordia Symphony, full concert
Zion Lutheran Church
3866 Old Hwy 94 S, St. Charles, MO 63304

Monday, Feb. 27, 2023

9:30 a.m. – School chapel service
Lutheran High School North
5401 Lucas and Hunt Rd., St. Louis, MO 63121
1:45 p.m. – Informal educational performance
Lutheran High School South
9515 Tesson Ferry Rd., St. Louis, MO 63123

Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023

9:35 a.m. – Chapel service, 25-minute concert to follow chapel
Concordia Seminary, Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus
801 Seminary Pl., St. Louis, MO 63105
7:30 p.m. – Con Spirito Concert Series, full concert
First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood, Mo.
100 E Adams Ave., Kirkwood, MO 63122

Pentecost
2023-05-28
The Day of Pentecost will be celebrated on Sunday, May 28, 2023.
To attend a Pentecost service, visit locator.lcms.org/church to find a local Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod congregation. Enter your zip code and click “Search” to see a list of area churches, service times, and contact information.
If you are homebound, traveling, or otherwise unable to attend a service in person, KFUO Radio airs worship services throughout the church year. Visit KFUO.org to view the schedule and listen to services.
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What is Pentecost?
The word “Pentecost” (pronounced PEN-tuh-kost) comes from the Greek word pentekostos which means “fiftieth.” Exactly 50 days after Jesus rose from the dead, the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples in the form of flames of fire.

Bulletin inserts
Kids in the Divine Service — Pentecost

English

Spanish

Liturgical colors for Pentecost
The altar will be adorned with red. Red is a power color and is appropriate for use on Pentecost Sunday. On this day we remember the power and fire of “the Lord and Giver of Life,” who revealed himself as the promised one. The color red communicates the motif of strength-strength and power the Holy Spirit gives in order for God’s people to call on the name of Jesus Christ and share that powerful name with others.

Three-Year Series A
Scripture readings

Numbers 11:24–30

Acts 2:1–21

John 7:37–39

Lectionary summary
The Risen Lord Jesus Pours Out the Holy Spirit
The Lord took “some of the Spirit” that was on Moses “and put it on the seventy elders” of Israel (Num. 11:25), and they “prophesied in the camp” (Num. 11:26). In the same way, our risen Lord Jesus poured out His Holy Spirit at the Feast of Pentecost — the 50th day and the “Eighth Sunday” of Easter. When “a sound like a mighty rushing wind” and “tongues as of fire appeared” and rested on each of the 12 apostles, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” and proclaimed “the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:2–4, 11). The Lord Jesus grants this same Spirit to His Church on earth to proclaim Him glorified on the cross and risen victorious from the grave for us sinners. From His open heart, our crucified and risen Lord pours out His Holy Spirit in “rivers of living water” (John 7:38) and invites everyone who thirsts to come to Him and drink freely (John 7:37). Through this life-giving work of the Holy Spirit, we hear our pastors “telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God” (Acts 2:11), and “everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21).

One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Genesis 11:1–9

Acts 2:1–21

John 14:23–31

Lectionary summary
The Holy Spirit Gives Peace
Following the flood, Noah’s descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with “one language and the same words” (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing “the language of all the earth,” dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. “At this sound the multitude came together” (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27).

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

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LCMS U Campus Ministry Staff Conference - 2023
2023-05-31 - 2023-06-01 | University Lutheran Chapel, Minneapolis, MN, 316 10th Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, United States
The LCMS U Campus Ministry Staff Conference will be held May 31 through June 1 at University Lutheran Chapel in Minneapolis. The conference theme is “Engaging the Collegiate Mind.”
The speakers will be Dr. Adam Francisco, the Rev. Dr. Jon Bruss, and the Rev. Eric Andrae. We hope that long-term ministry leaders — pastors, commissioned workers, and other campus workers — will join us for support and networking.
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.

Register now

Schedule
Wednesday, May 31

10 a.m. — Matins

10:30 a.m. — Welcome

10:40 a.m. — “The Wittenberg Mind” with Rev. Dr. Jon Bruss

11:30 a.m. — Sext (Midday prayer at the sixth hour)

11:45 a.m. — Lunch

1 p.m. — “An Appeal for Apologetics” with Dr. Adam Francisco

2 p.m. — Break

2:15 p.m. — “State of LCMS U” with Rev. Michael Meyer

2:45 p.m. — Breakout sessions:

A — “Intentional Friendships with International Students Open Doors for Spiritual Conversations” with ministry catalyst for International Student Ministry Inc., Sue Hasselbring

B — “Zoomer Rumors: What Do Kids Today Actually Care About” with University Lutheran Chapel’s campus ministry vicar, Samuel Smith

C — “Using Hymnody to Teach the Faith” with Rev. Mark Preus

3:45 p.m. — Break

4:15 p.m. — “Preventing the Pitfalls of Politicization” with Rev. Eric Andrae

5:15 p.m. — Vespers

5:30 p.m. — Dinner banquet

7:30 p.m. — Gemutlichkeit at Luther House

Thursday, June 1

Breakfast — On your own at hotel

10:15 a.m. — Terce (Prayer at the third hour)

10:15 a.m. — “Muslim Views on Christianity” with Dr. Adam Francisco

11:30 a.m. — Sext (Midday prayer at the sixth hour)

11:45 a.m. — Lunch

1:15 p.m. — “Christian Literature — Christian Literature?”

2:15 p.m. — Break

2:45 p.m. — Roundtable / Sharing Ideas

4 p.m. — Itinerarium

(All times Central)
Download schedule and speaker information
Register now

Trinity Sunday
2023-06-04
Trinity Sunday will be celebrated on Sunday, June 4, 2023.
To attend a Trinity Sunday service, visit locator.lcms.org/church to find a local Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod congregation. Enter your zip code and click “Search” to see a list of area churches, service times, and contact information.
If you are homebound, traveling, or otherwise unable to attend a service in person, KFUO Radio airs worship services throughout the church year. Visit KFUO.org to view the schedule and listen to services.
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Confessing the Holy Trinity
The Athanasian Creed, which was written by an anonymous author in the 5th century, is the Church’s confession of the Holy Trinity. On Trinity Sunday, the Church proclaims the Christian faith through the words of the Athanasian Creed.
“The Athanasian Creed declares that its teachings concerning the Holy Trinity and our Lord’s incarnation are “the catholic faith.” In other words, this is what the true Church of all times and all places has confessed. More than fifteen centuries later, the Church continues to confess this truth, confident that the triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, has given Himself for our salvation.”

The Athanasian Creed — Text (Lutheran Service Book p. 319)

The Athanasian Creed — Spoken responsive version

The Athanasian Creed — Sung version

The Athanasian Creed — Sung responsive version

The Athanasian Creed — With hymn verses

Source: This translation of the Athanasian Creed (Quincunque Vult) is from Lutheran Service Book. Copyright © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used by permission. Distributed by the LCMS Worship for congregational and school use and streaming only. Commercial reproduction or reproduction for sale of this work in part or in whole without the written permission of the copyright holder is prohibited.

Liturgical colors for Trinity Sunday
The altar will be adorned with white, which is the color of purity and completeness. This color assists in bearing the message that “though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” Christ’s triumph from the grave on Resurrection Day is the cause for our rejoicing. His purity before his Father becomes our purity. White reinforces that message of joy.

Three-Year Series A
Scripture readings

Genesis 1:1—2:4a

Acts 2:14a, 22–3

Matthew 28:16–20

Lectionary summary
The Holy Triune God Recreates Us in the Image and Likeness of Christ Jesus
The holy Triune God “created the heavens and the earth,” and “behold, it was very good” (Gen. 1:1, 31). However, after Adam and Eve fell into sin and plunged God’s good creation into decay and death, the Son of God would be “delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God” to be “crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men” (Acts 2:23). As Jesus “received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:33), He also raises up all the baptized and pours out the Spirit upon them through the preaching of His Gospel. He sends out His apostles to “make disciples of all nations” by “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” and “teaching them to observe all that [He has] commanded” (Matt. 28:19–20). Through such baptizing and teaching — Gospel and Sacraments — the holy Triune God recreates us in the image and likeness of His incarnate Son, Jesus, the Christ, and behold, it is “very good” (Gen. 1:31).

One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Isaiah 6:1–7

Romans 11:33–36

John 3:1–15 (16–17)

Lectionary summary
The Holy Trinity Reveals Himself to Sinners
When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he cried out “Woe is me!” For the sinner cannot stand in the presence of a holy God and live (Is. 6:1–7). But God the Father lifted up His Son Jesus for us on the cross, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. This eternal life of Christ is given us according to the Holy Spirit’s good pleasure in Baptism. “Unless one is born [again] of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). To sinners in fear of death, the messengers of God place on our lips the living body and blood of Christ and speak His words of absolution, “Your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for” (Is. 6:7). Having received forgiveness and life from the Father through the Son by the Holy Spirit, we join with the angels in praising the blessed Trinity, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts!” (Is. 6:3). “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen” (Rom. 11:33–36).

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

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LWML 40th Biennial Convention
2023-06-22 - 2023-06-25 | Baird Center: Milwaukee, 400 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI, 53203, United States
Registration is open for the 40th Biennial Convention of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, which will be held June 22-25 at the Baird Center in downtown Milwaukee, Wis. The LCMS women’s auxiliary is also known as LWML—Lutheran Women in Mission.
The convention theme is “Celebrate the Lord of the Nations,” which is based on Psalm 33:12-13: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage! The Lord looks down from heaven; he sees all the children of man.”
Visit lwml.org/2023-convention for more information, including online registration and hotel details.
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LCMS LifeFest - Milwaukee
2023-06-25 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, 333 W. Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53203, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod will host LifeFest on Sunday, June 25, at the Hyatt Place hotel in downtown Milwaukee to celebrate life and remember the many lives lost to abortion in the United States.
Join LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison and other fellow Lutherans at the event, which occurs a day after the one-year anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on June 24, 2022, that overturned Roe v. Wade.
LifeFest will take place immediately following the closing worship service of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League convention in Milwaukee. The event will feature live music as well as refreshments and light snacks.
LifeFest is free to attend, but registration is required and space is limited.
RSVP now

2023 LCMS Disaster Response Conference
2023-09-06 09:00 - 2023-09-08 15:00 | LCMS International Center: St. Louis, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO, 63122, United States
The 2023 LCMS Disaster Response Conference — “Walking Together in Disaster Response” — will be held from 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 6, to 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8, at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod International Center in St. Louis.
Day 1
The first day of the conference is ONLY for LCMS District Disaster Response Coordinators (DDRCs) and Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) trainers.

Wednesday, Sept. 6 — 9 a.m. registration to 5 p.m.

The first day of the conference includes training, particularly on the establishment and operation of volunteer activities.
Days 2 & 3
The second and third day of conference anyone with an interest in disaster response, including DDRCs and LERT trainers.

Thursday, Sept. 7 — 8 a.m. registration to banquet starting at 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 8 — 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The sessions, which will cover a variety of topics, will include tabletop exercises, case studies and practical breakouts. The conference schedule also includes chapel services, on-site lunches and a banquet.
View agenda

Specialized Spiritual Care Training Track
Introductory Series for Rostered Church Workers and Laity
For the first time, we’re also offering a specialized track for those who are interested in providing spiritual care to various groups after disasters. Continuing education units (CEUs) are available.

Registration
Conference registration has closed.

Lodging
Attendees are responsible for their own lodging.
Hotel rooms are available at the Hilton St. Louis Airport Hotel for the nights of Sept. 5, Sept. 6, and Sept. 7 at a discounted room rate of $85 per night (plus applicable taxes). The discounted rate is subject to availability.
Each room includes breakfast, Wi-Fi, self-parking, and shuttle service to/from the Hilton and the International Center is also included. A fitness center and on-site restaurant are also available.
Hotel booking information will be provided in your registration confirmation email.

Questions?
Contact LCMS Disaster Response at disaster@lcms.org with any questions.
Register now

Stewardship Philippians Conference - Milwaukee and online
2024-04-20 08:30 - 14:00 | LCMS South Wisconsin District Office, 8100 W. Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, WI, 53222, United States
The South Wisconsin District (SWD) of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), in partnership with LCMS Stewardship Ministry, will host a hybrid Philippians Conference on April 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Milwaukee.
The conference, which will be held at the SWD office and available to watch online, will be facilitated by the Rev. Dr. Nathan Meador, SWD mission executive and LCMS National Mission stewardship specialist.
What is a Philippians Conference?
The workshop is based on St. Paul’s words in Philippians 1, where we see how the leadership of the congregation is working together in the realm of stewardship.
The Philippians Conference gathers pastors and lay leaders to spend a day together looking at the theology and practice of stewardship, grounding congregational stewardship on the solid foundation of Scripture and the Confessions. The conference will also help local congregations to assess, strengthen and even change their local stewardship culture.
Attendees will get a fresh perspective on stewardship and leave the event with one or two action items to put into practice immediately at their congregation.
Who should attend?
Pastors, elders, other elected leaders and other members of the congregation are all invited to attend.
How can I participate?
Local congregation groups are encouraged to join us in person at the SWD office in Milwaukee. In-person registration is limited to only 100 attendees.
Since in-person registration is limited, congregations are also invited to host an online “watch party.” This would mean that your pastor(s), congregational leaders and members would gather at your church to participate as a group via Zoom. There will be an online moderator to ensure the presenter addresses your questions.
How much does this cost?
There is no cost to participate in this event.
How do I register?
Both in-person and online seats are limited, so register today at swd.lcms.org/hybrid. If you intend to join us in person, please be ready to register your complete list of attendees. The registration form closes on April 15.
Other questions?
All questions may be directed to the Rev. Nathan Meador at meador@swd.lcms.org or call 414-464-8101.

Armed Forces Sunday - 2024
2024-05-19
The LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces encourages congregations to give thanks to God for our nation’s military veterans, service personnel, chaplains and families on Armed Forces Day weekend.
It’s less important which Sunday you choose; we simply want to give thanks to God in honoring the men and women who faithfully answered the call to serve in our nation’s military.

Armed Forces Sunday — Typically the third weekend in May; Armed Forces Day is on Saturday, May 18, 2024, and can be observed on Sunday, May 19, or on the Sunday of your choice.

Memorial Day weekend — Sunday, May 26, 2024

Independence Day weekend — Sunday, July 7, 2024

Veterans Day — Nov. 11, 2024; can be observed on the preceding or following Sunday.

Any Sunday of your choice

To help congregations plan their commemorations, the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces offers free resources, including:

Introduction letter

Sermon resource

Bulletin inserts: General (Color)

Bulletin inserts: General (Black-and-White)

Bulletin inserts: Responsive Prayer and Ministry-By-Mail

For more information and resources, visit lcms.org/armedforces.

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.
Institute information Livestream Institute Youth Choir
Attendees

Institute information

Schedule

Session checklist

Rehearsal information

Watch livestream

Youth Choir

Learn more

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

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National Lutheran Youth Workers Conference - 2024
2024-07-21 - 2024-07-24 | Astor Crowne Plaza – New Orleans French Quarter, 739 Canal Street at Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA, 70130, United States
Hosted by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Youth Ministry, the National Lutheran Youth Workers Conference is scheduled for July 21–24, 2024, at the Astor Crowne Plaza in the French Quarter of New Orleans, La.
NATIONAL24 is a stand-alone conference for youth ministry practitioners, and the conference will also provide an opportunity for attendees to prepare for the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering and familiarize themselves with New Orleans, which is also the host city for the gathering.
At NATIONAL24, leaders and practitioners will go through training to support their congregation’s youth ministry, and the event will give new and veteran leaders a chance to connect and network.
Each NATIONAL24 adult registration and guest room reservation at the Astor Crowne Plaza comes with a complimentary adult leader registration for the 2025 Youth Gathering.
Register for the conference
For updates and more information, please visit lcmsgathering.com.

LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/LCMSyouth

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/LCMSyouth

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.

2024 Pennsylvania March for Life
2024-09-23 | Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, PA, United States
The 2024 Pennsylvania March for Life is in Harrisburg on September 23, 2024. Sign up to come and witness to the sanctity of life. More information to come.

Church Worker Appreciation – Pastor
2024-10-13
October historically has been the Synod’s designated month for showing appreciation to our church workers, who serve us in a multitude of ways as they preach, teach and care for God’s people in body and soul.
In 2024–2025, we have planned a year’s worth of observances to highlight the many different kinds of workers who serve the church and to give thanks for all of them and the indispensable and sacrificial work that they do:

Oct. 13 — Pastor Appreciation

Oct. 25 — Deaconess, Director of Family Life Ministry, Director of Christian Outreach, and Director of Church Ministries Appreciation

April 28 — Director of Parish Music Appreciation

May 5–9 — Teacher Appreciation

June 26 — Director of Christian Education Appreciation

On Oct. 13, we will begin our year of church worker appreciation by thanking God for our pastors, who stand in the stead of Christ as they bring us His gifts of Word and Sacrament.
The LCMS offers suggestions and resources to show your gratitude and support for pastors.
View resources

LCMS Worker Wellness

lcms.org/worker-wellness
workerwellness@lcms.org

Set Apart to Serve — LCMS church work recruitment initiative

lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve

setapart2serve@lcms.org

Reformation Day
2024-10-31
Reformation Day is commemorated on Oct. 31 each year. LCMS congregations may hold special services on Oct. 31 and/or on the preceding or following Sunday.
To attend a service, visit locator.lcms.org/church to find a local Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod congregation. Enter your zip code and click “Search” to see a list of area churches, service times, and contact information.
If you are homebound, traveling, or otherwise unable to attend a service in person, KFUO Radio airs worship services throughout the church year. Visit KFUO.org to view the schedule and listen to services.
Find church near me

About the Protestant Reformation
More than 500 years ago, the Protestant Reformation brought the church’s focus back to God’s free gift of salvation in Jesus Christ.
On Oct. 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted the 95 Theses — the “Disputation on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences” — to the church door in a small city called Wittenberg, Germany. This event ignited the Protestant Reformation, and thus the Lutheran church officially commemorates this important anniversary on Oct. 31.
As you and your congregation prepare to celebrate this year, you are invited to use a variety of resources that highlight the history, theology, and continued effects of the Reformation today.
The Reformation was, first and foremost, all about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It was then, and it still is now. The task of reformation never ends. Every person, in every generation, needs to hear the Good News of their Savior from sin and eternal death.
View Reformation resources

Liturgical color for Reformation Day
The altar will be adorned with the festive color of red.

Three-Year Series and One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Psalm 46

Revelation 14:6–7

Romans 3:19–28

John 8:31–36 or Matthew 11:12–19

Lectionary summary
The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace
“Wisdom is justified by her deeds” (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus, the incarnate Son, has justified us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and “remain in the house forever” (John 8:35). He is “a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Matt. 11:18–19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel “to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people” (Rev. 14:6), “the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law” (Rom. 3:21), “that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Rom. 3:26). And by the hearing of that Gospel of Christ Jesus, “whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith” (Rom. 3:25), “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31–32).

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

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LCMS SELC District Convention — 2025
2025-01-16 - 2025-01-19 | Holy Cross Lutheran Church: Lake Mary, Fla., 960 Paul Hoyer Way, Lake Mary, FL, 32746
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 SELC District Convention is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 16, to Sunday, Jan. 16, in Lake Mary, Fla., at Holy Cross Lutheran Church.
District conventions, which are held every three years by each of the Synod’s 35 districts, take place the year before the triennial LCMS national convention.
The schedule includes time for conducting business, electing officers, and sharing information. The conventions also offer opportunities for worship, nurture, inspiration, and fellowship.
Pastors, teachers, other commissioned ministers, and lay delegates elected by congregations are required to attend.
General sessions are open to anyone who wishes to attend as an observer, and guests are also invited to the worship services.
LCMS SELC District Office

Profile — SELC District

Web — selc.lcms.org

Email — selc.lcms@gmail.com

Phone — 610-965-3265

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
Register

LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/LCMSyouth

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/LCMSyouth

Armed Forces Day - 2025
2025-05-17
Armed Forces Day is on Saturday, May 17, 2025, and congregations of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod may commemorate the holiday during weekend worship services.
The LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces encourages congregations to give thanks to God for our nation’s military veterans, service personnel, chaplains and families who have faithfully answered the call to serve.
LCMS congregations may plan their commemorations with the help of free resources, including:

Introduction letter

Sermon by Rev. Chaplain (Captain) Kyle D. Mietzner

Bulletin inserts: General (Color)

Bulletin inserts: General (Black-and-White)

Bulletin inserts: Responsive Prayer and Ministry-By-Mail

Other 2025 celebrations

Memorial Day is Monday, May 26, and may be commemorated on Sunday, May 25.

Independence Day is Friday, July 4, and may be commemorated on Sunday, July 6.

Veterans Day is Tuesday, Nov. 11, and may be commemorated on Sunday, Nov. 9.

Any Saturday and/or Sunday of your choice.

For more information and resources, visit lcms.org/armedforces.

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 Youth Gathering
2025-07-19 - 2025-07-23 | New Orleans, La., New Orleans, LA, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s National Youth Gathering is scheduled for July 19–23, 2025, in New Orleans, La.
Registration is scheduled to open in fall 2024. More information will be posted on this page as it becomes available.
Held every three years since 1980, the LCMS Youth Gathering provides thousands of youth and adults the opportunity to come together as a community of God’s people to learn more about Jesus Christ, the Christian faith and their Lutheran identity.
During the five days of the Gathering, youth spend time together in God’s word, worship, service and fellowship with others from across Synod.
Visit lcmsgathering.com for the latest information.

LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/lcmsnyg

Latin America Missionary Alumni Event
2025-08-07 - 2025-08-08 | Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, 801 Seminary Place, St. Louis, MO, 63105, United States
The Lutheran Center—Missouri Synod (LCMS) is commemorating 125 years of mission work in Latin America and the Caribbean region (LAC) in 2025, and current and former LAC missionaries will gather for an anniversary celebration on Aug. 7-8 at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.
The missionaries will reflect on their work around Latin America and the Caribbean, and attendees can enjoy fellowship time while learning how the Lord continues to work in LAC. The Synod’s multi-generational mission work will be celebrated under the banner of “Remember, Repent, Rejoice.”
All LCMS missionary alumni of the Latin America and the Caribbean region are invited to attend this special event. Service includes that of a career missionary, Globally Engaged in Outreach (GEO) missionary, or Volunteer Youth Ministry (VYM) missionary under LCMS World Mission or LCMS International Mission.
Schedule
Thursday, Aug. 7

5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. — Cocktail reception and dinner at Concordia Historical Institute (located on the campus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis)

Friday, Aug. 8

8:30 a.m. to noon — Missionary alumni presentations and roundtable discussions

Noon to 1 p.m. — Lunch

1 p.m. to 4 p.m. — Missionary presentations and roundtable discussions

4 p.m. — Vespers with dinner reception to follow

Attendance is free. Attendees are responsible for their own travel and lodging accommodations.
Email lcmslac@lcmsintl.org for more information.

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.

2025 Pennsylvania March for Life in Harrisburg
2025-09-22 | Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, PA, United States
The 2025 Pennsylvania March for Life in Harrisburg is Monday, September 22, 2025. The rally begins at 11:00am and the march at 12:00pm. March with other Lutherans and witness to the sanctity of life. More information is to come.

Register Now

Church Worker Appreciation – Pastor
2025-10-12
Our church workers dedicate themselves, day in and day out, to serving their church and school communities. That means it’s always the right time to show them our appreciation.
To help the church be intentional in showing that appreciation, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has set aside the month of October and other special days throughout the year to highlight different kinds of church workers and their service. You are encouraged to join with your brothers and sisters in Christ across the LCMS in using these opportunities to show appreciation to our church workers, who serve us in a multitude of ways as they preach, teach and care for God’s people in body and soul.

Oct. 25 — Deaconess, Director of Family Life Ministry, Director of Christian Outreach, and Director of Church Ministries Appreciation

April 26 — Director of Parish Music Appreciation

May 4–8 — Teacher Appreciation

June 26 — Director of Christian Education Appreciation

On Oct. 12, we begin our year of church worker appreciation by thanking God for our pastors, who stand in the stead of Christ as they bring us His gifts of Word and Sacrament.
The LCMS offers suggestions and resources to show your gratitude and support for pastors.
View resources

LCMS Worker Wellness

lcms.org/worker-wellness
workerwellness@lcms.org

Set Apart to Serve — LCMS church work recruitment initiative

lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve

setapart2serve@lcms.org

Church Worker Appreciation - Deaconess, Director of Family Life Ministry, Director of Christian Outreach, Director of Church Ministries
2025-10-25
Our church workers dedicate themselves, day in and day out, to serving their church and school communities. That means it’s always the right time to show them our appreciation.
To help the church be intentional in showing that appreciation, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has set aside the month of October and other special days throughout the year to highlight different kinds of church workers and their service. You are encouraged to join with your brothers and sisters in Christ across the LCMS in using these opportunities to show appreciation to our church workers, who serve us in a multitude of ways as they preach, teach and care for God’s people in body and soul.

Oct. 12 — Pastor Appreciation

April 26 — Director of Parish Music Appreciation

May 4–8 — Teacher Appreciation

June 26 — Director of Christian Education Appreciation

On Oct. 25, we continue our year of church worker appreciation by thanking God for four commissioned (auxiliary) offices that support the work of the Holy Ministry: deaconess, director of family life, director of Christian outreach and director of church ministries.
View resources

LCMS Worker Wellness

lcms.org/worker-wellness
workerwellness@lcms.org

Set Apart to Serve — LCMS church work recruitment initiative

lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve

setapart2serve@lcms.org

2026 National March for Life in Washington, D.C.
2026-01-23 | Washington, D.C., 12th and 14th Streets, Washington D.C., 20002, United States
The 2026 National March for Life is in Washington, D.C. on Friday, January 23, 2026. Plan now to join other Lutherans to march and stand boldly together in the public square and confess our beliefs about the sanctity of life. More information is to come.
Register Now

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

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

Church Worker Appreciation – Director of Parish Music
2026-04-26
Our church workers dedicate themselves, day in and day out, to serving their church and school communities. That means it’s always the right time to show them our appreciation.
To help the church be intentional in showing that appreciation, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has set aside the month of October and other special days throughout the year to highlight different kinds of church workers and their service. You are encouraged to join with your brothers and sisters in Christ across the LCMS in using these opportunities to show appreciation to our church workers, who serve us in a multitude of ways as they preach, teach and care for God’s people in body and soul.

Oct. 12 — Pastor Appreciation

Oct. 25 — Deaconess, Director of Family Life Ministry, Director of Christian Outreach, and Director of Church Ministries Appreciation

May 4–8 — Teacher Appreciation

June 26 — Director of Christian Education Appreciation

On April 26, we continue our year of church worker appreciation observances by thanking God for directors of parish music, one of the seven commissioned (auxiliary) offices that support the work of the Holy Ministry.
View resources

LCMS Worker Wellness

lcms.org/worker-wellness
workerwellness@lcms.org

Set Apart to Serve — LCMS church work recruitment initiative

lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve

setapart2serve@lcms.org

Church Worker Appreciation – Teacher
2026-05-04 - 2026-05-08
Our church workers dedicate themselves, day in and day out, to serving their church and school communities. That means it’s always the right time to show them our appreciation.
To help the church be intentional in showing that appreciation, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has set aside the month of October and other special days throughout the year to highlight different kinds of church workers and their service. You are encouraged to join with your brothers and sisters in Christ across the LCMS in using these opportunities to show appreciation to our church workers, who serve us in a multitude of ways as they preach, teach and care for God’s people in body and soul.

Oct. 12 — Pastor Appreciation

Oct. 25 — Deaconess, Director of Family Life Ministry, Director of Christian Outreach, and Director of Church Ministries Appreciation

April 26 — Director of Parish Music Appreciation

June 26 — Director of Christian Education Appreciation

During the week of May 4–8, we continue our year of church worker appreciation by thanking God for school teachers, one of the seven commissioned (auxiliary) offices that support the work of the Holy Ministry.
View resources

LCMS Worker Wellness

lcms.org/worker-wellness
workerwellness@lcms.org

Set Apart to Serve — LCMS church work recruitment initiative

lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve

setapart2serve@lcms.org
