LCMS Calendar

LCMS Minnesota North District Convention — 2025
2025-02-23 - 2025-02-25 | Timberlake Lodge: Grand Rapids, Minn., 144 SE 17th Street, Grand Rapids, MN, 55744, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 Minnesota North District Convention is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 23, to Tuesday, Feb. 25, in Grand Rapids, Minn., at Timberlake Lodge.
District conventions, which are held every three years by each of the Synod’s 35 districts, take place the 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, 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 Minnesota North District Office

Profile — Minnesota North District

Web — mnnlcms.org

Email — mnndist@mnnlcms.org

Phone — 218-829-1781

LCMS Board of Directors - February 2025 meeting
2025-02-21 - 2025-02-22
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Board of Directors is scheduled to meet on Feb. 21-22, 2025, in St. Louis.
The Board of Directors is the legal representative of the LCMS, and it is the custodian of all the property of the Synod — directly or by its delegation of such authority to an agency of the Synod.
The BOD exercises supervision over all the property and business affairs of the Synod, except in those areas where it has delegated such authority to an agency of the Synod or where the voting members of the Synod, through the adoption of bylaws or by other convention action, have assigned specific areas of responsibility to separate corporate or trust entities.
In such circumstances, the BOD retains general oversight responsibility as defined in Synod Bylaws.

LCMS Southern Illinois District Convention — 2025
2025-02-20 - 2025-02-22 | Regency Conference Center: O’Fallon, Ill., 400 Regency Park Drive, O'Fallon, IL, 62269, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 Southern Illinois District Convention is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 20, to Saturday, Feb. 22, in O’Fallon, Ill., at the Regency Conference Center.
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 Southern Illinois District Office

Profile — Southern Illinois District

Web — sidlcms.org

Email — siddpaa@gmail.com

Phone — 618-234-4767

LCMS South Dakota District Convention — 2025
2025-02-16 - 2025-02-18 | Sioux Falls Convention Center: Sioux Falls, S.D., 1201 N. West Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 South Dakota District Convention is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 16, to Tuesday, Feb. 18, in Sioux Falls, S.D., at the Sioux Falls Convention Center.
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 South Dakota District Office

Profile — South Dakota District

Web — sddlcms.org

Email — jpike@midco.net

Phone — 605-361-1514

Council of Presidents - February 2025
2025-02-03 - 2025-02-06
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Council of Presidents is scheduled to meet Feb. 3-6, 2025.
The President, vice-presidents, and district presidents of the Synod comprise the 42-member Council of Presidents, which meets four times each year to provide opportunity for mutual counsel regarding the doctrine and administration of the Synod and to edify and support one another in the work that they share, those responsibilities found throughout the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod.

Board for National Mission – January 2025 meeting
2025-01-31 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
The LCMS Board for National Mission is scheduled to meet on Friday, January 31, 2025.
The Board for National Mission is charged with developing and determining policies for the coordination of and in support of district ministries which support congregations and schools.
Read more about the LCMS Board for National Mission.

LCMS Board for International Mission meeting – Jan. 30, 2025
2025-01-30
The LCMS Board for International Mission is scheduled to meet on Jan. 30, 2025, via Zoom video conference call.
The Board for International Mission is charged with developing and determining policies in support of mission and ministry in foreign countries for the Office of International Mission.

Topeka Life March
2025-01-29 12:30 - 14:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Topeka Performing Arts Center, 214 SE Eighth Ave., Topeka, KS, 66603, United States
The Topeka Life March is Wednesday, January 29th, at 12:00pm, at the Topeka Performing Arts Center. For more information about the gathering place where participants will meet before the march, contact Rev. Kinney (pastoripkinney@gmail.com)

Register Now

Virginia Pro-Life Day 2025
2025-01-29 | Richmond, Virginia, VA, United States
The 2025 Virginia Pro-Life Day is Wednesday, January 29, 2025 in Richmond and offers an opportunity for attendees to meet with their legislators. More information will be shared when we have additional details.
Register Now

2025 Texas Rally for Life in Austin
2025-01-25 | Texas Capitol Building, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX, 78701, United States
Join us at the Capitol in Austin for the 2025 Texas Rally for Life on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
More information to come.
Register Now

2025 Walk for Life West Coast
2025-01-25 | West Portal Lutheran Church, 200 Sloat Boulevard, San Francisco, CA, 94132, United States
The 2025 Walk for Life West Coast is January 25, 2025. Participants will meet at West Portal Lutheran Church (200 Sloat Blvd., San Francisco, 94132) before the event to travel to the march.
Register Now

2025 National March for Life in Washington, D.C.
2025-01-24 | Washington, D.C., 12th and 14th Streets, Washington D.C., 20002, United States
The 2025 National March for Life is in Washington, D.C. on January 24, 2025.
Register and join President Harrison and other Lutherans to stand boldly together in the public square and confess our beliefs about the sanctity of life.
Register Now

LCMS North Dakota District Convention — 2025
2025-01-19 - 2025-01-22 | The Grand Hotel: Minot, N.D., 1505 North Broadway, Minot, ND, 58703, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 North Dakota District Convention is scheduled for Sunday, Jan. 19, to Wednesday, Jan. 22, in Minot, N.D., at The Grand Hotel.
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 North Dakota District Office

Profile — North Dakota District

Website — nodaklcms.org

Email — lcms.nd.aa@outlook.com

Phone — 701-751-3424

2025 Life March in Fort Wayne, Indiana
2025-01-18 12:30 - 14:30 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Fort Wayne, Ind., AZ
The 2025 Life March in Fort Wayne, Ind. will take place on Saturday, January 18. The pre-march rally takes place at 12:30pm and the march follows at 1:00pm. Join us as we witness to the sanctity of life. More information to come.

Register Now

Tucson March for Life 2025
2025-01-18 09:30 - 12:30 (America/Phoenix) | Tucson Convention Center, 260 South Church Ave., Tucson, AZ, 85701
The Tucson March for Life is Saturday, January 18, 2025. Our LCMS marchers will meet in front of the Tucson Community Center at 260 South Church Avenue (across from St. Augustine Cathedral) at 9:30am. The Rev. Dr. John Stieve will lead devotions, and then we will march to Holy Hope Cemetery. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Roni Grad at roni.grad@gmail.com

Register Now

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

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.

Epiphany
2025-01-06
The Epiphany of our Lord will be commemorated on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.
After focusing on the Incarnation of our Lord — God becoming flesh — during the 12 days of Christmas, the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ.
To attend a worship 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 a church near me

Liturgical color for Epiphany
White is the appointed color for the 12 days of Christmas, Epiphany (Jan. 6), and the first Sunday following it, which is often observed as the Baptism of Our Lord. On high festive days when white is appointed, some churches also use gold.

Three-Year Series C and One-Year Series
Scripture readings for Epiphany

Isaiah 60:1–6

Ephesians 3:1–12

Matthew 2:1–12

Psalms

Series B — Psalm 72:1–11 (12–15)

One-Year Series — Psalm 24

Lectionary summary
The Lord God Is Manifested in the Incarnate Son
The Feast of the Epiphany centers in the visit of the Magi from the East. In that respect, it is a “13th day” of Christmas, and yet it also marks the beginning of a new liturgical season. Where Christmas has focused on the incarnation of our Lord, that is, on God becoming flesh, the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ. For the Lord Himself has entered our darkness and rises upon us with the brightness of His true light (Is. 60:1–2). He does so chiefly by His Word of the Gospel, which He causes to be preached within His Church on earth, not only to the Jews but also to the Gentiles (Eph. 3:8–10). As the Magi were guided by the promises of Holy Scripture to find and worship the Christ Child with His mother in the house (Matt. 2:5–11), so does He call disciples from all nations by the preaching of His Word to find and worship Him within His Church (Is. 60:3–6).

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

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Christmas Day
2024-12-25
Christmas Day is celebrated on Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024. The Festival of the Nativity of our Lord is the traditional way of saying Christmas Day, on which Christians celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus.
To attend a worship 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 a church near me

Liturgical color for Christmas Day
White, the color of purity and completeness, adorns the altar to commemorate the Nativity of Our Lord. In His light we see light, and by Him “though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” Christ’s incarnation and His resurrection, His Gospel and its message to all nations are cause for our rejoicing. His purity before His Father becomes our purity. White reinforces this message of joy.
White is the appointed color for the 12 days of Christmas, Epiphany (Jan. 6), and the first Sunday following it, which is often observed as the Baptism of Our Lord. On high festive days when white is appointed, some churches also use gold.

Three-Year Series Lectionary
Scripture readings for Christmas Day

Isaiah 52:7-10
Psalm 2
Hebrews 1:1-6 (7-12)
John 1:1–14 (15-18)

Lectionary summary
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells Among Us in the Flesh
The Lord sends out His ministers of the Gospel to make disciples “of all the nations,” so that “all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God.” For the Lord has “bared his holy arm” in the incarnate Christ (Is. 52:7, 10). The child in the manger, born of the Virgin Mary, is the very Word of God, the only begotten Son of the Father, “whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world” (Heb. 1:2). As “all things were made through him” (John 1:3), so are all things redeemed and made new in Him. In His body of flesh and blood, we behold “the radiance of the glory of God” (Heb. 1:3), “glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). He dwells among us in peace, that we might have life and light and salvation in Him. For by His Word of the Gospel, we are born again as the children of God, bearing His name and sharing His eternal life.

One-Year Series Lectionary
Scripture readings for Christmas Day

Exodus 40:17-21; 34-38
Psalm 2
Titus 3:4-7
John 1:1-14 (15-18)

Lectionary summary
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the Flesh
In the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17-21, 34-38). “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1-14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ’s body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4–7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.

Media kits
The LCMS has produced media kits for congregations to use in reaching out to their communities. The free, downloadable resources are designed to allow congregations to add invitations and local details about worship services. Congregations are invited to use these resources to advertise service information or simply to generate opportunities for pastoral conversations in the community.
View media kits

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

Find a church near me

Christmas Eve
2024-12-24
Christmas Eve, which commemorates the Nativity of our Lord, is on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2024.
To attend a worship 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 a church near me

Liturgical color for Christmas Eve
White, which adorns the altar on this evening, is the color of purity and completeness. In His light we see light, and by Him “though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” Christ’s incarnation and His resurrection, His Gospel and its message to all nations are cause for our rejoicing. His purity before His Father becomes our purity. White reinforces this message of joy.
White is the appointed color for the 12 days of Christmas, Epiphany (Jan. 6), and the first Sunday following it, which is often observed as the Baptism of Our Lord. On high festive days when white is appointed, some churches also use gold.

Three-Year Series and One-Year Series Lectionaries
Scripture readings for Christmas Eve

Isaiah 7:10-14
Psalm 110:1-4
1 John 4:7-16
Matt. 1:18-25

Lectionary summary
The Word of the Lord Is Fulfilled in the Flesh of Jesus
Though Ahaz would not ask, the Lord gives a sign to the House of David — “the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Is. 7:14). With this promise, He signifies that salvation is by His grace alone. It is no work or achievement of man, but the Lord’s own work and His free gift. The promise is fulfilled as the Son of God is conceived and born of the Virgin Mary, and the sign is received in faith by the House of David in the person of Joseph (Matt. 1:20–24). “Incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the Virgin Mary” (Nicene Creed), God is with us (Immanuel) in the flesh of Jesus, Mary’s Son. Joseph believes that Word of God and so demonstrates a marvelous example in his immediate and quiet obedience, taking Mary to be his wife and caring for her in faith and love. He loves her because the love of God is manifest in this, that “the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world,” to be “the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10–14).

Media kits
The LCMS has produced media kits for congregations to use in reaching out to their communities. The free, downloadable resources are designed to allow congregations to add invitations and local details about worship services. Congregations are invited to use these resources to advertise service information or simply to generate opportunities for pastoral conversations in the community.
View media kits

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

Find a church near me

Fourth Sunday in Advent
2024-12-22
The Fourth Sunday in Advent will be commemorated on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024.
To attend a worship 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 a church near me

Liturgical colors for the Fourth Sunday in Advent
Blue or violet adorns the altar during Advent. Advent, a season of repentance, waiting and watching, looks forward in hope. Our Christian faith rests on the hope that Christ, who came in the flesh in history to accomplish our salvation, will also return in the same way to be our judge on the last day and bring us into eternal life.

Three-Year Series C Lectionary
Scripture readings

Micah 5:2–5a
Hebrews 10:5–10
Luke 1:39–45 (46–56)

Lectionary summary
The Lord Comes to Visit Us in Peace
The Fourth Sunday in Advent turns our attention toward the nativity of our Lord. With Mary, we await the coming of the Christ, her Son, conceived in her womb by the Spirit of God. As the Lord dealt graciously with her and did great things for her (Luke 1:48–49), so also He manifests Himself and His glory to us in mercy and gentleness. He comes to rule His people in peace, to “shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD.” He comes forth not from the great capital city of Rome or Jerusalem, but from lowly little Bethlehem (Micah 5:2, 4). He comes to sacrifice Himself, in fulfillment of His Father’s will, for the salvation and sanctification of His people (Heb. 10:10). He who once visited Elizabeth while hidden in the womb of Mary (Luke 1:39–45) now comes to visit us today, hidden in the lowliness of simple water, bread and wine.

One-Year Series Lectionary
Scripture readings

Deut. 18:15–19
Phil. 4:4–7
John 1:19–28 or Luke 1:39–56

Lectionary summary
John the Baptizer Points Everyone to the Messiah
The coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15–19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses — the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39–56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19–28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4–7).

Media kits
The LCMS has produced media kits for congregations to use in reaching out to their communities. The free, downloadable resources are designed to allow congregations to add invitations and local details about worship services. Congregations are invited to use these resources to advertise service information or simply to generate opportunities for pastoral conversations in the community.
View media kits

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

Find a church near me

Third Sunday in Advent
2024-12-15
The Third Sunday in Advent will be commemorated on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024.
To attend a worship 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 a church near me

Liturgical colors for the Third Sunday in Advent
Blue or violet adorns the altar during Advent. Advent, a season of repentance, waiting and watching, looks forward in hope. Our Christian faith rests on the hope that Christ, who came in the flesh in history to accomplish our salvation, will also return in the same way to be our judge on the last day and bring us into eternal life.

Three-Year Series C Lectionary
Scripture readings

Zephaniah 3:14–20
Philippians 4:4–7
Luke 7:18–28 (29–35)

Lectionary summary
The Coming of Jesus Enables Us to Rejoice
The Third Sunday in Advent has traditionally been called by the Latin word Gaudete, meaning “Rejoice!” For as you are called to repentance, so also are you urged to rejoice in the coming of the Lord, Jesus Christ. By His own cross, He has accomplished salvation for you; “he has cleared away your enemies,” “taken away the judgments against you” and come to reign in your midst. Indeed, He rejoices over you with gladness and song (Zeph. 3:15–17)! Therefore, even from prison St. Paul encourages us to “rejoice in the Lord always,” knowing that the peace of God will guard and keep us in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:4, 7). We find an example and encouragement in the case of John the Baptist. As he languishes in prison, he calls upon Jesus and is strengthened by the Word of the Gospel that he receives. The same good news is preached to you, by which all things are made new and even “the dead are raised up” (Luke 7:22). Do not be offended by the cross, therefore, but let your life be one of prayer and thanksgiving (Luke 7:23; Phil. 4:6).

One-Year Series Lectionary
Scripture readings

Isaiah 40:1–8 (9–11)
1 Cor. 4:1–5
Matt. 11:2–10 (11)

Lectionary summary
John the Baptizer Prepares the Way for the Lord
The voice of the Baptizer cried out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord …” (Isaiah 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah’s coming through repentance, for “all flesh is grass” (Isaiah 40:6). Now He asks from prison, “Are you the one who is to come …?” (Matt. 11:2). Jesus’ works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord’s hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ’s overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God’s people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.

Media kits
The LCMS has produced media kits for congregations to use in reaching out to their communities. The free, downloadable resources are designed to allow congregations to add invitations and local details about worship services. Congregations are invited to use these resources to advertise service information or simply to generate opportunities for pastoral conversations in the community.
View media kits

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

Find a church near me

Second Sunday in Advent
2024-12-08
The Second Sunday in Advent will be commemorated on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024.
To attend a worship 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 a church near me

Liturgical colors for the Second Sunday in Advent
Blue or violet adorns the altar during Advent. Advent, a season of repentance, waiting and watching, looks forward in hope. Our Christian faith rests on the hope that Christ, who came in the flesh in history to accomplish our salvation, will also return in the same way to be our judge on the last day and bring us into eternal life.

Three-Year Series C Lectionary
Scripture readings

Malachi 3:1–7b
Philippians 1:2–11
Luke 3:1–14 (15–20)

Lectionary summary
You Are Prepared through Repentance for the Coming of the Lord
“The gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1) begins when John the Baptist appears and comes “proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (Mark 1:4). As the prophet Isaiah had written, John is the messenger of the Lord, sent before His face to prepare His way. To this day, the ministry of the forerunner continues in the preaching of the Law and the Gospel and in the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. By these ways and means, “the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together” (Is. 40:5), and the Good Shepherd “will gather the lambs in his arms” (Is. 40:11). He speaks “tenderly to Jerusalem,” and He comforts His people by pardoning their iniquity (Is. 40:1–2). What is more, He promises “new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). Repent, therefore, and humble yourself as you wait for His coming in peace (2 Peter 3:14), because He “is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

One-Year Series Lectionary
Scripture readings

Mal. 4:1–6
Rom. 15:4–13
Luke 21:25–36

Lectionary summary
The Preaching of Repentance Prepares Us for the Coming of the Lord
The preaching and Baptism “of repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (Luke 3:3) prepare us for the coming of the Lord, Jesus Christ. The historic work of John the Baptist was completed with the first advent of our Lord Jesus in the flesh, but the ministry of the forerunner continues in the preaching of Law and Gospel and in Holy Baptism. Through His messengers, the Lord calls people of all nations to “see the salvation of God” (Luke 3:6). Our haughtiness is removed and our mountains of pride are brought low, but the Lord humbles us in order to exalt us in His mercy. As the Lord has begun this good work of repentance in us, so also does He perfect it by His Word and Holy Spirit, and He “will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6). He purifies us to be His priestly people, precious in His sight and abounding in faith and love, so that we offer our very lives in righteousness to the Lord (Mal. 3:3–4).

Media kits
The LCMS has produced media kits for congregations to use in reaching out to their communities. The free, downloadable resources are designed to allow congregations to add invitations and local details about worship services. Congregations are invited to use these resources to advertise service information or simply to generate opportunities for pastoral conversations in the community.
View media kits

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

Find a church near me

LCMS Pastoral Colloquy - December 2024 meeting
2024-12-05 - 2024-12-06 | LCMS International Center: St. Louis, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO, 63122, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Colloquy Committee for the Pastoral Ministry (CCPM) is scheduled to meet on December 5-6, 2024, in St. Louis.
The four-member committee is chaired by the LCMS first vice-president and includes representative from both LCMS seminaries and a member from the Council of Presidents, according to Synod bylaws.
The CCPM meets approximately five times throughout the year to examine applications, interview eligible candidates and manage the policies and practices of the colloquy process.

First Sunday in Advent
2024-12-01
The First Sunday in Advent, which marks the beginning of the new church year, will be commemorated on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024.
To attend a worship 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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Liturgical colors for the First Sunday in Advent
Blue or violet adorns the altar during Advent. Advent, a season of repentance, waiting and watching, looks forward in hope. Our Christian faith rests on the hope that Christ, who came in the flesh in history to accomplish our salvation, will also return in the same way to be our judge on the last day and bring us into eternal life.

Three-Year Series C Lectionary
Scripture readings

Jeremiah 33:14–16
1 Thessalonians 3:9–13
Luke 19:28–40 or Luke 21:25–36

Lectionary summary
The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us
The season of Advent focuses on the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and this first Sunday establishes this theme for the rest of the season. The Son of God came long ago to be our Savior, “a righteous Branch” descended from David (Jer. 33:15). As He then came into Jerusalem, riding on a lowly donkey to sacrifice Himself for the sins of the world (Luke 19:28–40), so does He come to His Church today in the humility of Word and Sacrament to deliver the fruits of His Passion: the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. He absolves us and establishes our hearts “blameless in holiness before our God and Father” (1 Thess. 3:13). The same Lord Jesus, who came to Jerusalem then and who comes to us now in peace, will come again with power and great glory on the Last Day. Then there will be “distress of nations in perplexity,” with “people fainting with fear.” Yet, as we anticipate that great and terrible day, He bids us to rest securely in Him: “Raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:25, 26, 28)

One-Year Series Lectionary
Scripture readings

Jer. 23:5–8
Rom. 13:(8–10) 11–14
Matt. 21:1–9

Lectionary summary
The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us
The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey” (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be “The LORD is our Righteousness” (Jer. 23:5–6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ’s body and blood, we also sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for “our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).

Media kits
The LCMS has produced media kits for congregations to use in reaching out to their communities. The free, downloadable resources are designed to allow congregations to add invitations and local details about worship services. Congregations are invited to use these resources to advertise service information or simply to generate opportunities for pastoral conversations in the community.
View media kits

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

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LCMS Board of Directors - November 2024 meeting
2024-11-22 - 2024-11-23
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Board of Directors is scheduled to meet on Nov. 22-23, 2024, in St. Louis.
The Board of Directors is the legal representative of the LCMS, and it is the custodian of all the property of the Synod — directly or by its delegation of such authority to an agency of the Synod.
The BOD exercises supervision over all the property and business affairs of the Synod, except in those areas where it has delegated such authority to an agency of the Synod or where the voting members of the Synod, through the adoption of bylaws or by other convention action, have assigned specific areas of responsibility to separate corporate or trust entities.
In such circumstances, the BOD retains general oversight responsibility as defined in Synod Bylaws.

Board for National Mission – November 2024 meeting
2024-11-14 - 2024-11-15
The LCMS Board for National Mission is scheduled to meet on Thursday, November 14, and on Friday, November 15, 2024.
The Board for National Mission is charged with developing and determining policies for the coordination of and in support of district ministries which support congregations and schools.
Read more about the LCMS Board for National Mission.

Council of Presidents - November 2024 meeting
2024-11-11 - 2024-11-13
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Council of Presidents is scheduled to meet Nov. 11-13, 2024.
The President, vice-presidents, and district presidents of the Synod comprise the 42-member Council of Presidents, which meets four times each year to provide opportunity for mutual counsel regarding the doctrine and administration of the Synod and to edify and support one another in the work that they share, those responsibilities found throughout the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod.

LCMS Board for International Mission meeting – Nov. 7-8, 2024
2024-11-07 - 2024-11-08
The LCMS Board for International Mission is scheduled to meet on Nov. 7-8, 2024, in St. Louis.
The Board for International Mission is charged with developing and determining policies in support of mission and ministry in foreign countries for the Office of International Mission.

All Saints' Day
2024-11-01
All Saints’ Day, which is on Nov. 1 of each year, will be commemorated in 2024 during Divine Services on Sunday, Nov. 3.
To attend an All Saints’ Day 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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Liturgical color for All Saints’ Day
White, which is the color of purity and completeness, will adorn the altar on All Saints’ Day. This color, used primarily during these Sundays, 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 B and One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Psalm 149

Revelation 7:(2–8) 9–17

1 John 3:1–3

Matthew 5:1–12

Lectionary summary
Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ
“A great multitude … from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages,” cry out, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne” (Rev. 7:9–17). Faith-filled saints from every place and time, with unified voices, eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we, too, “shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:1–3). Joined with the throng of angels and myriad saints, we shall “serve him day and night in his temple” (Rev. 7:9–17). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure and the persecuted are all blessed, and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1–12).

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

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