LCMS Calendar

FORO — Belize
2026-11-05 00:00 - 2026-11-09 23:59 (America/Chicago)
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Belize on Nov. 5-9, 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

All Saints' Day
2026-11-01 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Chicago)
All Saints’ Day, which is on Nov. 1 of each year, will be commemorated in 2026 during Divine Services on Sunday, Nov. 1.

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.

Find a church near me

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 A 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

Subscribe to monthly resources email

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Reformation Day
2026-10-31
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

Subscribe to monthly resources email

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FORO — Mexico (With Ylseta Lutheran Mission Human Care in El Paso, Texas)
2026-10-28 - 2026-10-29
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO with Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care about mission work in Mexico on Oct. 28-29, 2026, in El Paso, Texas.
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 — Bolivia
2026-10-20 00:00 - 2026-10-22 23:59 (America/Chicago)
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Bolivia on Oct. 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. James Sharp, LCMS Missionary

james.sharp@lcms.org

FORO — Peru
2026-10-16 - 2026-10-18
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Peru on Oct. 16-18, 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

FORO — Chile
2026-10-13 00:00 - 2026-10-14 23:59 (America/Chicago)
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Chile on Oct. 13-14, 2026. The meetings will be held in Valparaiso, Chile.

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

2026 North Dakota March for Life
2026-10-09 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Chicago) | Bismarck, North Dakota, OH, United States
More information to come. Register now to witness to the sanctity of life.

Register Now

2026 New Jersey March for Life
2026-10-08 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Chicago) | Trenton, New Jersey, NJ, United States
The Rally will begin at 11 a.m., with the March to follow at 12 p.m. Register now to witness to the sanctity of life.

Register Now

FORO — Puerto Rico
2026-10-02 - 2026-10-04
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Puerto Rico on Oct. 2-4, 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.

Contacts
Rev. James Sharp
james.sharp@lcms.org
card@lcmsintl.org

2026 Ohio March for Life
2026-10-02 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Los_Angeles) | Ohio State House, 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, United States

St. Michael’s Day
2026-09-29
The Church commemorates St. Michael and All Angels each year on Sept. 29.
“Fear not.” So every angel begins his speech in the Scriptures. They are the fearsome warriors of the Most High God, commanded by Michael the Archangel, forming the “Sabbaoth,” the armies of the Lord. And yet, they are given this office as His heavenly legate: to announce the good news of great joy in Christ Jesus, incarnate, risen and ascended, all for us mortals. Christ’s warriors and messengers are set to guard duty for His Christians. Their unseen eyes draw us to follow their gaze, “for they always behold the face of the Father, who is in heaven” (Matt. 18:10).
How is Michael a “Saint”?
The word “saint” simply means “holy one.” We often use this word to describe those Christians who have departed this life in the faith. The New Testament most often uses it to address Christians in the Church on earth (Rom. 1:7, 1 Cor. 1:2, Eph. 1:1, etc.). Michael and the angels of God are not humans “sanctified in Christ Jesus” (1 Cor. 1:2), but they are “holy angels” — holy just as God created them and as the Scriptures describe them (Mark 8:38, Acts 10:22, Rev. 14:10).

Liturgical color for St. Michael’s Day
White is the color of purity and completeness and the color for all major feasts of Christ. 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.

One-Year Series and Three-Year Series
Scripture readings

Daniel 10:10–14; 12:1–3

Rev.12:7–12

Matt. 18:1–11 or Luke 10:17–20

Lectionary summary
Our Father in Heaven Protects His Children by Giving His Holy Angels Charge Over Them
We live in “a time of trouble” (Dan. 12:1), in the midst of great tribulation. Satan and his wicked angels have been thrown out of heaven and have come down to earth “in great wrath,” with woeful “temptations to sin” and with constant accusations (Rev. 12:8–12; Matt. 18:7). Even so, we are encouraged by the presence and protection of St. Michael and the holy angels, whom God sends to help us in the strife (Dan. 10:11–13). By “the authority of his Christ,” His holy angels guard and keep us in body and soul. These heavenly servants of God preserve His human messengers on earth, the ministers of “the blood of the Lamb,” against all the power of the enemy, for by “the word of their testimony,” the Church is saved and the devil is defeated (Rev. 12:10–11; Luke 10:18–19). By their preaching and Baptism of repentance, the old Adam and the old evil foe are “drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6). As God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, so are His people delivered and raised from the dust of the earth through the forgiveness of their sins (Dan. 12:1–3).
Prayers

St. Michael and All Angels

Attend a service
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

LCMS Worship

lcms.org/worship

Worship planning resources

Subscribe to monthly resources email

Find church near me

FORO — Panama
2026-09-25 - 2026-09-27
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in Panama on Sept. 25-27, 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

2026 LCMS Specialized Care Fall Conference
2026-09-24 08:45 - 2026-09-25 12:00 (America/Chicago) | LCMS International Center: St. Louis, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO, 63122, United States
The 2026 Specialized Care Fall Conference will be held Sept. 24–25, in St. Louis at the LCMS International Center and online. The conference will begin at 8:45 a.m. on Sept. 24 and conclude at 12 p.m. on Sept. 25.

Those currently serving in Specialized Care contexts and those interested in learning more about this ministry are welcome to attend, either in-person or online.

The conference will include presentations on a variety of topics related to Specialized Care, opportunities to share experiences and insights, and the announcement of some exciting updates for our Specialized Care workers.

Featured presenters include:

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

Rev. Monte Haun, chaplain at EverTrue (formerly Lutheran Senior Services)

Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe, director of LCMS Discipleship Ministry

Rev. Dr. Brian R. Heller, manager of mercy training, LCMS National Mission

Rev. Stephen Heimer, director of LCMS All Nations Ministry

Registration

Please note that the Specialized Care Fall Conference shares a registration page with the Disaster Response Fall Conference, which is happening at the same time. Certain sessions may overlap.

To sign up for the Specialized Care Conference, make sure to select one of the “Specialized Care Conference” ticket options (online or in-person).

The cost of in-person attendance is $50, online attendance is $25. Space is limited for both in-person and online registration.

Specialized Care Endorsed Workers will not pay a registration fee. They should contact Specialized Care for more information at SpecializedCare@lcms.org.

The conference schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Register online

Questions?

Contact LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry at SpecializedCare@lcms.org for more information about the conference.

2026 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference
2026-09-23 08:00 - 2026-09-25 12:00 (America/Chicago) | LCMS International Center: St. Louis, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St Louis, MO, 63122, United States
The 2026 LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference will be held Wednesday, Sept. 23, through Friday, Sept. 25, at The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s International Center in St. Louis.

Meeting under the theme “Equipped to Serve,” 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.

Registration

Please note that the conference shares a registration page with the Specialized Care Fall Conference, which is happening at the same time. Certain sessions may overlap.

To sign up for the LCMS National Disaster Response and Training Conference, select the “Disaster Response Conference” ticket option.

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.

The conference schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Register online

Questions?

Contact LCMS Disaster Response and Training at disaster@lcms.org for more information.

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

2026 Pennsylvania March for Life
2026-09-21 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Los_Angeles) | Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex, 501 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17101, United States

Installation of LCMS president, vice-presidents, secretary and board members
2026-09-18 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, 801 Seminary Place, St. Louis, MO, 63105, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) will hold a Service of Installation for LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, the six regional vice-presidents, the LCMS secretary and several officers and board members at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis (CSL).

The service, which will be held in CSL’s Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus, will follow the Order of Vespers. The public is invited, and a brief reception will follow.

Harrison was elected to a sixth term as LCMS president in June. LCMS First-Vice President Rev. Peter Lange, Secretary Rev. Dr. John Sias, and four of the five regional vice-presidents were also re-elected at the 2026 LCMS convention, which took place July 19–23 in Phoenix.

In addition, the Rev. Dr. Alfonso Espinosa was elected vice-president of the West-Southwest Region, replacing the Rev. Dr. Scott Murray, who is retiring.

Newly elected or re-elected members of the Synod’s Board of Directors, Board for National Mission and Board for International Mission will also be installed during the Sept. 18 service.

In addition, members of the boards for the Concordia University System, LCMS Foundation, Concordia Plan Services, Lutheran Church Extension Fund, Concordia Publishing House and Concordia Historical Institute will be installed.

More information will be shared as it is available. In the meantime, questions may be directed to the LCMS Church Information Center at infocenter@lcms.org or 888-843-5267 (THE LCMS).

The service will be available to watch online via livestream and on demand.

Watch livestream

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

LCMS Board of Directors - September 2026 meeting
2026-09-17 - 2026-09-18
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Board of Directors is scheduled to meet on Sep. 17-18, 2026, 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.

FORO — Dominican Republic
2026-09-04 00:00 - 2026-09-06 23:59 (America/Chicago)
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
Dana Stigdon, LCMS Missionary
dana.stigdon@lcms.org

National Mission webinar
2026-08-28 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago)
The Lord is not far from us — He is at work right where we are, in our congregations, schools and communities.

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) will host a webinar at 2 p.m. Central time on Friday, Aug. 28, that will offer a behind-the-scenes peek at the work of the LCMS across North America as together we bring the love of Christ to those in our neighborhoods and communities.

We are so excited to share with you all about how our church is engaging in God’s mission here through church planting, family and discipleship ministry, disaster response and more.

Can’t make it live? Register for the webinar, and you’ll receive a recording of the event to watch later at your convenience.

Presenters:

Rev. Dan Galchutt, chief mission officer and interim executive director of the Office of National Mission

Bri Gerzevske, director of Managed Contributor Care, LCMS Mission Advancement

Register

FORO — South Africa
2026-08-10 00:00 - 2026-08-13 23:59 (America/Chicago)
LCMS International Mission will host a FORO about mission work in South Africa on Aug. 10-13, 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 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. Fernando Huf, Alliance MissionaryLCMS International Mission
fernando.huf@lcmsintl.org

'All Nations Sing' workshop — Los Angeles area
2026-07-27 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Chicago) | Trinity Cristo Rey Lutheran Church, 902 S. Broadway, Santa Ana, CA, 92701, United States
LCMS All Nations Ministry is hosting an “All Nations Sing” workshop on Monday, July 27, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Santa Ana, Calif.

With an emphasis on music sung in English and Spanish, this event is a pre‑convention workshop of the VIII National Hispanic Convention LCMS. It is also being offered in celebration of 100 years of Hispanic Ministry in the United States in 2026.

The free workshop is designed to help people expand their repertoire of beloved and useful hymns and songs from different languages and heritages.

Every week, LCMS churches across the United States gather for the Divine Service in a wide range of languages — English, Spanish, Amharic, Nuer, Oromo, Chinese, Korean, Hmong, French Creole, Arabic, Vietnamese, Tamil and more.

Explore beloved musical repertoire from these diverse ministries. Presentations provide both musical insight and practical guidance for integrating this repertoire into congregational life, worship and outreach.

Participants are encouraged to bring their instruments and join an interactive music lab, where the emphasis is on singing, playing and arranging music together. When presented as a pre‑conference event, All Nations Sing allows select musicians identified by the conference to rehearse and prepare repertoire in advance, enhancing both the workshop itself and the conference that follows.

Schedule

Discover from 1 to 3 p.m. — Hear introductions to other attendees and to a variety of Spanish “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (Col 3:16). This session also features presentations/discussions about various strategies for making music as churches of many languages and cultures.

Music Lab from 3 to 5 p.m. — Attend small and large group rehearsals for those who are helping lead music during the Tuesday evening Hispanic Convention Opening Communion Service and 100th Anniversary Commemoration. Not one of those performers? Use this time to listen, sing along, ask questions and share ideas.

Register

Lutheran Braille Workers lunch-and-learn — 'Dining in the Dark'
2026-07-22 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Phoenix) | Phoenix Convention Center: Phoenix, Ariz., 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States
During the 2026 LCMS Convention, Lutheran Braille Workers (LBW) will host a free lunch-and-learn from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, at the Phoenix Convention Center on the second floor in room West 211AB.

What would it be like to share a meal without sight? Join Lutheran Braille Workers for this unique experience that offers a glimpse into the daily realities of visual impairment while enjoying a complimentary box lunch.

During the luncheon, attendees will also learn about LBW’s “Songs of Faith, Stories of Light” initiative, a five-year project that shares the faith stories of people who are blind or visually impaired through original music and storytelling.

Come curious, leave inspired. Online registration is open.

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Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty lunch-and-learn — 'Church in the Public Square'
2026-07-21 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Phoenix) | Phoenix Convention Center: Phoenix, Ariz., 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States
During the 2026 LCMS Convention, the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty (LCRL) will host a complimentary luncheon at noon on Tuesday, July 21, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Room North 232 AB.

LCRL’s Dr. Gregory Seltz and Rev. Mark Frith will be joined by Focus on the Family’s Timothy Goeglein as they share the work of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty, speaking to the challenge of being a “Church in the Public Square” for the sake of the Culture and the Mission of the Church.

The conversation will include issues concerning religious liberty, the sanctity of life, marriage, and educational freedom while positing the wonderful, present opportunities for the Church’s moral and Gospel voice to be useful in God’s hands for the sake of His preserving and saving work.

Attendees will also hear about the LCRL’s “Champions for Liberty” Network of Churches and receive Goeglein’s latest book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family.

The luncheon will be limited to 50 people. Scan the QR code to register online or visit the LCRL convention booth in the Exhibit Hall.

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Alliance Defending Freedom lunch-and-learn — 'Your Ministry in the Public Square: Understanding Your Rights and Limitations'
2026-07-20 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Phoenix) | Phoenix Convention Center: Phoenix, Ariz., 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States
During the 2026 LCMS Convention, Alliance Defending Freedom will host a free lunch-and-learn titled “Your Ministry in the Public Square: Understanding Your Rights and Limitations” from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Monday, July 20, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Room North 232 AB.

Many churches and schools want to engage on issues that affect public life but are unclear on their legal rights and limitations.

Join Alliance Defending Freedom attorney Kevin Theriot for a free luncheon to get the clarity you need to confidently lead your ministry. Key questions we will explore include:

What legal limitations and restrictions are placed on churches, principals, and pastors when engaging in today’s issues?

How do Christians engage in the public square while maintaining their primary identity in Christ?

How can leaders guide their congregations and schools to engage in culture not as partisans but as ambassadors for Christ?

The event is open to church leaders and heads of school. If space is available closer to the event, we’ll reach out about the opportunity to bring additional staff or family members.

Space is limited to 50 guests, so register today to reserve your spot.

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About the presenter

Kevin Theriot serves as senior counsel with Alliance Defending Freedom, where he is a key member of the Center for Life Team working to defend pro-life speech and protect medical rights of conscience.

Since joining Alliance Defending Freedom in 2003, Theriot has been successful as lead counsel or co-counsel in numerous cases protecting the unborn and preserving the freedoms of speech and religion.

In NIFLA v. Becerra he was part of the Supreme Court team that protected California pregnancy centers from being forced to refer for abortion. In Women’s Health Link v. City of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Theriot defended the freedom of a pro-life pregnancy center to access an advertising forum in city buses. He was also one of several ADF attorneys who assisted Mississippi’s legal team with defending Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization at the Supreme Court, the victory that reversed Roe v. Wade.

In Kelvin Cochran v. City of Atlanta, he defended Chief Cochran’s free speech rights from government censorship, receiving a settlement of $1.2 million dollars. Theriot also co-authored the 2017 law review article, Free to Do No Harm: Conscience Protections for Healthcare Professionals.

Theriot earned his J.D. in 1991 from Vanderbilt University Law School. He is admitted to the bar in Tennessee, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Georgia, Missouri, Kansas, and Arizona. He is also a member of the U.S. Supreme Court and numerous federal district and appellate courts.

Lutheran Church Extension Fund lunch-and-learn — 'Strengthening and Sustaining Small(ish) Churches: The Basics and Beyond'
2026-07-20 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Phoenix) | Phoenix Convention Center: Phoenix, Ariz., 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States
Lutheran Church Extension Fund will host a free lunch-and-learn titled “Strengthening and Sustaining Small(ish) Churches: The Basics and Beyond” at noon on Monday, July 20, at the Phoenix Convention Center during the 2026 LCMS Convention.

Join Rev. Tom Eggebrecht, Senior Vice President-Ministry Solutions of LCEF, and learn the eight key traits of a self-sustaining congregation in The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. From pastoral care to lay leadership, from ministry plans to facilities and finances, it’s all part of impactful Gospel proclamation inside the walls of the church and beyond into the community.

The thought-provoking gathering is for both pastoral and lay leaders with a desire to faithfully proclaim, “Christ is risen, indeed!” in this generation. A free guide will be presented to each attendee.

This luncheon will be limited to 200 attendees. Register online for a time of learning, food and fellowship.

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Concordia Plan Services lunch-and-learns
2026-07-19 00:00 - 2026-07-21 23:59 (America/Phoenix) | Phoenix Convention Center: Phoenix, Ariz., 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004, United States
Concordia Plan Services will host six lunch-and-learns from Sunday, July 19, to Tuesday, July 21, during the 69th Regular Convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod at the Phoenix Convention Center in downtown Phoenix.

To register for a free luncheon, visit the Concordia Plans exhibitor booth at the convention beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 18. View Exhibit Hall days and hours of operation.

Schedule

Sunday, July 19 — 12:15 p.m.

“Concordia Risk Solutions: A New Ministry Insurance Option”

Room — W211 AB

Presenter — Kevin Herweck, Concordia Plan Services Chief Executive Officer

Overview — Traditional insurers rarely understand the unique needs of ministries — that’s why Concordia Plan Services created Concordia Risk Solutions, an insurance program designed around the values, operations, and real-world risks ministries face every day. This session will introduce this exciting new offering, including coverage for property, general liability, automobile, workers’ comp, and more. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how this purpose-driven, values-aligned program can safeguard your people, property, and mission — so you can stay focused on spreading the Word of God.

Sunday, July 19 — 12:15 p.m.

“Fitness for All Ages”

Room — W213 AB

Presenter — Paul Endorf, Concordia Plan Services Financial Educator

Overview — Financial wellness is an important component of our overall wellness. This session will provide a toolkit of actions you can take to improve or maintain your financial well-being, such as using credit wisely, saving and investing for the future, and utilizing fintech. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how to be a good steward of the financial resources God has entrusted to you.

Monday, July 20 — 12:15 p.m.

“Fostering a Culture of Wellness: Helping Ministries and Workers Thrive”

Room — W211 AB

Presenter — Kelly Menke, Concordia Plan Services Health and Wellness Educator

Overview — What does a true culture of wellness look like — and why does it matter? Research shows that when health is valued, stress goes down, satisfaction and productivity go up, and organizations thrive. In this session, you’ll discover practical actions and resources to help build a supportive wellness culture in your ministry, no matter your role.

Monday, July 20 — 12:15 p.m.

“Building Your Retirement Paycheck with Concordia Plans”

Room — W213 AB

Presenter — Keith Duesenberg, Concordia Plan Services Financial Educator

Overview — A secure retirement doesn’t happen by accident — it takes intention and planning. This session will walk you through the Concordia Retirement Plan pension, explore the possible sources of your future retirement “paycheck,” and remind us why personal savings still play a vital role in our financial future. You’ll leave better equipped to be a faithful steward of the resources God has provided, so you can enjoy the retirement He has in store for you.

Tuesday, July 21 — 12:15 p.m.

“Anticipating the Future: Planning for Aging Parents”

Room — W211 AB

Presenter — Kelly Menke, Concordia Plan Services Health and Wellness Educator

Overview — It is no surprise to us that our parents are getting older. But are you equipped for all that comes with it? This session will equip future caregivers with essential knowledge to navigate the challenges of caring for aging parents. From discussing parental wishes and understanding caregiver roles to ensuring safety and health and addressing legal and financial considerations, attendees will be well-prepared to provide compassionate and effective care.

Tuesday, July 21 — 12:15 p.m.

“Work and Personal Life: Finding Harmony”

Room — W213 AB

Presenter — EverNorth Health Services

Overview — You’ve got a family you love, amazing friends, and a demanding job — and they all want part of your life. But it feels like giving to one means taking from another. In this seminar, we’ll discuss strategies that can help you fit the pieces together. Explore what work/life harmony means to you. And start a plan to achieve it.

LCMS National Convention - 2026
2026-07-18 - 2026-07-23
The 69th Regular Convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod will be held from July 18 to 23, 2026 in downtown Phoenix.

The Synod will gather under the convention theme, “Christ Is Risen Indeed,” based on 1 Corinthians 15:20–22:
“But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.”

Key dates
St. Louis
LCMS International Center

Floor Committee Weekend — May 29–June 1

Phoenix
Phoenix Convention Center

Pre-convention CLOSED Floor Committee Meetings — July 17

Floor Committee Open Hearings — July 18

Delegate Orientation — July 18

Opening Worship — July 18

Convention Proceedings — July 19–23

Convention Closes — July 23

St. Louis
Concordia Seminary, St. Louis

Installation of New Officers — Sept. 18

All dates are 2026.

More information

General Convention Questions — convention@lcms.org
Congregational Governance Questions — LCMSSecretary@lcms.org
Convention Triennium — lcms.org/convention-triennium
