LCMS Calendar

Topeka Life March
2025-01-29 12:30 - 14:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | Topeka Performing Arts Center, 214 SE Eighth Ave., Topeka, IL, 66603
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)

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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.

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.

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.

Feast of the Transfiguration (One-Year Series)
2025-02-09
In The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Transfiguration is observed on the last Sunday of Epiphany. In the One-Year Lectionary, Transfiguration is on Feb. 9, 2025, and is followed by three Sundays of preparation and instruction from Jesus before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent.
On this day, the church recalls the event of Christ’s Transfiguration on the mountain, revealing His divine nature to Peter, James and John before He set His face toward Jerusalem, where He would accomplish the world’s salvation by His death and resurrection for us.
Where Transfiguration is the last service before Septuagesima (which means about 70 days before Easter), many congregations say farewell to the word “Alleluia.” As Judah would not sing their songs in the land of exile (Psalm 137), so the church sets aside our simplest word of joy and praise — until we take it up again in triumph on Easter: “Alleluia! Christ is risen; He is risen indeed, Alleluia!”
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 color for Transfiguration
White, the color of light, purity and completeness, adorns the altar to commemorate the Transfiguration of Our Lord. On the mountain, Christ’s face and clothes shone white as light (Matt. 17:2). 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 also the appointed color for the Epiphany (Jan. 6) and the first Sunday following it, which is often observed as the Baptism of Our Lord. It is also the color of Easter. On high festive days when white is appointed, some congregations also use gold.

One-Year Series
Scripture readings for Transfiguration

Exodus 34:29–35 or Exodus 3:1–14

2 Peter 1:16–21

Matt. 17:1-9

Lectionary summary
Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His Glory
The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14). Later Moses’ face would shine with the light of God’s glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29–35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1–9). Jesus’ glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Peter 1:16–21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ’s body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.

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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

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 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 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

Feast of the Transfiguration (Three-Year Series C)
2025-03-02
In The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Transfiguration is observed on the last Sunday of Epiphany. In the Three-Year Lectionary, Transfiguration is on March 2, 2025, which is only three days before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent.
On this day, the church recalls the event of Christ’s Transfiguration on the mountain, revealing His divine nature to Peter, James and John before He set His face toward Jerusalem, where He would accomplish the world’s salvation by His death and resurrection for us.
Where Transfiguration is the last service before Ash Wednesday, many congregations say farewell to the word “Alleluia.” As Judah would not sing their songs in the land of exile (Psalm 137), so the church sets aside our simplest word of joy and praise — until we take it up again in triumph on Easter: “Alleluia! Christ is risen; He is risen indeed, Alleluia!”
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 Transfiguration
White, the color of light, purity and completeness, adorns the altar to commemorate the Transfiguration of Our Lord. On the mountain, Christ’s face and clothes shone white as light (Matt. 17:2). 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 also the appointed color for the Epiphany (Jan. 6) and the first Sunday following it, which is often observed as the Baptism of Our Lord. It is also the color of Easter. On high festive days when white is appointed, some congregations also use gold.

Three-Year Series C Lectionary
Scripture readings for Transfiguration

Deuteronomy 34:1–12

Hebrews 3:1–6

Luke 9:28–36

Lectionary summary
The Glory of God Is Manifested in the Body of Christ
“Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant,” but Christ Jesus “has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses” (Heb. 3:3, 5). A beloved and well-pleasing Son, faithful even to the point of death, Jesus’ own body was raised up on the third day as the house of God, and He has brought us into that house through the waters of Holy Baptism (Heb. 3:6). Thus, it was not Moses, the lawgiver, but his successor, Joshua (the Hebrew name for Jesus), who led the people into the Promised Land (Deut. 34:1–4, 9). Now, on the Mount of Transfiguration, the New Testament Joshua appears in the glory that He is about to manifest by His “departure” (exodus) in Jerusalem (Luke 9:31). Having entered the waters of the Jordan in His Baptism, He passed through those waters and entered into glory by His cross and Passion. What He thereby accomplished in His own flesh and blood, crucified and risen, He reveals and gives to His Body, the Church, by the means of His Word. Therefore, the Father declares from heaven, “Listen to him!” (Luke 9:35).

LCMS Worship

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Ash Wednesday
2025-03-05
Ash Wednesday, which will be commemorated on March 5, is the beginning of Lent and, if Sundays are omitted, is 40 days before Easter.
Ash Wednesday begins the church’s annual season of penitence, traditionally marked by fasting, almsgiving and prayer. In the LCMS, congregations often offer additional services in the week where the Word is preached and the Sacrament offered.
As the name suggests, many congregations practice the ceremony of the imposition of ashes on this day. Ashes are a symbol of mortality and repentance, since “the wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). When the pastor places them on the penitents, often in the shape of a cross, he speaks a sobering reminder: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Gen. 3:19).
We ourselves will not overcome the temptations of Satan, our sinful flesh and death, but Christ our champion will. Throughout the coming season, we will watch as He endures and overcomes the devil with his works and ways, suffers willingly for our sakes, and redeems us by His blood and Passion. Faith trusts in Him and believes, even from the ash heap, that “a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:17).
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 Ash Wednesday and Lent
On Ash Wednesday, the altar is adorned with violet or with black. The calendar calls for black only twice — Good Friday and Ash Wednesday. There is no mistaking the message of this somber color: Black is the absence of light. Ash Wednesday calls for sober reflection on the outcome of sin, and Good Friday on the price of our redemption.
Without Christ’s sacrifice on the day the sky turned dark and hid the light of the sun, there would be no bright Light of Christ to live in, nor new life in Christ to enjoy. Yet we do not grieve as others do, without hope (1 Thess. 4:13).

Three-Year Series C
Scripture readings

Joel 2:12–19

2 Corinthians 5:20b–6:10

Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21

Lectionary summary
Return to the Lord Your God with All Your Heart
On Ash Wednesday, we come down from the mountain with Jesus and set our face toward His cross and Passion in Jerusalem. We make our pilgrimage with Him by way of repentance, and thus we return to our dying and rising in Holy Baptism. Christ Jesus, “who knew no sin,” became our sin, so that by His death we are released from sin and in His resurrection we “become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21). As God has thereby reconciled the world to Himself in Christ, “now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Cor. 6:2). He has provided the sacrificial Lamb, and He has left “a blessing behind him, a grain offering and a drink offering” (Joel 2:14) in the Eucharist. He summons us to return to Him with all our heart because He is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love” (Joel 2:13). We do so with faith and confidence in Him, and so we pray to Him as our Father, give to the needy from a heart of love, and fast for the sake of repentance (Matt. 6:3–4, 6, 17–18).

One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Joel 2:12–19

2 Peter 1:2–11

Matthew 6:1–21

Lectionary summary
Return to the Lord Your God with All Your Heart, for He Has Reconciled You to Himself
“Consecrate a fast; call a solemn assembly; gather the people” (Joel 2:15–16). Lent, with its corporate fast, begins today. “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Imposition of Ashes, from Gen. 3:19). “Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger” (Jonah 3:9). We know. Faith believes that, for Christ’s sake, “a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). He is “gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love” (Joel 2:13); therefore, we do not hesitate to return to Him “with all [our] heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning” (v. 12). He raises the dead, as we shall see in 40 days’ time. Satan opposes such reconciliation and life. He would twist our discipline into self-serving pride (Matt. 6:1–12), leading us into unbelief and unfruitfulness until we fall from the Lord’s “precious and very great promises” (2 Peter 1:4, 8). For this reason, our Lenten discipline not only gives something up but also takes up the sustenance and exercise of faith: hearing His Word and turning from ourselves—to God in prayer and to our neighbor with charity. “Make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love” (v. 5–7).

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LCMS Northern Illinois District Convention — 2025
2025-03-07 - 2025-03-08 | Concordia University Chicago: River Forest, Ill., 7400 Augusta Street, River Forest, IL, 60305, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 Northern Illinois District Convention is scheduled for Friday, March 7, and Saturday, March 8, at Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, Ill.
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 Northern Illinois District Office

Profile — Northern Illinois District

Web — nidlcms.org

Email — office@nidlcms.org

Phone — 708-449-3020

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.
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LCMS Youth Ministry

lcms.org/youth

youth.ministry@lcms.org

888-843-5267

facebook.com/LCMSyouth

facebook.com/lcmsgathering

twitter.com/LCMSyouth

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

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

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

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

Featured presenters will include:

Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, LCMS president

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

Rev. Michael Salemink, executive director of Lutherans For Life

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

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

Several sessions, conducted in Spanish, will be available to watch online.
Registration
In-person early bird registration, which includes meals and snacks, is $49 per person through Feb. 14. After that, registration will be $74 per person. In-person registration closes on March 7.
Online registration (which can be used by an individual, couple, family or group) is $29 and will be open until the first day of the conference.
Both in-person and online attendees will have access to recorded sessions for 60 days after the conference.
All students at the Concordia universities and seminaries have free admission to this conference. To register, they will need a valid Concordia email address for verification. For more information, email SpecializedCare@lcms.org.
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Arizona March for Life in Phoenix
2025-03-15 | Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, 1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ, 85007, United States
The 2025 Arizona March for Life is Saturday, March 15. The rally begins at 11:00am at the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza and the march at 12:00pm. Join us as we witness to the sanctity of life. For more information, contact Dr. Roni Grad at roni.grad@gmail.com

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2025 Connecticut March for Life in Hartford
2025-03-19 | Connecticut State Capitol, 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT, 06106, United States
The 2025 Connecticut March for Life is Wednesday, March 19, 2025. There will be a Worship Service prior to the march (more information to come). The rally begins at the Capitol at 12:00pm and the march begins at 1:00pm. Come and witness to the sanctity of life.

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LCMS Southern District Convention — 2025
2025-03-24 - 2025-03-25 | The Harbor Center: Slidell, La., 100 Harbor Center Blvd., Slidell, LA, 70461, United States
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s 2025 Southern District Convention is scheduled for Monday, March 24, and Tuesday, March 25, in Slidell, La., at The Harbor 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 District Office

Profile — Southern District

Web — southernlcms.org

Email — info@southernlcms.org

Phone — 504-282-2632

Annunciation of our Lord
2025-03-25
The Annunciation of our Lord will be observed on March 25. The Annunciation commemorates the visit of the angel Gabriel to the blessed Virgin Mary, announcing that the eternal Son of God would take up human flesh in her womb and, in accordance with Isaiah’s prophecy, be born of a virgin.
His message declared that God showed undeserved kindness to Mary and, by faith in His Word, Christ was conceived in her. In this way, she is a godly example of faith for us also — how a Christian hears the Words and promises of God and says, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
The Annunciation is appointed for March 25, from which date Christmas came to be observed as the birth of Christ (nine months later). When the Annunciation falls in Passiontide, Holy Week or Easter, it is observed at another time.
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 the Annunciation
White, the color of purity and completeness, adorns the altar to commemorate the Annunciation 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 also the appointed color for the 12 days of Christmas, Epiphany (Jan. 6) and the first Sunday following it, which is observed as the Baptism of Our Lord. It is also the color for Easter.

Three-Year Series and One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Isaiah 7:10–14

Hebrews 10:4–10

Luke 1:26–38

Lectionary summary
Incarnate by the Holy Spirit, Born of the Virgin Mary and Made Man
“It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Heb. 10:4). But “nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). He opens ears to hear and wombs to conceive. “Let it be to me according to your word,” says St. Mary (Luke 1:38). The Most High who once dwelt in the tabernacle comes to overshadow Mary, who believes the angel’s “annunciation” (Luke 1:35). “The virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). In Jesus Christ, God is with us — even from the moment of His conception. This miracle, that Mary should become the mother of God, will be a sign against the proud in Israel; it is the fulfillment of the prophecies of Isaiah and David. “I delight to do your will, O my God,” says Christ (Psalm 40:8). From Mary’s flesh, the Most High has prepared a body for His Son (Heb. 10:5), a body to be offered “once for all” as the sacrifice that alone takes away sins and gives a righteousness apart from the Law (Heb. 10:10). Through His conception, life and death, we have been sanctified. God favors us in this child. And like the blessed Virgin Mary, blessed “are those who hear the word of God and keep it” (Luke 11:28).

LCMS Worship

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2025 Illinois March for Life in Springfield
2025-03-25 | Trinity Lutheran Church: Springfield, IL, 220 S. Second Street, Springfield, IL, 62701, United States
The 2025 Illinois Pro-Life March for Life is Tuesday, March 25 in Springfield. The day begins with Matins Service at 11:00am and a light lunch at 12:00pm at Trinity Lutheran Church (220 S. Second Street). The rally begins at 1:00pm and the march at 2:00pm. We look forward to seeing you as we witness to the sanctity of life.

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2025 California March for Life in Sacramento
2025-03-31 | Sacremento, CA, CA, United States
The 2025 California March for Life in Sacramento is Monday, March 31, 2025. The rally begins at 12:00pm and the march at 1:00pm.

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2025 Virginia March for Life in Richmond
2025-04-02 | Richmond, Virginia, OH, United States
The Virginia March for Life is Wednesday, April 2, 2025 in Richmond. More information will be shared when we have additional details. Join us and witness to the sanctity of life.
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Created Male and Female Parent Retreat
2025-04-08 - 2025-04-12
The Created Male and Female Parent Retreat, designed to support LCMS parents of children who are dealing with sexual orientation and gender identity issues, will once again be offered next spring, on April 8–12, 2025.
LCMS Family Ministry and the Created Male and Female Task Force have partnered together to offer this retreat.
Participants will leave with a godly approach to caring for children with sexual orientation and gender identity issues.
Retreat leaders include:

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

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

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

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

2025 Colorado March for Life in Denver
2025-04-11 | Colorado State Capitol, 200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO, 80203, United States
Join us in Denver for the 2025 Colorado March for Life on Friday, April 11, at the State Capitol. The rally begins at 11:00am and the march at 12:00pm. More details to come.

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2025 March on the Arch in St. Louis
2025-04-12 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Aloe Plaza, St. Louis, MO, 20, S 20th St,, St. Louis, MO, 63103
The annual March on the Arch is Saturday, April 12 in St. Louis.
There will be sponsor tables, including LCMS Life Ministry, with information and resources. The rally begins at 11:00am at Aloe Plaza (across from Union Station, 20th and Market Street).
The march begins at 12:00pm and ends at the Gateway Arch (the distance is just over a mile). Light refreshments will be provided for participants at the Arch grounds.
Join other Lutherans for this event and witness to the sanctity of life. Information on parking garages and metro stations can be found here, but there is ample street parking as well. We look forward to seeing you there!
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Palm Sunday
2025-04-13
Palm Sunday, also known as the Sunday of the Passion, will be commemorated on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
To attend a Palm 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.
Find church near me

Liturgical color for Palm Sunday
Scarlet will adorn the altar on Palm Sunday through Maundy Thursday. It is a color worth investing in because it stands in contrast to the traditional red that is used on Festival Sundays. Scarlet’s use during the somber days of Holy Week help to offer a different message. As the Manual on the Liturgy points out, “scarlet is a color anciently associated with the passion … the color of blood” (p. 25). Violet may also be used where Scarlet vestments are not present.

Scripture readings for Palm Sunday
Three-Year Series C Lectionary

John 12:12–19 (Procession)

Deut. 32:36–39

Psalm 118:19–29 or Psalm 31:9–16

Phil. 2:5–11

Luke 22:1–23:56 or Luke 23:1–56 or John 12:20–43

Lectionary summary
The Cross and Passion of Our Lord Are the Hour of His Glor
The King of Israel comes into His royal glory by the path of humble obedience “to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil. 2:8). He “goes as it has been determined” (Luke 22:22), according to the Scriptures, willingly submitting to His Father’s plan for the salvation of sinners. “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name” (Phil. 2:9). His suffering and death open the way of repentance for the forgiveness of sins because He goes to the cross bearing the sins of the world. In His resurrection, God the Father vindicates His people and has compassion on His servants (Deut. 32:36). He kills to make alive; He wounds in order to heal. In remembrance of Him, we praise God, confessing “that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:11)

One-Year Series Lectionary

Matthew 21:1–9 (Procession) or John 12:12–19 (Procession)

Zechariah 9:9–12

Psalm 118:19–29 or Psalm 31:9–16

Philippians 2:5–11

Matthew 26:1—27:66 or Matthew 27:11–54

Lectionary summary
The Cross and Passion of Our Lord Are the Hour of His Glory
“Behold, your King is coming to you . . . humble and mounted on a donkey” (Zech. 9:9–12; Mt. 21:1–9). Our Lord rides in this humble fashion because He is entering Jerusalem to humble Himself even to the point of death on a cross (Phil. 2:5–11). His kingly crown will not be made of gold but of thorns, the sign of sin’s curse. For His royal reign is displayed in bearing this curse for His people, saving us from our enemies by sacrificing His own life. The sinless One takes the place of the sinner so that the sinner can be freed and bear the name “Barabbas,” “son of the Father” (Matthew 26 and 27). It is at the name of this exalted Savior, Jesus, that we bow in humble faith. With the centurion who declared, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (Mt. 27:54), we are also given to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:11).

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Holy (Maundy) Thursday
2025-04-17
Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, will be commemorated on Thursday, April 17, 2025.
To attend a Maundy Thursday 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 Holy (Maundy) Thursday
Scarlet will adorn the altar on Palm Sunday through Maundy Thursday. It is a color worth investing in because it stands in contrast to the traditional red that is used on Festival Sundays. Scarlet’s use during the somber days of Holy Week help to offer a different message. As the Manual on the Liturgy points out, “scarlet is a color anciently associated with the passion … the color of blood” (p. 25).
Violet may also be used where Scarlet vestments are not present. In some places, White may also be used indicating that this is a high feast of Christ who instituted the Blessed Sacrament on this night.

Three-Year Series C
Scripture readings

Psalm 116:12–19

Jer. 31:31–34 or Ex. 12:1–14

Heb. 10:15–25 or 1 Cor. 11:23–32

Luke 22:7–20 or John 13:1–17, 31b–35

Lectionary summary
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us
By Holy Baptism, “with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” (Heb. 10:22), we enter the holy place with Jesus. For Jesus is our Passover Lamb who has been sacrificed for us. He reclines at table with us and feeds us with His own flesh and blood: “the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain” (Heb. 10:20). In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity (Jer. 31:34; Heb. 10:17). With such love, He “loved his own who were in the world,” and He even loves us “to the end” (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:34).

One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Psalm 116:12–19

Exodus 12:1–14 or Exodus 24:3–11

1 Corinthians 11:23–32

John 13:1–15 (34–35)

Lectionary summary
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Cor. 11:26). By eating His body and drinking His blood, we proclaim to all the world that Jesus is, indeed, our Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:1–14), who was sacrificed for us on Calvary. In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity. With such love, he “loved His own who were in the world,” and even loves us “to the end” (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:34).

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Good Friday
2025-04-18
Good Friday will be commemorated on Friday, April 18, 2025.
On this day, we remember when Jesus, the Lamb of God, was led to the slaughter of His cross as the Sacrifice of Atonement for the sin of the world.
To attend a Good Friday 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 Good Friday
The altar will be adorned with black. The calendar calls for its use only twice — Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. There’s no mistaking the message that this sober color gives. Black is the absence of light. Good Friday, or Black Friday in combination with Ash Wednesday, calls for sober reflection on the cost of our redemption.
Without Christ’s sacrifice on the day the sky turned dark and hid the light of the sun, there would be no bright Light of Christ to live in, nor new life in Christ to enjoy.

Three-Year Series C
Scripture readings

Psalm 22 or Psalm 31

Isaiah 52:13—53:12

Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7–9

John 18:1-19:42 or John 19:17-30

Lectionary summary
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the Sacrifice of Atonement for the sin of the world. “Despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement; “and with his wounds we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). In perfect faith and faithfulness, He shares all our weaknesses and temptations, “yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15). As our merciful High Priest, He brings us to the Father in peace, “makes intercession for the transgressors” (Is. 53:12) and joins our prayers to His own, so that we are heard “because of his reverence” (Heb. 5:7). From His cross, He gives us His Spirit (John 19:30), washes us with water from His side and covers us with His blood (John 19:34).

One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Psalm 22 or Psalm 31

Isaiah 52:13-53:12

2 Corinthians 5:14–21

John 18:1-19:42

Lectionary summary
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).

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Easter
2025-04-20
Easter — the Resurrection of Our Lord — will be celebrated on Sunday, April 20, 2025.
By the shed blood of Christ, eternal death has passed over us, and now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen!
To attend an Easter 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 Easter
The altar will be adorned with white, which is the color of purity and completeness and the color for all major feasts of Christ. The theme for the “great fifty days” of Easter is supported by the use of white. 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.
Gold may also be used for Easter Sunday and major feasts of Christ. Gold represents value and worth. The golden festival of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the event that gives our lives meaning and worth. He is worthy of our praise as we adorn his altar with the color of splendor.

Three-Year Series C
Scripture readings

Psalm 16

Isaiah 65:17–25

1 Cor. 15:19–26

Luke 24:1–12

Lectionary summary
Christ’s Resurrection Is the Firstfruits of the New Creation
The Lord has promised to “create new heavens and a new earth” (Is. 65:17), in which His people shall abide in peace and joy. That new creation has begun in the bodily resurrection of Christ Jesus. All the baptized belong to that new creation. Reborn of water and the Holy Spirit, they are “the offspring of the blessed of the LORD” (Is. 65:23). The Lord rejoices and is glad in them; He hears and answers their prayers. For “if in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied” (1 Cor. 15:19). But Christ Jesus has been raised, “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Cor. 15:20). We may be “perplexed about this” (Luke 24:4), perhaps even frightened and brought to our knees, because it seems like an “idle tale” (Luke 24:11). But faith clings to the Word of Christ and finds His resurrected body — not in the tomb, but in His Holy Supper.

One-Year Series
Scripture readings

Psalm 118:15–29

Job 19:23–27

1 Corinthians 5:6–8 or 1 Corinthians 15:51–57

Mark 16:1–8

Lectionary summary
Christ’s Resurrection Means That We Will One Day Be Raised
“Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Cor. 5:7). By the shed blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, eternal death has passed over us. Now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen! The stone has been rolled away from the tomb, revealing that the tomb could not hold Him (Mark 16:1–8). Now our Redeemer lives eternally to save us from sin and Satan and the grave, and we can live in the sure hope of our own bodily resurrection with Christ. “After my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:26). Feasting on the living Christ, who is our meat and drink indeed, we boldly say: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? . . . But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:54–55, 57).

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Council of Presidents - April 2025
2025-04-26 - 2025-05-01
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Council of Presidents is scheduled to meet on April 26-May 1, 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.

Church Worker Appreciation – Director of Parish Music
2025-04-28
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod historically has designated one month of the year 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 April 28, 2025, we will 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.
The LCMS offers suggestions and resources to show your gratitude and support for parish music directors.
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
