In these days of restricted travel and social distancing, scenes like the one depicted here have become commonplace for many of us. In this case, the participants in the Brady-bunch-style screen are Texas District staff people and a group of FABULOUS new professional church workers in the district over the
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In 1937, Rev. E. Eckhardt, the editor of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Statistical Yearbook, looked back at the scattering forces that gripped the nation and the church in the early 1900s. Commenting on the statistics recorded for 1918, he said, “As a result of the flu marriages decreased to the
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My tenure in Texas has given me the opportunity to listen to many pastors, particularly those who lead small congregations in small and remote communities. What I have observed is that pastors who have learned to adapt have a few things in common: • They love the Word; • They
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Have you been hearing predictions about what life will be like after COVID-19? Some church analysts are voicing grave concerns about church workers and congregations. They forecast a “crash” in congregational sustainability and in the mental health of church workers. Similar commentaries are forecasting a less prosperous, fulfilling and stable
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“It will be okay.” That will not cut it. As an urban missiologist, I have been following our nation’s politics and civil unrest with sadness and wonder as to how, I, as a Christian, can present a fitting witness to the grace and mercy of our Lord. What words do
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“The riot was a spontaneous overflow of pent-up aggressions.” That quote is not from a news report regarding the protests resulting from George Floyd’s tragic and senseless death in Minneapolis. It is not from a reaction to the Ahmaud Arbery killing in Georgia. It is not a report of events
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Many missionary colleagues and I have asked about measuring success in mission. In a desire to be accountable to the church through which the Lord has called us to ministry, we measure the fruit of our activities in numbers. This may give the impression that is “bigger is better and
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Lutheran schools in Texas did not waver when COVID-19 hit and learning transitioned to online. They have been shining lights for parents and students through the storm. Below are a few stories: Lutheran South Academy, Houston Lutheran South Academy (LSA) in Houston changed over to “Remote Learning” on March 23
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“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted” (Matthew 28:16-17 NIV84). We’re familiar with this portion of Scripture for what follows this passage—the Great Commission—“Go and make disciples…” But these verses
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Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your interests but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV84). Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor
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