Bio:

Brandon Metcalf currently serves as the Associate Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto, IL and previously served as a DCE in the Missouri District. He is a contributing author to numerous books and Bible studies for youth ministries and has spoken at many district and national youth gatherings, including the session "Worth Dying For: A New Model for Dating/Relationships" at the past two LCMS Youth Gatherings. He enjoys playing volleyball, board games, trivia, and writing parody songs, but his greatest joys in life come from being a husband and a father.

Resources:

• Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org
• LCMS Life Ministry www.lcms.org/life
• LCMS Family Ministry www.lcms.org/life

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

Bio:

Married to Heather Stange of Frankenmuth, MI in 1995, Rev. Dr. Todd A. Biermann has always had a passion for fostering marriages and families in God’s way. This has been true in his role as a parish pastor of the LCMS for 33 years (most recently at Faith Lutheran, Grand Blanc, MI), in his international ministry with Heather, Life in God’s Way, and now as they both are working with Concordia Center for the Family (CCF), a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). Dr. Biermann’s educational path (BA at Concordia University Nebraska, MDiv at Concordia Seminary St. Louis and DMin at Concordia Theological Seminary Fort Wayne) along with a wide array of field experience has prepared him for his role as the Executive Director of CCF, which he was called to begin in February 2024. He rejoices in the privilege to promote family discipleship, uniting homes and congregations in making lifelong disciples of Jesus. Learn more about Dr. Biermann and CCF at www.concordiafamily.org. Contact him directly at toddbiermann@concordiafamily.org.

Resources:

• Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org
• LCMS Life Ministry www.lcms.org/life
• LCMS Family Ministry www.lcms.org/life

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

Bio:

Deb Jurchen holds a BFA in K-12 Art Education from Concordia University, Nebraska, and an MSE in Family Life Education from Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor. Professionally, Deb serves as the Director of University Institutes at Concordia University, Nebraska, an adjunct professor in the Family Life Education Graduate program at Concordia University, Nebraska, as well as the Family Life Ministry Consultant for the Nebraska District LCMS.

Deb is married to Rev. Dr. Pete Jurchen who is Assistant Professor of Lutheran Education and Faith Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska. Together, they have five children and reside in Seward, Nebraska. She loves hiking, gardening, and staying active with her kids!

Resources:

• Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org
• LCMS Life Ministry www.lcms.org/life
• LCMS Family Ministry www.lcms.org/family

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Mark Cook is a graduate of Concordia Nebraska and is in his 15th year serving as DCE at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester, MN. He serves in the areas of family ministry, youth ministry, confirmation, and children’s ministry. He enjoys playing with his kids, music, camping, backpacking, and anything that involves being outdoors and going on adventures with his beautiful wife Libby and children, Micah (8), Karis (6), Ezra (3), Isaiah (20mo), and baby girl (coming soon!).

Resources:

• Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org
• LCMS Life Ministry www.lcms.org/life
• LCMS Family Ministry www.lcms.org/family

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

Resources:

• Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org
• LCMS Life Ministry www.lcms.org/life
• LCMS Family Ministry www.lcms.org/family

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

Resources:

• Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org
• LCMS Life Ministry www.lcms.org/family

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

Rev. Michael Meyer and Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe discuss the assimilation and incorporation of all members of the congregation so they might joyfully embrace their place in the body of Christ. Dr. Trampe also shares the research findings that increased involvement in the congregations he served. Members of One Body, like all re:Vitality offerings, will be available from the Office of National Mission at no financial cost to the congregation.

Bio:

Heath Trampe serves as the Director of Discipleship Ministry for the LCMS Office of National Mission. Prior to this, he served as a parish pastor to 4,000 souls in Indiana, Nebraska, and North Dakota. Prior to his ordination, Heath and his wife, Andrea (Aunnee) served as G.E.O. Missionaries in Riga, Latvia.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication from Concordia Nebraska, as well as a Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Concordia Theological Seminary. His dissertational work explored the concept of congregational involvement. He and Aunnee have been married for 20 years, and they have two boys. He enjoys running, reading, playing games, and exploring the city of St. Louis!

The Rev. Michael Meyer serves as the managing director, Witness, in the Office of National Mission (ONM). In this role, he designs, develops and implements ONM's strategic and operational plans and ensures their faithful execution by the various programmatic departments that serve districts, congregations, schools and RSOs throughout the Synod. This includes supervising the day-to-day operations of Discipleship and Evangelism, Church Planting, All-Nations, Stewardship, Schools, Youth Ministry, and Campus Ministry. Meyer facilitates collaboration with district leadership in each program to increase local capacities throughout the Synod. 

Meyer also serves as the lead director for the LCMS Disaster Response Training Program and its affiliated resources, including their implementation nationally and internationally. This includes the creation, management and teaching of robust, multi-level training and preparedness curriculums for LERT teams, LCMS international staff and partner churches for use in disaster response.

Meyer has served in Disaster Response Training since 2013. Previously, he served as the pastor of Emmaus Lutheran Church and School in Denver, CO. A 2008 graduate of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN, Meyer also holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

Meyer and his wife, Heather, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, reside in Chesterfield, MO, with their three children: Nathan, Kaitlyn and Emily.

Resources:

• Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission
• https://www.lcms.org/church-revitalization

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe and Rev. Clark Jahnke, Pastor of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in West Fargo, North Dakota, discuss the often-sensitive nature of ministering to inactive members, the impact of the pandemic on this ministry area, and the blessings of creating a team to engage this important work together.

Bio:

Pastor Clark Jahnke has served St. Andrew Lutheran Church for the past 33 years of 35 years of ministry. There he has served as Associate Pastor, Sole Pastor and Senior Pastor. St. Andrew is located in West Fargo, ND, a part of a greater metro area of over 250,000 people including Fargo and Moorhead, MN. He and his wife, Susan are natives of MN, both graduates of Concordia University-St. Paul. They have four boys (three are married) and 6 living grandchildren spread from West Fargo to Baltimore, MD.

Resources:

• Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission
• https://www.lcms.org/church-revitalization

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe and Rev. Derek Mathers, Mission Executive to the English District, discuss outreach in today’s church, easy ways for congregations to be more connected to the community around them, and the importance of intentionality.

Bio:

Derek Mathers became an Associate Pastor at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada in 2019, but his main gig is Assistant to the Bishop / Mission Executive for the English District of the LCMS, which means he is a pastor to many pastors! He describes himself as a passionate disciple of Jesus who wants to make disciples who can make disciples. When he’s not doing that, he roots for the Blue Jays, reads science fiction (Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett), and works at his cabin.

Derek has served as pastor at St. Luke’s (Toronto), and at congregations in Saskatchewan, Beamsville and Mitchell. Born in Edmonton, he grew up in Minnesota and Okinawa, Japan, but came back to Canada to go to Brock University, where he met and married Deb. They have two daughters and a grandson. He loves to do lunch and, if it’s at Duff’s, you’ll make his day.

Resources:

• Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission
• https://www.lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/witness-and-outreach-ministry
• https://www.lcms.org/church-revitalization
• https://www.cph.org/meaningful-outreach-an-essential-guide-for-churches

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe and Rev. Patrick Galligar, Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Lecanto, Florida, discuss the unique dynamics at play in every congregation, the blessings of consensus building, and the importance of planning for the future.

Bio:

Pastor Patrick Galligar began his pastoral life in August 2004 when, after doing many other things vocationally, he was led to attend Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO and become a pastor. He and his wife, Gina, moved with their two young boys, 5 & 10 years old, from Oak Lawn, IL to Missouri. His first call was to serve as an associate at St. Peter's in Columbus, Indiana for 11 years. Following that Patrick was called to Zion Lutheran in Marengo, IL where he served as an associate for 4 years. And finally, he received the call to serve as a sole pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Lecanto, FL.

Resources:

• Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission
• https://www.lcms.org/church-revitalization

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe and Rev. Dr. Mark Wood, the creator of Every One His Witness, discuss LASSIE (listen, ask, seek, share, invite, encourage), Head/Heart/Hands, and Vocation as components of Lutheran evangelism. In addition to a Core Module, Every One His Witness features 13 Context Modules that cover witnessing to Mormons, Muslims, Dechurched Adult Children, the Grieving, and much more.

Bio:

The Rev. Dr. Mark A. Wood serves as the sole pastor of Shepherd of the Canyon Lutheran Church in Gold Canyon, AZ, a congregation he helped to plant. He is the creator of the Every One His Witness evangelism program and re:Vitality revitalization resources and the author of Connected to Christ: Witnessing in Everyday Life (CPH 2021) and Meaningful Outreach: An Essential Guide for Churches (CPH 2022).

He retired from the LCMS Office of National Mission in March 2025 after over ten years of service. Prior to that call, he served as the founding pastor of Lamb of God Lutheran Church in Lithia, FL, a daughter congregation of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Brandon, FL, where he served as the evangelism pastor from 2000 to 2008. A second-career pastor, he served for six years on active duty service in the U.S. Air Force and then worked 14 years in the aerospace-defense industry, primarily in project management systems.

A 2000 graduate of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN, he also holds an associate degree in computer programming, a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and Doctor of Ministry degree with an emphasis in Church Planting and Renewal from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL.

He and his wife Mary Ellen have five adult children, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. They reside in Gold Canyon, AZ.

Resources:

• Learn more about LCMS National Mission: lcms.org/nationalmission
• https://www.lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/witness-and-outreach-ministry
• https://www.everyonehiswitness.org/
• https://www.cph.org/every-one-his-witness-kit
• https://www.cph.org/catalog/product/view/id/34258/s/connected-to-christ-witnessing-in-everyday-life/

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Michael Meyer and Rev. Dr. Heath Trampe discuss resources that train Christians to share the Gospel effectively, conduct meaningful outreach in their communities, plan strategically for the future, reconnect inactive members, and incorporate all members into the body of Christ. Most of these self-directed resources are available from the Office of National Mission at no cost to congregations.

Bios:

Heath Trampe serves as the Director of Discipleship Ministry for the LCMS Office of National Mission. Prior to this, he served as a parish pastor to 4,000 souls in Indiana, Nebraska, and North Dakota. Prior to his ordination, Heath and his wife, Andrea (Aunnee) served as G.E.O. Missionaries in Riga, Latvia.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication from Concordia Nebraska, as well as a Masters of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Concordia Theological Seminary. His dissertational work explored the concept of congregational involvement. He and Aunnee have been married for 20 years, and they have two boys. He enjoys running, reading, playing games, and exploring the city of St. Louis!

The Rev. Michael Meyer serves as the managing director, Witness, in the Office of National Mission (ONM). In this role, he designs, develops and implements ONM's strategic and operational plans and ensures their faithful execution by the various programmatic departments that serve districts, congregations, schools and RSOs throughout the Synod. This includes supervising the day-to-day operations of Discipleship and Evangelism, Church Planting, All-Nations, Stewardship, Schools, Youth Ministry, and Campus Ministry. Meyer facilitates collaboration with district leadership in each program to increase local capacities throughout the Synod. 

Meyer also serves as the lead director for the LCMS Disaster Response Training Program and its affiliated resources, including their implementation nationally and internationally. This includes the creation, management and teaching of robust, multi-level training and preparedness curriculums for LERT teams, LCMS international staff and partner churches for use in disaster response.

Meyer has served in Disaster Response Training since 2013. Previously, he served as pastor for Emmaus Lutheran Church and School in Denver, CO. A 2008 graduate of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Ind., Meyer also holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas.

Meyer and his wife, Heather, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, reside in Chesterfield, MO, with their three children: Nathan, Kaitlyn and Emily.

Resources:

• Learn more about LCMS National Mission: lcms.org/nationalmission
• https://www.lcms.org/how-we-serve/national/witness-and-outreach-ministry
• https://www.lcms.org/church-revitalization

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Pastor Conner serves the people of God in Manning, Iowa. He is an experienced pastor who can testify to the long term benefits of teaching the Word of God regarding congregational stewardship.

Resources:

• www.lcms.org/stewardship

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Pastor Anonymous serves somewhere in the Midwest. His congregation is full of faithful Christians who have not heard a lot about stewardship for the past couple decades.

Resources:

• www.lcms.org/stewardship

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Rev. Dr. Nathan Meador is executive assistant to the president in the South Wisconsin District and a Stewardship Specialist for the Office of National Mission.

Resources:

• www.lcms.org/stewardship

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Rev. Heath Curtis is pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Worden IL and Zion Lutheran Church in Carpenter IL. Since 2013 he has also served the Office of National Mission as the manager for Stewardship.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Paul Soulek, a hotdish loving Minnesota native, serves as Cantor of St. John Lutheran Church and School in Seward, Nebraska, where he plays the organ, directs vocal and instrumental ensembles, and all the other things cantors usually do. He teaches courses in organ and church music at Concordia University, Nebraska, where he also directs the Male Chorus. When not making music, Paul enjoys spending time with family and friends, undertaking home renovations, and enjoying the natural wonders of Nebraska. He is a graduate of Concordia, Nebraska (bachelor’s, 2007) and Concordia Chicago (master’s, 2015).

Resources:

• https://form.jotform.com/231374845411959?utm_source=LCMS+Ministry+Resources&utm_campaign=942c15d043-email-lcms-worship-september-october-2024&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_401c8964ac-942c15d043-&ct=t(email-lcms-worship-september-october-2024)
• www.lcms.org/worship

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Christina Roberts has served as the Kantor of Our Savior Lutheran Church and School in Grand Rapids, Michigan for over two decades. The product of a Nebraska one-room country schoolhouse, she braved the DFW metroplex to receive her Bachelor of Music degree from the University of North Texas and start her church work career at Messiah Lutheran in Keller, Texas. During her tenure at OSL-GR she completed her Master's of Church Music at Concordia University Chicago. Roberts also presents and directs ensembles at conferences, has been a contributing author to several Lutheran publications, and served on the Programmatic Committee for the 2024 LCMS Institute on Liturgy, Preaching and Church Music. She is married to OSL's seventh and eighth grade teacher, Jerry. Their days are filled with the exuberance of five children (ages 14-20), an attempt to read better books, and a healthy dose of liturgically-themed cocktails.

Resources:

• https://resources.lcms.org/worship-planning/psalm-sheets/
• www.lcms.org/worship

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Shane Perry is a senior at Concordia University Irvine, majoring in Art/Graphic Design and minoring in Pre-Seminary studies.

Jacob Tung recently graduated from University of California – San Diego and attends University of Irvine as a graduate student, studying electrical engineering. He serves as an organist at Trinity Christo Rey Lutheran Church Santa Anna, CA.

Noah Martini is a senior at Concordia University Irvine, studying Biblical Languages. He is part of the Pre-Seminary program.

Joshua Rueter is a sophomore at Concordia University Irvine in the Pre-Seminary program. He is majoring in theology, but also is involved with the CUI music department and plays French Horn in the orchestra. He grew up in Southern California and commutes to campus.

Resources:

• www.lcms.org/worship

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Rev. Roy S. Askins is the managing editor of The Lutheran Witness.

Resources:

• https://witness.lcms.org/2024/the-divine-service-a-guide/

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Christopher Nuttelman is pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids, MI and Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in West Olive, MI. From Kearney, NE, he studied at the University of Nebraska and then Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN. He and his wife Amy have four daughters.

Resources:

• https://www.lcms.org/worship/memory-verse-challenge
• https://www.lcms.org/worship/one-year-series-prayers
• https://www.lcms.org/worship/three-year-series-prayers

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Rev. Daniel Galchutt serves as the Executive Director of the LCMS Office of National Mission.

Rev. Sean Daenzer serves as the Director of LCMS Worship and as Chaplain at the LCMS International Center.

Resources:

• https://www.lcms.org/worship
• https://www.lcms.org/worship/lectionary-summaries
• https://www.lcms.org/worship/advent
• https://www.lcms.org/lent

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn more about LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry - The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (lcms.org)

Bio:

Rev. Dr. Jeffery D. Nehrt received his Divine Call to serve as pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Greenville, IL in 1993. This Call included prison ministry at the Federal Correctional Institution in Greenville. Following six months of training with Rev. Maurice Alms and Rev. Jim Rivett, he began serving the Greenville Main Institution and Work camp in 1994. He ministers to both male and female inmates. In his ministry, he leads Bible studies, gives one on one pastoral care, provides Word and Sacrament Ministry, Catechesis, and private confession and absolution. For 5 years, Pastor Nehrt served as president of the Prison Family Hospitality Group. He participates in both spring and fall prison training with other prison volunteers in the Southern Illinois District. He has supervised in training 5 deaconess candidates for prison ministry. He is currently volunteering for Concordia Seminary as a RFE Module Supervisor for the Prison Ministry. Pastor Nehrt has served as a committee member for the “LCMS Prison and Jail Ministry" conferences and is currently serving on the LCMS Prison Task Force and helping with the SID Reaching In Pilot Program.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn more about LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry - The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (lcms.org)

Bio:

Deaconess Raquel A. Rojas is the Deaconess of Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Bronx, New York, a parish of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) where “God’s People Pray.” She is a member of the Concordia Deaconess Conference and serves on its Executive Committee, specializing in membership. She is serving her second term on the Board of Directors of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Atlantic District. Deaconess Rojas is a published author in a book of devotions for women entitled Words of Peace and Protection, published by Concordia Publishing House, having also written devotional pieces for Concordia College New York, the LCMS Atlantic District, and other organizations. Having served in other capacities previously, Deaconess Rojas currently serves as President of The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League Atlantic District since May 2022. Deaconess Rojas received a Master of Arts in Deaconess Studies from Concordia Theological Seminary (Fort Wayne, Indiana) and received her clinical pastoral education (ACPE) at Calvary Hospital in The Bronx, New York.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Pastor Daniel Grimmer was raised in metro Detroit. He has been pastor of Zion Lutheran Church since 2015, where he was placed after graduating from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He's married to Christine, and together they have three children: Adam, Simeon, and Martha.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn more about LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry - The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (lcms.org)

Bios:

Brian Heller holds a Doctor of Ministry degree in spiritual care training from Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN. With extensive experience serving as a chaplain in both trauma hospital settings and disaster response, he has completed four units of clinical pastoral education and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) training. Brian has dedicated 13 years to the Michigan Air National Guard, currently serving as the superintendent for the 110th Wing Command Post. Currently serving as the manager of LCMS Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry, he equips, trains, and provides resources to church workers and students pursuing chaplaincy roles within the Synod. Residing in Glen Carbon, IL, Brian is married to his wife, Jennette, and they are blessed with four children.

Deaconess Tiffany Manor is the Director of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Life Ministry. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Master of Arts in Deaconess Studies from Concordia Theological Seminary. Manor also has served the LCMS New England District in the areas of church worker wellness, human care and school ministry. Tiffany is married to the Rev. Jonathan Manor, pastor of Lutheran Church of the Savior in Bedford, MA, and they have four children. She enjoys walking, crafts, swimming, kayaking and “all things water.”

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio: Kelly joined Concordia Plans in May 2022 as a Health and Wellness Educator. She holds a Master of Science in public health from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Arts in health education with a minor in healthcare administration from Ashford University. Kelly has nearly 15 years of experience in a variety of health and wellness-oriented roles. As a military spouse (retired) and mother of three, she has seen first-hand the health challenges and successes people from all over the country in different stages of life can experience. Her focus is on encouraging overall healthy lifestyle choices for prevention and improved management of health concerns.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

To learn more about Mental Health First Aid training: https://forms.office.com/pages

Download the booklet Restoring Hope: Care for Mental Health at https://resources.lcms.org/general/restoring-hope-care-for-mental-health-spiritual-care-companion/

If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio: Dr. Mark Rockenbach received his B.A. from Concordia College, Seward, NE; M.Div. from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO; M.A. in counseling from Doane College, Lincoln, NE and his Ph.D. in psychology from Capella University, Minneapolis, MN. Dr. Rockenbach served as a parish pastor before accepting a call to The Nebraska District Office where he served as the Executive for Church Worker Health and Reconciliation. He served as a mental health counselor and adjunct professor at Concordia University in Seward, NE and Concordia University in Mequon, WI. He currently serves in the following roles at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO: Professor of Practical Theology, Director of Personal Growth and Leadership Development, IRB Director, and Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program. Dr. Rockenbach is the co-author of the book “Unforgivable? How God’s Forgiveness Transforms our Lives.”

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio: Julianna Shults is a DCE serving as Program Manager of Resources and Leadership for LCMS Youth Ministry. With a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Community Development, Julianna served congregations in Florida and Chicago. She co-authored Relationships Count and contributed to other books from CPH and co-hosts the podcast End Goals. Julianna is a self-proclaimed nerd, coffee snob and obsessive aunt.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio:

Dr. Belinda Karge devotes her career to ensuring that all students have successful opportunities and leaders are equipped with tools to transform education environments. She is a Professor in the School of Education Doctoral Program at Concordia University Irvine. She has taught and served in administrative roles in elementary and secondary schools globally. An expert in research based instructional strategies, she helps educators teach students how to use brain executive functions to navigate mental wellness. She has authored over 140 articles and ten books. She is Lutheran and served in the mission field. Her goal is to share God’s light with those around her in whatever way HE directs her.

Dr. Kara Bratton serves as an Assistant Professor in the School of Education in the doctoral programs at Concordia University Irvine, teaching special education and research classes and working as a dissertation chair. Previously, she was the special education director for Lutheran Special Education Ministries (LSEM) for 11 years and spent 11 years teaching K-8 special education in Lutheran Schools in Fort Wayne, IN at the beginning of her career. Kara also serves on the board of directors for the Indiana Non-public Education Association and as an Educator in Residence for the Progress Center. Along with two other professors, Kara is co-author of Resilient Minds: Christ-centered Mental Health Curriculum, which is available from Concordia Publishing House for middle school levels.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Find Resilient Minds at https://teachthefaith.cph.org/resilient-minds

Download the booklet Restoring Hope: Care for Mental Health at https://resources.lcms.org/general/restoring-hope-care-for-mental-health-spiritual-care-companion/

If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Bio: Sarah Gulseth currently works for KFUO Radio as Digital Media Manager, which includes co-hosting The Lutheran Ladies’ Lounge podcast and The Coffee Hour with Andy Bates. She is a baptized child of God, INFJ Lutheran Lady, lover of First Article Gifts, certified #hymnnerd, history nerd, proud Michigan native, coffee enthusiast, chronic illness warrior, and year-round bike commuter who lives in St. Louis with her husband Luther, and kitties Mandy and Vader. Sarah pursuing a master’s degree in organizational leadership at Concordia University Irvine, learning how to use her God-given talents and personality to serve her neighbors in love. “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Download the booklet Restoring Hope: Care for Mental Health at https://resources.lcms.org/general/restoring-hope-care-for-mental-health-spiritual-care-companion/

Find a LCMS RSO at lcms.org/rso

If you are in an emergency situation, please call 911. If you are depressed or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, or if this is the case for someone you know, please call or text 988 from a smartphone to reach the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn more about LCMS Youth Ministry at lcms.org/youth. Get the Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry book from CPH at cph.org/seven-practices-of-healthy-youth-ministry and find more resources on the Seven Practices are available on the resource website at youthESource.com.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Resources in this episode:

• Find out more about LCMS U and become a chapter at lcms.org/lcmsu.
• Fill out this contact form in order to share information with chapter leaders where your student may be going: lcms.org/campus-ministry/lcms-u-campus-link
• Check out this article on what to think about when starting a campus ministry: youthesource.com/2021/09/30/starting-a-campus-ministry

Bio: Ron DuPree is a DCE who serves as the Director of Youth and College Ministries at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Denton, Texas. Ron serves youth and families at the church as well as students at the University of North Texas, and Texas Woman’s University. Ron is a graduate of Concordia University Irvine, and a current graduate student at Concordia Irvine’s Townsend Institute for Executive Coaching and Consulting. When there is free time, he enjoys restoring an old Corvette, motorcycle riding and dirt biking and most importantly spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Craig Bertram and Shelly Carlson of Lord of Lakes Lutheran Church (Forest Lake, MN) earlier joined Rev. Mark Kiessling and Julianna Shults on an episode of End Goals. Craig and Shelly are key leaders for an LCMS Servant Event called Heart of a Servant. They joined the podcast to discuss their event and why they love hosting young people from across the United States.

Learn more about LCMS Youth Ministry at lcms.org/youth, LCMS Servant Events at lcms.org/how-we-serve/youth/servant-events, and the Servant Events Page at lcms-servantevents.org.

Bio: Rev. Craig Bertram is Pastor at Lord of the Lakes and serves as the Event Coordinator for Heart of a Servant. Shelly Carlson has served as Youth and Education Director at Lord of the Lakes since 1991 and serves as the event’s Community Life Coordinator.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Find out more about YouthLead and the training offered at lcms.org/youthlead. Learn more about LCMS Youth Ministry at lcms.org/youth.

Bio: Ally Graves and Johanna Shaw were members of our YouthLead Executive Team from 2019-2022. They both recently graduated with their undergraduate degrees.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn more about LCMS Youth Ministry at lcms.org/youth and all thing LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn more about LCMS School Ministry at luthed.org.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Theme music: Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling, used by permission, TheHymnalProject.com.

God’s Mission Here spotlights the work that God is doing through His people... and this work is closer to home than you might expect! Listen as we chat with some very down-to-earth people who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty in God’s mission field. Get inspired. Be encouraged. Get involved! Learn more about LCMS National Mission lcms.org/nationalmission

Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Where is God’s mission? God’s mission is everywhere. Yes, it’s far away. But it’s also very near. As near as your congregation and school, your neighborhood, your family and friends, even as near as your home. Wherever you are, God’s mission is in that place. Through His mission, Christ is bringing forgiveness, life, and salvation to people everywhere. Even here. Right where you are. God’s Mission Here. Learn more at lcms.org/nationalmission.