Connecting women around the Word

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WELS Womenā€™s Ministry exists to nurture, encourage, and equip women to faithfully use their gifts for service in Godā€™s kingdom. One of the ways it equips Christian women is through its webinars, which are offered multiple times per year.Ā 

ā€œThe webinars continue to be a platform for women across our synod to share what theyā€™ve been doing in their churches, homes, and communities,ā€ says Mrs. Rachel Halldorson, a member of the WELS Womenā€™s Ministry Executive Board and host of the webinars. ā€œTheir passion and love for their Savior shines through and inspires those watching and listening to apply it to their own lives and situations.ā€

During the upcoming webinar on April 10, The Power of Connecting Women in Christ, webinar panelists will share strategies to foster deeper, genuine connections by meeting women where they are at in their seasons of life. Halldorson notes: ā€œThe loneliness epidemic is real and threatens the body of Christ mentally and spiritually. The connections made through social media can have a role but also be a facade. We need each other in real life. God has given us Christian sisters (and brothers) as gifts!ā€Ā 

During the webinars, women from throughout the country and beyond learn from panelists, connect with each other via the chat feature, ask questions in the Q&A, and have access to resources that help equip them to share Jesus with other women in their congregation and with those who may not yet know Jesus.Ā 

As a way to personally connect with others during the webinar, attendees are encouraged to set up ā€œwatch partiesā€ so small groups of women can gather in person to view the webinar together. ā€œThe webinars are not meant to be a how-to for everyone watching because each situation is unique. Our intent is that viewers will be energized by the excitement and stories of what has worked for our panelists,ā€ Halldorson says. ā€œWatch parties offer women the perfect opportunity to take that inspiration and immediately discuss how they might apply it in their own context. Plus, itā€™s just a lot more fun!ā€Ā 

Learn more about WELS Womenā€™s Ministry and the April 10 webinar at wels.net/women.Ā 

Register for the upcoming webinar.

Ā 

 

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Together Video – April 1, 2025

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The combined choirs of Martin Luther College, New Ulm, Minn., and Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Mequon, Wis., recently performed two joint concerts to commemorate the 175th anniversary of WELS. The concerts were held at St. John’s on the Hillside, Milwaukee, Wis., and Martin Luther College, New Ulm, Minn.

Watch the entire concert at Martin Luther College performed Sat., March 29,Ā  in this archived livestream.

 

Photos from the concert at St. John’s on the Hillside, performed Thurs., March 20.

 

 

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Photo gallery – One Latin America Team

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Academia Cristo, the primary ministry of the One Latin America Team, seeks to make disciples in Latin America by sharing the message of Godā€™s grace with as many people as possible, identifying and training potential church planters, and encouraging those church planters to make disciples who plant even more churches. Read more in the One Latin America Team quarterly update.

There are 37 Academia Cristo students who have taken steps to plant a church (Grupos Sembrador) with support from an Academia Cristo mission counselor. Meet some of these church leaders, active students, and missionaries committed to spreading the gospel message throughout Latin America.

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A Lutheran church body in Tanzania is recommended for fellowship with WELS

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The WELS Commission on Inter-Church Relations (CICR) has the responsibility of overseeing our synodā€™s relationships with other Lutheran church bodies in the United States and around the world. The vast majority of the commissionā€™s time is spent strengthening the bonds of fellowship with our sister church bodies. But the commission also monitors what is going on in other Lutheran church bodies with which we are not in fellowship.

The CICR also communicates with Lutheran church bodies that are seeking fellowship with WELS. In recent years, discussions with such churches have led our synod to declare fellowship with Lutheran churches in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda.

This beautiful trend continues as the worldwide fellowship expands. After several years of detailed doctrinal discussions between WELS representatives and the Africa Mission Evangelism Church of Tanzania, the CICR is recommending that our synod publicly and officially declare fellowship with the Africa Mission Evangelism Church at this summerā€™s synod convention. Such celebrations of newly established fellowship are always one of the highlights of a synod convention.

The Africa Mission Evangelism Church is a growing Lutheran church body that separated from its previous affiliation because of doctrinal reasons. It consists of 12,000 members in 78 congregations and is served by approximately 65 pastors. The head of the Africa Mission Evangelism Church is Bishop Baltazar Kaaya. Bishop Kaaya will be attending our convention this summer to tell us more about our new partner in Africa.

We thank God that he continues to build his church.

Serving with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark Schroeder

 

 

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Godā€™s plan flourishes in Vietnam

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It has been 14 years since Hmong church leaders in Vietnam invited WELS to train their pastors in the truth of the gospel. It has been seven years since the communist government in Vietnam invited WELS to build a theological education center in the capital city of Hanoi. From the very beginning, we knew that the Lord had opened a door to reach the more than two million Hmong people who live in Vietnam and the surrounding countries. We also knew that this door could close at any time. Our WELS World Missions team worked quickly to ensure WELS took full advantage of the time the Lord had provided. And Godā€™s work moved forward in ways we could have never predicted.

With the generosity of faithful donors, we built a sturdy buildingā€”complete with classrooms, sleeping quarters, and a kitchenā€”meant to house 60 students at a time and train pastors for Christā€™s service. Almost two years ago at the dedication, it stood ready, a beacon of hope. But government regulations have kept us from using it for now. The paperwork continues, and the delay has a story of its own. A local church body that once supported us began demanding practices contrary to Scriptureā€”insisting we stop baptizing babies and allow non-Lutheran teachers to train our pastors. In a Martin Luther-esque stand, our partner church broke away, choosing faithfulness over compromise. Since then, theyā€™ve lost government recognition, which has slowed the process for gaining occupancy of the theological education center. Yet we trust that access could come any day, because Godā€™s timing is not ours.

Some might see this as a delay, a plan stalled. But God has provided paths we never expected. Since we began, our sister church has grown to over 160,000 souls, hungry for the Word. Fifty-five pastors have been trainedā€”not in that building but in rented spaces and internet classrooms where God gathered them to learn. Another 120 seminary-level students are studying now, their hearts set on preaching the gospel. Catechism classes, led by trained leaders, echo through every congregation in the rural training program that was developed by WELS missionaries and is now being supported by 12 fully trained Hmong pastors. This flock proudly calls themselves Lutheran, not because of a building but because of the truth theyā€™ve learned through WELS training.

Take a pastoral student and his brother, for example. When they feared funding had faltered, they sold their familyā€™s water buffaloā€”a sacrifice that cut deep in their rural lifeā€”so one could join the biblical training they feared might pass them by. Today, that student is a pastor, shepherding souls, his brotherā€™s faith beside him. What earthly hurdles could stop Godā€™s Spirit at work?

These twists and turns and extra red tape have given us more timeā€”time to train, time to grow, and time to stand firm without interference. We thought we needed that building. God knew we needed himā€”and him alone. In his hands, this work triumphs, brimming with hope for tomorrow.

In Christ,
Rev. Larry Schlomer
Administrator, WELS World Missions

 

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Together Video – March 18, 2025

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Elise Gross, a missionary on the One Latin America Team, describes her ministry serving women in Latin America. Learn how God is using Gross and her students to spread his Word.

 

 

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Federal funding for Lutheran organizations

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Recently it was disclosed that several Roman Catholic and Lutheran social service organizations have been receiving federal funding for humanitarian aid or community services from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Itā€™s been reported that much of this funding has been directed toward assistance to immigrants and refugees. We have received questions about whether our synod is involved in any of this kind of effort.

The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) has no financial or operational relationship with the Lutheran agencies that received these funds. WELS does not provide financial support to them and does not work with them in any way. Our synod has not applied for nor received any grant from the federal government for relief work among immigrants. When you hear the word ā€œLutheranā€ in the news reports, it does not refer to our synod.Ā 

One of the Lutheran groups identified as having received federal dollars (for youth mental health treatment) is Wisconsin Lutheran Child & Family Service, Inc. (WLCFS; known as Christian Family Solutions). WLCFS, which is known for providing quality Christian counseling services to our members and the community, is not a synodical organization; rather, it is an independent ministry affiliated with WELS. WLCFS is not governed or funded by WELS. Ā 

WELS does have its own disaster and humanitarian aid organization called WELS Christian Aid and Relief. This organization receives no federal funding and carries out its work of helping the needy and providing humanitarian grants solely with the generous support of WELS congregations and individual donors.Ā 

Because there are some erroneous or misleading reports in the news and on social media, we are informing you, the members of our synod, in case you have questions about this or receive questions about it from others.Ā Ā 

Serving with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark SchroederĀ 

 

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Martin Luther College launches programs to accommodate second-career learners

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In recent years, Martin Luther College (MLC), New Ulm, Minn., has been working hard to address the current shortage of teachers across the synod. MLC has developed two new programs designed to offer alternative pathways for non-traditional, second-career individuals to earn degrees in education, which would aid in staffing growing WELS early childhood centers and elementary schools.

To support WELS early childhood centers with their varied staffing needs, the MLC Office of Continuing Education has launched its four tiers of support for early childhood teachers. Tiers 2 to 4 build upon one another, with Tier 4 culminating in an associate degree. Prospective studentsā€”often WELS members already working in some capacity at an early childhood centerā€”can enter the program at any level, depending on their educational backgrounds and career goals.Ā 

As of November 2024, the program has cleared the final hurdle in becoming an accredited program. ā€œThe online Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education for non-traditional adult learners has been approved by the state of Minnesota and the Higher Learning Commission,ā€ says Prof. John Meyer, director of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education at MLC. ā€œSince the program was approved by our accreditor, four adult learners have been accepted, two more have begun the application process, and more have expressed their intention to apply.ā€Ā Ā 

MLC has also recently launched the Alternative Pathway to Professional Licensure Eligibility program, which provides a pathway for non-traditional and second-career students to earn a bachelorā€™s degree in education. ā€œWe believe there are a great number of candidates who can serve the church and its school system in a way that will help fulfill the existing teacher shortage,ā€ says Dr. Jeff Wiechman, vice president for academics at MLC. ā€œMany people are considering a second career in teaching because they want to support our system.ā€Ā 

This licensure program is structured as a competency-based education program, allowing students to use their knowledge and experience to guide their pacing through the coursework to meet the Bachelor of Science in Education degree requirements and be eligible for a Minnesota Tier 3 teaching license. Wiechman explains, ā€œMany of these students are already working in school settings and can apply their experiences toward their coursework, ultimately earning both their degree and license.ā€Ā 

The development of the licensure program has been years in the making. ā€œThis idea first surfaced in 2017 when we recognized our schools were growing and began exploring alternative ways to serve our church body,ā€ Wiechman explains. MLC called Dr. Nichole LaGrow as the program director and Dr. Martin LaGrow as the instructional designer. Together, they secured accreditation and approvals necessary for the programā€™s launch and worked with MLC faculty to structure the curriculum.Ā 

MLC started work with returning adult learners interested in pursuing an elementary education degree and license a year ago with the launch of the theology minor. Those students can now continue via the Alternative Pathway to Professional Licensure Eligibility program. New students can join them this fall by applying to MLC . ā€œWeā€™re excited to serve our church body in this new way,ā€ says Wiechman. ā€œThis has been a long time in the making, and weā€™re grateful for the support that made it possible.ā€Ā 

To learn more about MLCā€™s four tiers of support for early childhood teachers, visit forwardinchrist.net/early-childhood-teachers and mlc-wels.edu/continuing-education/four-tiers.Ā 

Visit the MLC Nontraditional Education Blog to learn more about competency-based education and the Alternative Pathway to Professional Licensure Eligibility program.Ā 

 

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Together Video – March 4, 2025

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Learn how members of home mission congregation Anchor Church in Marquette, Mich., are sharing Christ’s love with those in their community.

 

 

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Photo timeline – Anchor, Marquette, Mich.

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The new mission in Marquette, Mich., was approved as a new mission start in 2023, the first year of the 100 Missions in 10 Years initiative. Marquette serves as the hub of the Upper Peninsula (U.P.) of Michigan, and 52% of the people in and around Marquette do not have a home church or attend a church. It is also home to 7,000 students at Northern Michigan University. Click through the photos to see a timeline of Anchorā€™s ministry to date and learn more about planting new churches at wels100in10.net.

 

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Large-print Christian Worship hymnal available

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In a joint effort between the Mission for the Visually Impaired (MVI), part of WELS Commission on Special Ministries, and Northwestern Publishing House, the large-print edition of Christian Worship: Hymnal is now available.Ā 

The large-print hymnal includes the full content of Christian Worship: Hymnal but in a larger format to aid those with vision problems.Ā Ā 

ā€œOver 20 percent of all WELS members have some type of visual impairment,ā€ says Mr. Lawrence Povinelli, MVIā€™s chairman. ā€œStatistics show that as we age we lose sight, and it made sense to offer the hymnal in large print.ā€Ā 

Making this available is important, explains Povinelli, because ā€œall want to participate in worship and have access to our worship materials. The reduction in eyesight should not close the door to participating in worship.ā€Ā 

The large-print hymnal is available for purchase by individuals and congregations and is available on the Northwestern Publishing House website for $54.99.Ā Ā 

The Mission for the Visually Impaired was started to provide braille materials to the blind. Over its 60 years, it has evolved into providing audio, large print, flash drives, and now an online listen library. The listen library has major WELS publications, such as Meditations, Forward in Christ, People’s Bible Commentary, and countless other materials in audio. It is password protected as it is only available to those that have visual impairments, as well as those who are print impaired. Anyone can check out the listen library atā€Ælisten.wels.net.Ā 

 

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Special Ministries helps you serve

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It is likely stating the obvious that not everyone your congregation has the opportunity to serve with the gospel regularly sits in the pews of your church or the various classrooms of your congregation. Maybe you are aware of those in unique situations who could be served by your congregation, and perhaps you wonder or struggle how to serve them. This edition of Together highlights a number of the resources available through WELS Commission on Special Ministries.Ā Ā 

Special Ministries has several main areas that seek to help Godā€™s people serve those who are not served in the normal course of a congregationā€™s ministry: Ministry to the Military, Prison Ministry, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Ministry, Mission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Mission for the Visually Impaired, Mental Health Needs Committee, Care Committee for Called Workers, Health and Wellness Committee, and a Chaplain Certification program. Subgroups or partners serve under a number of these areas. Ā Ā 

You can find more information on all of these areas at wels.net/special-ministries. This site also offers opportunities to refer people who might be served by one of these areas.Ā Ā Ā 

So often I hear ā€œI had no idea that our synod had . . . ā€ It is my prayer that this edition of Together helps you better understand all that Special Ministries offers to help you and your congregation get the gospel to those who may be in one of these unique or difficult situations in life.Ā Ā 

The words of our Savior in Matthew 25:40 guide the work of Special Ministries: ā€œTruly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.ā€ Those words remind us that, ultimately, we are serving our Savior in everything we do. The privilege our Savior gives us is to serve others with the life-saving gospel as we serve him. Special Ministries stands ready to assist you in whatever way we can. Feel free to reach out at [email protected].Ā 

In Christ,
Rev. Joel Gaertner
Director, WELS Commission on Special MinistriesĀ 

 

 

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Military retreat in Japan

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WELS Military Chaplain Rev. Paul Horn and his daughter Calliope (a senior at Luther Preparatory School, Watertown, Wis.) traveled to Okinawa, Japan, in January to host a WELS Ministry to the Military retreat for WELS military members stationed in the Pacific. Four branches of the militaryā€”Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Armyā€”were represented and included members from Guam, Japan, and South Korea. The weekend was packed with events such as Bible study and Sunday school on the beach, worship that included a teen confirmation, and fellowship activities. WELS Ministry to the Military, a part of WELS Special Ministries, provides live online worship and Bible study every weekend for those stationed in the Pacific, and future retreats are being planned. Refer WELS members in the military at wels.net/military.

 

 

Service member referral

Military members and their families can receive devotions and other spiritual help materials in the mail or by e-mail.

Referral form

 

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Resources from the Mission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

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WELS Mission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MDHH), part of the WELS Commission on Special Ministries, seeks to help congregations share the gospel of Jesus Christ with members of WELS and others who are deaf or hard of hearing. The MDHH has various resources to assist members and congregations in meeting the spiritual needs of those with hearing loss.Ā 

Hearing loop grantĀ 

The MDHH is offering $500 grants to congregations that install hearing loops in their sanctuaries. A hearing loop works with peopleā€™s hearing aids to provide a clearer sound directly into their ears. Perhaps your church had issues with the audio for the livestream and the sound cut out for a portion of the sermon. Maybe the microphones werenā€™t set up to hear people singing. These scenarios can put up barriers to worship for those who are hard of hearing.Ā 

The MDHH is encouraging looping projects. If your church is already planning a renovation, it would be an ideal time to install a hearing loop. If your congregation might be interested in installing a loop in your sanctuary, reach out at [email protected] for more information.Ā 

Signed online Bible studyĀ 

The MDHHā€™s online deaf Bible study is a program specifically for deaf individuals who use American Sign Language (ASL). The pastor is hearing, but an interpreter is provided to facilitate communication. Participants can explore thought-provoking questions and engage in meaningful dialogue with both the pastor and fellow participants.Ā 

The classes are held weekly on Tuesday nights via Zoom. Anyone who is deaf and uses ASL is invited to the Bible study. The MDHH notes the study is not structured for someone trying to learn ASL.Ā 

Gerald Olson, a participant in the study, says, ā€œThe Deaf Online Bible Study is a comfortable place for me to ask questions in my native language, ASL. The answers are clear, and I have gained much understanding of the Bible throughout the years.ā€Ā 

To join, e-mail [email protected]ā€Æfor the Zoom link. The same Zoom link is used for each session.ā€ÆĀ 

Gospel HandsĀ 

Gospel Hands is an online religious sign language video dictionary for the deaf and interpreters to effectively share the gospel. This process has been a three-year project developed by the MDHH. The printed dictionary, ā€œSign to the Lord a new song,ā€ has been updated to an online dictionary with hundreds of videos that are more effectively understood and shared. The online video-based reference library includes not only many religious terms but also the creeds and common prayers used in worship services.Ā 

 

 

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175th anniversary resources available

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It is interesting how often the Bible speaks of ā€œgenerations.ā€ For example, the church sings in Psalm 145, ā€œOne generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty actsā€ (Psalm 145:4). Paul wrote to the Ephesians, ā€œNow to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amenā€ (Ephesians 3:20,21). The idea of Godā€™s saving work and his rule over all things extending from generation to generation and the encouragement to proclaim his works to the next generation are found throughout the Scriptures.Ā 

Perhaps this is why churches usually celebrate anniversaries in quarter-century increments. Twenty-five years approximates a generation. During this calendar year of 2025, WELS is celebrating its 175th anniversary. This is the first synod anniversary of the new millennium. It is an opportunity for a new generation (and older generations) to review with gratitude the blessings the Lord has showered upon our church body since its founding in 1850.Ā 

To help congregations focus on the anniversary by educating members on the synodā€™s history, two resources are now available. Monthly bulletin inserts highlighting key events in synod history are being produced. The first two months are available as PDFs in full-color, black-and-white, or text only on the WELS Historical Institute website. Please consider using these in your congregation.Ā 

In addition, an interactive timeline has been put together and is also on the website. The timeline contains short descriptions and photos with links to videos and articles that allow people to dig deeper into various topics. This timeline might especially be useful for teaching a class to confirmation students or adults on the history of WELS.Ā 

Special anniversary events are also being planned. Two coming up this spring involve the choirs of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary and Martin Luther College. The joint concerts will include sets sung by each choir and then a third set sung by the combined choirs. These joint concerts take place on March 20 at 7 p.m. (Central) at St. Johnā€™s on the Hillside, Milwaukee, Wis., and on March 29 at 7 p.m. (Central) at the Martin Luther College Chapel of the Christ, New Ulm, Minn. The New Ulm concert will be livestreamed.Ā Ā 

More information on anniversary events and additional resources are posted at welshistoricalinstitute.org/175th.Ā 

It is my prayer that this anniversary will spark interest and appreciation for the blessings God has showered on WELS for 175 years. By his grace, he has raised up leaders among us who have been concerned about defending the pure gospel, preparing workers who serve the church, and proclaiming the good news of Jesusā€™ saving work throughout America and the world. By his grace, the message of Christ has come to us and gone out through us.Ā 

By Prof. Joel Otto, chairman of the 175th anniversary committee and dean of students at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Mequon, Wis.

 

 

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Together Video – February 18, 2025

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Each year students at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Mequon, Wis., spend three days participating in “Mission and Ministry,” an event designed to showcase WELS ministries that are taking place around the world. It is an opportunity for students to meet missionaries, administrators, volunteers, congregational pastors, and others who are dedicated to supporting the spread of God’s Word. Students attend presentations and visit display booths as well as worship together each day. Learn more about the 2025 event, which took place Feb. 4-6.

 

 

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Financial blessings continue

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God continues to open the hearts of his people to provide generous support for the work that we do together as a synod. Congregation Mission Offerings (CMO) for the month of December 2024 amounted to $3.53 million, which was up 4.1 percent ($138,000) from December 2023 and was 4.9 percent ($166,000) higher than the projection for the month of December 2024.

On a calendar year-to-date basis for 2024 the total reported CMO was $23.91 million, up 2.2 percent ($511,000) over the prior year and up 3.0 percent ($707,000) from projected receipts. On a fiscal year-to-date basis, which began July 2024, total reported CMO through December (six months) was $12.91 million, up 2.5 percent ($314,000) from the prior year ($12.60 million).

This is now the fifth straight year WELS has reached a new level of calendar-year reported CMO and the third calendar year in which reported CMO exceeded $23 million. These annual increases have been very encouraging and have decreased the impact of the high inflation rate during the last four years.

Read about all the amazing ways God has blessed the mission and ministry work of WELS, made possible through congregationsā€™ CMO contributions, in the 2025 annual report, Your gifts, God’s blessings. Read the digital version online or order your own complimentary print copy from Northwestern Publishing House.

We join in thanking God that he continues to bless our synod with growing financial resources that support our synodā€™s mission and ministry. To him be the glory!

Serving with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark Schroeder

 

Don’t forget, if your congregation hasn’t already submitted its CMO subscription for 2025, it is due this Fri., Feb. 7, at noon (Central).

 

 

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Integrating to improve ministry efficiency

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WELS Prison Ministry and Institutional Ministries are working collaboratively toward an integration that would better steward the ministry resources with which God has blessed them. The ministry and resources of WELS Prison Ministry will be part of and administered by Institutional Ministries.

ā€œWhile much has been accomplished with WELS Prison Ministry and Institutional Ministries working collaboratively for the last few decades, it makes good sense to eliminate any duplication of efforts and put all ministry to the incarcerated and their families together under one entity,ā€ says Rev. Joel Gaertner, director, WELS Commission on Special Ministries.

WELS Prison Ministry, part of WELS Commission on Special Ministries, started in 1993 when a group of volunteers assisted WELS Special Ministries in launching a nationwide ministry providing religious materials to prison chaplains and inmates. WELS Prison Ministry has distributed materials to about 2,500 facilities to date throughout the United States and also trains mentors for released offenders and church teams to conduct ministries for inmates at local jails.

Institutional Ministries, a WELS-affiliated ministry, was founded in 1901 for the purpose of meeting the spiritual needs of those who were institutionalized. Today, the team of chaplains and volunteers serves inmates in a growing number of states through in-person ministry and other resources. This behind-the-walls ministry focuses on four unique areas: correctional care, health care, extended care, and caring support. GraceLinks, Institutional Ministriesā€™ e-mailed devotional ministry, is sent to inmates across 20 states.

ā€œThe idea is that by putting all prison work resources under one organization, we can be more productive and have better workflow. Both WELS Prison Ministry and Institutional Ministries are excited about this opportunity to be better equipped and organized, promoting growth,ā€ says Rev. Phil Henselin, executive director, Institutional Ministries. ā€œTogether, with Godā€™s blessing, we can work powerfully. Pray that God blesses this process with wisdom, discernment, and the support needed to continue to faithfully share his Word behind walls!ā€

Discussions between the two ministries are ongoing with the goal of fully integrating by June 2026. The two ministries will work together to best determine the logistical and administrative details of the integration.

For those who faithfully support either of these ministries with financial gifts, support can be given as it has in the past, until details regarding the integration of financial support are determined.

Learn more at wels.net/prison and IM.life.

 

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Training future church planters

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In January 2025, three different groups of students from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary (WLS), Mequon, Wis., went on trips as part of a special partnership with WELS Home Missions. These trips were an opportunity to help mission churches connect with more people, strengthen their presence in their communities, and develop clear ministry plans. At the same time, the trips gave WLS students a chance to learn what it takes to start a new church, work with and understand different communities, and grow their confidence in sharing the gospel. By mixing classroom lessons with hands-on experience, the students got to see what mission work is really like and build skills theyā€™ll use when they become pastors.

Trip 1: Fredericksburg, Va.

Hosted by The Way Church in Fredericksburg, Va., this trip offered a theoretical foundation for ten WLS seniors under the guidance of Lucas Bitter, home missionary at Intown, Atlanta, Ga.; and Matt Rothe, home missionary at The Way; along with Mission Counselor Mark Birkholz.

The students spent the week studying the principles of church planting, analyzing potential future mission fields, and formulating detailed ministry plans for each location. They also engaged with lay leaders and experienced worship in a mission setting.

ā€œThis trip gave our seniors a head start,ā€ shared Bitter. ā€œIf assigned to plant a new church, theyā€™ll go in with their eyes wide open, understanding the importance of structuring a healthy organization that incorporates the gifts of all God’s people alongside their passion for sharing the gospel.ā€

Trip 2: Parrish and Lakewood Ranch, Fla.

Risen Savior in Parrish, Fla., hosted 11 WLS students, accompanied by WLS Professor Jonathan Micheel, Mission Counselor Wayne Uhlhorn, and Pastor Ben Balge. Students got hands-on experience by participating in a variety of ministry and outreach activities that are typical at a new mission start: volunteering at community service events, helping with a sports camp, and interviewing civic and religious leaders to build community profiles.

ā€œThis is my second WLS trip, and itā€™s inspiring to see these young men eager to learn how to reach out with the gospel,ā€ said Uhlhorn.

Student Cooper Knoll noted, ā€œMission work isnā€™t just about having the ā€˜perfect outreach strategy.ā€™ Our work showed that itā€™s important to be flexible to adapt to the needs of the community so we can better serve them with the gospel.ā€

Trip 3: Greater Houston Area, Texas

Nine students traveled to the greater Houston area, led by Professor E. Allen Sorum and Mission Counselor Matt Vogt. They focused on canvassing neighborhoods and building community profiles for the new mission that was approved in fall 2024 in Cypress/Waller and a mission opportunity in Rosenberg thatā€™s currently being explored.

For student Jacob Kieselhorst, a conversation with a man he met while canvassing was eye-opening: ā€œHe shared his struggles, and I had the chance to share the gospel with him. It became so much more than canvassingā€”it was a profound mission experience.ā€ (Watch his testimonial here).

These trips taken during the seminaryā€™s Winterim term are a testament to the collaboration between WELS Home Missions and WLS. By combining academic study with real-world experiences, these trips help train future pastors for the unique challenges of mission work.

The initiative aligns with WELSā€™ goal of planting 100 missions in 10 years. Through this partnership, students gain the tools, confidence, and vision to bring Christ to diverse communities across North America.

As student Collin Maurice summarized, ā€œEvery interaction is an opportunity to share your faith. This trip reinforced that mission work is a mindset, not just a strategy.ā€

 

 

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Conference of Presidentsā€™ winter 2025 meeting

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The Conference of Presidents (COP) met for its winter meeting Jan. 7ā€“10, 2025. The COP is composed of the 12 district presidents, the synod president, and the two synod vice presidents. The synod secretary serves as a non-voting advisory member of the COP.Ā 

My presidentā€™s report included these items:Ā 

  • Reaction to the COPā€™s pastoral letter on man-woman roles has been positive with few questions or concerns raised.Ā 
  • Reaction to the COPā€™s pastoral brief on critical theory has also been generally positive. The few questions or concerns that have been raised have usually centered on the fact that there were aspects of this topic that the brief did not specifically address. The purpose of the brief was not to provide an exhaustive study of critical theory but to underline the scriptural principles involved and to enable WELS members to approach this subject from a biblical and evangelical perspective.Ā 
  • WELS is pursuing plans to declare fellowship with the Africa Mission Evangelism Church in Tanzania. This is a Lutheran church body with whom WELS has had extensive discussions to determine that our two church bodies are in doctrinal agreement.Ā 
  • The new long-range plan, entitled ā€œChrist through us,ā€ is still under development and will be ready for presentation to the synod convention in July.Ā 

There are 140 parish pastor vacancies as well as 6 non-parish pastoral vacancies.Ā 

The COP authorized a special synodwide offering related to the synodā€™s 175th anniversary. The offering will be directed to the synod in general, world missions, home missions, and ministerial education. More specific uses for the offering by each area of ministry will be announced prior to the start of the offering. Congregations and individuals will be invited to participate.Ā 

Congregational Services will be releasing samples of alternative governance structures for congregations in the coming months. District constitution committees will be equipped to answer questions that may arise when it comes to congregational governance and related bylaws.Ā 

The COP authorized Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary to begin a generosity campaign in support of its planned building project. If all parts of the project can be done, it will provide classrooms, remodeling of current space for faculty offices, remodeling of portions of the library, and a gathering space attached to the gymnasium.Ā 

The Doctrine Committee of the COP will hold its annual meeting with the Doctrine Committee of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod in January.Ā 

The deadline for congregations to submit their 2024 statistics and their 2025 Congregation Mission Offering (CMO) subscriptions is February 7. Looking ahead to CMO encouragement for 2026, ā€œJoyful Generosityā€ and other stewardship materials will be made available by September 2025, including a CMO video presentation.Ā 

Serving with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark SchroederĀ 

 

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Hope in the California fires

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Over the last two weeks, fires ravaged entire neighborhoods and communities in southern California. The two main blazes, the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire, destroyed or damaged more than 15,000 structures and displaced nearly 200,000 people, according to a report on nbcnews.com.Ā 

We thank God for sparing Hope Lutheran Church, in Los Angeles, which was within 10 miles of the fires. Additionally, there have been no reports of significant loss or damage from members.Ā 

But the surrounding devastation left Hopeā€™s neighbors and community in need.Ā  By Sat., Jan. 11, Hope partnered with Pali Fire Support to operate a donation and distribution center on the congregationā€™s campus, which they were able to open that Saturday and Sun., Jan. 12. While providing material aid, such as clothes, toiletries, diapers, and gift cards, the congregationā€™s members were also providing spiritual and emotional support to those in need. Ā 

The congregation and Pali Fire Support opened the center again on Sat., Jan. 18. Rev. Steven Gabb, pastor at Hope, says, ā€œAt the same time, ā€˜pop upā€™ efforts like ours are naturally giving way to well-established organizations with the infrastructure, manpower, storage space, and experience in providing humanitarian aid on such a large scale. As such, by the end of the day on Saturday (January 18), we had made plans to cease our operation and move our inventory to one of those larger community organizations.ā€Ā 

ā€œOur role, along with countless others throughout Los Angeles,ā€ explains Gabb, ā€œhas been to help bridge the gap between the event and the time when insurance and government aid is able to provide more comprehensive support. It has been a humbling privilege to do our part as Godā€™s instruments and voices in our community.ā€Ā 

WELS Christian Aid and Relief provided a $6,000 grant to Hope to help with local efforts and to provide gift cards for people who lost their homes or were displaced. In addition, Christian Aid and Relief gave $5,000 to Direct Relief, an organization that specializes in medical assistance in disaster situations.Ā 

Gabb concludes, ā€œMany thanks to WELS members throughout the synod for their prayers and financial donations to support the effort, to WELS Christian Aid and Relief, and to the Lord for the opportunity to show Christian love and to let our Christian light shine in our community.ā€Ā 

As of Sun., Jan. 19, NBC reported that the Palisades Fire was 56 percent contained, and the Eaton Fire was 81 percent contained. We pray that the fires continue to die out and all who have been affected find hope in the Lordā€™s promises to care for his people.Ā 

For future updates, follow WELS Christian Aid and Relief on Facebook at fb.com/WELSChristianAidAndRelief.Ā 

Did you know . . .Ā 

WELS Christian Aid and Relief has prepared an online library of resources to assist congregations in preparing for a variety of natural disasters.Ā Ā 

View resourcesĀ 

 

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New director for Commission on Worship

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Rev. Paul Prange has accepted the call to serve as director of the Commission on Worship. He replaces Rev. Bryan Gerlach, who retired in August 2024.Ā Ā 

Though Prange has been serving for the past 30 years in ministerial educationā€”first as president at Michigan Lutheran Seminary, Saginaw, Mich., and then as administrator of the Board for Ministerial Education (BME)ā€”he has had a passion for worship since early on.Ā 

ā€œI grew up in a home that cared about Lutheran worship. We talked about it, and we lived it,ā€ he says. ā€œThat was my identity.ā€Ā Ā 

His dad, Rev. Victor Prange, was the chairman of the 1993 Hymnal Project, and Paul recently served as the chairman of the Psalter Committee for the WELS Hymnal Project that resulted in the release of Christian Worship: Hymnal and Christian Worship: Psalter in 2021. ā€œI learned many more details about how the whole Christian church sings psalms in worship,ā€ says Prange. ā€œThat made me even more interested than I had been before in worship planning and helping people do their best in worship.ā€Ā 

The Commission on Worship is part of WELS Congregational Services, which exists to encourage and equip congregations for faithful and fruitful gospel ministry. Part of Prangeā€™s new role as director will be supporting congregations in worship and worship planning. This includes helping congregations and worship planners understand what resources are available from the 2021 WELS Hymnal Project and how to use them as well as discovering what resources may still need to be developed. ā€œI think I can be helpful to any willing participant in the church who asks how to improve worship, no matter what their circumstance,ā€ he says.Ā Ā 

He also will be instrumental in creating future worship planning material for The Foundation, a suite of weekly ministry worship resources produced by WELS Congregational Services, including expanding the options available to meet the needs of any congregation.Ā 

ā€œEvery church in WELS has worship at least once a week. Itā€™s a terrifically important thing that we do because the gospel is at the center of it,ā€ says Prange, a member at St. Paul, Ixonia, Wis. ā€œWhatever I can do to help people improve it helps the health of the whole church.ā€Ā 

Prange taking this call opens up a vacancy in the position of administrator for the Board for Ministerial Education. The board will be looking to call to fill that position in the near future.Ā 

 

 

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Blessings through warā€”an update from Ukraine

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It has been nearly three years since Russia first invaded Ukraine in an attempt to take control of the country. Cities have been destroyed and infrastructure decimated. The number of casualties Ukraine has suffered is difficult to ascertain, but it is well into the tens of thousands.Ā 

Against this backdrop of devastation, destruction, and death, God is working. The power of his love and his Word can be seen clearly in the updates from the Ukrainian Lutheran Church (ULC), WELSā€™ sister synod in Ukraine.Ā 

From the beginning of the war, WELS provided financial assistance to the ULC so our brothers and sisters could help each other and their neighbors with basic needs, such as food, medicine, clothing, and fuel. In fact, Christā€™s love flowed so generously through WELS members that there is enough funding to cover current needs and anticipated future aid. The most important thing shared, however, has been the saving gospel message of Christ and the hope all Christians have through our risen Savior.Ā 

Pastor Vyacheslav Horpynchuk, bishop of the Ukrainian Lutheran Church, recently provided a detailed update. Here is a summary of the highlights:Ā Ā 

  • The ULC has 14 congregations, 12 pastors, and 5 deacons, serving 655 members.Ā 
  • Three congregations had to temporarily suspend worship services due to attacks in their areas.Ā 
  • While services in Bereznehuvate had to cease temporarily, once Russian forces were out of the area, the congregation not only resumed regular worship, but also started a mission in Snihurivka, with an average of 100 people attending each week.Ā 
  • The pastor for the congregation in Tokmak had to leave the city after Russians started arresting Protestant pastors. Many members left as well.Ā 
  • Thousands of people have received aid in the form of food, medicine, household supplies, clothes, and more through the ULC.Ā 

ā€œWe are grateful to WELS for helping us to buy electric generators, charging stations, electric inverters, and lots of firewood. During three war winters we have light in our churches, in most of our homes, and we are warm. Thank you also for the warm clothes and winter shoes!ā€ā€”HorpynchukĀ 

  • With the aid, ULC members have been able to help each other repair damage to homes after attacks.Ā 
  • In Kyiv, 90 people have joined the church and 30 more are taking catechism class. Ā 

ā€œPeople suffer and we continue to help them. We have about 150 new communicant members [throughout ULC churches] because of our humanitarian efforts, and about 100 more people are currently studying Luther’s Small Catechism. In addition,ā€Æseveral hundred new people attend the church every Sunday without enrolling in catechism classes. We hope and pray the Word will not return empty in their case as well.ā€ā€”HorpynchukĀ 

ā€œGodā€™s Word provided us comfort and strength to live, resist the Russian invasion, and help thousands of suffering people around us,ā€ concluded Horpynchuk. ā€œPlease continue to pray for us and help us in time of our dire need. We are grateful to all WELS members and to the United States of America. God bless WELS! God bless America! Please pray that this war is finished soon!ā€Ā 

Read the entire, unedited update from Pastor Vyacheslav Horpynchuk.Ā 

 

 

 

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Godā€™s faithfulness on display in 2024

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ā€œYour gifts, Godā€™s blessings: An annual report to our membersā€ is now available. The 24-page report includes photos and updates from WELS ministries as well as stories of faith.ā€ÆĀ 

ā€œGodā€™s faithfulness is as steadfast for us as a synod as it is for us as individuals,ā€ says WELS President Mark Schroeder. ā€œThe annual report reviews some of the ways that God has displayed his faithfulness and blessed our work together during the past year.ā€Ā 

Some of those blessings include:Ā 

  • five home missions launching worship services in 2024;Ā 
  • more than 2,000 teens coming together for worship, spiritual growth, and fellowship at the WELS International Youth Rally;Ā 
  • sending two missionaries to a new mission field in Australia; andĀ 
  • the highest enrollment at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 15 years.

These ministry highlights and more are presented in the 2025 edition of ā€œYour gifts, Godā€™s blessings.ā€ Print versions of the report are being sent to every WELS congregation and individual donor. Additional print versions are available from Northwestern Publishing House for free. Visitā€Ænph.net/welsā€Æor call 800-662-6022.Ā 

To view the report online, visitā€Æwels.net/annualreport. There you can also download a PowerPoint presentation of the report with notes that allow anyone to share the highlights of our synodā€™s work. Alternatively, churches can invite a WELS Christian giving counselor to give the presentation. Contact WELS Ministry of Christian Giving at 800-827-5482 for more information.Ā 

 

 

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Annual informal talks with The Lutheran Churchā€”Missouri Synod (LCMS) held

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For the last 12 years, representatives of WELS, the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS), and the LCMS have been involved in informal doctrinal discussions. An informal doctrinal discussion is one that addresses matters of doctrine and practice but does not imply that doctrinal agreement and a restoration of fellowship is imminent*. The most recent meeting took place in early December 2024.Ā 

Over the years, these discussions have proven to be beneficial and productive. We have spent much time identifying the many areas in which all three synods are in perfect agreement. For example, we are agreed that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, and infallible Word of God. We are in agreement that the Lutheran Confessions are a true and faithful summary of the teachings of Scripture. We all stand firmly on the four great ā€œalonesā€ of the Reformation: salvation by grace alone, by faith alone, by Scripture alone, by Christ alone. All three synods officially confess that Communion is to be ā€œclosed Communion,ā€ shared only with those who confess a common faith. We all believe in the sanctity of human life, in Godā€™s design for marriage and sexuality, and that God has directed that only men serve as pastors. The list could go on.Ā 

We have also had the opportunity to dispel caricatures and false assumptions that we have had about one anotherā€™s doctrinal positions and how those doctrines are applied and practiced.Ā 

Another benefit has been that these talks have opened lines of communication between our synods that were not open before. We have spoken publicly with one voice about the principle of religious freedom. Our mission boards speak to one another about plans and provide advice on specific issues. A procedure has been put in place as to how to communicate with each other when a pastor or teacher decides to leave one synod and join the other.Ā 

And there are, of course, discussions about the several doctrinal issues in which we are not in full agreement. We have spent much time talking about church and ministry, fellowship, and the role of men and women in the church. While we have found that the differences in some of these areas are not as great as we might have thought, we still recognize that differences remain.Ā 

We all pray that God would use these talks to bring about full unity someday. Until then, there are many good reasons to continue these discussions.Ā 

Serving together with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark Schroeder

 

*WELS and the ELS share doctrinal fellowship with one another, but do not share fellowship with the LCMS.

 

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Together Video – December 17, 2024

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WELS President Rev. Mark Schroeder shares a special Christmas message of peace and hope.

 

 

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Pastoral brief on critical theory available

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In recent years there have been concerns about the nature and underlying principles of what has been called ā€œcritical theoryā€ (CT), which includes narrower subsets such as critical race theory (CRT).

The 2023 synod convention responded to these concerns by passing a resolution that asked the Conference of Presidents to prepare a pastoral brief that would evaluate critical theory and provide guidance for our called workers and members as they are confronted with these and other related issues. A pastoral brief is an explanationā€”not necessarily brief in lengthā€”intended to provide pastoral and evangelical guidance. The brief is entitled ā€œA pastoral brief on critical theory (especially critical race theory)ā€ and is available for you online.

This particular brief goes into great detail and depth regarding the history and philosophical foundations of CT and CRT. It was shared with WELS pastors a few weeks ago so they would have an opportunity to become familiar with it prior to a wider release to our synod members. The brief is lengthy and detailed because this is a complicated and controversial subject. A helpful summary of the brief is included as an introduction. Godā€™s blessings as you consider the thoughts shared on this important matter.

Serving together with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark Schroeder

 

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WELS 175: Christ through us

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Most institutions, including churches, celebrate anniversaries at quarter-century increments. This marks about a generation. The same is true for WELS. Throughout its history, it has celebrated quarter-century anniversaries. 2025 will mark the 175th anniversary of the founding of the Wisconsin Synod at Salem Lutheran Church on the northwest side of Milwaukee. The Lord of the Church has blessed the proclamation of Christā€™s saving work to and through the Wisconsin Synod for 175 years. Much has happened since May 26, 1850. Much has happened since the last time the synod marked its anniversary in 2000.

To help the members and congregations of WELS learn about Godā€™s blessings to our church body for 175 years, various resources and events are being planned.

  • A new book narrating the history of WELS, Christ Through Us: A Pictorial History of the Wisconsin Synod, 1850-2025, has been written and will be released in the summer of 2025.
  • A revised and expanded edition by John Brenner of Edward Fredrichā€™s The Wisconsin Synod Lutherans will be available in the spring of 2025. This is a more scholarly and detailed look at the synodā€™s history.
  • Monthly print-ready bulletin inserts will cover key turning points and events in WELS history. The text and images will also be available as short articles for use in newsletters or social media posts.
  • An interactive timeline of WELS history will highlight key events with images and links to other information.
  • Monthly videos will feature interviews with WELS historians and also explore interesting aspects of WELS history.
  • WELS Connection videos will highlight the history of our synod and our current and future gospel ministry efforts.
  • Various presentations on WELS historical topics will be offered throughout the year sponsored by WELS Historical Institute.
  • Worship resources are being developed for WELS congregations to celebrate the anniversary, the new ten-year strategic plan, and the Reformation as a three-week series at the end of October.
  • Forward in Christ will feature the synod anniversary in various ways throughout the year.

Most of these resources will be available at welshistoricalinstitute.org/175th.

An anniversary like this can help congregations and members remember and give thanks for Godā€™s many blessings that he has showered on us through the gospel. We can learn about how God has brought our church body through challenging times so that WELS is what it is today: a church body committed to the truth of Godā€™s Word, striving to faithfully proclaim Christ throughout the world.

By Prof. Joel Otto, chairman of the 175th anniversary committee and dean of students at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Mequon, Wis.

 

 

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Together Video – November 19, 2024

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Learn about Telling the Next Generation, a program that helps WELS congregations with planning, assistance, and resources to implement outreach strategies for Lutheran elementary schools and early childhood ministries.

 

 

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Blessings, challenges, and opportunities in WELS schools

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WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools completed the annual Lutheran school statistics collection from all WELS schools for the 2024-25 school year. On the surface, the numbers are very close to a year ago, with preparatory and area Lutheran high school enrollments increasing by 103 for a total of 7,484 students, Lutheran elementary school enrollments increasing slightly to 28,361 students from 28,081 in 2023, and the number of students served by early childhood ministries decreasing to 11,338 from 11,799. The number of called teachers has grown by 49 to 3,108. Ā 

The following insights come through close examination of trends in our schools over the past 3, 5, and even 15 years. Even though early childhood ministries and Lutheran elementary schoolsĀ have continued to open, a much greater number have closed. When compared to the 2010 statistical report, the number of early childhood ministries has decreased from 388 (225 connected to a Lutheran elementary school and 163 standalone) to 345 (241 connected to a Lutheran elementary school and 104 standalone), though total enrollment has increased by 13 percent. The number of Lutheran elementary schools has decreased from 328 in 2010 to 276 currently, though during that period total enrollment has increased by 17 percent. The number of area Lutheran high schools has grown by four, including a fully accredited WELS online high school enrolling 14 students, with overall area Lutheran high school enrollment increasing by 23 percent since 2010. Ā 

Although enrollment overall has been at record numbers the last two years due to increased interest in Christan education, fewer but larger schools are a result of mergers, consolidations, and closures due to the reality of rising costs and decreased enrollments, making it more difficult for smaller schools in smaller congregations with fewer supporters to continue to exist.Ā 

The Commission on Lutheran Schools stands ready to provide consulting guidance and onsite support for schools dealing with fiscal sustainability challenges, declining enrollment, and merger considerations. Thanks to generous gifts toward utilizing schools for outreach, funds are now available to review, provide guidance for, and help all schools develop and implement effective harvest strategies for the growing number of unchurched and community members enrolling in our schools. It is our prayer that every school is effectively using a harvest strategy to connect more families to the gospel. Please contact [email protected] for further information.Ā 

View the WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools statistical report.Ā 

In Christ,
Mr. James Rademan, director, Commission on Lutheran SchoolsĀ 

 

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