Clarity and courage for congregational ministry

Dear Friend,

Congregations and schools across our synod face a rapidly changing world: shifting demographics, aging membership, questions of sustainability, leadership transitions, and worker shortages. Through it all, the urgent call remains to proclaim Christ in a post-Christian culture. Without clear direction, congregations risk missing ministry opportunities or even drifting from their mission. With your help, they can proclaim the living Lord to a dying world with renewed focus.

WELS Congregational Services is here to help. When a congregation is planning for the future, sometimes it helps to have someone from the outside ask the right questions and offer a clear-eyed perspective. That is exactly what Congregational Services does through a number of tailored consultations. Whether it’s a church seeking renewed purpose, a school aiming to engage its community, or nearby congregations exploring partnerships via our Mission Together program, our team walks alongside leaders with encouragement and Christ-centered guidance.

We don’t offer one-size-fits-all answers or cookie-cutter solutions. Each consultation is customized to the unique local context. We take time to gather data, listen carefully, assess needs, and help local leaders shape a thoughtful, Spirit-led ministry plan. Our role isn’t to promise growth; only the Lord of the Church can provide growth. Our role is to help congregations faithfully steward the people, resources, and gospel opportunities God has already placed in front of them.

I have seen the Lord bless these efforts. One congregation shared, “We were spinning our wheels. The consultation gave us clarity and courage to move forward.” Another said, “We were doing the same things we’d always done. It was so helpful to look at everything and put a new ministry plan in place.”

But this kind of ministry takes time, prayer, and resources. We never want finances to stand in the way of a congregation receiving help. That’s where you come in.

Would you consider supporting this work of gospel encouragement and ministry revitalization? Your gift helps cover travel, training, and the development of tools and resources that bless congregations and schools across the country. More importantly, your gift supports the vital work of helping churches clarify their mission and move forward with confidence in Christ’s powerful Word.

This work—assessing and planning ministry—doesn’t always grab headlines. But it matters! When congregations are renewed in purpose, when leaders find clarity and unity, and when local ministries are aligned with the gospel’s priorities, Christ is honored. Congregational consultations are ultimately about helping God’s people serve with greater focus, boldness, hope, and joy. The fruit belongs to the Lord. Our role is to encourage, equip, and lift up those called to carry out his work in their communities.

Please keep this work in your prayers. And if you are able, consider making a gift to support it. Your partnership helps ministries move forward—not with fear, but with faithful purpose—trusting Christ to do more than we ask or imagine.

In Christ,
Pastor Jonathan Hein
Director, WELS Congregational Services

Prayer: Lord Jesus, we praise you that you have made each of us members of your body. Thank you that our churches can work with each other and our synod for additional support. Bless WELS Congregational Services as it supports congregations through Mission Together meetings to work collaboratively within a geographic region, through long-term planning, and school accreditation. May these resources offer fresh perspectives and ideas for better serving people with your gospel. Lord, continue to give us zeal and strength through your good news in Word and sacraments, and encourage us through the fellowship of believers. Amen.