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Outreach in a home mission congregation can be like riding a bull. Every second counts. When a traveling rodeo rolled into Ladysmith, Wis., Our Redeemer saw more than just horses and heat—its members saw a chance to share Jesus. Plans changed, the bull bucked, but God opened another gate. Hear how a last-minute twist turned into powerful moments for ministry in this week's Missions blog.
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On September 18-19, 2025, the WELS Board for Home Missions met and approved seven new missions toward the synod-wide goal of starting 100 new missions and enhancing 75 ministries by 2033. Read more about each new mission start.
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Located just east of Eau Claire, Altoona is one of the fastest-growing communities in western Wisconsin. With a population nearing 10,000 and projected to grow by 3 percent annually, Altoona attracts young families, professionals, and retirees seeking a small-town feel with access to urban amenities. The Western Wisconsin District Mission Board has been working closely with a core group from St. Mark in Eau Claire since early 2023. This group has been active hosting community events, launching monthly devotional services, and building a growing prospect list. With strong local support, a clear ministry plan, and a heart for outreach, the Altoona mission is poised to bring the gospel to a community eager for connection and truth.
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As one of the largest metro areas in the United States without a WELS church, Buffalo presents a unique and urgent opportunity for gospel outreach. The target area—Kenmore, North Buffalo, and Tonawanda—has about 95,000 residents within a 2-mile radius. A dedicated core group has begun gathering for Bible study and outreach, laying the groundwork for a new church plant. With Buffalo’s affordable housing, expanding job market, and a population eager for spiritual connection, the mission team is excited to build relationships and share the hope of Christ with the community.
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Naples, consistently ranked among the best places to live and retire in the United States, is experiencing rapid growth and demographic change. The district mission board and mission counselor have made multiple visits—talking with locals, meeting community leaders, and learning about the area’s needs. A significant portion of residents are unchurched and eager for spiritual connection. With strong financial support and a clear plan, the mission is ready to hit the ground running—focused on reaching out, making connections, and sharing the hope of Christ with a growing and diverse community.
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Olathe, located in the fast-growing southwest Kansas City metro area, has seen its population surge with continued growth expected. Major employers have fueled this expansion, making Olathe one of the most affordable and family-friendly cities in the nation. The Nebraska District Mission Board has been working with Mt. Olive in Overland Park, Kan., to establish a new mission, gathering a dedicated core group and hosting regular Bible studies and planning meetings. With strong support from Mt. Olive and a clear vision for outreach, the Olathe mission is poised to reach many new families with the gospel.
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The Sandhills area of North Carolina is experiencing steady growth as both retirees and young families move into the area, with major investments like Amazon’s new data center fueling local development. With close proximity to Fort Bragg—the world’s largest military base—the region also attracts commissioned military personnel who often choose to make the Sandhills their permanent home. The effort is being led by a core group from Tree of Life in Cary, N.C. The team has begun regular outreach and canvassing, building momentum and a growing prospect list in a region where confessional Lutheran churches are few.
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West Richland, located just outside the Tri-Cities, is experiencing rapid growth as families and professionals move in for its strong job market and quality schools. Since 2024, the Pacific Northwest District Mission Board has been working with a committed core group of members from Southridge Church in Kennewick to establish a second site in West Richland. The group has already begun outreach through community service activities and fellowship events. With continued momentum and support, the new mission aims to launch regular worship and ministry activities in 2025.
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Wilmington’s northeast neighborhoods are seeing a surge of new families and rapid development, making this area one of the fastest-growing corners of North Carolina. A core group of 18 people from Ascension in Jacksonville, N.C., meets regularly for Bible study and planning. With no WELS church nearby and easy access along U.S. 17, the group is laying the foundation for a welcoming church that blends in-person and online worship, Bible instruction, and plenty of community service.
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With the seven new missions that were just approved, we're 28 percent of the way toward our goal of starting 100 new missions by 2033!
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Track progress toward our goal and learn more about the newly approved home missions at wels100in10.net.
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Missionary Jim Brandt, Asia-Oceania Team leader, and his wife, Kathy, have now settled into Chiang Mai, Thailand, after a few weeks traveling throughout the field. He shares a glimpse of life in Thailand, the people they’ve met, and the diverse beliefs that surround them. Hear more from Missionary Brandt about the work the Asia-Oceania Team is doing to share the message of the gospel throughout Asia-Oceania.
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Support Home Missions
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Thank you for supporting WELS Home Missions through your prayers, congregational offerings, and special offerings made to Home Missions. If you'd like to support mission work, visit wels.net/hmgift.
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Host a Mission Festival
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Request a mission speaker and let the WELS Missions team help find you a mission speaker for your event.
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Faces of Faith
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Read stories of the Holy Spirit at work in Faces of Faith, WELS Missions' annual magazine. Request free copies for your church or LWMS circuit rally at wels.net/facesoffaith.
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Contact us
We'd like to hear from you! Contact us for assistance or additional information regarding WELS Missions or simply visit wels.net/missions.
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