Dear Friend,

Hopefully you were able to watch this month’s WELS Connection and read my letter about WELS European Civilian Chaplain, Pastor Robert Weiss, bringing the good news of Jesus to many in Europe. WELS also has a national chaplain, Pastor Paul Horn. He is our direct link to the Pentagon and works to connect with and provide spiritual support for WELS members serving in the military across the United States and around the world.

Chaplain Horn is being asked to assist military members serving in the West Pacific—Japan, Guam, and several other countries. Currently, military members there are served about twice a month by a worship service via Zoom. These military members have expressed to Chaplain Horn how they would appreciate the chance to gather together in one place for worship with Word and sacrament and for fellowship.

Chaplain Horn is planning his first in-person trip this fall to provide this worship and fellowship opportunity. Another such gathering is planned for early 2025. Each of these trips will cost over $2,000.

Thank you for taking the time this month to learn about and possibly expand the outreach of our WELS European Chaplain. If you are so moved, please also consider donating today to help our national chaplain better minister to those protecting us and our country while stationed in the West Pacific. Thank you.

In Christ,
Joel Gaertner
Director, WELS Special Ministries