Display at LCMS headquarters highlights Nativity

The lighted display shows three Wise Men and their camels, and a shepherd and sheep, making their way toward Baby Jesus in Bethlehem.

Great Expectations Newsletter – December 2013

In this issue from LCMS’ Office of National Mission, you are provided insight into how society is changing the definition of traditional grandparent-grandchildren relationships. As these changes evolve over time, a few suggestions are listed as to how churches can help its elderly members build and strengthen healthy grandparent and grandchildren Christian relationships.

New Missouri Synod video depicts disaster relief efforts in the Philippines

ST. LOUIS, December 27, 2013—The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) has released a video showing the immediate and ongoing disaster relief ministry of the LCMS and its partner, the Lutheran Church in the Philippines, in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan. Viewers will see images – some sure to be disturbing – of the effects of the typhoon and hear from church leaders who were on-site within a week of the typhoon that struck Nov. 8.

Two LCMS schools win U.S. Cellular contest

Dubuque Lutheran School in Dubuque, Iowa, and Valley Lutheran School in Cedar Falls, Iowa, receive checks for $25,000.

Mercy Medical Teams seek volunteers

Volunteers are needed to staff five Mercy Medical Teams that will serve in Madagascar, the Dominican Republic, Kenya and Kyrgyzstan in 2014.

A Light in the Darkness-Typhoon Haiyan Relief

See the effects of a devastating typhoon in Leyte province, Philippines, and watch how the LCMS responds with witness, mercy and life together.

Opportunities ‘to do good’ called ‘massive’

There are still opportunities to help those suffering from disasters — particularly in Colorado and the Philippines.

LCMS Disaster Response by the numbers

A quick look at disaster funds received and what’s still needed.

650 attend 2013 grace-themed LCEF Fall Conference

Speakers address the theme “Receive His Gifts,” based on John 1:16 — “For from His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.”

BOD hears LCEF’s proposal for sponsoring a credit union

It would be for LCMS congregations and their members, as well as other LCMS-related entities and people. (File photo)

COP, BOD hold joint annual session

Synod leaders hear updates about each group’s work, as well as on Concordia Retirement Plan changes and health-care reform.

LCMS responds to Thrivent’s Choice Dollars statement

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans removes Planned Parenthood from its Choice program and suspends more than 50 pro-life organizations from receiving Choice Dollars.

LCMS Responds to Thrivent’s Choice Dollars® Statement

With the recent Thrivent announcement to reconsider their Choice Dollars® Program, the LCMS is encouraged to learn that Thrivent is beginning to recognize the serious concern its members have when their choice dollars are stewarded toward organizations such as Planned Parenthood that directly support the abortion industry and the killing of unborn children.

Synod issues statement on Thrivent, Planned Parenthood

The Dec. 19 statement to all Synod congregations, schools and professional church workers relates to Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and its Choice Dollars® program.

LCMS issues statement about Thrivent Choice Dollars®

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) is deeply concerned by the news that Thrivent Financial has recognized Planned Parenthood of Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota as a potential recipient of funding through its Thrivent Choice Dollars grant program.

Harrison shares Christmas message of hope, thanks

The message from LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison also is available as a free, downloadable bulletin insert.