Youth poll results surface bright spots, concerns

Some 2,432 youth complete the multiple-choice poll at the 2013 National LCMS Youth Gathering in San Antonio in July.

Missouri Synod president to hold first Twitter chat

ST. LOUIS, October 17, 2013—Got questions about the LCMS? Tweet them to the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), who will hold his first Twitter chat from 11 a.m. to noon CT Wednesday, Oct. 23.

Lutheran Housing Support awarded $78,179 Treasury grant

ST. LOUIS, Oct. 16, 2013—The U.S. Department of the Treasury has awarded LCMS National Housing Support Corp. (LHS) a $78,179 grant through the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Fund to expand the housing ministry’s ability to provide loans in low-income and economically distressed communities.

Harrison to hold Oct. 23 Twitter chat

Twitter users and others are encouraged to send in questions for the conversation and follow it online.

Concordia Plans named ‘healthiest employer’

The Synod’s benefits provider credits “a positive change in its culture due to … wellness programs,” especially the “Be Well … Serve Well” program.

‘Bach at Sem’ beginning 21st season

“Bach at the Sem,” presented by Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and the American Kantorei, announces four upcoming concerts.

Congregations report record financial offerings for 2012

Total giving rises dramatically and Sunday school reports provide a “bright spot,” as membership declines continue.

In Colorado: Disaster Response staff sees damage, offers aid

Although many of those with flood damage have begun cleanup, some still haven’t been able to get back to their homes because of impassable roads. Temporary housing is a big need.

CUS board applauds enrollments, meets with campus presidents

The Concordia University System Board of Directors recognizes the efforts of the nine CUS campus presidents toward the growth in total enrollment among the Synod’s colleges and universities.

Abiding in the Word: A Daily Lectionary from the 17th Century

Matthew Carver shares a daily lectionary from the 17th century.

Celebrating Reformation with Divine Service, Setting Five

The Rev. Will Weedon, LCMS director of Worship, offers some advice to help a congregation sing the Divine Service, Setting Five, for Reformation Day or any other Sunday.

Seminary’s Gard promoted to Rear Admiral

Chaplain Rev. Dr. Daniel L. Gard, Deputy Chief of Chaplains for Reserve Matters and a professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Ind., is promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral.

LIRS announces grants for immigration-detention visitation ministries

Congregations and organizations reaching out to immigrants in detention have until Oct. 18 to apply for grants from Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service.

Three LCMS schools chosen for ‘Blue Ribbon’ honor

The award from the U.S. Department of Education goes to Messiah Lutheran School, St. Charles, Mo.; Our Redeemer Lutheran School, Wauwatosa, Wis.; and St. Peter Lutheran School, Arlington Heights, Ill.

Concordia University System Chronicle – October 2013

In this issue, you will read about the merger of Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW) and Concordia University, Ann Arbor (CUAA). In addition, you will learn about the benefits Concordia students receive from participating in the Concordia International Studies Consortium (CISC) program.

Congregations advised to make own decisions on Boy Scouts involvement

An Oct. 7 letter from LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison to church workers advises congregations to make their own decisions on whether or not they will sponsor troops with the Boy Scouts of America.