“We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).
A 2017 survey of Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) church workers showed that 24% have been told by a professional that they suffer from anxiety or depression, 55% have experienced stress from financial concerns, and a majority have a body mass index that is considered unhealthy. The demands of church work and the burdens our church workers carry can affect the church’s ability to recruit and retain workers. Even more important, the church is called to care for its workers in the same way it cares for any other church member: “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together” (1 Cor. 12:26).
In September, the LCMS will launch a program designed to help congregational lay leaders create a supportive and caring environment that will improve the well-being of those who serve the church. LCMS Worker Wellness is asking for congregations that are interested in participating in this pilot project to fill out the questionnaire at the link below by July 15. More information will be provided in August.
Healthy church workers carry out their vocations with more energy and joy. When the church supports its workers, the whole Body of Christ is blessed. As Christ has promised: “As you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me” (Matt. 25:40).
Posted June 12, 2025