This month’s article comes from Deaconess Gina Teeple, LCMS missionary in Germany.
In September, 11 mission partners from Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa traveled to Germany to participate in the second Germany FORO, held Sept. 23–30. Over the course of a week, they traveled from Eisenach to Leipzig, Berlin and Wittenberg. Along the way, they worshiped in English, German and Farsi; explored important sites in Lutheran history; and heard about the ways God is opening doors for His Word.
A FORO brings together districts, congregations, Recognized Service Organizations, missionaries and others around a strategic plan for a particular area. The Germany FORO allowed participants to see firsthand how God is working through His people to spread the Gospel, plant Lutheran churches and show mercy in the LCMS Eurasia region.
While in Germany, FORO participants walked in Martin Luther’s footsteps, enabling them to connect the past, present and future of Lutheran mission. They also met missionaries, pastors, deaconesses, refugees and congregation members who are carrying the Gospel forward in Germany today through several projects, including:
- The expat project, which provides English-speaking ministry to U.S. military and consulate workers, as well as people who have relocated to Germany from other countries.
- The Persian project, which focuses on outreach to refugees from Iran and Afghanistan. The group visited two congregations involved in this ministry — St. Lukaskirche in Leipzig and Trinity Lutheran Church in Berlin-Steglitz.
- Outreach to Ukrainian refugees in Wittenberg. FORO participants were welcomed with an authentic Ukrainian meal.
The week also provided many opportunities to experience Germany’s rich culture and Lutheran heritage. In Eisenach, participants visited Wartburg Castle, where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German. They also visited the church where Johann Sebastian Bach was baptized and toured the Bach Museum. In Wittenberg, they visited the Schlosskirche and the famous door associated with Martin Luther’s 95 Theses, as well as St. Mary’s Church, where Luther frequently preached.
These experiences connected the history of the Lutheran Reformation with the work God is doing in Germany today. Participants were reminded that the story of the Gospel in Germany did not end with Martin Luther. It continues as God’s people faithfully proclaim Christ to new generations and to people from around the world.
Learn more about Deaconess Gina and the Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Teeple.
Posted Nov. 4, 2026
