Also elected were the Rev. Kirk Peters of Hazen, N.D., as first vice-president, and the Rev. Steve Schulz of Fargo, N.D., as second vice-president.
National News
Synod joins court brief to protect pregnancy centers from mandated abortion advertising
The Synod is among 22 states, 144 members of Congress and numerous other organizations filing amicus briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court in a case that could block California’s mandate for abortion advertisements in pro-life pregnancy centers.
Commentary: ‘Life and breath and everything’
The Rev. Dr. Greg Seltz, executive director of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty, reflects on the significance of the annual March for Life.
Concordia Historical Institute recognizes excellence in Lutheran history publications
Thirteen awards in six categories were presented at the awards banquet in November.
LCMS pastor’s wife wins $2,000 on ‘Jeopardy!’
Amanda Barlau, an avid fan of the program, is also a church musician and teacher.
COP tackles business, gears up for district conventions
The Nov. 20-23 meeting, held in New Orleans, was the council’s final of 2017.
LCEF recognizes those who ‘love boldly’
The LCEF Fall Leadership Conference was held Nov. 17-19 in New Orleans.
Nominations begin under 2016 bylaw changes
Convention delegates in 2016 adopted resolutions regarding district convention attendance and geographical region requirements for board members.
LWML gives $100,000 to missionaries
The grant will provide $10,000 each to assist nine missionaries/missionary families serving in Burkina Faso, Kenya, Ethiopia, Hong Kong, Peru and Russia, and another missionary who has been called to Thailand.
BOD weighs monetary, membership challenges
At its Nov. 16–17 meeting, the Synod’s Board of Directors fixed its gaze on “facing the realities” of the Synod’s finances and membership demographics.
Synod, partners continue to offer helping hand in wake of five disasters
Lutherans are bringing help to the hurting — both physical and spiritual — in the wake of three devastating hurricanes, a major earthquake and menacing wildfires.
Catch the Lutheran Hour float in Jan. 1 parade
“Bringing Christ to the Nations” is the theme of the Lutheran Hour Ministries float that will be featured in the 2018 Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif.
Two Lutheran-school teachers win teaching-excellence award
Receiving the “Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award” Nov. 12 in St. Louis were fourth-grade teacher Brenda Doering and high school chemistry teacher Rich Langefeld.
Supreme Court hears case of Colorado baker under fire for marriage view
Upon hearing oral arguments for Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission Dec. 5, the U.S. Supreme Court now must decide, in effect, whether Christians have the same liberty as others to live consistently according to their religious beliefs.
LCEF awards grants to 11 Synod ministries
Among the gift recipients are five congregations, four districts, one school and the LCMS Office of National Mission.
Pastoral Formation and Care catalog offers opportunities to support pastoral ministry
A variety of giving options are available.