LCMS Managing Photojournalist Erik M. Lunsford shares some of 2020’s definitive moments.
National News
NLSA selects Dinger for School Shepherd Award
The Rev. Jonathan Dinger, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church and School in Pocatello, Idaho, was selected by National Lutheran School Accreditation to receive the 2020 NLSA School Shepherd Award.
Photo essay: Campus ministry: Gospel light in a dark world
The Rev. Michael Schuermann, pastor of University Lutheran, is at work amid ever-changing circumstances on this campus, serving students, faculty, staff and members of the community with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
‘Take Heart’ retreats uplift, refresh pastors during COVID-19
The LCMS Office of National Mission is partnering with DOXOLOGY on a series of retreats to help pastors and the souls in their care rest in the Gospel.
Council of Presidents encourages Harrison to invite congregational vote on convention delay
Due to ongoing effects of the pandemic, the LCMS Council of Presidents voted unanimously to encourage LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison to put before congregations a proposal to delay the 2022 Synod convention.
Campus clips – Seminaries and colleges report on enrollment, events, service
News from LCMS colleges, universities and seminaries.
BNM business includes church worker recruitment, COVID-19, race
On Oct. 15, the LCMS Board for National Mission met for a full-day meeting via Zoom.
Browning recognized as 2020 National Distinguished Principal
Scott D. Browning, principal of St. Paul Lutheran School in Fort Worth, Texas, was selected by the National Association of Elementary School Principals.
‘Together as Synod’ gift an opportunity to serve ‘big picture’ mission
As 2020 comes to an end, supporters of the LCMS who are prayerfully considering making a year-end gift are encouraged to give a “Together as Synod” gift.
Obituary: Rev. Paul Timothy McCain, publisher and executive editor, Concordia Publishing House
The Rev. Paul Timothy McCain, publisher and executive editor at Concordia Publishing House, died on Nov. 25 at the age of 58.
Photo essay: Hurricane Sally: A sprint becomes a marathon
The initial assessment of Hurricane Sally’s damage revealed that 19 congregations in Alabama and Florida were affected. The storm impacted the entire community, including schools, the district camp and members’ homes.
Hybrid MDFL conference builds on past and moves forward
A ‘Making Disciples for Life’ conference was held in conjunction with an LCMS Minnesota South District pastors conference in October.
CUW offers new church ministries degree program
The director of church ministries (DCM) position was added to the LCMS Minister of Religion—Commissioned roster by the 2019 Synod convention.
Campus clips – CUS schools report enrollment growth, COVID adjustments
Seminaries also share recent campus news.
Obituary: Rev. Dr. Roger Dean Pittelko, former president of the LCMS English District
Pittelko, who served as president of the LCMS English District from 1986 to 1997, died on Nov. 11 at the age of 88.
New module addresses preaching in a post-Christian culture
The module features the Rev. Dr. Gregory P. Seltz, executive director of the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty in Washington, D.C., and speaker emeritus of “The Lutheran Hour.”
