A national thank offering to provide scholarships for church-work students is one component of a celebration this fall to mark the 150th anniversary of Concordia University Chicago.
News

Theological Symposium set for fall
Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, will host “Faithful Witness to God’s Story in the World Around Us: Bringing a Unique Perspective to Common Human Experiences” Sept. 23-24.

Harrison asks for prayers for Ferguson
In the Aug. 19 statement, LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison also says Synod leaders are working to assess needs in the hurting community.

Wrong turn opens door to worship-institute theme
The 2014 LCMS Institute on Liturgy, Preaching and Church Music, July 28-31 in Seward, Neb., draws more than 400 participants.

Contest starts for disaster-response hymn
Hymn-text entries should be suitable for use by congregations hit by disasters and for others remembering or empathizing with them.

McMiller installed as OIM’s director of recruitment
The Rev. Dan McMiller is installed Aug. 14 as director of recruitment for the LCMS Office of International Mission.

Foundation training fosters stewardship, supports ministries
Training equips a range of leaders to help members practice good stewardship in charitable planning for the benefit of families and ministries.

Movie review: ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’
There’s nothing dour about this energetic space-opera romp, where the heroes are honest about what big losers they are but still manage to shine.

LCMS OKs new grants to fight Ebola in Africa
The three grants totaling $51,175 will be used to help prevent new cases of the often-fatal virus in Guinea and Liberia.

Harrison issues statement on Christian persecution
In the statement, LCMS President Rev. Dr. Matthew Harrison also introduces the Synod’s new Fund to Aid Christians Under Persecution.

Laborers help congregation improve energy efficiency
Laborers For Christ stands ready to help other congregations and church organizations improve their energy efficiency.

NLSA accredits record 147 Lutheran schools
The National Lutheran School Accreditation commission also receives training in new accreditation protocols that it approved a year ago.
Commentary: Vocation in the face of an epidemic
Seminary Professor John Pless explores the question: Should medical personnel expose themselves to a highly contagious and lethal disease in an effort to help?