Conference provides support, continuing education for parish nurses

Concordia University Wisconsin’s annual conference for parish nurses and others in congregational health ministries draws 90-plus participants from 20 states and three countries.

Open Arms sponsors retreat for child-care directors

The Open Arms Institute is sponsoring a Directors Retreat for child-care center directors and assistant directors July 31-Aug. 2 in Atlanta.

LCMS joins in releasing “An Affirmation of Marriage”

ST. LOUIS, June 6, 2013—Seeking to provide clarity and express mutual agreement on what Scripture teaches about marriage and sexuality, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod released “An Affirmation of Marriage” May 24 that also is signed by leaders of the Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), Lutheran Church—Canada (LCC) and the North American Lutheran Church (NALC).

Youth Gathering registrants are from 35 districts, 12 countries

Some 25,000 participants — including youth and adults from Botswana, Nigeria, Finland, Germany, India, Pakistan, Taiwan and Slovakia — are expected to attend the National LCMS Youth Gathering in July.

Church bodies issue joint ‘Affirmation of Marriage’

The statement is the result of ongoing study and discussion between the LCMS, the Anglican Church in North America, Lutheran Church—Canada and the North American Lutheran Church.

LCMS, CPH providing free resources following tornadoes

Free resources from the LCMS include a video, a Bible study, worship helps and opportunities to support the work of LCMS Disaster Response.

In Boston, Lutherans offer comfort in wake of horror

Offering prayers, Comfort Dogs and coffee, First Lutheran Church in Boston opens its doors to the city after the horrific April 15 marathon bombings.

Students gain ‘invaluable experience’ in LCEF challenge

Six Concordia University System schools participate in the Lutheran Church Extension Fund’s second National Student Marketing Competition April 12 in St. Louis.

You can help ‘Orange Out Malaria!’ with the Lutheran Malaria Initiative

ST. LOUIS, April 15, 2013 – Every April 25, the world observes World Malaria Day. This year, from April 21-27, Lutherans across the United States will come together to “Orange Out Malaria!” as part of the Lutheran Malaria Initiative (LMI).

Lutheran, Catholic leaders discuss social-ministry challenges

The March 21 meeting in St. Louis brings together representatives of the LCMS, Lutheran Church—Canada and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

‘Concordia Choice’ provides money for CUS education

Lutheran high school graduates who meet certain criteria now are guaranteed admission to a Concordia University System school — and $1,000 per semester — thanks to “Concordia Choice.”

LCMS, LIRS work to end human trafficking

The Missouri Synod and Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, Baltimore, provide resources and opportunities for LCMS Lutherans to help end human trafficking.

Bimler’s ‘Joyfully Aging’ celebrates ‘gift of aging’

Dr. Richard Bimler says his latest book, “Joyfully Aging: A Christian’s Guide,” released last summer by Concordia Publishing House, is intended to help people “celebrate the gift of aging.”

LCMS, Kazakhstan officials discuss religious freedom

Hoping to learn more about interfaith partnerships and religious freedom in the United States, four Christian and Muslim visitors from Kazakhstan meet with LCMS officials March 8 in St. Louis.

Pressure Points (March 2013)

With Dr. Bruce Hartung   This month’s “Pressure Points” continues the discussion in the January column about bullying and the church. There have been numerous reader responses on that topic — often painful, but always thoughtful. Following are two examples (in…

Filling staff post is priority for Black Clergy Caucus

By Paula Schlueter Ross SELMA, Ala. — Placing a full-time director of black ministry at the LCMS International Center in St. Louis — who can speak on behalf of those serving in black ministries and “sit at the table” with representatives…