LCMS - Podcast Details

Shows

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#146. Live at the GatheringMark and Julianna record from the Interactive Floor of the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! Resources:LCMS Youth Gathering – lcmsgathering.com YouthESource website – youthesource.com End Goals is the podcast of LCMS Youth Ministry in the Office of National Mission. LCMS Youth Ministry Staff discuss practices for healthy youth ministry and interview practitioners who provide insight for experienced and new youth leaders.2025-07-2225 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#145. LCMS Youth Gathering – Answering the Big QuestionsAs the Gathering gets closer, we are taking some of your big questions so you can be confident heading to New Orleans in just a week! Resources:YouthESource website – youthesource.com.LCMS Youth Gathering – lcmsgathering.com 2025-07-1135 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#144. LCMS Youth Gathering – Caring for Yourself as an Adult LeaderAs large youth events like servant events, camps, and the LCMS Youth Gathering are happening this summer, adult leaders may be focused on their youth. But it is important for adult leaders to care for themselves as well. DCE Annie Anderson and Pastor Peter Couser talk about best practices for making sure all the adult leaders thrive and connect with the Gospel at large youth events.Bio:Annie Anderson is a DCE, preschool director and preschool teacher, all 3 in 1, at Hosanna Lutheran Church and Little Palms Preschool in Mesa Arizona. Endure 2025 will...2025-07-0938 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#143. LCMS Youth Gathering – Divine ServiceRev. Sean Daenzer joins Mark and Julianna to talk about the Divine Service on Wednesday at the Gathering. We hope this helps you get excited and prepare your group for this unique worship experience. Bio:Rev. Sean Daenzer serves as director of LCMS Worship and chaplain of the LCMS International Center. He previously served for seven years as pastor of a dual parish in rural North Dakota. Daenzer holds a Bachelor of Music in Organ from Hope College, Holland, Mich. (2006), and a Master of Divinity from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Ind. (2011...2025-05-2735 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#142. Church Work RecruitmentThere so many ways Christians can serve and live out their vocations. The church also needs professional church workers! In this episode, Rev. Dr. Jim Baneck talks about how youth ministry can encourage young people to consider church work. Bio:Rev. Dr. Jim Baneck is the executive director of LCMS Pastoral Education. In this role, he encourages the spiritual, character, confessional, physical, emotional and intellectual development of LCMS pastors and other church workers. He and his wife, Myrna, live in St. Louis and are blessed with four grown children and ten grandchildren. 2025-05-1634 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#139. LCMS Youth Gathering – Gathering Service and OfferingMark and Julianna discuss the ways in which we serve during the Gathering and how the Gathering offering gets used.Resources:Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.LCMS Youth Gathering – www.lcmsgathering.com 2025-04-1524 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#133. LCMS Youth Gathering – Gathering VolunteersThere are over 1000 volunteers who help make the LCMS Youth Gathering run! DCEs Lindsey Schmidt and Leslie Sullivan talk about their experience in supporting our Gathering Ambassadors, Young Adult Volunteers and Team Flex. Bios:Lindsey Schmidt has been a DCE for 19 years and is still serving at her first call: Woodbury Lutheran. She serves as the Director of Next Gen ministries and loves working with middle school students. She and her husband Tad enjoy volunteering and serving at the Gathering. This will be her 10th Gathering, having experienced the Gathering from many...2024-11-1942 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#132. History of LCMS Youth MinistryIn this special episode, we interview Rev. Dr. Terry Dittmer, who served LCMS Youth Ministry for many years. His stories help give us some wisdom and perspective about youth ministry. Bio: Rev. Dr. Terry Dittmer had a distinguishing career serving the church. He served as a Lutheran high school teacher, parish pastor, poet, song and hymn writer, and supporter of young people and those who care for them. One of the main ways he did this was as a staff member of LCMS Youth Ministry. He led organizations such as Lutheran Youth Fellowship and...2024-10-3145 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#130. Exploring the Seven Practices – Warmth, Challenge, and GraceAs we dive into the Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry, Mark and Julianna are joined by DCE Angela Kollbaum to talk about what it means to have warmth, challenge, and grace. Bio: Angela Kollbaum, DCE, PLMHP is a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) and Certified Professional Counselor (CPC) in the state of Nebraska with Lutheran Family Service (LFS). She is a member of a Christian counseling team as a master’s-level prepared mental health and marriage and family counselor. She serves clients in person in the Norfolk and Northeast Nebraska area. Angela al...2024-09-2637 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#129. LCMS Youth Ministry: What are the Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry?Mark and Julianna kick off a series that goes through each of the seven practices of youth ministry. But before they do, let’s take a second to remember how we got these practices to begin with and what they are designed to do. Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry avaliable at CPH: https://www.cph.org/seven-practices-of-healthy-youth-ministry?srsltid=AfmBOorekrYOVJEP-oK7TM9kmh8fOC_6Ob3v9S9unGIRdDp0RHxTlSTg Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2024-09-2424 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#128. LCMS Youth Gathering: Pre-Gathering Bible StudiesThe Gathering is more than five days. One of the ways we hope that groups come together is in pre-Gathering Bible studies. Pastor Doug Bender and DCE AJ Vega, members of the Gathering Bible Study Team, join us to talk about the themes and values of pre-Gathering Bible studies. Bios: Pastor Doug Bender serves as an associate pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Macomb, Michigan. Before serving at Immanuel, Pastor Doug was a campus pastor for six years at Concordia University Wisconsin. One of his greatest passions is supporting and...2024-09-1033 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#127. LCMS Youth Gathering – Ready to Register?It is almost time for registration to start for the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering! New staff Becky Kammeier and Emily Myers join us to discuss key things to know about how to plan for your registration to the Gathering. Youth Gathering Resources:LCMS Youth Gathering Website – lcmsgathering.comFacebook Page – facebook.com/lcmsgatheringFacebook Group – facebook.com/groups/LCMSYouthMinistry 2024-08-2927 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#125. LCMS Youth Gathering – Exploring New OrleansNew Orleans is a city with a lot of LCMS Youth Gathering history, and we are excited to be there again in 2025. Listen to Mark and Julianna talk about NOLA as we prepare for the next Gathering.Youth Gathering Resources:LCMS Youth Gathering Website - lcmsgathering.comFacebook Page - facebook.com/lcmsgatheringFacebook Group - facebook.com/groups/LCMSYouthMinistry 2024-05-1631 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#122. LCMS Youth Gathering – Getting Started for the 25 GatheringIt’s time to start planning for the 2025 Youth Gathering! Mark and Julianna talk about things to consider as you begin to prepare your congregation, youth, parents and other adults for the Gathering.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2024-02-1326 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#121. Starter Pack 2.0 - Child Safety and Risk ManagementThe next episode in our second starter pack discusses child safety and risk management. Mark and Julianna talk about what can go wrong and how you can prepare to keep youth and adults safe and healthy.Resources mentioned in this episode:The LCMS Youth Ministry resource website: youthesource.comMinistry Safe: ministrysafe.com/lcmsLCMS Page on Child Abuse/Safety: lcms.org/social-issues/child-abuse 2024-01-1629 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#120. Starter Pack 2.0 - CommunicationMark and Julianna are starting a new series of podcasts for those who are starting out in youth ministry. For the first episode, we invite LCMS Youth Ministry Communications Specialist Meredith Smith to discuss communications.Meredith Smith is the communications specialist for LCMS Youth Ministry, communicating about everything we do at LCMS Youth Ministry, including the Gathering. She is a Houston native, a graduate of Texas A&M, and is married to Pastor Alex Smith.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2024-01-0226 min

Michigan District, LCMS Innovative Missional Ministry PodcastParish Nursing This podcast dives into the importance of Parish Nursing and the upcoming Parish Nurse Conference. Guests are Deaconess/Parish Nurse Christie Hansard and Rev. Dr. Rob Kasper, Director of Leadership Development for the Michigan District, LCMS> Show Notes: The Parish Nurse Conference is February 24, 2024, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Bavarian Inn Lodge; 1 Covered Bridge Lane; Frankenmuth, MI, 48734 Find out more about the Parish Nurse Conference 2024 michigandistrict.org/event/parish-nurse-conference-2024/ Contact Deaconess Christie Hansard christie.hansard@michigandistrict.org Contact Rev. Dr. Rob Kasper rob.kasper@michigandistrict.org Fi...2023-10-2411 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#118. Heart of a Servant 2023Service work is a key component of a healthy youth ministry. Service on longer, intensive weeks like servant events or mission trips give youth a chance to live out their faith through the work of the Holy Spirit and build relationships that keep them tied to their congregation. LCMS Youth Ministry has supported LCMS Servant Events for over 40 years and today we hear more about their benefits to young people, those who serve alongside them, and those they serve in the name of Christ.Resources for Servant Events:LCMS Servant Events - lcms...2023-10-1042 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#117. Campus MinistryCollege academic years have started across the country. This is a momentous time of transition for a freshman, and exciting times for upper classmen. A new living arrangement, a new schedule, new freedom, and new relationships all meet young people as they go from high school to their next academic adventure. Campus Ministries and home congregations provide ongoing prayer and support for their walk with Jesus. In this episode, we hear how parents and supportive adults provide this care for students they love.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com and...2023-09-2645 min

Michigan District, LCMS Innovative Missional Ministry PodcastMaui Wildfires Rev. Dr. Mark Hannemann was in Maui to counsel and minister to the people who were affected by the devastating wildfires. Dr. Hannemann joins the podcast to share his experience. Show Notes: Share a gift to support relief work and recovery: Orphan Grain Train orphangraintrain-bloom.kindful.com California Nevada Hawaii District Disaster Relief Fund: cnh-lcms.org/post/pray-for-the-people-of-maui Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Maui: elc-maui.org/ LCMS Disaster Response: lcms.org/givenow/disaster Find out more about Orphan Grain Train at ogt.org 2023-08-2420 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#110. Supporting International MissionsPart of our 40 End Goals talks about how we engage and support in service and mission locally and across the globe. Rev. Mark Rabe and Erin Alter from the LCMS Office of International Mission join us to talk about how youth leaders can explore these topics and support current and future missionaries.Find the LCMS Office of International Mission at international.lcms.org, Missions Unpacked at international.lcms.org/missions-unpacked, and the Five Minutes with a Missionary Podcast at kfuo.org/category/missionary-podcast.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource...2023-04-2534 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#109. Exploring the 40 End Goals - God’s Story, My StoryBoth in the 2022 Gathering Theological paper and in the Seven Practices we talk about the importance of telling personal stories, but especially God’s story. Julianna and Mark talk to Pastor Ted Doering about his study that dives into God’s story and our story.Bio: Rev. Ted Doering is the pastor at Narrative Church, an LCMS church plant in Williamson County, Texas, just north of Austin. He is blessed to be married to Chelsey, who works as the hospitality coordinator for TX district. Ted enjoys spending his free time with friends over a good...2023-04-0441 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#105. Exploring the 40 End Goals: Life In All ThingsDeaconess Emma Heinz and Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor join Mark and Julianna to talk about how we approach life issues in youth ministry and teach a full theology of life in all things to our youth. Find LCMS Life Ministry resources at lcmslife.org and life resources on the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com/life.Bio: Deaconess Emma Heinz lives in St. Louis and is married to Seminarian Ben Heinz. She has served as a Deaconess intern in the Office of National Mission, including helping with the LCMS Gathering registration. She...2023-01-1933 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#104. Difficult Conversations: Drug and Alcohol AddictionMark and Julianna continue the series on challenging issues you might face in youth ministry. Rev. Brian Earl joins them to talk about ministering in the face of drug and substance use and addiction. Bio: Rev. Brian Earl is a board-certified chaplain currently serving in mental health populations at the Raymond G Murphy Medical Center in Albuquerque, NM since 2019. Before that Brian completed a VA Interprofessional Advanced Fellowship in Addiction Treatment at the West Haven, CT VA. Brian is an ordained LCMS Pastor and before being called to chaplaincy in 2015, Brian served as a...2023-01-0346 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#102. Hear about LCMS Servant EventsLCMS Servant Events have supported youth and adults in learning that serving others can make a difference because of Jesus Christ for more than 35 years. In this episode, our Servant Event Committee joins us to talk about how these servant events across the country. Guests in this episode:Rev. Barry Akers — Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church, Milwaukee, WIShelly Carlson — Lord of the Lakes Lutheran Church, Forest Lake, MNJoe Palinkas — Zion Lutheran Church, Painesville, OHRandy Ronning, DCE — Trinity Lutheran Church, Richmond, VALeah Sallach — Holy Ghost Lutheran Church, Buffalo, NYFind the LCMS Youth...2022-11-2922 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#094. Crossover Episode with Friends for Life: Serving the Younger GenerationJoin us for a special crossover episode with Friends for Life! Host Stephanie Neugebauer talked with us about the importance of intergenerational relationships, particularly with older generations honoring and serving the younger generation. As we think about the life of the church, how we care for pre-teens, teens, and young adults is a part of how we engage and value God’s people in every aspect of life. Find the Friends for Life Podcast at kfuo.org/friendsforlife.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.About Fr...2022-08-1646 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#093. Gathering Finishing Pack – Between Now and 2025Even though you may still be sharing your 2022 Gathering experience, our team is already well at work on the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans. Hear a little bit about what happens between Gatherings and ways you can stay connected to us. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-08-0919 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#092. Gathering Finishing Pack – Staff Reflections on LCMS Youth Gathering 2022Now that we have experienced the LCMS Youth Gathering, we checked in with the staff of LCMS Youth Ministry to hear their reflections on the event. The staff works hard for years to make the Gathering possible and have a unique perspective of where God was at work in Houston. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-08-0453 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#091. Gathering Finishing Pack – Impact of the GatheringLCMS Youth Gathering participants can be noticeable with their matching shirts and backpacks. More than just being seen, God can use Gathering participants to leave an impact on the city and those residents they come into contact with. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-07-2819 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#090. Gathering Finishing Pack – LCMS Youth Gathering Beyond the Five DaysMark and Julianna talk about how the Gathering can help your youth ministry beyond the five days of the event. We pray it can help spur ministry for the next three years and beyond. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-07-1916 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#089. Gathering Finishing Pack - Sharing the 2022 LCMS Youth GatheringWe know you are exhausted and just looking for a little rest. But in the first in our Gathering Finishing Pack series, we will talk about how you might think about sharing your group’s experience at the 2022 Youth Gathering back home. This also has a special segment for pastors on the theme: In All Things! Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-07-1414 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#088. Mostly Live at the GatheringWe have finally made it to Houston for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering. Join Mark and Julianna on the Interactive Floor as they talk about their experiences and give thanks for what is happening at the Gathering. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-07-1221 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry PodcastLCMS Gathering Planning for “What if...?”While we hope that every part of your LCMS Youth Gathering experience goes perfectly, we know that you want to plan for all the contingencies. This podcast will cover some of the big “What if” questions so you can hear about some of the plans and supports we have in place for you. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-06-2129 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#086. LCMS Gathering Hotels and Transportation TipsWe know that hotels and transportation aren’t necessarily glamorous, but they are necessary. Krista Miller and Dean Luker join us to talk about key things to know about both pieces as a part of your Youth Gathering experience. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Bios: Krista Miller is LCMS Youth Ministry’s Associate Director, Gathering Registrar and Operations. She has served LCMS Youth Ministry for almost 23 years. Dean Luker is a volunteer on our planning teams to dire...2022-06-0729 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#085. LCMS Gathering Reveals and RecapsThe 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering is coming soon and we are excited to be sharing new information about everything you and your youth will experience. This podcast will review the reveals from last week and give a few tips and recaps for you as you prepare for the Gathering. Find all things Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-05-2419 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#084. Transitioning Youth to College and BeyondIt’s the time of year as we plan for high school and college graduations! Mark and Julianna invited Pastor Jay Winter to talk about campus ministry and transitioning young people into next steps in college.Bio: Pastor Jay Winters has served University Lutheran in Tallahassee since 2007. He grew up on the mission field as the son of a missionary in the Philippines where he lived until he was almost 13. Pastor Jay got his undergraduate degree at Concordia University – Nebraska, and moved on to Concordia Seminary in St. Louis MO. It was while he was...2022-05-1036 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry PodcastLCMS Youth Gathering – Service and Leadership OpportunitiesPlanning for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering is in full swing. Hear more about the volunteers and the service opportunities that will happen at the Gathering from our fantastic volunteer planners. Bios: Lindsey Schmidt is a DCE who serves as Director of Youth Ministry at Woodbury Lutheran Church. She also serves as the Director of Volunteer Management for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering. She lives in the Twin Cities and is married to Tad. Jen Hall is a DCE who has served as Director of Family Ministry at Golden Valley Lutheran...2022-03-0141 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#076: Encouraging Church Work CareersMost adults who are now serving in professional church work can point back to supportive adults and parents who encouraged them to consider that career track. In this episode, Rev. Dr. James Baneck talks about who and how to encourage young people who may be a good fit for church work.Bio: Rev. Dr. James Baneck is the executive director of LCMS Pastoral Education. In this role, he encourages the spiritual, character, confessional, physical, emotional and intellectual development of LCMS pastors and other church workers. He and his wife, Myrna, live in St. Louis...2022-01-1830 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#075: LCMS Youth Gathering – A Day at the GatheringAs you prepare for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering in Houston, hear about all the locations, transportation, food and programming each day along with tips and tricks to help you make the experience awesome for your participants. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2022-01-0424 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#072: Equipping Youth to WitnessMany young people in Gen Z who do not claim any religious affiliation and our culture can make it challenging for Christian teens to share their faith in Jesus. Jessica Bordeleau joins us to talk about how to encourage youth to witness in their every day lives.Bio: Jessica Bordeleau has spent the last 15 years in Christian media production. She has worked as the creative producer of video based resources for LCMS Youth Ministry she was artistic producer and co-host of 100 episodes of Speaking of Jesus, a weekly podcast from Lutheran Hour Ministries. Her...2021-11-3032 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#070: LCMS Youth Gathering - Update with LCEF and District CoordinatorsAs you prepare for the 2022 Youth Gathering in Houston, we want to support you by introducing you to some of our fantastic partners. In this episode we will talk with Scott Guenther, manager of the District Coordinators, and Rehema Kavugha, Synod Relations Manager for Lutheran Church Extension Fund. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Scott Guenther is a rostered Lutheran teacher who taught in Lutheran High schools for 15 years. He served as a Director of Youth Ministries for another 15 years and now serves as Director...2021-11-0228 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#068: Youth Ministry Context: Small Youth MinistryEven the smallest youth ministries can be healthy and help young people become disciples for life. DCE Leah Abel joins Mark and Julianna in talking about the strengths and how God can work through small youth ministries. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Bio: Leah Abel is a Director of Christian Education who lives in Denver, Colorado. Leah graduated from Concordia University Nebraska and spent 11 years serving as a DCE in Florida and another six years serving youth and families in Colorado. She now serves as a Project Manager & Ministry...2021-10-0530 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#067: LCMS Youth Gathering – First Time LeadersAt the National Lutheran Youth Workers Conference in 2021, we held a sectional specifically for first time leaders to the LCMS Youth Gathering. It went so well we invited DCE Annie Anderson to join us and share some of her insights for first time (and experienced) adult leaders! Learn more about the LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com and find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Bio: Annie Anderson is a DCE from Mesa, Arizona, currently Called to Hosanna Lutheran Church. She’s been to 7 LCMS Youth Ga...2021-09-2842 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#066: Youth Ministry Context: DiversityWe can experience diversity and inclusivity in our communities, congregations and youth ministry in many areas of life from ethnic and cultural diversity to socio-economic, education diversity, to physical skills and abilities. Mark and Julianna talk with Ashley Paavola about how youth ministry can thrive when a church brings together a diverse group of young people. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Bio: Ashley Paavola has served youth and families for over 17 years of ministry. Ashley currently serves as the Youth & Family Director of All...2021-09-2129 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#065: 2022 Gathering RegistrationIn preparation for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering, Mark and Julianna talk to Krista Miller, the registrar and operations manager for the Gathering. They talk about what registration for the upcoming Gathering will look like. Bio: Joining us is Krista Miller. Krista serves as the Gathering Registrar and Operations Manager for the LCMS Youth Gathering. “In All Things” is her eighth Gathering. Before working for LCMS Youth Ministry, she worked in a number of medical and businesses positions. She lives in St. Louis with her husband, John, and they have two grown children and children-in-laws and...2021-09-0729 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#064: Youth Ministry Context: UrbanUrban ministry can have its own unique challenges and joys. Join Mark and Julianna as we have a conversation with Heidi Lewis, DCE in urban south St. Louis. We will discuss the ways a setting in the city can impact youth ministry. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Join the LCMS Youth Ministry Facebook Group at facebook.com/groups/LCMSYouthMinistry.Bio: Heidi Lewis is a DCE serving in urban south St. Louis where they actively share the Light, Life and Hope of Jesus with their...2021-08-2432 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#063: Youth Ministry Context: Rural and Small TownIn the first of our series looking at different youth ministry contexts Mark and Julianna talk to Angela Kollbaum who has worked with rural youth and families for 25 years. She shares some of the joys and concerns of doing ministry in Rural and Small Town.Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Join the LCMS Rural and Small Town Youth Workers Facebook Group at facebook.com/groups/1038543456170629, and the LCMS Youth Ministry Facebook Group at facebook.com/groups/LCMSYouthMinistry. Bio: Angela Ko...2021-08-1035 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#059: Gathering Starter Pack – Bringing the Gathering HomeThe LCMS Youth Gathering is far more than the five days. We want the Gathering to be just one part of your ongoing healthy youth ministry. In our final episode of this starter pack we will talk about how to bring the Gathering home. Bio: Alan Wunderlich is a rostered teacher in the LCMS and serves as Assistant Principal and Youth Director at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Washington, MO. He has taken numerous groups to the LCMS Youth Gathering and for the 2022 Gathering serves on the Adult Leader Support Team who has...2021-06-2434 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#058: Gathering Starter Pack – Self-Care for Adult LeadersAs adult leaders, it can be easy for our sole focus to be on our youth and their experience. But you and your adult leader team need to care for yourselves at the LCMS Youth Gathering. This episode will look at how adults can stay healthy and energized to make the most of their whole group’s time at the Gathering.Bio: Anne Franklin has led youth groups to three LCMS Youth Gatherings as a lay leader at Our Father Lutheran in Centennial, CO. She now serves on the Adult Leader Resource Team....2021-06-2234 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#057: Gathering Starter Pack - Exploring Youth’s Unique VocationAs we continue the Gathering Starter Pack, we are going to talk about how the many different program elements of the Gathering can help every young person explore their unique vocations.Bio: Rhonda Palmersheim serves at Concordia University in St. Paul MN where she has held positions in admissions and university advancement over the last 20 years. NYG 2022 marks her sixth gathering experience. As a member of the Adult Leader Support Team Rhonda and her teammates strive to provide resources and mentorship to the thousands of adult youth workers and lay leaders that will be...2021-06-1735 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#056: Gathering Starter Pack – Connecting Parents to the GatheringParents are important partners for your Gathering team! As you begin to plan, this episode of a Gathering Starter Pack is designed to help you think about how to work with and support parents as they play a critical role in the Gathering experience for their teens. Bio: Amanda Jahnke is a DCE at St. Paul Lutheran in Fort Worth, TX. She is finishing a Masters in Family Science in Concordia St. Paul and is a certified parent coach. Amanda is a member of our 2022 Gathering Planning team working on Adult Leader Resources. 2021-06-1530 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#055: Gathering Starter Pack – Handling Youth in Crisis at the GatheringWe pray congregational groups have a positive, healthy, and impactful experience at the Gathering. However, we know that during the Gathering a teen may experience or express a struggle or crisis. Rather than being reactionary, we hope this podcast will help all supportive adult leaders to prepare to care for young people in difficult experiences. Guests: Amanda Jahnke, DCE at St. Paul in Fort Worth, TX. Amanda is a member of our 2022 Gathering Planning team working on Adult Leader Resources.Karen Merritt is a licensed professional counselor in TX and...2021-06-1034 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#054: Gathering Starter Pack - Preparing Your GroupWe have just over a year before the 2022 Gathering. The list for preparation is long, so Mark and Julianna talk you through some key things to do with guest DCE Annie Anderson. Bio: DCE Annie Anderson is serving a congregation in the East Valley of Phoenix. 2022 will be her 8th Gathering and in this Gathering cycle she is serving as a planner on our Adult Leader Resource Team. LCMS Gathering Online Resources:LCMS Youth Gathering Website lcmsgathering.comIn All Things Adult Leader Resource, including Things to Do in Houston...2021-06-0833 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#053: Gathering Starter Pack - Traveling to HoustonThe 2022 Gathering will bring us together in Houston. In the next part of our Gathering Starter Pack, we talk about traveling to the Gathering and highlights of the Houston area with Meredith Whitefield. LCMS Gathering Online Resources:LCMS Youth Gathering Website lcmsgathering.comIn All Things Adult Leader Resource, including Things to Do in Houston lcmsgathering.com/resourcesLCMS Youth Ministry Facebook Leader Group facebook.com/groups/LCMSYouthMinistry 2021-06-0330 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#052: Gathering Starter Pack - Exploring In All ThingsAs we kick of the Gathering Starter Pack we will be looking into the theme: In All Things. We want all our planning to start with God’s Word and how your time connected to the Gathering can point young people to Jesus. Learn more on the LCMS Youth Gathering website lcmsgathering.com. Read the In All Things Thematic Development Paper and Talking Points at lcmsgathering.com/resources. Find the Colossians Devotions at YouthESource at youthesource.com/2021/04/27/devotions-and-studies-in-colossians.Rev. Dr. Peter Nafzger Bio: After serving as a parish pastor fo...2021-06-0129 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#049: Developing a Support System (Connected for Life)We continue our series on topics from Connected for Life. In this episode, Dr. Deb Arfsten returns to talk about the importance of developing a support system for youth ministry in your congregation. This network of the church goes beyond volunteers and parents, and helps increase the focus of the family of God on the next generation. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Get your copy of Connected for Life at cph.org/p-31891-Connected-for-Life-Essential-Guide-to-Youth-Ministry.aspx. Find Four Devotions for Ministry Teams at youthesource.com/2021/01/28/four-devotions-for-ministry-teams-encouragement-from-paul.2021-04-2040 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#048: Community Youth MinistryOur end goal of young people who are disciples of Jesus Christ for life is not exclusive to the young people who are already in our church. Mark and Julianna talk with Rev. Derek Broten about how to reach out with the Gospel in Community Focused Youth Ministry. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Get your copy of "Connected for Life" at cph.org/p-31891-Connected-for-Life-Essential-Guide-to-Youth-Ministry.aspx.Bio: Rev. Derek Broten served for 20 years as a Director of Christian Education (DCE) in Wichita, KS and Woodbury, MN and as a...2021-04-0645 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#047: Introducing YouthLeadYoung leaders are important to the heath of the church, but they need support and mentoring to be successful and stay Christ centered. For 40 years, LCMS Youth Ministry has equipped and trained young leaders through YouthLead. Hear more about the program and the value of young leaders in your church. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Learn more about YouthLead on the LCMS Youth Ministry homepage lcms.org/youth-ministry/youthlead and read about YouthLead in the LCMS Reporter at blogs.lcms.org/2020/meet-youthlead-lutheran-youth-fellowship-gets-new-name.Joanna Shaw is from Millersville...2021-03-2323 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#045: Getting Volunteers Involved in MinistryIn our continued series on topics from Connected for Life, we talk about the importance of recruiting, involving, and supporting volunteers in youth ministry. DCE and classroom instructor Darius “Bo” Chapman joins us to provide insight and wisdom from his experience of working alongside and learning from volunteers in ministry.Find Connected for Life at cph.org/p-31891-Connected-for-Life-Essential-Guide-to-Youth-Ministry.aspx. Volunteer Longevity: youthesource.com/2018/10/23/volunteer-longevityThe Spiritual Care and Nurture of Volunteers: youthesource.com/2012/05/15/the-spiritual-care-and-nurture-of-volunteersLCMS resources on Child Abuse Protection: lcms.org/social-issues/child-abuse Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. 2021-02-2335 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#042: Developing Philosophy of Christian Education in Youth MinistryIn our second episode with Dr. Dave Rueter, we will focus on his second chapter in "Connected for Life". We give a brief introduction to the value of creating a philosophy of Christian Education in a congregation. These conversations help you evaluate, assess, pivot and re-focus on Christian Education in your congregation. Find "Connected for Life" at cph.org/p-31891-Connected-for-Life-Essential-Guide-to-Youth-Ministry.aspx Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Bio: Dave Rueter is a DCE serving at Our Savior Lutheran in Livermore, CA. He has served pr...2021-01-1232 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#040: Being a Long-Term Leader in Times of StressFor youth leaders to be around for the long-term, they need healthy balance. It’s is God pleasing when we prioritize our own spiritual practices, like worship, prayer, Bible reading, while also taking care of our bodies, their minds, and their many responsibilities. Deaconess Heidi Goehmann joins us to talk about how we care for ourselves as lay and professional youth leaders. Find all of Deaconess Heidi's work at heidigoehmann.com.Additional resources:Article on Finding the Right Mental Health Professional: blogs.lcms.org/2020/who-should-i-talk-toHeidi’s Bible Study on Play...2020-12-1537 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#038: Youth and Young Adult Poll from the 2019 GatheringMark and Julianna review the data that we receive every three years at the LCMS Youth Gathering. The youth, young adult, and adult polls all help us to understand more about the young people in our congregations over time. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2020-11-1732 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#037: Research – Impact of Environment and Reaching OutIn our second session diving into LCMS Youth Ministry’s research, we dive into the 2017 review with LCMS congregations, their retention, and their relationships with Millennials. Mark and Julianna are joined by Ryan Curnutt, Senior Research Analyst at the LCMS, as they share findings and how they can benefit your youth ministry. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Find the book "Relationships Count" at cph.org/p-34106-relationships-count-engaging-retaining-millennials-ebook-edition.aspx.Bio: Ryan Curnutt is senior research analyst at LCMS Research Services. He has served the LCMS na...2020-11-0324 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#036: Research – Unintentional Neglect and Prioritizing Gen ZWe continue diving into LCMS Youth Ministry’s 2017 research on Millennials and the LCMS. Mark and Julianna are joined by DCE Dr. Kevin Borchers. We will talk about the ways that we found the church unintentionally neglected young people and how we can do differently to prioritize Gen Z in our churches now. Read Dr. Borcher’s Article on Unintentional Neglect at youthesource.com/2019/07/03/unintentional-neglect-keeping-track-of-a-generation. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com and Relationships Count at cph.org/p-34106-relationships-count-engaging-retaining-millennials-ebook-edition.aspx. Bio: Dr. Borchers has been a me...2020-10-2033 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#034: Research: Young Adult Survey and Focus Groups ReviewWe continue diving into LCMS Youth Ministry’s 2017 research on Millennials and the LCMS. Mark and Julianna are joined by Ryan Curnutt, Senior Research Analyst at the LCMS, as they share findings from the young adult survey and focus groups. These phases of research gave great insight into those who grew up in the LCMS as young adults. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.comand the book Relationships Count from Concordia Publishing House at cph.org/p-34106-relationships-count-engaging-retaining-millennials-ebook-edition.aspx.Bio: Ryan Curnutt is senior research analyst at...2020-09-2231 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#033: Research: Congregational Study ReviewIn our second session diving into LCMS Youth Ministry’s research, we dive into the 2017 review with LCMS congregations, their retention, and their relationships with Millennials. Mark and Julianna are joined by Ryan Curnutt, Senior Research Analyst at the LCMS, as they share findings and how they can benefit your youth ministry. Find "Relationships Count" at cph.org/p-34082-relationships-count-engaging-retaining-millennials.aspx. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com. Bio: Ryan Curnutt is senior research analyst at LCMS Research Services. He has served the LCMS national office fo...2020-09-0836 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#032: Research: How to Assess and Create Good DataWith the internet, data on every topic, including faith and youth ministry, is at your fingertips. Mark and Julianna are joined by Ryan Curnutt, Senior Research Analyst at the LCMS, to talk about how to assess, acquire, and use good data to help your ministry. This first session kicks off a series on our LCMS Youth Ministry research. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.comand the book Relationships Count from Concordia Publishing House at cph.org/p-34106-relationships-count-engaging-retaining-millennials-ebook-edition.aspx. Bio: Ryan Curnutt is senior research analyst...2020-08-2538 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#031: 2022 Gathering Theme ReleaseThe theme for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering has been announced. “In All Things” will focus on Christ’s relationship to all things in our lives and world. LCMS Youth Ministry staff, Rev. Dr. Peter Nafzger, and Sarah Salzberg discuss the process for selecting the theme and set the thematic and theological foundation found in Colossians. Find all things LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com and the Law and Gospel Primer at youthesource.com/2019/03/07/a-law-and-gospel-primer.Bio: Rev. Dr. Peter NafzgerAfter serving as a parish pastor for nine years...2020-08-1136 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#030: 2019 Gathering Look BackIt’s been just a year since the 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering. The LCMS Youth Ministry staff is taking this chance to reflect back on how God worked through the event and what impacts are still felt today. Learn more about the LCMS Youth Gathering at lcmsgathering.com.2020-07-2833 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#028: Youth Ministry Starter Pack – Developing Congregational SupportIn the Youth Ministry Starter Pack series, Mark and Julianna talk with Dr. Debbie Arfsten about how to develop congregational support for youth ministry. Youth ministry doesn’t happen on its own; it’s a part of the bigger work God is doing in your congregation. Developing support from leaders, families, and other members of the congregation helps develop a healthier overall ministry for your teens. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com and learn more about Concordia University Chicago at cuchicago.edu. Bio: Dr. Debbie Arfs...2020-07-1433 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#026: Youth Ministry Starter Pack – Mental HealthHealthy youth ministry cares for the whole young person, including their mental health. In the Youth Ministry Starter Pack series, Mark and Julianna are joined by Deaconess Tiffany Manor to talk about supporting the mental health of youth in your congregation and community.Resources for this episode: National Alliance on Mental Health nami.org/Home Anxiety and Depression Association of America adaa.org/mental-health-awareness-month MentalHealth.gov MentalHealth.gov Mental Health First Aid mentalhealthfirstaid.org/ National Suicide Prevention Lifeline suicidepreventionlifeline.orgQ & A with a Therapist about Youth Depression youthesource.com/2016/02/10/qa-with-a-therapist-about-teen-depressionReal Truths You Need...2020-07-0741 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#024: Youth Ministry Starter Pack – Using Large Events for Ongoing MinistryIn the Youth Ministry Starter Pack series, Mark, Julianna and Rev. Derek Broten discuss how large events like servant events, district events or the LCMS Youth Gathering can have a long-term positive effect on your youth ministry. With some planning and care, these events can last far longer than just a few days to help make disciples for life. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com and the LCMS Youth Gathering website at lcmsgathering.com.2020-06-3032 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry PodcastSpecial Episode: Return from COVID-19As we move through the tremendous impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s not too early to be thinking about what happens as we return to a new normal. This is a great moment for assessment and strategy to build on what we have experienced and learned through this difficult time. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.End Goals is the podcast of LCMS Youth Ministry in the Office of National Mission. LCMS Youth Ministry Staff discuss practices for healthy youth ministry and interview practitioners who provide insight for experienced an...2020-05-1927 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#019: Youth Gathering Resource: Kayla Brock and Social MediaSocial media is a part of nearly all of our lives and it has an impact your youth ministry shouldn’t ignore. DCE Kayla Brock joins Mark and Julianna to talk about her resource “Created to Connect” and how youth ministries can help young people utilize social media in a healthy, God pleasing way. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.Bio: Kayla is a born and raised Texas who was born smack dab in the middle of the millennial generation and she takes great pride in the millennial title. Kayla loves...2020-05-1928 min

LCMS Northern Illinois DistrictMarch 30, 2020 "A Prayer for the COVID-19 Pandemic"For this week's devotion, Rev. Kris Whitby, LCMS Northern Illinois District Assistant to the President--Mission and Ministry, offers prayer for all facing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Scripture is read from Isaiah 43:1-3a.2020-03-2704 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#015: Youth Gathering Resource – Rev. Keith Haney and Racial ReconciliationMark and Julianna interview Rev. Keith Haney about his resource on racial reconciliation and how we can help young people form healthy, Christ centered identity. We discuss his story in ministry and how the church can talk with our young people about faith, justice, and racial issues to point people to Christ. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com and read Pastor Haney’s blog at alightbreaksthrough.org. Bio: Poplar Grove, Illinois. Rev. B. Keith Haney, Mission Facilitator, Northern Illinois District LCMS since 2007. An ordained pastor for over 20 years. Serving multi-ethnic urban congregations in Detroit, St. Louis, an...2020-03-2411h 00

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry PodcastSpecial Episode: When You Can’t Meet Face to FaceIn a time where we may have several weeks without in-person youth ministry, we wanted to talk through some practices that may help care for young people. We wanted to give you ideas, encouragement, and thoughts about how we can be light in a dark, troubling world. Resources mentioned in this podcast: LCMS Youth Ministry Resource Website: youthesource.com LCMS Youth Ministry Facebook Group (where additional conversations are taking place): facebook.com/groups/LCMSYouthMinistry How to do a group study on The Bible App – YouVersion: ymsidekick.com/2018/10/18/how-to-create-an-online-group-bible-study-with-youversion Listing of LCMS congregations planning to stream worship services: docs.google.com/sp...2020-03-2311h 00

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#010: Engaging Youth in Service: LCMS Servant EventsFor more than 35 years, LCMS Servant Events have supported youth and adults in learning that serving others can make a difference because of Jesus Christ. Servant Events are opportunities for young people to learn new skills and grow in confidence. Members of the LCMS Servant Event Committee join Rev. Mark Kiessling and DCE Jim Lohman in the studio to talk about the impact of LCMS Servant Events. These events bring together youth and adults to serve in the name of Jesus. Guests for this episode are: Rev. Barry Akers, Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer, Kokomo, IN Shelly Carlson, Lord of...2020-02-0311h 00

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev Marcus Zill: NEXT STEPS— Preparing for Life after High SchoolYou are about to encounter the greatest transition period in your life. Your world beyond high school will be both exhilarating and frightening. So how do you get prepared? What do you need to keep in mind? What critical questions should you ask yourself before deciding to go to college (or not) and how do you best prepare yourself if you do? Come and receive some straight talk about your next steps! Bio: Rev. Marcus Zill serves as the LCMS director of Campus Ministry and LCMS U. He oversees LCMS U conferences, training events and resource development; hosts “The Student Un...2020-01-1700 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsKrista Young, DCE: Oh, the Places You’ll Go!“Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away!”-Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You’ll Go! Your school, neighborhood, Iowa, or even Africa…Wherever you go—you take the light of Christ with you. Join DCE Krista Young; LCMS missionary and Lutheran Youth from Kenya to hear how God can use you wherever you are to share His love to the world. Bio: Born in Papua New Guinea and adopted by America missionaries, Krista Young (Adler) is Australian by birth, and is now living in Nairobi, Kenya. She attended Concordia College St. Paul, MN and s...2020-01-1700 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev Dr. Lucas Woodford: Real Present Promises in Life’s Hills and ValleysWe live at a fascinating time of history. There is much to be excited about. Yet, there is much that challenges our Christian faith. How do we live our Christian identity in a culture that blurs what is right and wrong and says you can do whatever makes you feel good? Come explore how the sacraments of Holy Communion and Baptism give us confidence and hope for every life amid these exciting and chaotic times. Bio: Pastor Lucas Woodford is the District President of the MN South District of the LCMS. Prior to this he served as pastor for 15 years...2020-01-1700 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev Dr. Mark Wood: You are Here…to WitnessAs a believer in Jesus you are His witness wherever God has placed you. High school can be a challenging place to be a witness of Jesus, but if that’s where you are that’s where you’re meant to be His witness. Let’s talk about what that means and how you can better meet the challenges and experience the joys of witnessing in your vocation as a high school student. Bio: Pastor Wood serves in the LCMS Office of National Mission as the director of Witness & Outreach and Revitalization. He is the creator of the Every One His Witn...2020-01-1700 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsJulianna Shults, DCE: Generation Z— The Last GenerationSay hello to Generation Z, our last generation!? We are beginning to understand this youngest generation and how they are changing culture, the world, and our church. Come find practical, data driven ways to prepare your ministry to retain and support the faith of these children and teens on the cusp of young adulthood? Bio: Julianna Shults is a DCE who serves LCMS Youth Ministry as Program Manager for Lutheran Young Adult Corps. She served congregations in Florida and Chicago for 11 years before moving to St. Louis. She has a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Community Development. Julianna...2020-01-1400 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsJulianna Shults, DCE: Blowing Up the Plan— When What’s Next is not What You ExpectNot sure what’s next after high school? Ready to blow up “The Plan” for something different? Come hear about how God will walk with you and use you in new and unexpected vocations. We will talk about Lutheran Young Adult Corps and develop some strategies for navigating service, college, or whatever comes next faithfully with God’s help. Bio: Julianna Shults is a DCE who serves LCMS Youth Ministry as Program Manager for Lutheran Young Adult Corps. She served congregations in Florida and Chicago for 11 years before moving to St. Louis. She has a BA in Psychology and a Masters...2020-01-1400 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsChaplain Craig Muehler: How to Survive and Thrive in the Military as a ChristianAre you joining the military? Come and spend some time learning how to survive and thrive as a Christian in the exciting vocation military service. We will share insights and experiences from military experience to show how a Christian can not only survive “boot camp” and their military service, but thrive in their vocation as a member of the Armed Forces in the greatest nation on earth. A great honor to serve God and country. Bio: Chaplain Craig Muehler, a retired U.S. Navy captain, serves as the director of the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces. He began serving in t...2019-12-1700 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev. Michael Meyer: Loving Your Neighbor When Life Gets RoughWhen life gets rough, we need Jesus more than ever. This session will cover simple ways that you can show love/mercy to your neighbor who may be enduring one of life’s fiery trials. Bio: Rev. Michael Meyer is the Manager of LCMS Disaster Response. In this role, Meyer provides guidance and counsel to Districts, congregations, and International Partner churches in response to natural and man-made disasters. He also leads trainings in congregation preparedness and spearheads the Synod’s Lutheran Early Response Team program – including curriculum development, and the training and coordination of Lutheran volunteers seeking to show Christ’s mercy...2019-12-1600 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev. Greg Manning: Blind but Now I Can See!Everyone has trials and struggles and sometimes it’s hard to have faith in God when life is tough. P. G. was born blind and it’s never been easy. However, God gave him the miracle of vision. Our struggles aren’t meant to destroy us they’re meant to create a pathway to where God can do a miracle and show how his power will knock your socks off. Struggling? Come get your vision like P. G. Bio: Pastor Manning is the pastor of Broadmoor Community Church ( an LCMS congregation) in New Orleans where he has energetically served the “Big Easy”...2019-12-1300 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer: Real. Present. God. in the PsalmsThe theme of the 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering, REAL.PRESENT.GOD, was inspired by the Psalms. But where is God in the Psalms? The answer may not be as obvious as it seems. Join us as we explore the Psalms and go behind the scenes to unpack the 2019 Gathering theme. Bio: Joel Lehenbauer is the Executive Director of the Commission on Theology and Church Relations of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod and the Theological Advisor for the 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering REAL.PRESENT.GOD.2019-12-1000 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev. Keith Haney: Our View of Justice Impacts EvangelismJustice from God’s eyes is more than what is equal. It means Christians are called to act. Called to love our neighbors and called to give to those in need. We will explore how to manifest the love of Christ beyond the walls of our church. Bio: Poplar Grove, Illinois. Rev. B. Keith Haney, Mission Facilitator, Northern Illinois District LCMS since 2007. An ordained pastor for over 20 years. Serving multi-ethnic urban congregations in Detroit, St. Louis, and Milwaukee. In January 2016, he started to write a blog to encourage believers in their faith journey and non-believers to explore difficult faith issues. Th...2019-11-2100 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsMona Fuerstenau: What about Disabilities?Be real and present with those with disabilities. You don’t have to figure it out alone! Grounded in scripture, discover Bethesda resources that support YOU as you minister to students and families with disabilities. Real, practical take-away items. Free consultation and follow up to participants. Bio: Mona Fuerstenau is a former speech – language pathologist. A parent of two young adult diverse learners, she has become a disability advocate. She chaired the LCMS Disabilities Task Force and the Washington State Developmental Disability Council. She is a frequent speaker at conferences, universities, writes on the topics of disability, family, Christian ministry and...2019-11-1400 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsRev. Dr. Terry Dittmer: What this boomer learned about Youth MinistryCheck out 10 significant key learnings that provide a framework for building effective, relevant, congregational youth ministry gleaned from 45 years of youth ministry experience. Bio: Rev. Dr. Terry Dittmer joined the LCMS youth ministry staff in 1979 and served the synod youth ministry for 38 years, 15 as Director of Youth Ministry, until his retirement in 2016. He is the author of 6 books, composer of more than 45 hymns and spiritual songs and a graphic artist. He and his wife, Cherie, have five adult children, two sons-in-law, one daughter-in law, and seven grand children 2019-11-0900 min

2019 LCMS Youth Gathering SessionsShelly Carlson: LCMS Servant Events…Are You Ready?Are YOU ready to: Step out of your comfort zone? Be a part of life changing Bible study and devotions? Experience new activities? Meet other youth from around the country? Serve others in the Name of Jesus? How can YOU do this? LCMS Servant Events bring youth and their leaders together serving others and connecting to Christ. This session will give YOU what YOU need to be ready and to participate in LCMS Servant Events. Bio: Shelly Carlson has been involved in Servant Events for 15 years and is presently serving on the Servant Event Committee. “My passion is not only ta...2019-11-0600 min

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#002: Welcome to End GoalsLCMS Youth Ministry staff Rev. Mark Kiessling and DCE Julianna Shults introduce End Goals and how they hope it will help you develop seven practices of healthy youth ministry in your congregation. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2019-11-0111h 00

End Goals: LCMS Youth Ministry Podcast#001: End Goals TrailerJoin Rev. Mark Kiessling and DCE Julianna Shults as they introduce the End Goals podcast. End Goals is a new resource from LCMS Youth Ministry to bring parents, church workers, and lay leaders discussions and resources to help your youth ministry meet its end goal: young people who are disciples for life. Find the LCMS Youth Ministry resource website at youthesource.com.2019-11-0111h 00

LCMS Northern Illinois DistrictJune 3, 2019 "The Good Shepherd"Rev. Keith Haney LCMS Northern Illinois District Mission Facilitator shares this week's devotion, "The Good Shepherd." He shares scripture from Psalm 23:2-3.2019-06-0302 min

LCMS Northern Illinois DistrictMay 27, 2019 "Partnership"Rev. Keith Haney LCMS Northern Illinois District Mission Facilitator shares this week's devotion, "Partnership." He shares scripture from Philemon 1:6 (NIV).2019-05-2702 min

LCMS Northern Illinois DistrictMay 13, 2019 "Heavenly Hope"Rev. Keith Haney, LCMS Northern Illinois District Mission Facilitator, shares this week's devotion, "Heavenly Hope" He shares scripture from Psalm 146:5 2019-05-1302 min

LCMS Northern Illinois DistrictApril 8, 2019 "A Word for 2019: Love"Rev. Keith Haney LCMS Northern Illinois District Mission Facilitator shares this week's devotion, "A Word for 2019: Love." He shares scripture from Matthew 5:42-44 (CEB).2019-04-1502 min

LCMS Northern Illinois DistrictMarch 11, 2019 "Forward!"Rev. Keith Haney, LCMS Northern Illinois District Mission Facilitator, shares this week's devotion, "Forward!" He shares scripture from Exodus 14:14-16 ESV 2019-03-1102 min

St. James Lutheran Podcast (LCMS), Grand Rapids, MIRev. Dr. Glenn Schaeffer Accepts Call to St. James LCMSRev. Dr. Glenn Schaeffer Accepts Call to St. James LCMS 2018-09-0209 min