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“Being a college kid is hard . . . There’s a lot of modern culture that influences Christianity today, and it leads to a lot of confusion.” – Henry Battistoni, Student, University of Nebraska The June WELS Connection focuses on WELS Campus Ministry and shares how students are staying close to God when they are away at college. #welslutherans #wels

Are you worried about keeping your worshipers cool this summer? 🥵 Receive up to $150,000 USD from us to upgrade ACs, replace or repair inefficient windows, rewire or weatherproof facilities, and improve operations that contribute to a more energy-efficient building. Learn more about our green loans ⬇

Learn More. UMFMichigan.org

To every DCE guiding youth, equipping families and nurturing faith—thank you. Your creativity, compassion and Christ-centered leadership shape hearts and strengthen congregations. Tag a DCE who has impacted your life or your ministry!

Share your feedback through a new study and survey from the ELCA Task Force on Human Sexuality Reconsiderations. In 2022 the ELCA Churchwide Assembly invited the whole church to reconsider the social statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust — specifically the section, often referred to as “bound conscience,” that allows for a diversity of views on same-sex relationships and marriage. The task force called to lead this work is happy to share a new study that leaders can use to foster conversation. “Conscience and Conversation: A Study During the Reconsideration of the Social Statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust” offers activities, discussion questions and a survey link for participants to submit feedback to the task force by Sept. 30. This feedback will help inform the draft phase of the reconsideration process. For more information on this process, visit ELCA.org/reconsiderations.

Another example of how CEF helps the ministries in the Michigan District reach out to their community!We are so excited for our weekend event—Growing in God’s Love! 🛠️❤️We are incredibly grateful for the nearly 100 people registered to join us on this journey to reach out to our neighbors by building beds for kids in need. What an incredible blessing! 📬 Quick Reminder to All Registrants: Please check your inbox for an email packed with full details on what to expect. ⏰ Friday’s Schedule: 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM is the check-in window. 6:15 PM: Opening program kicks off Get ready for an amazing, impactful time serving together! 🙌 Sponsors: Church Extension Fund Carrigan Cafe @kbkgarden ✨#GrowingInGodsLove #FaithInAction #CommunityImpact #ChurchFamily

Considering a building project but not sure where to begin? Church redevelopment can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Some of the most common questions we hear are: • Where do we start? • How do we align this project with our mission? • What are our funding options? • How can our space better serve the community? • What partnerships should we explore? At CB&LF, we help congregations think strategically about the future of their spaces — from visioning and planning to financing and long-term sustainability. Your building can be more than something to maintain. It can become a catalyst for ministry and community impact. Start the conversation here: https://bit.ly/4dRdGd0 #ChurchLeadership #ChurchRedevelopment #CapacityBuilding #UCC

Ready to plan your will or trust? 📝✨ We’re here to help you confidently plan your estate, protect your loved ones 💙 ⚖️📖 Have questions? Drop them in the comments below 💬👇 hashtag#EstatePlanning hashtag#WillsGuide hashtag#LegacyPlanning hashtag#FaithfulStewardship hashtag#PlanWithPurpose

“[Jesus said] Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care” (Matthew 10:29). Sparrows are tiny birds. Most people barely notice them. But God notices every single one. “Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (verse 30). God knows everything about you. He knows your name. He knows your thoughts. He knows your joys and your fears. And because he loves you so much, Jesus says: “Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (verse 31). What a promise! When Jesus sends us to share our faith, he doesn’t send us alone. He walks beside us. He watches over us. He cares for us every day. Prayer: Jesus, help me see the beautiful, challenging, wonderful, grace-filled life you’ve called me to, and let me speak your Word faithfully here until you bring me faithfully home to heaven. Amen. #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8). The crown Jesus gives is better than any royal crown. It gives access not just to a palace, but to the throne room of heaven. It is the gift of righteousness, Jesus’ righteousness, placed on you by grace. So, we long for his appearing. We look forward to the day Jesus comes again, not with fear, but with confidence and joy. The righteous Judge is also your Savior. And he has a crown waiting for you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for wearing a crown of thorns to win for me the crown of righteousness. Take away my fear, forgive my sins, and help me long for the day when you bring me into the joy of heaven. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

Are you preparing for the day you transition out of your business and consider the legacy you want to leave behind? With thoughtful planning, the sale of your business can be more than a financial transaction—it can create meaningful impact for the ministries you care about. John and Joyce Yoder recently shared the blessing they experienced in giving back a portion of what the Lord provided to them. Read their story and connect with us early in your transition process to maximize the strategies available to you. https://bit.ly/4oTTP0I

Thank you to those individuals attending the LWMS Convention in Madison, Wis., who came and toured the WELS Center for Mission and Ministry today. It was a joy to have you here. During the tour, the group had the opportunity to meet President Schroeder, look at artifacts from the archives including the original constitution and a telegram from US President William Howard Taft. They also met with Northwestern Publishing House and WELS Missions.

Gwen Walz, ELCA member and first lady of Minnesota, hosts the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, taking place in Minneapolis-St. Paul. In an interview with Living Lutheran, she discusses her role in the games and how faith can motivate civic participation. Read the full article below.

We can’t wait to see you at Equip!Choose the opening session that’s right for you. Equip 2026 will offer two English keynote speaker sessions —giving you the opportunity to engage in a way that best serves your ministry context. Register now! sbtexas.com/equip-conference/

We are hiring! 📣 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿, 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗿 https://wels.link/4ewWdHa 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿, 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀 https://wels.link/3SLr75T 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 https://wels.link/4oPFe6m 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁 https://wels.link/4eHphdP If you are interested in applying or learning more about these positions, please visit the links to view the official job postings. #welslutherans #wels

We are proud to sponsor this year’s General Assembly. It’s more than just a series of meetings—it is a covenantal table for education, discussion, worship, business, fellowship, and action, where each congregation is encouraged to boldly claim its place in shaping the life and ministry of the Church. Sign up today to join us! #dcef #ccdocJoin us at this year’s General Assembly from July 10–11! Rooted in Ephesians 3:14–21, this online gathering invites the Stone-Campbell tradition to be grounded in the love of God that surpasses knowledge and barriers, calling the Christian Church to set a bigger table. Register at: https://ow.ly/9fXa50Z8lPO.

Dear friends in Christ, Two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday evening, leaving many dead, thousands missing, and countless others without homes. I am in communication with our missionaries, who have many contacts in Venezuela. They are working to assess the situation and determine how we may be able to assist. I will share additional information and opportunities to help as they become available. In the meantime, please join me in prayer: Lord God, our refuge and strength, we commend to your mercy all those affected by the earthquakes in Venezuela. Comfort those who mourn, protect those who are in danger, heal the injured, and provide for all who have lost homes or livelihoods. Move your people to show Christian love through acts of mercy and compassion. Bless the efforts of relief workers and all who seek to help those in need. Above all, grant that those who suffer may find hope and peace in your Son, Jesus Christ, who has overcome sin, death, and every earthly trouble. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Pastor Dan Sims Director, WELS Christian Aid and Relief

🚨 Attention all CSBC Churches! 🚨 Our SoCal Outreach & Evangelism Grant applications are now OPEN! 🙌 Submit your application by July 15, 2026 for events taking place after September 2. 📅✨ Don’t miss this opportunity to receive funding and make a greater impact in your community! 💙 #CSBC #SoCalGrants #KingdomImpact #ChurchSupport

Check out the new blog posted on The District website!New blog “A Century Of Sharing Christ Through The Hispanic Ministry In Texas”, by Rev. Lincon Guerra is out on our website now: https://txlcms.org/a-century-of-sharing-christ-through-the…/ You can also find the article in the next edition of the Texas Messenger. Follow this link to sign up for the online subscription! https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/…/uDbqHQb/texasmessenger

Did you know you can provide for your family while creating a lasting impact on the LCMS community? With LCEF’s planned giving services, you don’t have to choose between securing your family’s future and supporting the ministries you care about. Our Gift Development team provides complimentary guidance to help you navigate estate planning, ensuring your generosity leaves a lasting legacy for God’s glory. Learn more at https://go.lcef.org/l/940793/2026-05-29/2gp9m9 #TogetherInFaith

The Wall Street Journal called it “a rare construction bright spot.” They were talking about churches. Federal data shows religious construction spending rose nearly 17 percent in the 12 months through June 2025, even as overall construction spending fell nearly 3 percent in the same period. Much of that growth is showing up in multipurpose spaces, such as fellowship halls, childcare facilities, and coffee shops. Congregations are deepening their connection to the communities around them. And kingdom-minded investors are part of that story. Since 1953, we’ve served hundreds of churches and thousands of investors who want to grow God’s Kingdom with wisdom and care. Many of the churches building right now are doing so because Kingdom-minded investors chose to put their resources to work. Learn more at www.cdfcapital.org/investments #KingdomInvesting #FaithBasedInvesting #ChurchGrowth #CDFCapital #ChristianStewardship

“[Jesus said] ‘Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved . . . Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven’ ” (Matthew 10:21-22,32). Following Jesus would not always bring peace with the people closest to them. Sometimes it would bring division, rejection, and loss. But Jesus also gave a promise: “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” That promise gives courage. Jesus confessed you first. He claimed you as his own. He carried your sins to the cross. He rose from the dead. He speaks for you before the Father. So, confess him. Speak the truth humbly. Speak it lovingly. Speak it with confidence. The Savior you confess is the Savior who confesses you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for confessing me before your Father. Give me courage to confess you before others, even when it costs me. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

“By faith, we hold onto those promises as a true reality, because we know our God is faithful.” Watch today’s chapel now on our YouTube ⬇️

Gift planning is a charitable approach that aligns your financial, tax, and estate objectives. By employing smart gifting strategies, you can make substantial charitable contributions both during your lifetime and after your passing. This process includes donating assets such as stocks, real estate, or retirement plans. https://umfmichigangiving.org/videos.html

On June 10, the Southern Baptist Convention voted to ban women pastors. Three days later, National Convocation – Disciples awarded female clergy members for their work toward liberation and justice at a Biennial Session banquet we sponsored. Not only does this illustrate the stance of our Church but of our ministry, too: we affirm God’s calls on the lives of our colleagues, partners, and friends—no matter their gender.

From tour buses and school gymnasiums to rocking chairs and prayer walks, Brian and Jennie Williamson’s ministry journey has taken a beautiful turn. In the latest episode of the Grace Place Podcast, they describe how God called them to create a retreat space where church workers can “come apart before they come apart,” rediscover joy and return to their people renewed. Listen ➡️ https://go.lcef.org/l/940793/2026-05-29/2gp9md

🚨 Volunteers Needed – Merrillville, Indiana Tornado Response 🚨 WELS Christian Aid and Relief will be deploying to Merrillville, Indiana, June 26–28 to assist with tree and debris cleanup following the tornadoes that struck the area last week. We are looking for physically capable volunteers who live within one to two hours of Merrillville and can serve during the deployment. Please note that lodging will not be provided. Our home base will be Our Shepherd Lutheran Church in Crown Point, Indiana. To volunteer, please sign up at welsdisasterrelief.org. If you are already registered as a volunteer, log in and click on OPPORTUNITIES (left side of page). If you are not registered, please do so by clicking sign up (top right of page). Additional details will be provided to those who register. Questions? Contact Pastor Dan Sims at daniel.sims@wels.net or 920-763-3790. Thank you for helping us show Christ’s love to those recovering from this disaster.

#WednesdayintheWord

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Timothy 4:2). We all have “itches.” There are parts of God’s Word that are hard for us to hear. Sometimes God tells us to confess sins we don’t want to admit. Sometimes he tells us to forgive someone when we don’t want to. Sometimes he tells us to love people who are difficult to love. But God doesn’t want teachers who simply scratch our itchy ears. He gives us pastors, teachers, parents, and Christian friends who tell us the truth—even when it’s hard to hear. Why? Because God loves us too much to leave us trapped in sin. Prayer: When my ears itch, O Lord, I want someone to scratch them. Instead, bless me with people who will tell me your true Word. Instead of scratching my itch, heal my heart. Amen. #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions

“[Jesus said] ‘Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows’ ” (Matthew 10:29-31). Jesus says your Father knows even the hairs of your head. He knows your name. He knows your needs. He knows your weaknesses. Most of all, he knows the price paid for you, not pennies, not silver or gold, but the holy, precious blood of his Son. You are not forgotten, and you are not cheap. You are not outside your Father’s care. So do not be afraid. The God who watches over sparrows is certainly watching over you. Prayer: Father, when I feel small or afraid, remind me that I am precious to you through Jesus. Help me trust your care today. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

Take a look at these congregations! From responding to the AIDS crisis in the 1980s-1990s to becoming open and affirming in a time when few other communities of faith were to actively participating in local Pride events—these places of worship are showing the Church what radical love, expansive welcome, and true inclusiveness is like. 🏳️‍🌈 #ccdocThere are so many open and affirming congregations across the Church, we’d like to lift up a few of these trailblazers that make church a safe and welcoming place for LBTQ+ folks. As always, if you don’t see some of your favorites on this list, view our posts from 2024-2025 to see who we have lifted up in the past! 🏳️‍🌈

Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry has issued his second in a series of monthly messages that continue through the end of this year, titled “All Together in One Place.” Each message will share a pastoral word, rooted in Scripture, that witnesses to God’s presence today, our rich theological tradition and the social teaching that connects us. Read his latest message, “America at 250: Holding gratitude and humility,” here: ELCA.org/news/all-together-in-one-place-2

Smart Stewardship for a Bigger Purpose: Our President & CEO, the Rev. Dr. Steven Summers, and VP of Operations Courtney Howell shared at AC 2026 how the Foundation is here to support you and your church: • Through funding, investing, lending and training • Our grants program has helped nearly 200 churches and VA Conference ministries serve their communities – 900K+ awarded since 2013. Whatever your church’s needs, we’re your partner in ministry and can help you find a way to accomplish financial goals. As your fiduciary, we act in your best interest, focusing on: Connection. Integrity. Excellence. www.vaumf.org #meaningfulgood #umcchurches #vaumf #vaumdevco #AC2026 #churchfinances #FinancialStability

Ready for a change? See open positions and apply > agfinancial.org/careers

Having your “house in order” matters to ministry expansion, too. A lack of clarity about facility maintenance is a top objection donors raise—especially longtime members. Learn why a detailed capital maintenance plan before expansion is essential to success in the latest episode of the Ministry Moments podcast Listen ➡️ https://go.lcef.org/l/940793/2026-06-23/2gs2bz

When Cross Community Church in Beaufort, South Carolina, was looking for property on the Low Country coast, they knew the challenges ahead. Limited options, high water tables, and soft soil meant that building something solid was going to take a creative solution. Their builder’s answer: 50 to 60 timber pilings driven 60 feet into the ground to reach solid rock. But as their pastor points out, the physical foundation of a church building and the spiritual foundation of a church are two different things. Cross Community has always been built on one foundation: the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Church financing from CDF Capital helped make the building possible. For the Kingdom-minded investors behind that church loan, the rock beneath it was already there. Since 1953, we’ve served hundreds of churches and thousands of investors who want to grow God’s Kingdom with wisdom and care. Learn more at www.cdfcapital.org/investments #KingdomInvesting #FaithBasedInvesting #ChurchGrowth #CDFCapital #ChristianStewardship

IVCC (International Victory Christian Church) of Pearland, Texas’s vision is to share the gospel with all people in their community, to change lives, to restore and strengthen family relationships, and help parents raise God-fearing children in a Christ-centered home. This new facility will allow the church to boldly push further with these visions, enabling the church to reach more people and build deeper connections with one another.

Taste of Missions 2026 celebrated the worldwide reach of WELS mission work, gathering people in person and online for worship, missionary stories, fellowship, and the commissioning of 11 new home and world missionaries. The event highlighted how WELS members share in gospel outreach through prayer, encouragement, giving, and support for missionaries serving around the world.

We are proud to celebrate the incredible progress of First Church Billings, MT, and their bold Resiliency Project! CB&LF is honored to partner with this historic downtown community, helping them use our capital campaign program to raise $2 million to revamp their facilities. This project is about more than an aging building—it’s about living out Christ’s call to serve and love their neighbors. First Church envisions a truly hospitable, safe, and accessible community space for the underserved and various justice workers, including Native American communities, the LGBTQ+ community, and the poor. Fantastic news: This church of fewer than 200 members has already raised $750,000, which triggered a $250,000 matching grant, bringing their total to $1,000,000 to date! If your church is dreaming of a project that transforms community, learn how our programs can help: https://bit.ly/3QeB07Y #FaithInAction #ChurchBuilding #CommunityTransformation #CBLF #ResiliencyProject #ChurchLoans

“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Timothy 4:2). You may not be a pastor like Timothy. But you still need this Word. You need it when your heart wants comfortable lies instead of saving truth. You need it when the world calls evil good and good evil. You need it when you are tired, tempted, afraid, or ashamed. And through that Word, Christ comes to you. He corrects you because he loves you. He rebukes your sin because he died to remove it. He encourages you because he rose again and promises you the crown of righteousness. So, listen to the Word. Trust the Word. Treasure the Word. It is Christ’s Word for you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, keep me faithful to your Word. Correct me, forgive me, encourage me, and strengthen me to hold firmly to your truth. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

The Foundation team was thrilled to offer insights into increased financial stability in our Lunch & Learn at this year’s Annual Conference – the presentation was entitled “Slump to Bump – Reframing Seasonal Volatility into Visionary Generosity.” Lots of great questions on how churches can encourage giving as they support their members through ministry. Steven Summers Chris Allen #bradduty www.vaumf.org #meaningfulgood #umcchurches #vaumf #vaumdevco #AC2026 #churchfinances #FinancialStability

🚨 CSBC Churches! Applications for our SoCal Outreach & Evangelism Grants are now OPEN! 🙌 📝 Apply by July 15, 2026 📅 For events after Sept. 2, 2026 💙 Receive funding and make a greater Kingdom impact in your community! #CSBC #SoCalGrants #KingdomImpact #ChurchSupport

WELS was honored to join our sister church, the Evangelical Lutheran Free Church (ELFK), in Schönfeld, Germany, for its 96th Synod Convention and a special celebration of the ELFK’s 150th anniversary. Pastors, delegates, and guests gathered for several days of worship, Bible study, fellowship, reports on ministry work, and presentations centered on the convention theme, “The Certainty of the Resurrection.” The convention also included the election and installation of a new Synodical Council. They gave thanks for 150 years of fellowship between the ELFK and WELS with a festival worship. Together, members and guests reflected on God’s faithfulness through generations of gospel ministry and rejoiced in the shared hope found in Christ’s resurrection. We thank God for our partnership in the gospel and pray that he continues to bless the ELFK as it faithfully proclaims Christ and his saving message for generations to come.

The newly enhanced My Texas CEF (Online Access) is here! Visit https://texascef.org/my-texas-cef/ to find our more and start the registration process today or scan the QR code to download your enrollment form. (Please note: This form is for individuals only. Please visit our website if you need one as a representative for your congregation.)

“If I say, ‘I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,’ his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot. But the LORD is with me like a mighty warrior; He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of the wicked” (Jeremiah 20:7-13 selected verses). When Jeremiah warned people about their sins, they became angry with him. They even hated him and tried to hurt him. Can you imagine how hard that must have been? It hurt Jeremiah when he didn’t speak God’s Word, but it also hurt him when he did. You probably can! Because God shared his Word with you. You know that sins separate us from God, and when you see people you love who don’t believe in God or are living in sinful ways, you care about them and want them to know Jesus. Jeremiah didn’t find a way to make it stop hurting. Instead, he remembered that his Savior was with him. That gave him courage to speak—and it gave him comfort when speaking God’s Word brought him pain. Jesus is with you, too, and has placed his promises in your heart. He promises to help you speak with courage, kindness, and love. So, don’t hold his promises in! Prayer: Lord, thank you for putting your Word in my heart. Help me also keep your Word on my mouth, so that others can hear what you’ve done. Give me courage to speak your Word truthfully, and grant that other people believe. Amen. #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

” ‘His word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones’ ” (Jeremiah 20:9). Jesus did more than warn us about judgment. He stepped under the judgment our sins deserved. He died for our stubbornness, blindness, unbelief, and sin. Then he rose to give us forgiveness, life, and certain deliverance. God does not give up on sinners. Through his Word calls us to turn from sin and turn to him. He drives us to Christ, where mercy is full and free. He held on to Jeremiah. He holds on to you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for warning me in love and saving me by grace. Keep your Word burning in my heart. Give me repentant faith, patient love for others, and confidence in your resurrection victory. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

Thank you to the music leaders in our churches and Lutheran schools, who lead us in singing praises to the Lord our God. #WorldMusicDay

This Father’s Day, we give thanks for the fathers and father figures who lead with integrity, love and faith. Your steady example shapes lives in ways that echo far beyond today. Happy Father’s Day from LCEF.