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CA VOLUME 38 NUMBER 5 - SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023

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CONTENTS
FEATURES
The Mind of Christ 6
Lovers of Wisdom: Christians and the Right Use of Philosophy 9
W W W.C A N A D I A N L U T H E R A N . C A Connecting Faith and Mental Health 12
Volume 38 Number 5 September/October 2023
DEPARTMENTS
table talk
More than Mindfulness 5
regional pastors
West: Hope Without Wavering 22
Central: Why Liturgy? 26
East: Questions, Questions, Questions 30
president’s PONDERINGS
Today’s Issues and the Church 42
El Greco, Public domain, via Wikimedia
Commons, altered.
NEWS SECTIONS
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THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Re: THE BANSHEES OF INSHERIN
Rev. Giese concluded his review of of colonization and oppression. But
The Banshees of Insherin (May/June there were less of these in January,
2023) with a challenge to his readers: and none I’d encountered.
“Viewers will have to provide their What surprised me was my
own hope of redemption.” That daughter’s reaction when I suggested
prompted this response. the movie was about Ireland. She
When my daughter asked me to shot me a blank look. Then, I
see The Banshees of Inisherin with realized that, as a Xennial (those
her, I didn’t take much persuading. born between 1977-1983), both her
Enticed by glowing reviews, I age and education had not provided
was loaded with expectations. I her with a framework to understand
anticipated spicey dialogue from a the movie in any way other than at
director called the “poet laureate of face value. That made me wonder:
SHARING
profanity,” stunning cinematography, how many other movie goers might
and great performances from the cast. feel frustrated with a seemingly
I love Brendan Gleeson and popcorn. incomprehensible movie?
Neither disappointed. Rev. Giese’s review was a good
My daughter and I also took to fit for the May/June issue’s theme: A
the theatre some ideas of what an Gospel for Hard Times. But maybe a “Command them to
Irish film might showcase: lyrical review of The Banshee of Inisherin do good, to be rich in
language, lilting accents and the requires a macro look. Consider good deeds, and to
beautiful landscape of one of the Aran the escalating violence between
Islands, where it was shot. the two characters that eventually be generous and
But on that chilly January night, spills over to the entire Island willing to share. In
I left the theatre puzzled. The movie from a historical vantage point—a this way they will lay
wasn’t what I expected. The tragic viewpoint that casts light on the up treasure for them-
events didn’t make sense to me on the tragic effects of oppression and
micro level, as either individuals or as colonization, whether it be Ireland, selves as a firm foun-
characters. I continued to think about Canada, or any other country which dation for the coming
the feelings the movie stirred up, but suppressed its original people and age, so that they may
felt misled, thinking the story might indigenous cultures. Similar films take hold of the life
contain some comedy. Based on the that tackle this subject include The
audience’s nervous and self-conscious Mission, set in South America, and that is truly life.”
tittering over the course of nearly two The Rabbit-Proof Fence, set in in 1 Timothy 6:18-19
hours, I wasn’t the only one who didn’t Western Australia.
find anything to laugh about. The concept of redemption,
Maybe the movie is a parable which Rev. Giese raises in his review Have you considered
for Ireland, I thought, recalling is important for individuals. I know sharing a portion of
conversations I had with an Irish God’s grace to be free and abundant.
friend. I think especially of a scene What might a macro look at the the blessings God has
where two minor characters turn toward movie and the idea of redemption shared with you?
the mainland where an explosion has mean for us as part of the Universal
occurred. One person comments that Church and as Canadians? For a f ree seminar on
he misses the war with England as it Does art imitate life or life
how you can utilize your
was easier knowing who the enemy imitate art? The film raised
was—who you were fighting. important and timely issues facing tax dollars as a gift to the
Okay, that might be a slightly us as Canadians grappling with our church, contact:
oblique clue, but it was there. Brilliant past as settlers. Though the movie
or bewildering? Today, it’s possible is dark and imperfect, it makes me
to find countless articles and reviews think, and ask in a good Lutheran
that explain the movie as an allegory tradition: “What does this mean?”
for Ireland’s Civil War, for its history Susan Beiderwieden
4 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

www.lutheranfoundation.ca
TABLE TALK
MORE THAN
MINDFULNESS
by mathew block
I
n recent years, there has been a whose mind is stayed on You, because great is Jesus’ concern for you, so dearly
growing focus on “mindfulness” as he trusts in You” (26:3). does He bear you in mind, that He was
a way of managing stress, anxiety, And yet, we do not always feel that willing to die in your place to save you
and other mental health concerns. The “perfect peace,” do we? Too often our from that sin—to put it out of mind
practice, which is derived from Eastern minds are drawn away from Christ once and for all through His death on
religions, encourages people to engage to focus on other needs and sorrows. a cross. What great love! What strange
in a sort of self-aware meditation on Personal tragedy, division in our society, and wonderful miracle; God dies that
the present—by focusing on one’s and world events all seem conspired to we might live! Like the Psalmist, we cry
own breathing, for example—as a way draw our attention away from Christ. in surprised delight: “What is man that
of achieving greater calm and other It’s a situation Jochen Klepper describes You are mindful of him?” (Psalm 8:4).
psychological benefits. all too well: “Nights will bring their In this issue, we seek to be mindful
I don’t pretend to know how sadness and rob our hearts of peace, of the “mind”—both God’s mind
effective the practice of mindfulness and sin in all its madness around us may towards us as well as the state of our
is for managing mental health. Some increase” (LSB 337). own minds. Rev. Ling Pui Yeong
people seem to find it helpful; others No, we do not always feel peace in unpacks what it means for us to have the
may not. And there seems to be no this world. Our minds wander all too “mind of Christ” (page six). Rev. Adam
consensus on its use among medical often. All too often our eyes slip from Chandler, meanwhile, encourages us
experts. But regardless of its potential Christ to settle on things below. to be “Christian philosophers” and use
health benefits, there is no denying the What good news it is then to well the minds we have been given as
importance of mindfulness as a spiritual know that our Saviour’s mind does we seek to understand the world God
practice. Christians are called to keep not similarly wander! The Israelites, has made (page nine). Finally, Jennifer
their minds focused and attentive. The worried that God had abandoned them Kerr discusses mental health, drawing
only question is this: on what exactly in the exile, were once comforted out the connections between the health
should we set our minds? through the prophet Isaiah. “I will not of the mind and the teachings of our
St. Paul gives us a clear and forget you,” God promised the people. faith (page twelve). I pray their words
straightforward answer: “Set your “Behold, I have engraved you on the help you to see Christ more clearly and
minds on things that are above, not on palms of My hands” (49:15-16). fix your mind upon Him ever more.
things that are on earth” (Colossians He makes the same promise to us Oh God, as a magnet draws iron,
3:2). And the author of Hebrews is even today. Our God does not forget us; draw our wandering hearts and minds
more clear, telling us to keep our eyes He remains deeply and intimately to You. Set our eyes upon Your Son.
focused on Christ (12:2). concerned with every aspect of our And when we fail to keep Him in mind,
When we look instead to the cares of lives. He watches over us at all times dear Father, remind us. Grant us Your
this world, there are grave consequences (Proverbs 15:3). He is never far from Spirit, Lord, to comfort us with the
for faith, as Jesus warns (Mark 4:18-19). any of us (Acts 17:27). Indeed, He is knowledge of Your own vigilant watch
But keeping our eyes on our Saviour with us always and forever (Matthew over us—Your own mindfulness—and
brings peace, even in the midst of pain 28:20). And even though our minds give us peace.
and sorrow. “To set the mind on the drift from Him, He keeps us ever in “And the peace of God, which
flesh is death,” St. Paul writes, “but mind. For even “if we are faithless, He surpasses all understanding, will
to set the mind on the Spirit is life and remains faithful” (2 Timothy 2:13). guard your hearts and your
peace” (Romans 8:5-6). So too Isaiah The only thing He ever forgets is our minds in Christ Jesus.”
says: “You keep him in perfect peace sin (Isaiah 43:25; Hebrews 8:12). So - Philippians 4:7 -
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 5

THE M
OF CH by Ling P
W
hat is the mind of God? What does God think
about? And, more specifically, what is the mind
of Christ? Do you know? Can we know God’s
mind in the first place?
Well, what does the Word of God say? Paul himself
asks: “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as
to instruct Him” (1 Corinthians
2:16, paraphrasing Isaiah 40:13).
And yet, right after quoting from
Isaiah, Paul continues: “But we "We can k
have the mind of Christ.”
Now, Paul is not making a
distinction between the mind of
mind of
God and the mind of Christ—as
though they are two different
things and we have one but not
because
revealed
the other. In fact, we have the
mind of God, through Christ, by
the working of the Holy Spirit. It
is true that we cannot know nor
even get a glimpse of God’s mind,
and we certainly cannot instruct
His W
Him. But Paul explains: “For who
knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of that person,
which is in him? So also no one comprehends the thoughts
of God except the Spirit of God” (2:11).
But this Spirit of God has been given to us! Paul
continues: “Now we have received not the spirit of the world,
but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand
the things freely given us by God” (2:12). Finally, he says:
“And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom

MIND
HRIST
Pui Yeong
but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those

who are spiritual” (2:13). This is why Paul can say at the
end of the chapter “We have the mind of Christ.” We can
know the mind of Christ because He has revealed it to us in
His Word. Broadly speaking, God tells us what He thinks,
through His written Word. To say otherwise is to deny the
working of the Holy Spirit and the
truthfulness of Scripture.
know the But what, specifically, is this

“mind of Christ” that we have
Mosaic of Christ in Marijampolė: A. Matuliauskas, 1997. CC BY-SA 4.0.

received? We find the answer
f Christ, in Philippians 2, in which Paul
encourages Christians to have
the mind of Christ. He begins
e He has the chapter by instructing the
Philippians to “complete [his] joy
it to us in
by having the same mind, having
the same love, same spirit, and the
same thinking/attitude” (2:2). He
Word." then explains what this looks like

in verses 3-4: “Do nothing from
selfish ambition or empty pride,
but in humility count others more
significant than yourselves, not looking at your own things/
interests, but also the interests of others.” Then he shifts the
focus from what we are to have to what we have in Jesus:
“Have this mind among yourselves, which is also in Christ
Jesus…” And this mind of Christ is that, though He was in the
form of God, He did not count equality with God, but humbled
Himself by taking on the form of a servant, being born as a
man so that He could be obedient to the point of death, even

death on a cross. This is the mind or attitude we are to have, Christ was raised from the dead, we too might walk in newness
so that we may also humble ourselves and be fellow servants of life (Romans 6:4). In other words, the transformation and
for the sake of our brothers and sisters, out of love. the renewal of our minds—the renewal of our entire being—
But this is not the mind that we all have, at all times. begins and continues in Christ through baptism.
In fact, we often have a mind of our own that is contrary Going back to Romans 12, Paul calls this sacrificial living
to Christ’s mind. So then how can we have this mind of a “reasonable” or “true” service to God. When we talk about
Christ in ourselves, as Paul admonishes? Is Paul merely this “mind of Christ,” therefore, it is not merely an abstract
saying all this as accusatory Law just to show us our sins? idea about something that Jesus thinks, nor is it something
Does he not actually expect any humility and love from that merely happens intellectually inside our heads, but
believers? Surely not! it involves our entire
So, if Paul does being. For the mind of
expect this mind of Christ, as explained in
Christ to be at work in Philippians 2, is to live a
Christian, how do we
get it? Is it produced by
our own power, reason,
The life of servitude, serving
God and serving our
neighbours.
or strength? Read in
isolation, Romans 12:2
may seem to suggest
mind So, do we have
the mind of Christ?
Most certainly! For
of Christ
that it is a work we effect the Holy Spirit has
on our own: “Do not be not only given His
conformed to this world/ Word for us to know (1
that we have
age, but be transformed Corinthians 2) but has
by the renewal of the also washed us through
mind.” But this must that Word (Ephesians
be understood in light 5:26)—a washing
of verse 1, which is the
key verse that connects
the earlier chapters to
is of regeneration and
renewal (Titus 3:5). In
this way then, as Luther
the rest of the epistle.
Paul writes: “I appeal to
you therefore, brothers,
also explains in the Small
Catechism, the Holy
Spirit calls, gathers,
by the mercies of God,
to present your bodies
as a living sacrifice,
the enlightens, sanctifies,
and keeps us in Christ.
By His renewal and
holy and well-pleasing
to God, which is
your reasonable/true
cross. transformation, we
have the mind of
Christ—a mind that
worship/service.” desires the things of
The key words here God, an attitude that
are “living sacrifice,” which, if you think about it, are desires to love and serve God and one another.
something of an oxymoron. Generally speaking, a sacrifice To sum it all up in one word, it is the cross. The mind
is something that is offered to be killed. A sacrifice has of Christ is the cross—the service He performs for us by
to die. But Paul calls us living sacrifice. So, which is it? dying on the cross for the sins of the whole world. The mind
Are we to be dead or are we to be alive? Of course, the of Christ that we have is also that cross, which we have
good Lutheran answer is: “Yes!” We are to be both dead received through baptism, through which Christ continues
and alive. to serve us—that we may repent and believe, that we may
How does this happen? Through Christ, as Paul tells us die and rise with Him daily, and that we may be renewed
in Romans 6:10-11: “For the death He died He died to sin, and strengthened to also carry the cross.
once for all, but the life He lives He lives to God. So you
also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God
in Christ Jesus.” And of course, this is what baptism effects
for us as we are united with Christ in baptism—for we were Rev. Ling Pui Yeong is pastor of Trinity Evangelical
buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Lutheran Church in Toronto, Ontario.

"The School of Athens": Raphael, 1509-1511.
LOVERS OF
WISDOM
CHRISTIANS AND THE RIGHT USE OF PHILOSOPHY

by Adam Chandler
“W
hat does Athens have to do with Jerusalem?” Later philosophical schools would similarly introduce other
This was a question posed by the early damaging heresies into the church.
Christian theologian, Tertullian. Paraphrased, Philosophy can be dangerous, but even Tertullian, for all
we can understand this to mean: “What does Greek philosophy his concern about philosophy, didn’t reject everything about
have to do with Christianity?” Athens, after all, was the historic it. He uses basic philosophical reasoning and argumentation
centre of Greek philosophical thought, while Jerusalem is the to uphold Christianity in the very book in which he warned
city where our Lord died and rose again. against using Greek philosophy. In the same way, we too
The question is rhetorical. Tertullian was basically warning rely on philosophical principles as we go about our lives and
that Christianity should have no fellowship with non-Christian articulate our Christian faith. Whenever we try to make sense
philosophy. The fear was that these Greek philosophies of the world and our place in it, whenever we use logic and
might confuse or even dominate Christian thought and life. reason, we are doing philosophy.
In fact, Tertullian saw this philosophy as the source for Over the centuries, Christianity has sought to discern
several heresies in the Church. For example, the theology of which philosophy is helpful for developing theology and
Platonism—the dominant philosophy in Tertullian’s day— which is harmful. The Platonic theology in Tertullian’s day
eventually became confused with Christianity and helped give led to heresy; but Platonic approaches to logic and ontology
rise to a heresy in which the Father was seen as the source of (the study of being and existence) have proven helpful for
all things, while the Son was understood to be a second god. Christians as we seek to understand certain concepts in

Scripture. The key is to remember who is in charge: we by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:13). We should therefore
must let God’s Word be master over our philosophy, and think and study in the earnest prayer that God will show us
not let philosophy dictate our understanding of who God true wisdom. “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth
is and what He says. come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6).
The Bible itself uses philosophical reasoning. For In fact, that’s what the word “philosophy” literally means:
example, in Romans, St. Paul uses the argument of cause and “love of wisdom.” And why shouldn’t we be lovers of
effect to say that God’s attributes can be observed from the wisdom? Well, there is a big difference between the wisdom of
creation. This philosophical deduction is good! But St. Paul God and the wisdom of the world. The wisdom of God appears
goes on to explain that people reject this logical deduction to be foolishness to human beings. It might seem foolish to
due to original sin (see Romans 1:18-21). have your great and powerful Saviour die upon a cross. Yet
The word “philosophy” itself appears in Scripture only this is how our Lord, in His wisdom, brought about salvation
once, when St. Paul warns the Colossians: “See to it that for the world. This “foolishness” of God is wiser than anything
no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, which humans have imagined (1 Corinthians 1:25). This is
according to human tradition, according to the elemental why, after warning against worldly philosophies, St. Paul says
spirits of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians that these teachings have only “an appearance of wisdom”
2:8). Taken in isolation, this paints philosophy in a rather and “are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh”
negative light. Yet, like all Scripture, the verse must be read in (Colossians 2:23). Human wisdom cannot stop sin and death,
context. In this book, St. Paul is using the word “philosophy” unlike God’s wisdom in Christ. We
to refer to human traditions which denied Christ (2:18-23)—
teachings which deny, in effect, what God says about Himself.
We must not let our personal understanding or worldly
should aspire to love the wisdom of
God which saves from death and
establishes true righteousness—that
A Christian p
beliefs dictate our understanding of who God is or what He
says. God shapes our theology, along with our philosophy,
is, we should aspire to be Christian
philosophers. considers ho
to think a
A Christian philosopher
considers how we ought to think
about and proclaim the wisdom of
God in Christ Jesus on the basis of
Scripture. Consider the two natures
of Christ. When we read Scripture,
proclaim th
we find passages that identify
Jesus with human attributes as well God in Chris
the basis of
as divine attributes. As a result,
Detail of Plato from "The School of Athens": Raphael, 1509-1511 (altered).
we confess Christ is both God

and man. Then, on the basis of
Scripture, we can go further. This unified person of Jesus
shed His blood on the cross; therefore, we can say that God
bled on the cross for our salvation (Acts 20:28) although
Christ’s divine nature does not bleed. The person of Christ,
who is God, bled for our salvation.
Is this confusing? Yes. Can we explore all these
mysteries of God using philosophy? No. What matters is
that our minds are held captive to God’s Word and its truth,
not inventing things which God does not say.
Worldly philosophy has its limits, then, but it also has its
uses. In Scripture, we read: “The Lord by wisdom founded the
earth; by understanding He established the heavens” (Proverbs
3:19). The Lord established His entire creation by His wisdom,
and we can observe this design, this ordering truth, within the
universe. Christ calls Himself the Truth (John 14:6) because
He is the true light that brought life into the universe—and He
still enlightens us (John 1:4, 9). If we pursue truth honestly,
then, we will see the evidence of how God has structured the
universe in His wisdom and power (Romans 1:20); this is the
principle underlying Christian scientific endeavor.

These ordering truths are visible in the revelation of is gender just a word that can be socially constructed? Can
creation. You don’t need to look to Scripture in order to “your truth” of how you see yourself disagree with the
understand that chemicals react in certain ways, how light physical reality of your body? What is a woman anyway?
functions, or that mathematical equations are true. Scripture In the end, the pushback against objective truth today is
does not need to speak on these things in order for humanity ultimately a pushback against Christ. For He is Truth, and He
to understand that they are true. But neither do these things created the objective truths which we see at work in the world.
deny God’s revelation in Scripture. He established this world with fundamental governing laws.
In the same way, we are able to observe that the As we promote and defend Christianity, then, we inevitably
basic principles of philosophy (on questions of being, will appeal to these truths, guided always by Scripture.
existence, logic, and so forth) are true as well, in so far as What, then, does Athens have to do with Jerusalem?
they faithfully describe the world which God has created. Quite a lot, it turns out. We live in Athens—in the world—
Philosophical ideas which oppose Scripture and nature and so we will always be with the secular philosophers.
itself, meanwhile, must be rejected. Learning to distinguish But we need Jerusalem—Christian theology—to structure
one from the other is essential for everyday life. our philosophy. Without Jerusalem, Athens loses its way
And yes, you are doing philosophy in your everyday life. and cannot find true wisdom to love each other in Christ.
You might imagine that philosophy is something restricted
to the alcoves of universities, or perhaps the dustiest “Behold, the fear of the Lord: that is wisdom.
bookshelves in a bookshop. But And to turn away from evil is understanding.”
philosopher we all make basic philosophical

assumptions all the time.
The most obvious are
Job 28:28
ow we ought fundamental laws of logic. Consider

the Law of Non-Contradiction:
Rev. Adam Chandler is pastor of Hope Lutheran
Church in Victoria, B.C.
about and
something cannot be both true
and not true at the same time. For
example, when you see the sun
he wisdom of shining without a cloud in the

sky, you likely don’t put on your
raincoat. You know that, since it
st Jesus on
Detail of Jesus from "The Sermon on the Mount": Henrik Olrik, 19th century (altered).
is true that it is sunny, the weather
cannot also be not sunny at the same
f Scripture.
time. The weather being sunny
and not sunny at the same time is
a logical contradiction. In other
words, you’re doing philosophy, even if you’ve never heard
the term “the Law of Non-Contradiction.”
What other philosophy might we be doing without
noticing? In truth, we are all driven by philosophical
assumptions and worldviews. If people hold certain ideas
to be true or wise, then these ideas will form the basis of
their philosophical view of the world. Christians adopt a
Christian philosophy in which we believe that there is real
truth and wisdom in the world which comes from God.
Therefore, we believe in objective truth. But many of those
outside the Church reject objective truth; they create their
own truth based on personal experience and preferences.
In this postmodern philosophy, truth is subjective; there is
“your truth” and “my truth” but no objective truth that can
prove your truth or my truth to be right or wrong.
People today are moving further and further away from
belief in objective truth. Christians see this, of course, in
the world’s abandonment of Christ and His Word. But we
see it in other fields too. Consider contemporary questions
of gender identity. Is gender real—an objective truth? Or

Connecting
Faith and
Mental Health
by Jennifer Kerr
W
hen it comes to discussions of mental I am a marriage and family therapist, and I studied at
health, many Christians today aren’t a Christian institution where each course of my degree
sure how to respond. This summer, for integrated the history and practice of the counselling field
example, I was invited to speak on mental with biblical concepts and a ministry focus. One of my
health at the IMPACT Youth Gathering in Grand Forks, goals in becoming a marriage and family therapist was
B.C. When my subject was announced online, a woman to serve the mental and relational health of the Christian
named Nicole asked how the talk would connect to the community, especially my Lutheran faith family. It is very
Bible and Lutheran faith. (I important to me to ground my
mention this story with her work in who God is and who
permission.) Nicole noted that
mental health is a mainstream
Our faith can help us He created us to be. I grapple
with what that looks like and
better understand and

topic to which her kids how it works every day, just
were already well-exposed. as all of us do in our own
I appreciated her concern. vocations. It is not an easy
While we hear a lot of talk
about mental health today in
Canada, much of that talk does
nurture our mental journey, but I am so grateful
for the chance to serve and care
for others.
not honour God as the Way, the
Truth, or the Life that we know
Him to be.
health experience. There are many points of
connection between faith and
mental health, which teach us
I understand how that can how our faith can help us better
make many Christians feel that the mental health understand and nurture our mental health experience—and
conversation is not for them, or that it has nothing helpful how the wider conversation about mental health is better
to say to them. But we do not need to be wary or suspicious when God is the foundation. I have chosen three points of
of mental health discussions as people of faith. In fact, connection to share in this article.
as Lutherans, we are uniquely equipped to enter into the The first point is that mental health is not simply an
discussion to share, serve, and love. individual issue, but one best understood systemically.

Each of us lives within many different systems: family, language, calling us to
culture, religion, economics, employment, education, social understand ourselves as part of a
network, and more. Each of these systems impacts how our whole. Our God is a God of systems!
lives feel to us. If there is health, support, and opportunity When the discipline of counselling began, it was
within these systems, it impacts us positively. If there is very much seen in individual terms. The goal of
Sunrise photo by Sallu7356816643 (CC BY-SA 4.0) combined with Puzzle

abuse, isolation, lack of support, and by-products of sin, psychoanalysis, the school of mental health work that
overlay by Willi Heidelbach (CC BY 2.0), both via Wikimedia Commons.

that hurts our overall mental health experience. started with Sigmund Freud, was to help people heal
This systemic understanding by exploring the content of
of mental health is very much the unconscious part of the
in line with who we know God
to be and how we understand
The wider conversation mind and bringing it into
our conscious awareness.
about mental health is

His creation. Our God is Psychoanalytic concepts and
Trinity—God in Three Persons, strategies are still used in
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, certain kinds of counselling
indivisible and irreducible. God
created in the natural world all
sorts of interrelated systems
better when God is the today, but many researchers
and practitioners see their
application as limited.
that cannot function without
one another. Think of our solar
system, our water, nitrogen,
foundation. As a therapist, I can
help clients connect their
unconscious motivations with
and carbon cycles, even the their conscious experience, and
digestive, respiratory, and circulatory systems within our it may help them a great deal. But if they go home to parents
own bodies. who are fighting and to schools where they are bullied or
God also created us to be community, part of a system ostracized, if they do not feel safe and cared for within the
of believers. As Romans 12 reminds us, we are called to systems of their lives, they may still be in a lot of pain. As
be the body of Christ, sharing our gifts and abilities with a systemic counsellor, I help clients explore the impact of
others and belonging to one another. This is connection systems like these, acknowledging that our systems make

life beautiful in some ways When it comes to a person who has hurt us, we can both
and very difficult in others. have compassion for them and their struggles while also
It may seem discouraging being deeply angry for the pain they have inflicted. When
to acknowledge the it comes to personal growth, we can both be proud of
complexity of mental health, ourselves for where we are and still challenge ourselves
because it means there are to learn and be accountable.
few simple fixes. But learning As helpful as holding a both/and can be, it can also
to view our mental health be difficult. We often experience cognitive or emotional
systemically can help us be more tension when we are trying to hold a both/and, as we feel
compassionate to ourselves and others, a pull or pressure to simplify the experience into an either/
to work together to realize healing and growth in our or. This is a concept I discuss and practice with many of
systems, and, above all, to trust in the presence, peace, my clients, and it can be quite difficult for them at first. As
and power of God to work in this complexity in ways we Christians, however, I believe we are primed to understand
never could on our own. this idea more than most.
A second connection point between faith and mental As Lutherans, we encounter many both/ands. In
health is related to this systemic understanding, but it takes his commentary on the epistle to the Romans, Martin
our systemic awareness from Luther reminds us that we
what surrounds the human self are both saints and sinners.
to what makes up the human
self. As intricate and beloved It is very important to We believe that the Kingdom
of God is both here now and
human beings, created by God, also not yet fully realized,
each of us is an incredible
system of systems, all working
realize that care for our as that will finally happen
at Christ’s second coming.
together to live the life God has Perhaps the most integral both/
given us. Each of us is a body, a
mind, and a spirit, all in one. All
spiritual and physical and is the complete divinity
and complete humanity of
our self-systems are impacted
by one another.
Have you ever been
health is also care for our Lord and Saviour—
something so important to
our faith that the Apostles,
stressed and experienced
muscle tension or a stomach-
ache? Have you ever gotten
our mental health; the Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds
were all developed to help the
Church hold this truth well. As
some physical exercise
and felt calmer and more
positive? Or received Word
systems are indivisible Christians, we accept both/ands
all the time—and that practice
can aid us in applying the
and Sacrament in a wonderful
worship service, and felt from one another. concept to our mental health.
These three connections
worry and pain melt into the are not the only ways we can
background? Proverbs 17:22 bring our faith and mental
says: “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed health together, but they are a great place to start. It is my
spirit dries up the bones.” What happens in one part of hope that, as with many challenging cultural topics, we
the self-system impacts the whole. can reflect on how our faith gives us important wisdom to
Even though I am a mental health counsellor, I share. May God give us the words to say, the heart to love,
recognize that what happens in the minds or spirits of my and the Spirit to sit with God’s children in their difficulty.
clients affects their bodies. It is very important to realize
that care for our spiritual and physical health is also care
for our mental health; the systems are indivisible from one
another as part of our human self—a self that is wholly
created, beloved, and redeemed. Jennifer Kerr, MAMFT, works with Regina-area
The third connection point is the concept of both/
clients at The Caring Place, a mental health not-
and. This is a simple way of expressing how complex
our experience of human life is. When it comes to our for-profit, as well as virtually with clients across
emotions, we can be both happy and sad at the same western Canada as part of the Through Therapy
time, or frustrated and grateful, or excited and anxious. Counselling Collective (www.throughtherapy.ca).

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CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
Appeal hearings held in Finland's “Bible Trial”
Bishop Juhana Pohjola (left) and Dr. Päivi Räsänen (right) at the appeal hearings in Helsinki. Photo: ELMDF.
FINLAND – The latest round of “I’m overwhelmed by the support new evidence, instead arguing that the
hearings in Finland’s “Bible Trial” and prayers pouring out from all over judges in the district court failed to
have now come to a close. Hearings the world,” said Bishop Pohjola. apply the law appropriately. The appeal
were held August 31 to September 1 “This is very encouraging for us in centered, as the initial trial did, on the
at the Helsinki Court of Appeals. the ELMDF, and for Dr. Räsänen and religious beliefs of the defendants and
Bishop Juhana Pohjola of the me personally.” the public expression of their faith.
Evangelical Lutheran Mission The two were first investigated “In the court today, although
Diocese of Finland (ELMDF) and in 2019, charged in 2021, and put on the prosecutor said that this is not
Finnish Member of Parliament, Dr. trial in 2022. They were ultimately about theological issues, the case
Päivi Räsänen, have been charged acquitted by a three-judge panel nevertheless dealt with many basic
with hate crimes for their articulation who declared: “It is not the role of questions of Christian doctrine:
of historic Christian teaching on the district court to interpret biblical what is creation, what is the Bible,
human sexuality. The statements concepts.” The prosecution appealed what is God’s love, what is sin,”
objected to by the prosecution the decision, however, leading to the Bishop Pohjola remarked. “That is
include a 2004 booklet authored new hearings in Helsinki. what is shocking: the prosecution
by Dr. Räsänen and published by “This has been a tiring process— is arguing that such religious and
Bishop Pohjola, a radio discussion already four years since its biblical teachings should not be
by Dr. Räsänen, and a tweet by Dr. beginning—and in many ways the protected in and of themselves, and
Räsänen which included a picture of process itself is punitive,” noted that restrictions should be put on our
a Bible verse. Bishop Pohjola. “But it is also an speech. But in a free society, there
The trial has drawn international opportunity for us to give good must be room for religious groups to
concern over the state of freedom of witness to biblical truth, to God’s publicly teach and confess their faith.”
religion and freedom of speech in created order, and to His grace in A judgment from the Helsinki
Finland. The International Lutheran Christ Jesus.” Court of Appeals is due by
Council is urging continued prayer The appeal hearings did not see November 30.
for the defendants. the prosecution present any substantial ILC News

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
LCMS convention welcomes LCC president
LCMS President Matthew Harrison and LCC President Timothy Teuscher greet one another during the convention. Photo: LCMS
Communications/Frank Kohn.
USA – The Lutheran Church— of LCMS partner churches. The on “Unity in Christ and Unity in
Missouri Synod (LCMS) held its forum brought together more than Confession.” Rev. Dr. Peter Scaer
68 th synodical convention July 40 representatives of international of Concordia Theological Seminary
28 to August 3 in Milwaukee, church bodies each morning for (Fort Wayne, Indiana) presented
Wisconsin, during which time the four days to hear and discuss issues “Excursus on Unity in the Church—
church newly recognized or affirmed related to interchurch relationships. Life Ministry as Confession of
fellowship with five church bodies: “It was an honour to represent Christ.” Rev. Dr. Rick Stuckwisch,
the Evangelical Lutheran Church LCC at the synodical convention of President of the LCMS’ Indiana
of South Sudan/Sudan (ELCSS/S); our mother church, The Lutheran District, addressed “Unity in the
the Evangelical Lutheran Mission Church—Missouri Synod,” Way of Worship: Altar and Pulpit
Diocese of Finland (ELMDF); said President Teuscher. “The Fellowship Practices and Liturgical
the Lutheran Church of Uganda international forum was also a Integrity. Lastly, Rev. Dr. Jonathan
(LCU); the Evangelical Lutheran valuable opportunity to meet with Shaw, LCMS Director of Church
Church of Ukraine (ELCU); and representatives of other confessional Relations, gave an address on
the Ceylon Evangelical Lutheran Lutheran church bodies in order to “The Kerygma of Christ Crucified:
Church (CELC). discuss possible areas of cooperation Uniting the Church in Working
Lutheran Church–Canada and reflect on our mutual witness to Together.”
President Timothy Teuscher was the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
present as a guest at the convention, Four papers were presented
which also featured for the first during the forum: Rev. Michael
time an International Church Frese, Assistant to the LCMS
Relations Forum for representatives Director of Church Relations, spoke

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
New General Secretary for the ILC

WORLD – The International
Lutheran Council’s (ILC) Board of
Directors has appointed Rev. Dr.
Klaus Detlev Schulz to serve as the
ILC’s new General Secretary.
“I am honoured to have been asked to
serve as General Secretary of the ILC,”
Dr. Schulz said. “Today, the task of
promoting and nurturing Confessional
Lutheran identity worldwide is as
important as it has ever been, and I am
proud to do my part in that endeavor.”
Dr. Schulz is Professor of Pastoral
Ministry and Missions at Concordia
Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne,
Indiana, and further serves the seminary
as Dean of Graduate Studies; Director
of the PhD in Missiology program; and
Director of International Studies. Dr.
Schulz will continue to serve in these Rev. Dr. Timothy Quill (right) welcomes new ILC General Secretary Klaus Detlev Schulz.
positions even as he takes on his new
role as ILC General Secretary. leaders of confessional Lutheran as General Secretary. However, it is
Dr. Schulz succeeds Rev. Dr. church bodies across the world. time for me to step aside and for a new
Ti m o t h y Q u i l l , w h o p u b l i c l y The installation of Dr. Schulz as General Secretary to be appointed.”
announced his decision to step down General Secretary was scheduled Dr. Quill was appointed General
as General Secretary in early October. to take place on October 14 during Secretary in 2019 during a meeting
Originally from South Africa, ILC anniversary celebrations in of the ILC Board of Directors in
Dr. Schulz holds a Bachelor of Arts Wittenberg, Germany. Baguio City, Philippines. His tenure
degree from the University of Natal Dr. Quill notified members of the over the past four years has seen the
in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa; a ILC’s board of directors earlier this ILC continue to grow as an important
Master of Divinity from the Lutherische year of his intention to step down as voice for confessional Lutheranism
Theologische Hochschule in Oberursel, General Secretary. on the world stage. Activities which
Germany; a Master of Sacred Theology “We feel deep gratitude and took place during Dr. Quill’s service
from Concordia Theological Seminary appreciation for Dr. Quill’s leadership as General Secretary include the
(CTS) in Fort Wayne, Indiana; and a over the past four years,” said ILC development of the ILC’s Accreditation
Doctor of Theology from Concordia Chairman Juhana Pohjola. “He has an Agency; the graduation of the first
Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. unwavering commitment of service students from the ILC’s Lutheran
Dr. Schulz began serving as a to the Gospel of Christ Jesus and His Leadership Development Program;
professor at CTS in 1998. Previously, he Church. We thank our Lord for our major activities in defense of religious
served in parish ministry in Germany, dear brother and his faithful service.” liberty; the authorization of continued
as well as in Botswana as a missionary. In a letter to the board, Dr. Quill dialogue with Roman Catholics on the
He has published widely in the areas of notes that he accepted the position international level; and the 2022 World
missions and systematic theology. of General Secretary with the Conference in Kenya.
Dr. Schulz brings to his new role intention of helping the ILC through “I want to express my sincere thanks
extensive experience in international a significant transitional period, a to the International Lutheran Council
church relations, having travelled and period he anticipated would take for allowing me to serve our Lord as
taught extensively throughout Africa, about three years. “Where has the General Secretary of this marvelous
South America, Europe, and Asia. In time gone?” he writes. “As I write confessional Lutheran association,”
his role as Dean of Graduate Studies this letter, my tenure with the ILC is Dr. Quill writes in his letter. “You will
at the Fort Wayne seminary, Dr. Schulz one month short of four years. I still always be in my thoughts and prayers.”
has also cultivated relations with many consider it a joy and privilege to serve ILC News

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
ILC holds European regional conference

Siberia from possible with other church bodies;
being present. and reflection on the COVID-19
The main pandemic and how it has changed
topics for congregational and synodical lives,
discussion particularly noting what was not
were: the latest ‘changing back’.
news from the The war in Ukraine has affected the
churches; the region variously—some specifically
situation in (as in Russia) while for other churches
Ukraine and it has raised past tensions and fears,
Russia, which with all churches, to varying degrees,
led to a wider seeking to support refugees. As always,
discussion of there are opportunities presented about
church life how to serve in specific situations, and
w h e n o n e ’s sadly lots of hardship, but throughout
GERMANY – The European country is at war, as well as questions the two days there was a strong
Region of the International Lutheran around church relations when other confidence that Jesus never abandons
Council (ILC) held its 2023 Regional churches are designated ‘friend’ or His people. Members agreed that
Conference from June 13-14 in ‘foe’ because of the conflict; a review all need to keep reconciliation—the
Essen, Germany. Representatives of the ILC’s 2022 World Conference in Gospel—in focus as churches deal
from most member churches in the Kenya; a discussion of ecumenism in with the many levels of hostilities and
region were able to attend but work, representatives’ respective countries, fears arising out of the situation, being
visa issues, and deaths in the family and whether member churches were aware that the effects of this war will
prevented representatives from finding themselves increasingly be generational.
the Norwegian churches and from isolated or drawing together where ILC News
German and Latvian Lutherans declare fellowship

GERMANY – The Independent it the doctrine of the Lutheran Church brothers and
Eva ngelical L uther an Ch u r ch is faithfully presented.” sisters of
(Selbständige Evangelisch Bishop Voigt went on to say that SELK in an
Lutherische Kirche – SELK) of SELK wants to continue working even deeper
Germany held the first meeting to deepen ecclesiastical relations sense,” Rev.
of its 15 th Synod in Gotha from between the two churches, particularly Kraulins
June 13-17, during which time the by bringing congregations and church continued.
church declared fellowship with ministries into greater contact with “Our Lord
the Evangelical Lutheran Church one another than has been the case Christ is
of Latvia (Latvijas Evaņģēliski in the past. pleased that
Luteriskā Baznīca – LELB). Rev. Andris Kraulins, head of the a t a t i m e Rev. Andris Kraulins.
SELK Bishop Hans-Jörg Voigt LELB’s department for international when many
greeted the fellowship declaration affairs, was also present as a guest are divided and the world emphasizes
with joy. “Such ecclesial communion at SELK’s Synod in Gotha. “Our only the individual needs of each, we
is a gift that we can only gratefully relationship with SELK began almost are united in Him!”
state and accept,” he said. “The 30 years ago,” he noted. “During This was the inaugural meeting
relationship between our churches these years, we have been by each of the SELK’s 15th Synod. Additional
has grown steadily over the past other’s side in joys and sorrows. We meetings are scheduled to take place
three decades. We are united in our have learned from each other and in 2024 and 2025, with the former
commitment to the Holy Scriptures of strengthened each other in faith.” being an online consultation and the
the Old and New Testaments, as well “We at LELB are very happy latter being an in-person gathering.
as to the Book of Concord, because in because we are united with our ILC News

NATIONAL NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
An update on the CAAT Pension Plan merger

CANADA – Worker Benefit Services,
(WBS), is pleased to report that
the Alberta Pension Regulator has
formally approved the transfer of
the Defined Benefits (DB) pension
assets (and liabilities) held in the LCC
Pension Plan to the CAAT Pension
Plan (“Plan Merger”).
WBS expects that the transfer
of DB assets will be completed
by mid-November 2023. Once the
assets are transferred to the CAAT
Pension Plan, CAAT will assume
responsibility for the payment of
pensions that were earned under will have a choice from several Retirement Account (LIRA),
the LCC plan prior to the effective options in terms of how they would with another financial
date of the merger, April 1, 2023. like to handle their DC account institution.
As of April 1, Active members have balance, including: • Transferring their DC
been earning their future pension • Using their DC account account balance to Sun- Life’s
benefits under the CAAT DB plus balance to purchase additional Group Choices Plan where
pension plan. pension under CAAT’s DB they can continue to invest
As previously communicated, plus plan for eligible periods their funds.
only the DB assets of the LCC of employment.
Pension Plan are being transferred • Using their DC account More detailed information on
to CAAT. So the next step in the balance to purchase an annuity these options will be circulated to
process of winding up the LCC from an insurance company. members in later communication.
pension plan will be the dispersal • Transferring their DC CAAT will also be conducting a few
of member assets held in the DC account balance into other webinars in November to explain DB
component of the pension plan. eligible registered retirement plus purchases.
Each member with a DC account vehicle such as a Locked-in
Nominations received for Director of Domestic Missions

CANADA – Lutheran Church– he will develop and maintain an
Canada (LCC) is reporting progress overall mission and works of mercy
on its search for a Director of plan and philosophy for LCC that
Domestic Missions. reflects the strategic directions and
A request for nominations for priorities of the LCC Board, and
the position of Director of Domestic remains faithful to Scripture and the
Missions was emailed to the pastors Lutheran Confessions.
and congregations of Lutheran As of the deadline of September
Church–Canada, and was also 30, ten nominations for the position
included in the InfoDigest newsletter. had been received. All nominees have
The Director of Domestic Missions since been contacted for their consent
will lead and manage LCC’s Canadian to be considered for the position.
missions and works of mercy outreach. Upon their reply, interviews will be
In consultation with the President and held with the intention to have the
Director of International Missions, position filled by January 1, 2024.

NATIONAL NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
LCC congregations reach out amidst wildfires

About 22 households were forced to
evacuate or were otherwise displaced,
representing about ten percent of the
congregation—including the families
of two church staff. Evacuated members
stayed with family, friends, other
congregation members, or in campers.
For Rev. Keith Reisdorf, the
call of the church in situations like
this is clear. “Pastoral care revolves
around encouraging those who are
anxious, traumatized, and fearful,”
he explains, as well as providing
help “to those who remain displaced
or are experiencing property losses.”
As with other grief ministries, the
church must offer a “listening ear,
Rev. Jonathan Asmus of Redeemer Lutheran shares a message of comfort under empathy, compassion, encourage
the smoke-filled skies of West Kelowna. lament, and provide hope according
to the promises found in God’s Word.”
CANADA – As Canada experiences as well as the home of Rev. Jonathan The continuing ministry of the
its worst wildfire season on record, Asmus remained a few kilometres church and the proclamation of God’s
Canadian Lutherans have been reaching outside the evacuation zone, but he and Word can be an anchor to people
out with comfort, prayer, and support his wife stayed in close contact with who have felt their world shaken by
to those affected. In total, more than 18 members to ensure everyone had a safe wildfires. “We attempt to keep as many
million hectares (44 million acres) have place to stay and to keep aware of other things as normal as possible within the
burned this summer. needs as they arose. parish,” Rev. Reisdorf noted at the time,
The extent of the crisis became The situation led the congregation “to provide stability and security in a
palpably clear when the capital city to offer a special “Time for Sharing, very abnormal situation.”
of one of Canada’s territories was Comfort, and Prayer.” The event No r d i d t h e s i t u a t i o n end
evacuated. The situation facing featured Scripture readings, hymns, immediately even after the initial
Yellowknife in August led Lutheran prayer, and an opportunity for all those danger had passed. Crews needed to
Church–Canada (LCC) President present to voice their own personal assess damage, clear roads, and remove
Timothy Teuscher to issue a call to needs and concerns, as well as to hear dangers before many displaced people
prayer for wildfires across Canada. words of comfort. were able to return home and see what
Many other communities “Lord, grant rejoicing in Your grace damage, if any, they had suffered.
throughout Canada have faced and deliverance,” Rev. Asmus wrote Locally, Rev. Reisdorf and
evacuation orders this year, including at the time. “And may the reality of Rev. Asmus encouraged members
several served by LCC congregations. Your eternal promise touch people in to volunteer with and donate to
The wildfires which threatened the the now as well, especially for those established emergency services in
Kelowna, B.C. area earlier this who are facing the devastating loss the region. And, of course, they
summer are a key example. As fire of their homes. Praise God for the encouraged continued prayer.
encroached, LCC congregations in extensive efforts and significant work “God’s care remains, also in these
area reached out with comfort and of numerous firefighters, the RCMP, trials and tough times,” Rev. Asmus
support to local residents. emergency services volunteers, and said. “May His peace abide among us,
About a quarter of the members of also the Canadian military, as well and His gracious will be done among
Redeemer Lutheran Church in West as the many local residents who have us, even as He provides for people in
Kelowna suddenly found themselves opened their arms and hearts to assist.” their needs in this place and time—all
under evacuation orders, including Meanwhile in Kelowna, the according to His promise, in the victory
members from both West Kelowna and congregation of First Lutheran Church of Christ Jesus, our Lord.”
Kelowna. The church building itself was likewise affected by the situation.

WEST REGION NEWS
ALBERTA AND BRITISH COLUMBIA • MICHELLE HEUMANN, EDITOR
Sabbath retreat in Edmonton

E D M O N TO N – T h e S a b b a t h
Conference is an annual conference
that serves an important role in
connecting non-pastoral church
workers and volunteers from across
Canada in a way that is tailored to
their unique calling.
This year’s Sabbath Conference
was held May 2-4, 2023, and welcomed
Rev. David Fleming and Dr. Beverly
Yahnke from Doxology: The Lutheran
Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel
as presenters for the retreat. The theme
Photo by Danielle Glubish.
was “Take Heart! Renewed to be a
Blessing.” The retreat offered sessions technology from Concordia Lutheran The next conference will be held
on topics pertaining to spiritual rest Seminary. The ability to use this in the spring of 2024. If you are a non-
and refreshment, including putting the platform enabled the group to not only pastoral church worker or volunteer
best construction on everything; the welcome six online participants, but and would be interested in learning
cost of caring; spiritual self-care using to also have greetings from Concordia more about the Sabbath Conference,
prayer, meditation, and lamentation; Lutheran Theological Seminary. please contact sabbathconference@
and promoting peace in your home The planning committee is grateful gmail.com.
and church. for the support of synod and the Samantha Neeb
The conference was held in- synod family, including Synod Vice- Sabbath Planning Committee
person as well as online, thanks to the President Rev. Michael Schutz who
generous offer of meeting space and served as chaplain for the conference.
100 Years Young: Celebrating a servant of God

NANAIMO, B.C. – May 6 was an called the Clay Tree. Cathy was hired
exciting day for St. Paul’s Lutheran as the administrator and worked there
Church as they celebrated the 100th for more than 20 years. Two of the main
birthday of their dear sister in Christ, activities were making ceramic articles
Cathy Armstrong, with a strawberry tea. and the production of many tables,
Cathy grew up in a Christian home benches, and other wood products.
in Ontario. She was the second of nine These items were sold in a store manned
siblings: seven sisters and two brothers. by a volunteer with the assistance of
Cathy joined the Royal Canadian clients. After Cathy retired, she created
Navy on the East Coast and was then a weekly class of Bible lessons, songs,
transferred to Victoria to attend Royal and prayers which is still known as the
Roads University. She enrolled as Sonshine Class.
Evelyn Catherine Litt, soon to become The name Clay Tree is based on
“Cathy,” and met Phil Armstrong, who two Bible verses: “But now, O Lord,
was also in the service. They married you are our Father; we are the clay and
and were blessed with a daughter and you are our potter; we are all the work
a son. A few years later, they moved to of your Hand” (Isaiah 64:8). And: “He
Nanaimo, so their son could attend a is like a tree planted by streams of water
special school for challenged children. that yields its fruit in its season, and its positions over the 60 years of the
However, there was no facility to leaf does not wither. In all he does, he society. She also served on the Church
meet the needs of challenged adults. prospers” (Psalm 1:3). Council, and knew everyone who
So, in 1957, the Armstrongs, along Cathy is a founding member of St celebrated her special day with her!
with other parents, opened a workshop Paul’s LWMLC and has held numerous Elaine Murphy

WEST REGION NEWS
HOPE WITHOUT
WAVERING
from the regional pastor | rev. robert mohns
I
recently visited Grace Lutheran lash out at one another. We go around God promised that His Saviour
Church in Port Alberni on the finding people and things to blame. Or would reign over all creation—over
occasion of their 75th anniversary. we can let fear paralyze us, believing the entire world. And He is. The
I should have been out there in June, that there is nothing we can do. Or we Saviour promised us that He would
but fires prevented the celebration from take it upon ourselves to make things be with us always, to the very end of
taking place at that time. happen, look within ourselves to be the age. And He is.
The congregation chose Hebrews an agent for change and a catalyst for He has also promised us that He is
10:23 for their anniversary: “Let us transformation. But does any of that coming again—and that on that last and
hold fast the confession of our hope work? Does it produce real hope—hope glorious day He will make us all heirs
without wavering, for He who promised that endures forever? of His kingdom. And He will.
is faithful.” As it turned out, it is a very The book of Hebrews was written You and I are caught up in this
fitting verse. The hoped-for celebration to a people who had been driven promise: “Let us hold fast the confession
did not go forward as planned. off their land and stripped of their of our hope without wavering, for He
The very nature of things that we language and culture, first by Greeks who promised is faithful.” I wonder, if
hope for is that they tend to be out and then Romans. They were constantly the walls of your church building could
of our control. We have no power to harassed, humiliated, and disrespected. talk, what would they say? Would they
make them happen. The congregation But the writer of this epistle, writes to not speak of the faithfulness of God to
had no control over the disaster which them of God’s Word of hope: “Let us fulfill His promises?
blocked the only way in and out of the hold fast the confession of our hope This God who did not spare His
community for weeks. without wavering, for He who promised own Son, but gave Him up for us
We are used to a world where we are is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23). all, how will He not also along with
often disappointed. And where hope is Has God promised that we will Christ graciously give us all things
disappointed, fear takes up its dwelling get everything we want? No. Has He (Romans 8:32)? By the power of His
place. We fear for our safety amid promised that we will always get our word of promise, we hope beyond
growing violence in our communities. way in this life? No. Has He promised hope. We trust, we believe, and we
We fear food and shelter insecurity in that His Word will be accepted in every live, confident in Him.
the midst of disaster and rising costs. We nation? Has He promised that we will And so we do not give up gathering
live in fear of one another so much so never suffer because of that Word? together for worship to receive the
that we fear gathering. And we fear for And has He promised that He will fill promises of forgiveness, life, and
our future wellbeing, with the shortages up your pews, that our congregations salvation which He fulfills in us. We
of health services. would be filled with faithful, perfect, gather for worship, and all the more
And there is fear in our congregations holy, loving, self-sacrificing Christians? so as we see that final day coming
too. We fear shrinking congregations The answer, of course, is no. Life (Hebrews 10:25).
and their longterm viability. We fear here is dirty and messy. Do not turn away from this hope
worker shortages and whether our But He did promise to send us but persevere. Bear up under all
congregation will receive a pastor to His Saviour—a Saviour who would things. Know that the Lord, He is
provide Word and Sacrament ministry. deal with our sin and the sins of all God, and it is He who has you and
At the heart of our fears, whether in people, even those who have rejected will not let go of you—in life and in
the community or in the congregation, His Word. He kept that promise at the death. May He who began this good
is that what we want, what we hope for, cross. He further promised that His work in us bring to completion in that
isn’t going to come true. What happens Saviour would rise from the dead. great and awesome Day of our Lord
when this kind of fear drives us? We And He did, three days later. Jesus Christ. Amen.
22 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023

WEST REGION NEWS
St. Matthew Lutheran grows on Pentecost

CALGARY, Alta. – St. Matthew
Lutheran Church is celebrating its
110th anniversary this year, and is
becoming a multiethnic congregation
with God’s blessing.
On an especially joyful Pentecost
Sunday, May 28, little Sara was
baptized and welcomed into God’s
family. The baptism ceremony was
held in both English and Portuguese,
since Sara’s family and godparents are
from Brazil. Some of the godparents
were participating online from Brazil,
answering the questions asked of
them. Technology allowed them to
witness the precious moment from a brothers and sisters. They sang two That Pentecost Day, God was
distance of 10,900 kilometres! hymns in their native language, worshipped in four languages—
On the same day the congregation Tigrinya. The congregation thanks English, German, Portuguese, and
also welcomed into membership God for these new members of their Tigrinya—all under one roof.
a group of 28 Eritrean Lutheran church family. Rev. Markus Zeuch
First-ever IMPACT Youth Gathering

GRAND FORKS, B.C. – The first-
ever IMPACT Youth Gathering was
held June 30 to July 3 in beautiful Grand
Forks at Pines Bible Camp. A total of
58 youth and 37 adults (many of whom
were young adult volunteers) converged
to be fed by God’s Word, grow together
in fellowship, and be encouraged by the
church body at large.
The IMPACT Youth Gathering
succeeds the ABC District Youth
Gathering. This year the gathering got
away from university campuses and followed by Bible studies that allowed worship service was graciously hosted
went to summer camp. It also changed for smaller groups to look in-depth at by Christ Lutheran Church in Grand
from having one main session speaker the session’s subject matter. Forks on the Sunday evening.
to having five speakers (one for each Attendees participated in various It was an incredible weekend, and
main session) so that attendees could activities including a high ropes course, the IMPACT team is already looking
gain multiple perspectives. bazooka ball, archery, water games, forward to 2026 and beyond. Serving
Youth from four provinces yard games, campfires, wide games, on the team are: Rev. Eric Moffett
(including an Ontario youth who flew and arts and crafts times. There was (co-chair), Michelle Heumann (co-
across the country) came together also a time to give back to camp staff chair), Sonja Bland (registrar), Rev.
to learn about how God has made and to help Pines Bible Camp prepare Scott Brayall (chaplain), Kayla
an incredible impact in their lives for their summer day camps. Moffett, Samantha Neeb, and Rev.
and how they too can impact their The gathering featured a Q&A Glenn Worcester.
congregations, families, friends, and panel where youth could ask anything If you have any questions or
communities. Main sessions were on and have it answered, from questions comments, please contact the IMPACT
God’s impact, mental health, prayer, on mental health to theology to team at cochairs@impactyg.ca.
conflict resolution, and pop culture, sexuality to ethics to friendship. A Rev. Eric Moffett

WEST REGION NEWS
VBS trains young leaders

Ordination
f r o m R e v.
Rod Buck, anniversaries
and prayed WEST REGION – A number
together. By of pastors in Lutheran Church–
the second Canada’s West Region are
day, the kids celebrating important ordination
were already anniversaries this year. Some of
humming the these pastors include:
catchy songs
like “M-I-S-S- Rev. Michael Schutz - 10 years
I-O-N.” Rev. Jonathan Kraemer - 25 years
STONY PLAIN, Alta. – 2022’s Typically, the church has seen larger Rev. Robert Marshall - 25 years
Vacation Bible School at St. Matthew numbers of younger children (ages 3-9), Rev. Richard Brown - 50 years
Lutheran was out of this world. Students but, in 2022, children aged 10-11 made Rev. James Fritsche - 50 years
learned about God’s Miraculous up the largest group. The enthusiasm Rev. Wayne Jensen - 50 years
Mission—from the creation of the of these older kids led the VBS team Rev. Paul Eiffert - 65 years
world to the death and resurrection of in 2023 to create a Leaders in Training
Jesus, followed by His ascension into program to assist these young leaders in Full stories on each pastor listed
heaven with the promise He will return. learning to share the message of God’s above will appear at:
Each morning, the group gathered in love and the power of Jesus.
www.CanadianLutheran.ca.
church, sang songs, heard a message The St. Matthew VBS Team
Playschool graduation
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE, from the Lord. The children especially
Alta. – On May 28, Immanuel love monthly visits with Rev. Brian
Evangelical Lutheran Church Amison. “Pastor Brian” is a rock star
celebrated the graduation of twenty- to the children.
three students from playschool with a The congregation also tries to
little ceremony and luncheon. connect with families through after-
The church is thankful for the hour events like the Christmas program,
opportunity the Lord gives them each movie nights, bring your family to
year to share His Gospel with the playschool days, and the graduation
families He brings to the playschool. program—all under the capable and
The church offers a play-based program loving care of the playschool’s faithful
where students learn about the love of teacher, Miss Amy.
God and are celebrated as a blessing Deanna Friesen
SHARE YOUR STORIES

Contact Michelle Heumann, Regional News Editor
| regionaleditor@lutheranchurch.ca |
WEST REGION
Contact Rev. Robert Mohns, Regional Pastor
| rmohns@lutheranchurch.ca | 1. 855. 826. 9950 |
CENTRAL REGION NEWS
SASKATCHEWAN, MANITOBA, AND NW ONTARIO • MICHELLE HEUMANN, EDITOR
BUILDing a solid foundation on Jesus
WINNIPEG – When you have more than 19,000 pieces

of LEGO, a church interior brimming with bricks, and a
life-size LEGO figure, you might not think faith-building
would be part of things, but you’d be wrong.
From August 14-18, Peace Lutheran Church welcomed
46 kids (ages 5-12) to their brick-building themed Summer
Kids Camp called BUILD.
Each day, kids were introduced to a new piece that
would build a complete six-foot-tall LEGO figure by
week’s end, and each piece was tied to a Bible story
that allowed kids to build a solid foundation on the
teachings of Jesus.
Thanks to an amazing group of youth and adult
volunteers, BUILD was able to keep kids moving
and engaged with many activities. There were Bible
adventures, LEGO stop-motion movie-making, a Master
Builder Room for LEGO build challenges, LEGO-themed
crafts in the Creation Station, NINJAGO outdoor games,
Build-A-Snack, and a high-energy Praise Party to close
each morning.
Like the LEGO Movie says: “Everything is
Awesome.” That’s especially true when we help kids in
the church and community build their life, brick by brick,
on the solid rock of Jesus. What a fun way to build up
kids’ faith in Jesus!
Sara Gerullis
Kids' Ministry Director

CENTRAL REGION NEWS
WHY LITURGY?
from the regional pastor | rev. DAVID HABERSTOCK
W
hy do Lutherans do liturgy? slow and gradual process when they prayer, and the Lord’s Supper (e.g.,
To answer the question, were introduced nearly fifty years ago, John 20; Acts 2:42; 20:7). From there,
we first have to define because they introduced a lot of change the liturgy developed by adding the
what we mean by the word “liturgy.” all at once. But even they follow the most important things we need to know.
It’s usually used by Lutherans in general outline of the older Setting 3. For example, when the creeds were
two ways: first, to mean the way in Once learned, Settings 1 and 2 also written to clarify who our Triune God
which Lutherans worship (with an become a solid and stable thing you can is and what He does, they were then
orderly set of words for both pastor hold onto in an ever-changing world. added to the weekly liturgy so that we
and parishioners rooted in Scripture). 2. It is Scriptural. Almost all of the would learn them by heart.
Secondly, it’s used to refer to the words in the liturgy are straight out of 6. It connects us to the whole church
specific services in our hymnals. the Bible or are a summary of things in throughout the ages. When we use
Many pastors refer to the Divine the Bible. I remember being shocked the liturgy handed down to us, we are
Services in our hymnals as the in my teen years reading 1 John and being truly democratic and inclusive in
“Historic Liturgy” of the Church. This realizing that those words we say in that we are allowing the whole Church
distinguishes them from the tendency Setting 1—“If we say we have no throughout the ages to have a say in how
in recent decades to vary the text of sin…”—were straight out the Bible. we do things! Not that it’s about voting;
the service from week to week (for 3. Repetition is the key to learning. it’s about the teaching of Scripture and
example, in what Concordia Publishing You learn, grow to understand, and how all the saints of all the ages have
House calls “Creative Worship”). remember the things you repeat handed this blessed faith on to us.
Creative Worship is certainly liturgical regularly. Repeating things together We worship in the same patterns and
in the first sense above because it is until they are learned by heart is the traditions they used and passed on. We
an orderly outline with responses. But best way to serve the aged, the very sing the very songs of the saints who
when I ask why Lutherans “do liturgy,” young, and the parent with a crying have gone before and of heaven itself.
I mean the second sense: the Historic child in service. It keeps us all together Most canticles we sing in the liturgy
Liturgy”—that is, the liturgies in our supporting each other as no other are songs of the angels (the Gloria and
hymnals which Lutheran Church– technology can. Sanctus) or of the saints in Scripture
Canada congregations in convention 4. It is orderly. St. Paul says of (Kyrie, Agnus Dei, Magnificat, Nunc
have accepted, recommended, and worship that things need to be done in Dimittis, Benedictus, and so on.)
agreed to use. good order, “for God is not a God of 7. It is evangelistic. “Evangelistic”
Why do we do these historic confusion, but of peace” (1 Corinthians simply means Gospel, and the Gospel
liturgies? There are many reasons but 14:33). Order is something that young is the power of God unto salvation
here are just a few: people raised in our present world of (Romans 1:16)! When a pastor fails
1. Because they are solid and endless variety are drawn to and are to preach the Gospel with clarity, the
unchanging in a world which is actively seeking. Order gives them an liturgy does. I have heard sermons
constantly changing. Scholars, of anchor, a stable thing to connect to and that were all Law and no Gospel,
course, would point out that the liturgy root their lives in (Hebrews 6:19). and left us in dread of our sins.
has changed over time. But generally, 5. It teaches the most important But then the Offertory (“Create
this change has been gradual, with things you need to know. The core in Me” – Psalm 51) immediately
changes and additions made bit by teachings and practices of the Christian followed, applying the balm of God’s
bit over the centuries. Divine Service faith are included in the liturgy. From forgiveness to our hurting hearts,
Settings 1 and 2 in the Lutheran Service the very first Easter Sunday, Christians pointing us to Jesus. Pointing sinners
Book represented a departure from this have always gathered for God’s Word, to Jesus is true evangelism!

CENTRAL REGION NEWS
Annual barbeque brings congregations together

GRENFELL, Sask. – Go Forth
in Peace Lutheran Church held its
thirteenth annual barbeque this year
on August 27 after a joint Divine
Service. Go Forth in Peace is made
up of three congregations: Peace
Lutheran Church in Grenfell, Zion
Lutheran Church in Wolseley, and St.
Paul’s Lutheran Church in Broadview.
The annual barbeque is a way
to bring members from all three
churches together every year for
a fun social afternoon. Broadview
brings the buns, Wolseley brings the
meat, and Grenfell provides coffee,
condiments, deserts, and salads.
In the past, the barbeque has been
held at Peace Lutheran Church and The Inn has kindly offered the use of adults relaxed outside before coming
featured a missionary guest speaker the site inside and outside for free. inside for the meal and fellowship.
from Lutheran Bible Translators, Last year, the church mainly made The church gives thanks to God
Lutheran Laymen’s League of use of the inside as there had been for the beautiful day, the meal, the
Canada, and others. The past two two inches of rain the night before. fellowship, and the generosity of the
years have instead seen the barbeque This year, however, the barbeque took Legacy Inn.
held at Grenfell’s new Legacy Inn and place on a beautiful day. The kids Rev. Gerald Andersen
just featured a fun social afternoon. made use of the mini-putt, and the
Triune Parish installation

LANGENBURG, Sask. – On
Sunday, June 25, Rev. Sheikh Leif
Mauricio was installed as pastor
of Triune Lutheran Parish, serving
Christ Lutheran in Langenburg, Christ
Lutheran in MacNutt, and Immanuel
Lutheran in Landestreu.
Nine pastors participated in the
installation service and a delicious
potluck was held afterward, giving the
three parishes and visiting pastors a
wonderful opportunity for fellowship
and a few laughs.
R e v. M a u r i c i o a r r i v e d i n
Langenburg at the end of May and,
once his belongings finally arrived, set
up residence in the local parsonage.
The members of Triune Lutheran
Parish praise and thank God for Back row (l to r): Revs. Ted Giese, Airton Glitz, Kai Buck, Arron Gust, and Laverne
keeping His promise to provide for Hautz, emeritus. Front: Revs. Joshua Kurtenbach, Timothy Schneider, Sheikh Leif
His flock by sending Rev. Mauricio. Mauricio, Regional Pastor David Haberstock, and Circuit Counselor Barry Wood.
Jo-Anne Roulston

CENTRAL REGION NEWS
Confirmation at New Beginnings Lutheran
The confirmands pose with their families and Rev. Paulo Brum following the service.
REGINA – Confirming the faith were nervous, the parents thrilled, meetings to study the Bible and the
out loud is always emotional, a and the congregation happy to help Catechism, permeated with prayers,
responsibility, and a great privilege. keep these young people steadfast songs, biblical stories, didactic games,
Being able to speak with our own mouth in the path of the Saviour Jesus. The activities, and good conversations
what our godparents said in our place at biblical text chosen by Danica was: about life and the Christian faith. It
our baptism is a double blessing. “Be strong and courageous, for you was an amazing journey together,
This is what happened for Danica shall cause this people to inherit the growing in faith and knowledge about
Wilson and Rebekah Warren on land that I swore to their fathers to Christian principles from the Bible
June 11, 2023, at New Beginnings give them” (Joshua 1:6). The text for and the Catechism.
Lutheran Church (NBLC) in Regina, Rebekah was: “Humble yourselves, The congregation asks the Lord
where all attending rejoiced over the therefore, under the mighty hand of to bless the students and all believers
personal confession of faith of two God so that at the proper time He may in Christ in LCC and the world. May
more communicant young people exalt you, casting all your anxieties the Lord continue to give you His
in NBLC and Lutheran Church– on Him, because He cares for you” Holy Spirit, “the spirit of wisdom and
Canada (LCC). (1 Peter 5:6-7). understanding, the spirit of counsel
As is often the case in The confirmation service came and might, the spirit of knowledge
confirmation services, the students as the culmination of two years of and the fear of the Lord” (Isaiah 11:2).
Rev. Paulo Brum
SHARE YOUR STORIES

central REGION
Contact Rev. david haberstock, Regional Pastor
| dhaberstock@lutheranchurch.ca | 1. 800. 663. 5673 |
EAST REGION NEWS
ONTARIO, QUEBEC, AND ATLANTIC CANADA • MICHELLE HEUMANN, EDITOR
Timmins bids farewell to Pastor Lam and family

TIMMINS, Ont. – On June 1, over that we may be an
twenty members of Christ Lutheran effective witness
Church (including some from Kirkland of Christ’s love
Lake and Rev. Smilek from Sudbury) in and to our
gathered for a farewell luncheon held c o m m u n i t y. ”
in honour of Rev. Milton Lam, his wife He reminded
Marideth, and their son Matthias. Rev. that “our Lord
Lam was ordained and installed in this grants us intrepid
congregation on August 14, 2016, and hearts. He causes
after seven years of faithful service, His Word to be
he has accepted a call to Christ Risen preached among
in Kanata. us in season and
The luncheon included a wonderful out of season.
meal, songs, presentation of a framed This implanted
photo of the church building, and an Word takes root
album of special moments in Rev. in our hearts and
Lam’s ministry thus far. opens our mouths
Rev. Lam commented in his to sing His praise.
parting words: “Looking back at it all, He emboldens us
I give thanks to God and am grateful to confess that
to you for ensuring that Word and Jesus is Lord in
Sacrament ministry continued here all the earth. He shall never leave nor vacancy pastor approve!). The church
in peace and quiet over the past seven forsake us, His children.” also heartily welcomes members
years. Thank you for being patient Rev. Lam conducted his final of other congregations to consider
with me and bearing up much in love. service in Timmins on July 30. The making this city your home, so that
As it is written: ‘Love covers over a church continues to gather weekly together we can call another faithful
multitude of sins’ (1 Peter 4:8).” and anticipate regularly receiving the shepherd to help shine God’s love in
Looking to the future, he exhorted Lord’s Supper through the vacancy this strategic location, sending out
the congregation to “let our brotherly pastor (and any other pastors who ripples of the Gospel into communities
love for one another not grow cold, might like to visit and experience all throughout Northern Ontario!
but may God fan it into flame so some northern hospitality, should the Francine VanWoudenberg Sikkema
Four pastors celebrate ordination anniversaries

COLLINGWOOD, Ont. – On July
8, a special celebration occurred
at the home of Bob and Ruth
Klages, members of Christ our
Hope in Collingwood. They were
able to celebrate special ordination
anniversaries of their pastor,
their son, and two sons-in-law! A
celebratory cake was made in honour
of the occasion.
Rev. Adrian Kramer is marking
15 years since his ordination, Rev.
Alex Klages 20 years, Rev. Ken
Maher 25 years, and Rev. Richard
Revs. Adrian Kramer (Oxbow, Saskatchewan); Alex Klages (Morden, Manitoba); Juritsch 30 years.
Ken Maher (Collingwood, Ontario); and Richard Juritsch (St. Catharines, Ontario). Rev. Alex Klages

EAST REGION NEWS
QUESTIONS, QUESTIONS,
QUESTIONS
from the regional pastor | rev. marvin bublitz
I
t seems that very often there of heaven?” (Matthew 18:1). Jesus If, on the other hand, the New
are a flood of questions which still had more to teach those closest Man in Christ is asking who is in
come your way. An interesting to Him. charge, he or she is trying to redirect
thing about questions though is that What about us? What does Jesus everyone’s thoughts to Christ—to
sometimes they can reveal more need to teach us? remind everyone that it is Jesus who
about the person asking them than the The two questions asked most is in charge. It is more of a rhetorical
answers do. Sometimes the questions of me are these: “Who is in charge question. Who is in charge? The New
people ask are less of an attempt here?” and “Whose fault is it?” Man in Christ answers: “Clearly, the
to gain information than they are a Let’s examine those questions and Lord is in charge!”
revealing statement about what those see what they reveal. When someone In the same way, we should
people think—and an attempt to get asks who is in charge, it is often more consider who is asking whose
others to support their position. of a statement. Usually, it is asked fault it is. The Old Adam asks this
Consider some of the questions when there is conflict. It reveals the question in order to redirect blame to
asked in Holy Scripture. When Cain heart. It is not so much a question as others. And the Old Adam answers
was confronted by the Almighty a declaration that the one asking feels the question with more deflection:
regarding his brother, Abel, Cain they are in charge and simply want me “Who’s to blame? Surely anyone
asked: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” to confirm that. but me!” It’s like Judas asking the
(Genesis 4:9). Cain sought to cover his But there is really only one Lord: “Is it I?”
misdeed by deflecting with a question. answer to the question of who is in But the New Man in Christ
Then there was the time the rich charge: the Church belongs to Jesus. confesses his or her own sin. “It
young man approached Jesus and He is the Lord of the Church. is my fault, my own fault, my own
asked, “What must I do to inherit Let’s look at that other common most grievous fault.” Then he or she
eternal life?” (Mark 10:17). In his question: “Whose fault is it?” Who’s to turns to Christ for forgiveness and
question he revealed that he thought blame?” We want to blame someone, the removal of the guilt and sin of
eternal life was something he could anyone, just as long as it is not us. the Old Adam within.
earn on his own. He came at Jesus When you consider these So, before you ask a question,
with a Law question. But salvation is questions, I encourage you to first ask yourself who is asking. Is
of the Gospel. It is God’s gift—His consider the source. Consider who it the Old Adam within me or is
work. All who seek to earn their is really asking the question, and it the New Man in Christ? This is
salvation will forever go away sad, who is answering. Is it the Old Adam the self-examination we each must
like that rich young man. or the New Man in Christ? If the undertake. Too often sin is crouching
Even the disciples of Jesus Old Adam—our sinful nature—is at our door desiring to have us.
revealed their heart at times in their asking who is in charge, then it And so daily we must return to our
questions. “Rabbi, who sinned, this becomes an attempt to exert power Baptism and the drowning of the Old
man or his parents, that he was and control over the situation. And Adam, in order that the New Man in
born blind?” (John 9:20). It must if the Old Adam is answering the Christ may arise anew.
be someone’s fault, they reasoned. question, then the answer becomes
And another time they asked Him: another way to try to wrestle control
“Who is the greatest in the kingdom away from others.

EAST REGION NEWS
LWMLC luncheon honours women

COBOURG, Ont. – On June 3, the
local LWMLC society hosted a spring
luncheon hosted for the women of St.
Paul’s Lutheran Church.
Like many LWMLC societies, the
ladies had gathered to plan their end
of year get-together—but trying to
come up with a location, menu, and
budget for an event that will interest
the greatest number of members can
feel like a lot of pressure. Sadly, the
excitement of planning the event had
faded over the years.
This year, two people stepped
up to help, and their excitement and
enthusiasm was contagious. “We
should have a theme,” they said. based delicacies. The ladies were event. In the end, women aged seven
Without skipping a beat, a garden/ encouraged to wear floral attire, hats, to eighty came out for the luncheon.
flower motif was suggested. From jewelry, and so on in support of the Thanks be to God for the fresh
there, they chose Psalm 92:13—“Those theme. The space would be decorated energy and ideas from these two
who are planted in the LORD shall with flowers and, as an activity, there sisters, for the perfect timing of the
flourish”—as a theme verse, and so the was a planting bar where the ladies daughter wanting to practice her
theme became “Planted in the Lord.” could plant a flower to take home with business concept while serving the
A daughter of one of the planners them. As the planning continued, the ladies, and for the helping hands that
was in the stages of opening a plant- enthusiasm rose. It was contagious. brought it all together. The day was a
based restaurant and offered to cater A poem entitled “God the great success!
the luncheon with a selection of plant- Gardener” was also written to mark the Karen Kuehn
Author Katie Schuermann visits Burlington

BURLINGTON, Ont. – Prince of Peace
Lutheran Church was pleased to welcome
LCMS author Katie Schuermann to
speak at the church on June 24.
Schuermann’s books include the
popular Anthems of Zion series, as well
as Pew Sisters, He Remembers the Barren,
and He Restores My Soul. Schuermann
spoke on a variety of topics, including
suffering as a Christian, how her writing
career began, and art in the church. Her
presentation included congregational
singing, a question-and-answer session,
and even a teaser for a forthcoming book.
Once the presentation concluded,
Rev. David Zakel led the congregation in a vespers Mrs. Schuermann happily spoke with everyone
service. The ladies of Prince of Peace provided as she signed books. More than seventy brothers
refreshments for the event and participants were and sisters in Christ attended the event.
invited to spend time visiting with each other. Stephanie Zakel

EAST REGION NEWS
Young Adults hold retreat in Toronto
TORONTO – East District Lutheran The young adults offered up questions over meals, through games, and in
Young Adults (EDLYA) hosts four on a variety of topics, including the conversations.
retreats a year at various churches in the Lord’s Supper; ethical dilemmas in One longtime EDLYA member,
East Region to encourage fellowship, the modern age; church history; and currently serving as an organizer,
new relationships, and growth in Christ. the Lutheran Confessions. said: “Following in the wisdom of our
This year’s Spring Retreat was hosted In the afternoon, the group was better-travelled mothers and fathers is
by Trinity Lutheran Church in Toronto, also treated to some videos of Rev. important, and the vertical connection
and was the group’s best attended Fast’s strongman feats. Rev. Fast is between us and God is essential, but
retreat post-pandemic with 26 people in the holder of thirty-three Guinness it’s also important for us to experience
attendance—some joining from as far World Records to date. that horizontal connection with people
as Moncton, New Brunswick! The group was able to join Trinity’s our age—it really helps us to feel
Rev. Dr. Kevin Fast of St. Paul’s regular Saturday evening young adult that we’re part of the body of Christ.
Lutheran Church in Cobourg, Ontario, Bible study group, led by Rev. Ling That’s what EDLYA is all about,
served as the main session speaker, Pui Yeong, as they continued their really—we try to make that space for
presenting on the topic of Holy study of the Book of Concord. the young demographic to connect
Communion and also providing an Attendees enjoyed the chance to and realize they’re not the only ones.”
opportunity for a theological Q&A. get to know other young Lutherans Alex Steinke
SHARE YOUR STORIES

EAST REGION
Contact Rev. marvin bublitz, Regional Pastor
| mbublitz@lutheranchurch.ca | 1. 855. 893. 1466 |
MISSION NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
in Nicaragua
Bringing the Bread of Life to children in Nicaragua
NICARAGUA – One of the most of providing spiritual
powerful programs Lutheran Church– sustenance alongside
Canada (LCC) offers is its feeding physical nourishment,
program for children in Nicaragua, now pastors and deaconesses are
called Pan de Vida (Bread of Life). Far feeding children with the
more than just a feeding initiative, Pan Living Bread from heaven.
de Vida offers nourishment for both Thanks to the
body and soul, addressing the physical generous support of
and spiritual needs of disadvantaged partner organizations,
children and their families in some of congregations, and
the most economically depressed areas individual donors, LCC has
of Nicaragua. successfully expanded this
For many years, LCC has program into five additional
operated this program in three of the communities. The Pan de
most impoverished communities in Vida program is now being
Nicaragua, where access to a healthy offered alongside a Christian
meal is a rare luxury. Several times a Education program in
week, children come together to receive eight congregations.
what might be their only nutritious As the children in these
meal of the day. The largest site within communities gather
the program is in the community of together for daily catechesis,
Rancheria, where the church feeds more they are now also receiving
than 130 children three days a week. meals, giving the church the
But the program is not just about opportunity to care for both
providing nutritious meals; it also gives their spiritual and physical needs. from recognizing that by serving these
our sister church, the Lutheran Church At the core of this program’s success children they are also serving our Lord
Synod of Nicaragua (Iglesia Luterana are local volunteers, especially the Jesus, who says: “For I was hungry
- Sínodo de Nicaragua) the opportunity women of the congregations, who and you gave Me food, I was thirsty
to share with children and their families understand what a blessing Pan de Vida and you gave Me drink... Truly, I say
the greatest gift of all: the Bread of has become. These dedicated volunteers to you, as you did it to one of the least
Life, our Lord Jesus Christ and His help to prepare and serve meals for of these My brothers, you did it to Me”
saving Gospel. With the dual purpose the children. Their inspiration comes (Matthew 25:35, 40).
Nicaragua holds National Youth Gathering

NICARAGUA – At the end of
August, the Lutheran Church Synod
of Nicaragua (Iglesia Luterana -
Sínodo de Nicaragua - ILSN) held
its National Youth Gathering at the
Mission Centre in Chinandega.
Despite a tropical storm that
prevented some members from
attending, more than 200 children
from across the country were able
to gather together for the event.
Thankfully the weather cleared up
and the youth were able to enjoy a the three-day gathering, and Lutheran The members of the ILSN and
time of worship, fellowship, study, Church–Canada’s (LCC) Director of the organizers of their National Youth
and other activities. Several pastors Missions, Rev. Mark L. Smith, was Gathering are grateful to LCC for
and deaconesses were involved in one of the keynote speakers. helping to organize and fund this event.

EDUCATION NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
Call for nominations for seminaries’ honorary awards

ST. CATHARINES, Ont. – Each EDMONTON – Every spring at
May at the annual Call Service, its Sacred Convocation, Concordia
Concordia Lutheran Theological Lutheran Seminary (Edmonton) grants
Seminary (CLTS) has the opportunity honorary awards and degrees based on
to confer two major awards on worthy nominations received from people like
pastors or lay members of Lutheran you. Though spring seems a long way
Church–Canada. off, the time to start thinking about
The recipient of the Friend of the Seminary award is those award nominations is now! CLS is now accepting
nominated by the faculty or Board of Directors (Regents) nominations for 2024’s honorary awards and degrees
for making a significant contribution to the well-being of which will be presented at its Sacred Convocation on
the seminary. May 24, 2024. Nominations close on January 1, 2024.
The Delta Chi Medal, by contrast, is awarded by the The recipients of these awards and degrees are selected by
seminary on behalf of the wider church. This “highest the faculty and Board of Regents after prayerful consideration
and most distinguished award” is “presented to an of all nominations received. Through these honorary awards
individual, either clergy or lay, whose life exemplifies and degrees, CLS recognizes the outstanding contributions
service to Christ in his/her everyday living and vocation.” of our clergy, deacons, and lay people.
In nominating, one should consider the person's service Nominations may be made for the honorary degrees
to the local congregation, the community, the synodical of Doctor of Laws (LL.D.), Doctor of Letters (Litt.D),
district, the church at large, church service organisations, and Doctor of Divinity (D.D.). In addition to these
and educational institutions. Delta Chi refers to the degrees, the seminary also invites nominations for the
initials of the Greek expression διάκονος χριστοῦ Faith in Life, Friend of the Seminary, and the Doulos
“servant of Christ.” Dia Iesoun awards.
Anyone in LCC may nominate a candidate for the The specific criteria for each award or degree and
Delta Chi award. No current faculty or board member is nomination forms are available from Rev. Dr. Alex
eligible. Please submit your nomination in writing to the Vieira. Please contact him for more information by
seminary or via e-mail to reception@concordia-seminary. calling 1-780-474-1468 ext. 230 or by email at avieira@
ca. The deadline for nominations is December 31, 2023. concordiasem.ab.ca.
INSPIRE>
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organization! We are your partner. Join us
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the hope they have in Jesus.
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EDUCATION NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
CLS Interim President & CLTS prof installed as school year opens
CANADA – Early September saw the
opening services for the new school
year at Lutheran Church–Canada’s
(LCC) two seminaries. The joint
theme for the seminaries this year is
Exodus 4:12—“Now therefore go,
and I will be with your mouth and
teach you what you shall speak.”
Concordia Lutheran Seminary
(CLS) in Edmonton held its opening
service on September 5 at Bethlehem
Lutheran Church. The service also
saw the installation of Rev. Dr. Joel
D. Heck as Interim President of the
seminary by LCC West Regional
Pastor Robert Mohns.
“I have not been so moved
since the day my father preached a
sermon on the day of my ordination Rev. Dr. Joel D. Heck (third from left in front) following his installation as Interim
and installation,” noted Dr. Heck President at CLS.
following his installation. “My mind
goes back to my parents as well as to
all those who formed and equipped
me for the service I now engage
myself in.”
“It is our mission at Concordia
Lutheran Seminary to ‘form servants
for Jesus’ sake,’” he continued.
“That is the function and purpose
for all we do at this seminary, to the
praise of God.”
In advance of the opening service,
the faculty and staff of CLS met
August 31 through September 1 for a
retreat. The school currently has six
full-time students taking pastoral and
diaconal studies, in addition to several
part-time students. One student in the
pastoral program is entering his final
year of studies, while the first-year
Rev. Dr. Kirk Radford (third from left in front) following his installation as Assistant
Professor of Theology at CLTS.
class is welcoming two full-time
students and one part-time student in Rev. Radford will take up his Theological Studies degree, as well
pastoral studies. teaching responsibilities in September as three pre-seminary students.
Concordia Lutheran Theological 2024, as he is completing a Master Another two pastoral students
Seminary (CLTS) in St. Catharines, of Sacred Theology degree this are expected to begin classes in
Ontario held its opening service in academic year. January. One student at the seminary
the seminary chapel on September 10, CLTS held its retreat for students is beginning his final year of
during which time Rev. Kirk Radford and faculty from September 5-6. pastoral studies. The first-year class
was installed as Assistant Professor This year, the seminary has seven meanwhile is welcoming two new
of Theology by LCC East Regional students taking pastoral studies students to the pastoral program.
Pastor Marvin Bublitz. and eight pursuing a Master of

EDUCATION NEWS
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA
Dr. Gimbel accepts call as Academic Dean and Professor at CLS

EDMONTON – Concordia these unsettling times. I look
Lutheran Seminary (CLS) in forward to his contributions to
Edmonton has announced that the seminary and to the church
Rev. Dr. James Gimbel has at large.”
accepted the call to serve as “May God continue to
Academic Dean and Professor bless seminary education in
of Theology at the seminary. Lutheran Church–Canada,
The Board of Regents extended and Dr. Gimbel’s service
the call to Dr. Gimbel during to Concordia Lutheran
meetings on September 6. S e m i n a r y, ” D r. H e c k
CLS’ Interim President, continued.
Rev. Dr. Joel Heck, welcomed D r. G i m b e l s e r v e d
the news of Dr. Gimbel’s as President of Concordia
acceptance. “Dr. Gimbel and Lutheran Seminary in
I will work together well, Edmonton for the past nine
having done so in the past,” years. He announced in 2022
he said. “He brings a rich, his intention to step down as
institutional memory of the president of the institution.
seminary and an innovative
style in addressing the issues
t ha t a seminary f aces in
Quest Course: Reclaiming Lutheran Spirituality

ONLINE – Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS) in
Edmonton will offer its latest Quest Course this fall,
with Rev. Dr. Richard Beinert (St. James Lutheran,
Winnipeg) discussing the subject of “Reclaiming
Lutheran Spirituality.”
Promotional material for this free course notes that it
will “emphasize historic and contemporary aspects of an
authentic discipleship under Christ.”
Classes will take place on Tuesday evenings, with the
first two sessions taking place October 17 and October 24.
The following week, October 31, will be skipped so as
not to interfere with Reformation Day commemorations,
with the final two sessions instead taking place November
7 and 14. Each session will be broken into two parts, with
the first taking place at 7:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) and
the second at 8:00 p.m.
Information on how you can participate in this free
online course will be made available at CLS’ Facebook
page and website at www.concordiasem.ab.ca.

LAMP
Sharing Jesus Christ in remote areas of Canada
Making a Lasting Impact

by Nathan Schmidt, staff missionary vicar
LAMPlighter
W
hile in B.C. for summer this trip would be his last one. She
ministry, I searched for a commented how she always enjoyed
gift for a volunteer who has going to the VBS programs he led.
completed his fifteenth year of serving I had to go outside for a few minutes
with us. When the young woman behind to deal with an issue. This is where the
the counter asked what I was looking for, Holy Spirit was working because while I
I mentioned it was for a volunteer who was gone, the young woman wrote a card
has served for some time. She questioned and placed it on the counter to give to
whether it was for the group in town (the Tony with the gift I purchased. She had
LAMP team) to which I confirmed it left, and I never saw her again.
was. She responded, “Oh, is this for Tony After Tony let me read the card, I
Harman?” asked for his permission to share it with
I was taken aback that not only did all of you, especially our volunteers who
she know it was for Tony, but she also question whether the mission trips and
knew his last name! I mentioned that continued next page
The
VOLUME 55 NO. 2
FALL 2023
LAMP www.lampministry.org LAMP Ministry Inc.

4966 – 92nd Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2V4 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October
Email: office@lampministry.org Box 480167, New 37
2023Haven, MI 48048
1-800-307-4036 ext. 1 Fax: 1-780-466-6733 1-800-307-4036 ext. 2
www.lampministry.org
Lasting impact, continued Welcome Michael

Rev. Dr. Steven Schave, executive director
O n July first, L.A.M.P. -

Lutheran Association of
Missionaries and Pilots Inc.,
welcomed Michael Gillingham
to serve as Missionary Deacon
following a call extended by the
LCC Board of Directors on June
22. Michael comes to L.A.M.P.
after serving as Director of Youth
Ministry at Bethel Lutheran
Tony Harman, 15-year volunteer. Church in Sherwood Park,
Alberta, Canada.
their message of God’s saving As part of his role at Bethel,
grace yield fruit. The piece of art Michael was responsible for Michael and Lynne Gillingham
gifted to Tony for his service does planning and leading mission
not compare to the encouraging trips and servant events for requirements for consecration
words this young woman wrote Bethel youth in various locations: as a deacon (DPS) in Lutheran
on the card: LaRonge, Saskatchewan; El Paso, Church–Canada. He also did
“Greetings from an old friend, Texas; Juarez, Mexico; inner- some work on the local O’Chiese
I would like to thank you for city Los Angeles, California and and Sunchild reserves. Before
the services you’ve provided to Barranquitas, Puerto Rico. His this, Michael served as Director
this community over the years. trips to LaRonge also allowed him of Parish Ministries at Hope
As a child, I was learning my to do basic work with children’s Lutheran Church and School in
way through faith. One day, you ministry at the nearby Bigstone Port Coquitlam, BC. Michael
showed up at my doorstep to invite and Far Reserves. Michael firmly recently celebrated thirty years
me to VBS, and that has stayed believes in the importance of of service as a full-time church
with me into my adult life. You learning to serve God and others worker. He is thankful to God
and your crew were always so kind through missions and servant and his family for reaching this
and welcoming to a new face. I ventures. He looks forward milestone!
appreciate that you introduced me to helping support this kind Michael is in the final stages of
to God in a fun and memorable of work through the L.A.M.P. completing a Ph.D. in Religious
way. The skits and stories sparked teams serving in various parts of Studies at the University of
an interest. When I got older, as Canada’s North. Alberta. He has taught courses
a teen, I continued praying and Before Bethel, Michael served at the Canadian Lutheran Bible
following Him. Rock Nest Ranch as Director of Youth, Music, Institute in Camrose, Concordia
was my next step. Today I still and Young Adult Ministry at University of Edmonton,
give thanks and look back to the Immanuel Lutheran Church Concordia Seminary, St. Joseph’s
love provided. You are one of the in Rocky Mountain House, College, and the University
biggest reasons I believe. For that, Alberta. While serving in of Alberta. Michael’s hobbies
I will always be grateful. Rocky Mountain House, include reading, writing songs,
Thank you, Tony.” Michael completed the colloquy continued next page
Emily (name changed)
2
The
LAMPlighter
Welcome, continued the advice received from
playing guitar, and watching L.A.M.P. staff about various
movies. He has enjoyed serving ministry opportunities and the
as a co-coordinator for the local example they provide of strong,
Nashville Songwriters chapter and thoughtful, and committed
volunteering with the Edmonton work in the communities they
Folk Music Festival. serve. I hope and pray that my
Michael is married to Lynne, background and experiences can
and they have two grown sons: be helpful to L.A.M.P. even as
Joshua and Matthew. Joshua is I look forward to learning
married to Melinda, and they have more about the work of this
a daughter. Matthew is married organization and meeting the
to Bailey, and they have two sons. people that L.A.M.P. serves in
Michael loves spending time with various ways.”
his family and being a grandfather L.A.M.P. executive director,
very much! Steve Schave, expressed his
Regarding this new gratitude to God for leading
opportunity to serve with Michael to L.A.M.P. now that Michael leading VBS in Hall Lake, SK.
L.A.M.P., Michael wrote, “I am outgoing missionary, Gord Gilbey,
very thankful to be joining the has retired. According to Schave, to reach 55 communities by our
team as they continue to foster “We are so thankful to God for the 55th anniversary in 2025, we are
and develop relationships and ministry that Gord provided, even excited to have Deacon Gillingham
ministry moments with the during the challenging years of the join us. It is great timing for our
indigenous peoples of northern pandemic, and the many needs of hopes of engaging more laypeople
Canadian communities where the communities we serve. And to serve in mission with us and to
L.A.M.P. is invited to lead VBS. As now, as L.A.M.P. looks ahead to the extend the reach of the Gospel to
a church worker, I’ve appreciated future and our 55 For 55 initiative the ends of the earth.”
Welcome Anytime
Over the years, we have stopped in for the joy of working with the children.
the band office to say thank you or ask a Jonas introduced us to his “elder councillor”
question, but I never got past the person at among the men in the meeting room who
the “front desk.” This time, I specifically set said, “You are welcome in our community
out to see the chief, Jonas Sewap. We were anytime.”
led into a meeting room where the chief was Those welcoming words of affirmation
with other male leaders of the community of from the leadership meant so much to us!
Brochet, MB. We had many more words of affirmation
Gary and I had homemade jam and a from so many people this year after four
thank you note. We expressed our gratitude years of absence. We were wondering how
for the VBS meeting space (pre-arranged it would be post-pandemic, but it was better
by LAMP’s staff missionary) and especially than we ever could have imagined.
~Ellen, Brochet team leader
THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 39 3

www.lampministry.org
Relationships
by Mark Meyer, volunteer serving Garden Hill, MB
T welve years ago, my wife

Marti and I went on our first
LAMP mission trip to Garden
us to finish so we could go back
outside to play.
As the years went on, Winston
Hill, Manitoba. Our “trainer” was attended VBS nearly every day
Evelyn Fisher, and she guided us during the week of our summer
through that first year, teaching ministry. When he became a
us that it was all about forming teenager, he still came to some
relationships. People need to know VBS classes and helped with the
you before they trust you. games. He would also participate
That year, we noticed that in the teen nights our team held.
while walking on the roads, we’d Marti stayed in contact with
wave to folks but received little Winston on social media and, of
response. They might raise a hand course, during the COVID years.
as they drove by. Years later, they In the summer of 2023, we
wave like crazy, smile, and the returned to visit our northern
kids holler. We even got rides back community after missing three
Above:
to the school after walking out of Winston years. Winston and his girlfriend,
the Northern Store carrying water (age 17) Lakeisha, attended our Monday
and groceries. with Marti; and Wednesday teen nights. They
Winston when
One of the 8-year-old boys he was 8. played cards with us for a while on
made a connection in Vacation both days, and we had a great visit!
Bible School with Marti that first Winston posted a picture on
year. Winston had an older and a Facebook of us with him and
younger brother who also attended Winston and his younger labeled it “My Kookoom and
VBS. After VBS classes, some brother, Brassy, were just two of Goomsoom, so glad I got to see
children would play outside (at the the many kids who hung out with them.” God has blessed us with
teacherages where we stayed) until us. I remember Winston was in another “adopted” grandson
we were done supper and prep for the house a few evenings while through Christ Jesus. We have
the next day. Then we often played we did our nightly devotion, pits many other acquaintances
catch outside with the kids with ‘n’ peaks, and prayers. He just sat in Garden Hill but none like
either the ball or a Frisbee. quietly and patiently waited for Winston.
LAMP Mission Statement

LAMP is a cross-cultural ministry sharing Jesus Christ with God’s people in remote areas of Canada.
4966-92 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6B 2V4 Donations can be made at our website
Box 480167, New Haven, MI 48048
tel 800-307-4036 x fax 780-466-6733 www.lampministry.org
Individual gifts are acknowledged with an official receipt for income tax purposes, and are tax deductible as allowed by law. Each gift designated toward a board-approved program will be used as designated,
with the understanding that when any given need has been met, designated gifts will be used where needed most.
4
TRANSITIONS
Trial and Appellate Counsel – Commercial Litigation
CANADIANLUTHERAN.CA/CALLS-TRANSITIONS
R e v. L u c a s A l b re c h t
(Mount Olive, Regina, SK)
Garfinkle | Biderman LLP Jeffrey A.L. Kriwetz
accepted a call to Hope (Port Partner
416.869.7618
Coquitlam, BC). 801-1 Adelaide Street East,
Toronto, ON M5C 2V9 jkriwetz@garfinkle.com
Rev. Dr. James Gimbel
Tel 416.869.1234
(Outgoing President, Fax 416.869.0547
Concordia Lutheran
www.garfinkle.com
S e m i n a r y, E d m o n t o n )
accepted a call as Academic
Dean and Professor of
Theology at Concordia
Lutheran Seminary
(Edmonton).
Rev. Richard Mensch
(Redeemer, Prince Albert,
SK) to Emeritus (Prince
Albert, SK).
Rev. Michael Montague
(Christ, Red Lake, ON)
accepted a call to Our
Saviour (Dryden, ON) / St.
Mark (Vermillion Bay, ON).
Rev. C. Ward Stewart
(Emeritus) called to glory.
YOUR FAITH. GOD’S LEGACY.
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PRESIDENT’S PONDERINGS
TODAY'S ISSUES
AND THE CHURCH
by president timothy teuscher
D
iversity… Inclusiveness… Social Justice… Woke writes: “So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep
Culture… Critical Race Theory… Gender Identity… awake and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6).
Cancel Culture. We’ve been inundated with these Is it not the Church where true, God-pleasing ‘inclusiveness’
terms over the past few years by the media, politicians, and ‘diversity’ is manifested? “Here there is not Greek and
educators, advertisers, the sports sector, businesses, Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian,
entertainment industry, and, yes, even religious leaders. Many slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all,” Paul says (Colossians
have jumped on the bandwagon, not only promoting such 3:11). And further: “For as in one body we have many
things but condemning those who do march in step with what members, and the members do not all have the same function,
is currently deemed socially and politically correct. so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually
It’s tempting to throw up your hands in despair over the members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to
promotion of ideologies which are contrary to God’s Word. the grace given us, let us use them” (Romans 12:4-6).
But St. Peter reminds us that, as “sojourners and exiles” (1 Is it not Christ’s Church which proclaims and reflects the
Peter 2:11) in this sinful and unbelieving world, we should truth regarding ‘gender identity’ and related issues? That,
“not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you when it comes to our redemption and our relationship with
to test you, as though something strange were happening to God, it is indeed true that “there is no male or female, for you
you” (1 Peter 4:12). In fact, all such confusion ultimately has are all one in Christ” (Galatians 3:28); but, at the same time,
its origin in the devil, whom Jesus calls “a liar and the father that this does not negate God’s original creation of male and
of lies” (John 8:44). female and His institution of marriage between one man and
And notice what the apostle goes on to say: “Always one woman, as Jesus Himself makes quite clear in Mark 10.
be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for The apostle Paul brings both of these truths together in these
a reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). What words: “As the church submits to Christ, so also wives should
defense—the Greek word is apologia or apology—what submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your
answer can the Church, can we as individual Christians, give wives, as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for
to these things? I would suggest that one way is to turn the her” (Ephesians 5:24-25).
tables, so to speak, on these words and phrases that are tossed Is it not members of Christ’s Church who are concerned
about so glibly, so falsely, and so carelessly. about and engaged in bringing real ‘social justice’ or, more
After all, is not Christ’s Church the true ‘cancel culture’? accurately, ‘works of mercy’ to others? The apostle puts it
Peter declares: “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your very simply: “As we have opportunity, let us do good to
sins may be blotted out” (Acts 3:19). Or, as Paul writes: “God everyone” (Galatians 6:10).
made (us) alive together with (Christ), having forgiven us Instead, therefore, of bemoaning this proverbial walk of so
all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood many on “the way that leads to destruction” (Matthew 7:13), the
against us with its legal demands. This He set aside, nailing apostle Paul encourages us in these words: “Walk in wisdom
it to the cross” (Colossians 2:13-14). toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your
Is it not in the Church where ‘critical race theory’ is a speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may
reality? Peter says: “You are a chosen race” (1 Peter 2:9) to know how you ought to answer each person” (Colossians 4:5-6).
all believers in Christ, whether they be Jews or Gentiles. We And let us do so by praying ever more fervently: “Dear
are, as St. John describes the vision given to him of Christ’s Father, Your will be done, not the devil’s will or our enemies’
Church, “a great multitude from every nation, from all tribes or anything that would persecute and suppress Your holy
and peoples and languages” (Revelation 7:9). Word or hinder Your kingdom. Grant that we may bear with
Is not the Church the true ‘woke culture’? Jesus says: patience and overcome whatever is to be endured because
“Stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength of Your Word and kingdom, so that our poor flesh my not
to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to yield or fall away because of weakness or sluggishness”
stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36). Likewise, Paul (Large Catechism 3:67).

CONCORDIA
LUTHERAN MISSION
SOCIETY
Join us in moving forward with another

year of God’s giving grace!
Supporting Christ’s Mission Work In:
Nicaragua Cambodia
Ukraine Costa Rica
Thailand Canada
Donations may be sent to:

Concordia Lutheran Mission Society
Box 455
Water Valley, Alberta T0M 2E0
Online Donations: canadahelps.org
Website: www.concordiamissions.org Email: partners@concordiamissions.org

CONSIDERING
CHURCH WORK?
Contact LCC’s
seminaries today.
Concordia Lutheran Concordia Lutheran

Seminary Theological Seminary
Edmonton, Alberta St. Catharines, Ontario
Web: www.concordiasem.ab.ca Web: www.concordia-seminary.ca
Email: info@concordiasem.ab.ca Email: reception@concordia-seminary.ca
Phone: 1-780-474-1468 Phone: 1-905-688-2362

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CA VOLUME 38 NUMBER 5 - SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible supplemenT 37

(The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®),

copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing

ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023

4 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 5

6 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those

know the But what, specifically, is this

Mosaic of Christ in Marijampolė: A. Matuliauskas, 1997. CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word." then explains what this looks like

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 7

8 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

CHRISTIANS AND THE RIGHT USE OF PHILOSOPHY

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 9

we confess Christ is both God

10 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

philosopher we all make basic philosophical

ow we ought fundamental laws of logic. Consider

he wisdom of shining without a cloud in the

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 11

better understand and

12 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

Sunrise photo by Sallu7356816643 (CC BY-SA 4.0) combined with Puzzle

overlay by Willi Heidelbach (CC BY 2.0), both via Wikimedia Commons.

about mental health is

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 13

14 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

Appeal hearings held in Finland's “Bible Trial”

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LCMS convention welcomes LCC president

16 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

New General Secretary for the ILC

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ILC holds European regional conference

German and Latvian Lutherans declare fellowship

18 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

An update on the CAAT Pension Plan merger

Nominations received for Director of Domestic Missions

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 19

LCC congregations reach out amidst wildfires

20 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN September/October 2023

Sabbath retreat in Edmonton

100 Years Young: Celebrating a servant of God

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 21

22 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023

St. Matthew Lutheran grows on Pentecost

First-ever IMPACT Youth Gathering

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 23

VBS trains young leaders

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BUILDing a solid foundation on Jesus

WINNIPEG – When you have more than 19,000 pieces

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26 THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023

Annual barbeque brings congregations together

Triune Parish installation

THE CANADIAN LUTHERAN | September/October 2023 27

Confirmation at New Beginnings Lutheran

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Timmins bids farewell to Pastor Lam and family