LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR

FEBRUARY 2018

UPDATE ON PHASE TWO OF THE PASTORAL FORMATION PROJECT

Thank you for your prayers as we prepare for the second phase of our pastoral summit. The first phase was held at Grand View University in Des Moines last June. For that phase we gathered a number of leaders from four different Lutheran church bodies – ELCA, Missouri Synod, LCMC, and NALC – to discuss what can be done to raise up a whole new generation of Lutheran pastors who believe that the Bible is the Word of God and who are passionately committed to reaching people for Jesus Christ. A list of some of the main topics that were covered, as well as written copies and audio recordings of several of the presentations, can be found under the pastoral formation tab on the home page of our website, www.lutherancore.org.

The second phase will be held at a hotel near Chicago’s O’Hare airport on April 11. For this second phase we are gathering a number of leaders who are doing something unique and/or particularly effective to raise up leaders, including future pastors, in their ministry context. Four will be present in person, while two others will be presenting by skype.

The four who will be presenting in person are –

Scott Grorud, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Hutchinson, Minnesota (LCMC). Scott will tell about what he is doing to raise up leaders within his ministry context, including what he is doing to raise up young people to be future leaders.

Brian Hughes, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Columbia, Maryland (ELCA). Brian will describe what it means to be a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-denominational church, and how he is raising up leaders in his ministry setting.

Gary Pecuch, director of youth ministries at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grove City, Ohio (NALC). Along with his wife, Gary leads the Faith Webinar seminars for the NALC and offers similar seminars for the ELCA’s Southern Ohio Synod. Gary will describe what the future church will look like (and not look like) for millennials and centennials; what the role of pastor will be in the future; what seminary education might look like in the future; and the kind of training he is offering young people and people who work with young people, in light of the above.

Julie Smith, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Springfield, Minnesota (LCMC); member of the LCMC board of trustees; and dean of students of Saint Paul Lutheran Seminary. Julie will tell about the vision that led to the founding of the seminary and also about their various programs – their more traditional programs as well as the ways in which they are making theological education more affordable, accessible, and available.

The two who will be presenting by skype are –

Jeff Christopherson, vice president of the Send Network, which is part of the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. Jeff will tell about his work of identifying, training, supporting, equipping, and sending out church planters who will focus on new believers, disciple-making, community transformation, and multiplication.

Jari Rankinen, general secretary of the Theological Institute of Finland. This institute gives support to orthodox seminarians and provides orthodox Lutheran teaching as a supplement to the education seminarians are receiving through the state university system. One of the presenters at the first phase of the pastoral summit, Gene Veith, told us about the mission societies in Scandinavia, who are keeping orthodoxy alive in an environment that is very hostile to orthodoxy. We are very grateful to Gene for putting us in touch with the leader of one of these institutions, so that we can learn more.

Also as part of our pastoral formation project, we are featuring in our bi-monthly newsletter, CORE Voice, different organizations that are training the next generation of Lutheran pastors. We are also working on putting together a workshop that could be presented at different church gatherings and convocations, involving the people who would be attending those events. A long-term goal is to be able to put together an event that would be open to all, would be inspirational in nature, and would be based upon the words of Jesus in Matthew 9 – “Pray to the Lord of the harvest to raise up laborers for His harvest.”

We are very grateful to all of our friends for their prayers for our pastoral formation project. We also want to say “Thank you” to all who have given a gift in support of these efforts to raise up pastors and other church leaders for the future.

Please continue to pray with us and for us as we continue to work with others to raise up the next generation of Lutheran pastors.

Blessings in Christ,
Dennis D. Nelson
President of the Board and Director of Lutheran CORE
dennisdnelsonaz@yahoo.com

“Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O Lord, make haste to help me! Let them be put to shame and confusion who seek my life! Let them be turned back and brought to dishonor who delight in my hurt! Let them turn back because of their shame who say, “Aha, Aha!” (Psalm 70:1-3)

I once pondered who wanted to take my life. The world around me wants me to reject You, Lord, and go along to get along. The world tugs for me to live its way and not the way of Your Word. Lord, make haste to deliver me from the snares of this world that I may live only for You and the good works You have ordained for me to do. Let me not shame nor be shamed, but live in Your goodness.

You know the difficulty of this world filled with sin. You have watched as wickedness battles for the souls of those whom You call. You have purpose in everything, but You, O Lord, have sent Your salvation that, in spite of the world which seeks to kill, lifts up those who turn to You. Guide my heart by Your Spirit that I would forever hold fast to the truth of Your Word.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for walking in this world of confusion and leading the way through it, providing grace to all who turn to You. Lift us up, and bind our hearts and protect them from the wiles of a world gone mad. Set my course in front of me and then guide me to walk the way You have established that I may learn from You how to faithfully endure all adversity. Amen.

“The descendants of His servants will inherit it, and those who love His name will dwell in it.” (Psalm 69:36)

Look over history and you will see amidst the turmoil of the ages the blessings God has given that people would live better lives. We have been blessed in spite all the wickedness that seeks to have us do otherwise. Look to the promises of the Lord and see that He has been good to all for the sake of those who love His name. Live for the Lord and for the goodness He is and gives.

Lord, I get caught up in my own personal struggles and do not see Your hand clearly at work amidst the people. Guide my heart to see in You the goodness You give and live according to Your never failing promises of grace and mercy. Help me see in You the hope of the ages and live into the promises You give. Help me learn faithfulness from You.

Lord Jesus, You are the One who came to save. Lead me O Lord in the way of salvation which You have established. Let me be among those who will inherit Your Kingdom. Teach me love as You love. Bring my heart to dwell in the riches of Your grace and mercy. May I be found in You all the days of my life. May I do what I do to the praise and glory of the Father now and forever.  Amen.

“Let heaven and earth praise Him, The seas and everything that moves in them. For God will save Zion and build the cities of Judah, that they may dwell there and possess it.” (Psalm 69:34-35)

Are you one who praises God in all circumstances? God is not a conditional Lord. He does not give just in some seasons and withhold in others. He who causes the sun to shine on the righteous and the unjust is worthy of all honor and praise. Learn to praise the Lord as one who resides in Zion. Praise the Lord in every season and taste and see that the Lord is good.

Lord, in my sinfulness I do judge unjustly and want things to be the way I want them to be. I withhold my praise and do not praise You in every season. Guide me, O Lord, to walk humbly with You and praise You with each sunrise and each sunset for You are the One who has given life and called me to walk with You. Guide me in the way I should go and then lead me by Your Spirit.

Lord Jesus, You who have given the very Spirit that guides me, take me away from the way this world thinks to learn from You how to think as Your new creation. Guide me in Your goodness to come to the place where I know that all things are working together according to the Father’s will. Help me now and always to look to You in, through and for all things, knowing You are good and gracious to those who love You. Amen.

“The humble have seen it and are glad; you who seek God, let your heart revive. For the Lord hears the needy and does not despise His who are prisoners.” (Psalm 69:32-33)

Over and over again, Scripture calls for us to be humble. Humility is not self-effacing, but standing fully in the truth. The truth is that God loves everyone without partiality. We all have sinned and therefor are not exempt from the frustrations others have because of our sins. Come to the Lord humbly and know that He who hears you will have mercy and grace upon you.

Lord, there are many things I need to learn. I have been guilty, perhaps not by intention, but in the breaking of the law. But I desire Your mercy and compassion to lift me out of the pit of despair that sin brings upon the world. Free me from the prison of sin to live humbly with You all the days of my life. Guide me in Your goodness to know Your grace and mercy as I walk with You.

Lord Jesus, You have come to set the captives free. You have come to lead us into humility to stand with You, the Truth, and walk where You lead. Guide me, O Lord, to see in You the hope of all ages and to know Your goodness. Help me learn to practice all that You teach me that I would live as You lived upon the earth and minister to others as You have ministered to me. Amen.

THE PRAYERS,  5th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 18, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Put a new and right heart within your Church, O Lord, so that it may always cling in perfect faith to Jesus, and may always do your will. Cleanse it from wrongful teaching and shameful deeds; and by the power of your Holy Spirit, make it shine with your Son’s forgiveness, compassion and mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and faithful heart in your people when they are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Give them the joy of knowing that they indeed drink with Jesus from his cup. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and joyful heart within this congregation. By the power of your Holy Spirit, unite us to Jesus’ death and rising; cause us to bear much fruit in his name; and use us to draw others to his cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and patient heart within all who care for family members with special needs. Give them compassion, strength, and the joy of knowing that what they do for their loved one, they do for you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and wise heart within the rulers of the nations, so that they may always do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you. Give to all of us a desire to help our neighbors, especially those who are struggling in these difficult times; and teach us to live together in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and steadfast heart into all who serve our country, here and abroad. Give them courage, wisdom, and competence in all they do; strengthen and shield their loved ones; and bring them home in safety when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and trustful heart into all who cry to you for help; especially: {List}. Give them the joy of your saving help; and give to all who care for them the comfort and guidance of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, your Son was buried in the ground like a grain of wheat; rose to triumphant and eternal life; and promised that his life would bear much fruit in all who trust in him. We commend into your care all his servants who have departed this life.  Put a new and faith-filled heart into each of us, so that with all who have been buried with Christ, we might likewise be raised with him, and share the joy of your kingdom with all your saints in light.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS,  4th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 11, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

We thank you, dear Father, for giving us your Son. Grant that through the Church’s faithful witness to Him, many people may know of your great love for them; believe in you; and receive everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give hope and healing when your Church experiences persecution. Lift it up as a sign of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask for your blessing upon the people of this congregation. Center our hearts in your love, shown for us in Christ Jesus, and help us to share that love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray this day for those who are single by choice or by circumstance. Be their dear Friend and wise counselor. Help them to be good and true friends to others; and to find deep joy in serving you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Save your world through the sacrifice of your Son.  Teach the leaders of the nations the ways of wisdom, integrity, and humility. Keep them from being seduced by power and praise. Fill them with a hunger for justice; a love of mercy; and a desire to work for peace among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray to you on behalf of our military personnel, and all who shield others from harm. Through their labors, bring safety and justice in dangerous places. Protect and defend them when they are in peril; heal them when they fall; and reunite them with their loved ones when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed, grant that all who suffer may look upon the Cross of Christ and find healing, comfort, forgiveness, hope and life. Especially we pray for {List}. Restore them to our fellowship; and bestow upon us all the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise you, heavenly Father, for receiving into eternal life those who believed on Jesus Christ in their mortal life. Keep also our minds and hearts firmly fixed on Jesus, so that we may journey safely through the wilderness of this world into the blessedness and joy of your Promised Land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 4, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant integrity, courage and wisdom to first responders and those in our military. Shield them when they are wounded; give hope and patience to their families; and bring them swiftly home when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give to them, and to all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus; for he alone is your life, forgiveness, power and wisdom incarnate.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.  

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 2^nd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 25, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Father, you inspired Peter to confess Jesus as your Son, and as Messiah and Lord. Inspire your Church to boldly and faithfully acclaim Jesus to the world as your only Son, and as its only Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son did not shrink from suffering and death. Grant grace to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake, so that they glory in his Cross, and rejoice in his resurrection. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

ear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Through your covenant with Abraham and Sarah, you blessed all nations. Grant to all people the blessings of peace, freedom, and righteousness, which apart from you cannot flourish. Direct and guide our nation, that our words and deeds may please and glorify you, the Lord of the whole earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we thank you for fulfilling your covenantal promises to those who have died and are at rest in you, especially: {List}. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Keep us calm and fearless, ever trusting your love which shines from Jesus’ Cross and lights our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Bring us, and those of every nation whom you have redeemed, to the final fulfillment of your blessing, won for us by Abraham’s glorious offspring, your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

1^st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 18, 2018) 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, purify your holy Church. When it is tempted by the allure of power, success, or convenience, turn its eyes to the Cross of your dear Son.  By the power of your Spirit, keep it faithful in its proclamation of repentance, forgiveness, and the close approach of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify your persecuted people; and shield them from the temptation to forsake your Word when they are threatened by the powers arrayed against them. Keep them steadfast in their faith. We pray also on behalf of our sister congregations companion dioceses, and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and guide the people of this congregation. When we are tempted to focus on peripheral matters, turn our eyes to Christ, the center of our existence. Give us grace to prefer nothing whatsoever to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and defend our youth in middle and high school. Strengthen them to resist the allure of popularity; dangerous pleasures; and anything that would draw them away from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify this sin-shadowed world. Grant that we may not be seduced by promises of peace and plenty that do not proceed from your holy will. Teach the leaders of the nations that, while people surely need food and justice, their lives are in your hands; and you alone are their sovereign Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify all first responders and military personnel.  Turn their eyes to you, the King of all nations. Keep them faithful and honorable in their service; and bring them home safely when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and heal the minds, hearts and bodies of all who suffer and cry to you for help —especially: {List}. When they are tempted to despair, turn their eyes to the Cross, on which was hung the life and salvation of the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we commend into your keeping the lives of all who died trusting in your mercy. When we are tempted by doubt, confusion, or the cares and pleasures of this world, turn our eyes to our Lord Jesus, our hope and heart’s desire. Fill us with your Spirit, and keep us safely on the path that leads to your eternal home and welcoming embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.