Exorcism as Mercy
Most of us equate exorcisms with scary Hollywood movies, but Rev. Geoff Boyle explains how pastors in Madagascar use the rite to cast the demon out and speak Christ in.
The Magazine
Strengthening Single-Parent Families
by Monique Nunes Traditional, two-parents families are, sadly, no longer necessarily the norm. How can the church assist single parents juggling work and children? The reasons really do not matter. The personal pain or historical circumstances that have led to the reality are not a priority. What matters most is this: How can the church
The Language of Christ’s Church
by Rev. Mark Sell I sat behind the lectern of Springs of Life Lutheran Church, trying to figure out where the service began. The pastor sent hand signals across the altar, and I strained to hear the words of the opening hymn. Got it! Sort of. I had no clue what I was singing. Or did
Lutheran Witness: August 2011
Our theme for August is “Lutheran Confession, Lutheran Mission.” Prof. John Pless takes an in-depth look at what makes Lutheranism distinct and why Lutherans are uniquely equipped to share God’s Word with others around the globe.
Five Fatherhood Examples from the Father of Us All
by Rev. Kevin Vogts Malachi 2:10 asks, “Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us?” Father’s Day on the third Sunday of June is a civil holiday and not a traditional observance of the Church Year. However, it is from Scripture and especially the example of our heavenly Father Himself that
Where Practice Doesn’t Make Perfect:
by Rev. Kevin Bergmann
“Practice makes perfect” is a common saying that is true if you are learning to play the piano or trying to perfect your golf swing. But how about in relationships like marriage? Is a couple better off if they practice being married by living together before the wedding? While some might expect the answer to that question to be yes, it actually is a resounding “No.”
Resting in the Arms of Jesus
by Heidi Sias We sat in the car in stunned silence during what seemed like the longest ride home we’d ever taken. The doctor’s words kept echoing in my head: “I’m very sorry to tell you that your baby’s heart has stopped beating.” Was this really happening? Did I do something that caused this? How
Preaching Is All About ‘You’
We need to preach more about the Gospel!” a wellmeaning pastor admonished his brothers at a pastoral conference.
In Memoriam
I agree with Rev. Herb Schiefelbein 100 percent regarding The Lutheran Witness allowing only two lines “In Memoriam” for our deceased workers of our Synod. Please, let’s return to our previous way of informing readers about these deceased workers and their families. Doris LusskyGainesville, Fla. Abbreviating the obituary information of those pastors and teachers who
To The Reader
by David L. Strand With this issue, we say “God speed you,” Carla J. Dubbelde. For the past 22 years, Carla has held a key position: editorial manager of the stitched-in district editions of The Lutheran Witness. As the name implies, these editions are publications within a publication—the monthly news of LCMS districts bound within
Q & A
by Dr. Jerald C. Joersz A member of my family (raised LCMS) will not allow his children to be a part of anything connected to a church. He wants them to “make their own decisions regarding religion when they are old enough to understand.” How can I approach him about this without causing resentment? Your
Why Am I Barren?
Children are a heritage from the Lord—a gift from Him—and that good gift is received, not manufactured or made. In His wisdom and time, God makes mothers of women.