Have you ever wondered why some hymns in Lutheran Service Book have more than one setting? To the untrained ear, the spacing and notes may seem almost identical, but to a seasoned musician, one tweak can make all the difference. Fridrich Layriz (pronounced LIE-ritz) supported the use of traditional rhythmic settings for hymns, and his work was influential, especially for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and its music.
“God Shed His Grace on Thee” from Edwin T. Childs brings together thirteen rich hymn settings based on national hymns. Written for manuals and mostly two pages each, these pieces are...
It can happen at any time: Feelings of weakness and brokenness take over in hospital waiting rooms, just before a big presentation, or after unexpected phone calls. When the realities of...
In August 2018, I moved abroad for my dream job as an international missionary. When asked how long I’d be there, I’d reply that I’d stay until I retired or God called me elsewhere. Eight...
Lutheran schools have a unique calling: to teach every subject in the light of God’s Word. That work depends on teachers who are not only skilled educators but also are confident in the...
God gives us powerful gifts in His Word, ones that can be used to openly share His soul-saving news of salvation for all believers. Read an excerpt from Martin Luther’s preachings...
Paul Gerhardt (1607–76) is in a tier only shared with Martin Luther as one of the most beloved and celebrated Lutheran hymnwriters in the church. May 27 marks 350 years since his passing...
During my time in full-time church ministry, both as a director of Christian education and now as a pastor, I’ve thought a lot about confirmation—and I’d guess most church workers have...
Christ gives His true body and blood for the forgiveness of sins, the strengthening of faith, and the uniting of His people around the altar in the gift of Holy Communion. The music...
Talking with children about death is never easy. As parents and caregivers, we may feel unsure of what to say or how much to share—especially when our own hearts are heavy. Yet as...
“I promise” is an everyday expression. People use it to make a special commitment to another person: “I promise to mow the grass tomorrow,” “I promise I will remember our anniversary next...
Anyone who has taken piano lessons or played a sport or learned a new language knows the importance of practice. A dedicated piano student plays every day at home. A language learner uses...
Teaching the Christian faith is central to the life of the church and takes many forms within congregations and schools. While parents play the primary role in shaping faith—especially...
Kevin Hildebrand’s collection of organ preludes on American hymn tunes is a timely publication in 2026 as the United States celebrates its semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of its...
The final moments of one’s life are tender, requiring pastoral care marked by compassion, prayer, and the promises of Christ. The “Commendation of the Dying” offers Scripture‑rooted words...
“Children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward” (Psalm 127:3), says the psalmist—they are beloved by God, as we also know from the Gospel accounts of Jesus saying...
In this letter, Peter sends greetings to his readers from her “who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen” (1Pt 5:13). This no doubt refers to a church (the Greek word for church is...
“You might be a control freak.” These words were spoken to me years ago during a summer internship as a hospital chaplain. As part of the internship program, my cohort had to write...
When my wife and I were expecting our first child, we knew that we wanted a daily routine with our family that included a time of prayer. We understood our responsibility God was...
Following the season of Easter is the Day of Pentecost, celebrating the narrative recorded in Acts 2 of the Holy Spirit descending onto followers of Christ and allowing them to speak in...
Following the season of Easter is the Day of Pentecost, celebrating the narrative recorded in Acts 2 of the Holy Spirit descending onto followers of Christ and allowing them to speak in...
