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Joseph also went up

By Stephen G. Helwig

Perfect joy awaits

By Rachel Olson

Please explain: Why is the virgin birth of Christ important?

By Nicolas Schmoller

Mission dreams

By Andrew Schroer

Opening doors in Advent and beyond

By James F. Pope

December

Forward in Christ cover image one lit candle shining in darkness

What's inside

This month as you prepare to celebrate your Savior’s birth, read about the hope, joy, love, and peace that Christ brings.

Johnold Strey wrote a devotion for each week leading up to Christmas and on Christmas Day that corresponds with the candles on the Advent wreath. Enjoy this interactive Advent devotion experience.
Executive editor James Pope reflects on Advent calendars, open doors, and God’s gift of love to the world: baby Jesus. Read "Opening doors in Advent and beyond."
Rachel Olson's article reminds us to take time this month to ponder the sure hope of heaven and the perfect joy and peace that await us there. Read "Perfect joy awaits."
Find photos of WELS members across the synod celebrating Christmas hope, joy, love, and peace with twice as many “This is WELS” photos.

- Julie Wietzke, managing editor

This is WELS

toddler girl dressed as a shepherd looking at baby in manger for live nativity

man, two women and teen going door to door with Christmas postcards

teens in front of christmas tree holding Christmas sign that reads "Peace" and contains the nativity

people in church holding lit candles for worship service

woman decorating a Christmas tree in a church

man and son in church holding lit candles

little boy drinking hot cocoa from a mug that says "Amazing Grace Lutheran"

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Advent devotions

Follow weekly devotions from Forward in Christ for Advent through Christmas in audio, video, print, and storybook formats.

Experience the weekly devotion

News

Serving in love at the Harris County Jail

“The prisoners are able to live their faith. . . . It’s amazing to see how God works [and] gets his Word out through these guys,” says Matt Brown about his ministry at the Harris County jail....