My Christian life: A lay member serves as a law enforcement chaplain
A layperson serves gospel comfort to those who serve. A misdialed phone transfer, a post-wedding move, and a desire to serve. These are all factors that led Mark Kleisner to…
An unexpected journey
“It was God’s plan for me.” Wei Nadine Li, a member of the South Asian Lutheran Evangelical Mission, WELS’ sister synod in Hong Kong, graduated in December 2025 from Martin…
Organs, education, and the power of music
Benjamin Foster, a senior at Martin Luther College (MLC), New Ulm, Minn., has been taking organ lessons since he was ten years old. As a parish music/staff ministry major, he…
A Thanksgiving to remember
An invitation to Thanksgiving dinner redirects the future of a family and creates an international connection. “How do you know them?” People often ask how I became friends with a…
Christ through us: Calling
Our focus for 2025–2035 The new long-range strategic plan names four priorities for WELS to focus on for the next ten years. These sweeping areas tackle the challenges the church—and…
Confessions of faith: Brett and Vanessa Gilbertson
A science camp offers an opportunity for self-proclaimed “denominational vagabonds” to discover Lutheranism and consider full-time gospel ministry. Seeing a banner for an airplane-themed science camp for ages 3 and…
Confessions of faith: Valerie Frecks
A woman receives support, hope, and healing from her new church family. “When you have nothing left, all you have is God.” That’s how Valerie Frecks, member at Grace, Sahuarita,…
Developing a new theology curriculum
Melanie Giddings just finished her 18th year serving WELS schools. With experience as a classroom teacher and a curriculum coordinator, God has blessed her with a unique perspective as she…
Mastering special education
Jennifer Ertman is a 2025 Martin Luther College graduate with a master’s degree in special education. Ertman has served as early childhood director and a member of the Student Services…