Lutheran Hour speaker addresses Michigan District LLL convention

“Reach out to everyone with the Gospel.”

This was the theme of Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler’s address to participants at the 77th annual Michigan District “I have the privilege of being one voice to a million,” Dr. Zeigler, the speaker of The Lutheran Hour, said. “We have one million voices that can reach out to one person.”

He asked the audience “How often have you had a conversation about faith (or lack of faith) with anyone in the last year.”

“We need to live the faith like people in the New Testament did,” Dr. Zeigler said. “Eager conversationalists are people who have a clear understanding that salvation, comes from, believing in the Lord Jesus.”

He mentioned how Jesus, in his ministry, dealt with shy and reluctant followers.

Dr. Rev Zeigler concluded his talk: “This is how y0u can witness to others, one person at a time.”

“Almost five billion people on this planet do not follow Christ,” said Tom Rehkopf, ministry advancement officer for LHM. “We are at a Crossroads.”

LHM is focusing on four pillars:

•Bring the Gospel to the unchurched around the world.

•Engage communities in the digital mission field.

•Grow God’s Kingdom through expanded media outreach.

•Energize, equip and engage laity for outreach.

He noted LHM partners with Barna Research.

He said materials have been developed to help train people. It’s a part of LHMlearn.

“There are Bible studies and other guides,” Rehkopf said. “It’s easy to access.”

He talked about Project Connect. A booklet ministry. Project Connect offers topical booklets covering nearly 60 subjects and offer hope and comfort to hurting people.

Rehkopf said “we look for places where there hasn’t been an opportunity to share the Gospel. We go for unreached people.”

Smart phones, “is where people are at today. It’s a huge opportunity.”

Rehkopf mentioned how the League, through THRED, is social media ministry to share the Gospel.

The league has a goal to raise $242 million over five years. The weekly goal is to reach 137 million people every week with the Gospel. An annual goal is $715,535.

“We appreciate your prayers and support.”

President Chuck Bennett chaired the 77^th annual convention at the Bavarian Lodge and Conference Center, Frankemuth.

The convention approved a budget of $12,025 for the 2019-2020 fiscal year.

Dave Marasus led the convention in several song sessions. Pastoral advisor Rev. Travis Downs opened the convention with a devotion.

The convention received greetings from the LWML, president Paul Moeller of the LLL Saginaw Valley Zone and Brad Strorck, LLL Arcadia Retreat chairman.