A Joy-Filled Announcement From Lutheran Family Service

We are thrilled to share that Lutheran Women in Mission (LWML) has approved a $92,500 national mission grant for our project, Not Alone: Gospel Help For Families In Crisis, at their 2025 National Convention in Omaha. We are deeply grateful for their confidence, prayers, and partnership as we expand Christ-centered care for families across the country.

Meeting Families In Their Deepest Hurts

Today’s families face challenges that previous generations could never have imagined. Issues such as gender identity confusion, mental illness, suicidal thoughts, and fractured relationships are affecting more homes than ever before.

Statistics paint a sobering picture: 1 in every 20 adults lives with a serious mental health condition, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death for youth, and 45% of young people struggling with gender identity report serious suicidal ideation. Behind each number is a family seeking clarity, comfort, and a path forward.

Many Christian parents feel alone as they navigate these heavy realities. When they finally reach out, they long for help that is Biblically grounded, faithful, and infused with the hope of the Gospel. That is exactly the mission this grant will strengthen.

What This Grant Makes Possible

Thanks to LWML’s generosity, thousands of families — both within the LCMS and in our wider communities — will receive faithful, professional guidance from LCMS pastors and licensed Christian mental health counselors.

Over the next two years, this grant will support:

• In‑person and virtual presentations on gender identity, grief and loss, mental health, and more
• Support groups and parent gatherings for ongoing encouragement
• Individualized Gospel-centered care, especially for families in crisis
• Expanded outreach into rural and underserved areas, where support is often out of reach

With an estimated 164 educational and support gatherings per year, this project will extend real-time, Christ-centered help to families no matter where they live.

Rooted In Scripture, Driven By Mission

Lutheran Family Service has served the LCMS for more than 123 years, offering care intentionally grounded in the Word of God. We do not accept government funding in order to safeguard this commitment. This grant beautifully aligns with LCMS mission priorities — especially strengthening families and providing human care closely connected to Word and Sacrament ministry.

As families seek help, doors open for renewed connection with the Church, Gospel proclamation, and healing within the body of Christ.

A Grateful Partnership For The Sake Of The Gospel

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the faithful women of LWML who give their mites and their prayers so generously. Their support ensures that no family must face crisis alone — and that every parent, child, and hurting heart can hear the promise of Christ’s love and truth.

We look forward to sharing the many ways God will use this grant to bless His people.