Adoption
Posted on October 7, 2026
by Marcus & Courtney, Parents
After years of waiting, disappointment and uncertainty, Courtney and Marcus wondered if their dream of becoming parents would ever come true. Then, through Lutheran Family Service, God opened the door to not one, but two adoption journeys, welcoming Selah and Jonah into their family just months apart. Their story is a beautiful reminder of God’s provision, faithfulness and the truth that sometimes, the wait is worth it.
Grief & Loss
Posted on October 5, 2026
by Kari Smith, MS
Pregnancy and infant loss can leave families carrying profound grief, questions, and loneliness. During Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, Lutheran Family Service reflects on the preciousness of every human life and how Christians can walk alongside grieving families with compassion, dignity, and the hope we have in Christ.
Godly Living
Posted on October 3, 2026
by Rev. Nathan Grewe, tLMHC
When an unanswered question takes up too much space, it can begin to shape how we see everything else. In Part 3 of The Season of “I Don’t Know,” Rev. Nathan Grewe, tLMHC, reflects on the difference between having a problem and allowing that problem to become the narrator of our lives. Through the image of a coffee mug, a puzzle with missing pieces, and the hope we have in Christ, Nathan encourages us to step back, see the larger picture, and remember that our unanswered questions never have the final word.
Parenting
Posted on October 1, 2026
by Stephanie Grade, LMHC
Today’s youth face growing pressures related to substance use, mental health, relationships, and belonging. Prevention begins with more than simply saying “no.” It starts with connection, compassion, faith, and helping young people know they are loved, valued, and never alone. Learn how parents, caregivers, churches, and communities can support youth with grace and truth.
Church Worker Wellness
Posted on September 25, 2026
by Cassie Beltz, LMHC
Pastors and counselors have distinct roles, but they can work together to provide more complete care. Cassie Beltz, LMHC, explores what a strong pastor-counselor partnership can look like in practice and how church workers can remain meaningfully involved when professional counseling becomes part of someone’s care.
Church Worker Wellness
Posted on September 19, 2026
by Rev. Samuel G. Beltz
When you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, or trauma, you may wonder whether to talk to your pastor, a counselor, or both. Rev. Samuel G. Beltz explains how pastors and counselors have different but complementary roles and how working together can provide care for the whole person.
Adoption
Posted on September 9, 2026
by Ryan & Shilpa, Parents
For years, Shilpa and Ryan wondered how God would build their family. After infertility and an unexpected journey through foster care, a surprising question opened the door to adoption. Through uncertainty, surrender and waiting, God faithfully led them to David, and reminded them that He was working long before they could see the whole picture.
Giving
Posted on September 1, 2026
by Rob Kellar
Rob Kellar, LFS’s Director of Donor Engagement, reflects on how the gifts God entrusts to each of us can be used to strengthen ministry, serve others, and make a lasting difference.
Lutheran Family Service News
Posted on August 18, 2026
by Ieva Russell
Meet Deaconess Ieva Russell and learn about her journey into mental health counseling, her passion for helping others, and her desire to bring faith and counseling together. Ieva shares how her experiences have shaped her approach to caring for the whole person and offering hope and support through life’s challenges.
Lutheran Family Service News
Posted on August 12, 2026
by Rob Kellar
Lutheran Family Service joined Lutherans from across the country at the 2026 LCMS National Convention, strengthening partnerships and exploring new opportunities to serve individuals, families, congregations, and church workers. The convention also brought a special honor for LFS Executive Director Rev. Max Phillips.
