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From President Johnson:

Ecclesial Tidbits

Are We Not Confessional Lutherans?

Are we not Confessional Lutherans? Do we not proclaim both Law and Gospel?

If so, then where does this new pietism and legalism come from? (I think this is such a problem that I will address it monthly.)

Almost weekly, I am confronted with conflicts that revolve around legalism and pietism. Someone, or some group of someones, who feel the “rules” are not being followed according to their interpretation and want me, or someone at Synod, to do something about it. Sometimes this is a lay person who will alert me to problems at their congregation where the pastor is not doing something “right”. 



Recently, an example of a pastor not doing something right came up in regard to Holy Communion. The lay person reported their pastor was giving Holy Communion to a non-member in violation of the Synod and our Confession. First question I ask, and 1^st question you should ask when confronted with accusations, have you sat down to discuss this with your pastor? The answer was no. My next comment is, we follow Matthew 18:15-17. You want the pastor to follow the rules, you need to follow Christ’s Word and go talk to your pastor before you talk to anyone else. BTW, I talked to the pastor and they were not, in fact, giving Holy Communion to a non-member.

Or, a pastor will contact me about something going on in another parish, not his own. This happened recently when a pastor emailed me to ask if I saw what another congregation had posted on their Face Book page and asked what I was going to do to correct the pastor and congregation.

Again, the first question was, have you talked to this pastor yourself? The answer was no. The reason, according to them, was because this was a public post on FB so he wasn’t required to follow Matthew 18 due to it being a “public sin”. No. Our Synod has said that public sins do not negate the requirement to go and talk to a man. Even if it’s published publicly, anyone having a problem with what was published is required by Scripture, according to Christ’s own words, to go and speak with them first.

District Tid Bits:

• Our newest congregation brought into membership in the LCMS, Absolution Lutheran Church, Denham Springs, LA. has grown so rapidly that they are in the process of preparing to build out a new sanctuary! 

• Rev. Dave Moerbe, pastor at Good Shepherd LC, Gardendale, AL. has spearheaded a youth work training co-op for congregations interested in improving or starting youth ministry. They meet via Zoom and are having a great impact! This is one of those things where the Southern District is no longer able to afford to hire a youth person, so Pastor Moerbe stepped in the gap, took the horse by the reins, and started something, using the gifts and talents the Lord has given him, to fill the gap!

• Rev. Eric Klemme, Good Shepherd, Shalimar, FL. is a faithful pastor who faithfully visits his people, faithfully proclaims Law and Gospel, faithfully administers the sacraments, and faithfully fulfills his calling as an evangelist trying many and various was to connect with people outside the church so they can connect them to Christ and his church. After less than a year in his new call to GS, the Holy Spirit has been faithful to use Pastor Klemme to bring in 30 new members!

• The same has been happening at St. Paul’s, Cullman, AL. under Pastor Bussman. Through faithful preaching, teaching, educating and administering the sacraments, Pastor Bussman has been blessed to Confirm 24 new adults into the Christian faith and membership in the congregation this year!

Good things are happening. The Gospel is still the power of God unto salvation. And the Holy Spirit is using pastors and people to reach new people with the Gospel and see them coming to faith, baptism, and discipleship in the local congregation!

Your Servant In Christ's Ministry and Mission,

Rev. Eric Johnson

President, Southern District, LCMS

Celebrating Service: Commissioning and Installation of 
Deaconess Barbara Edwards

A Joyful Occasion at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mobile, AL!

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 4:00 PM, the sanctuary of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mobile, Alabama, was filled with joyful anticipation as members of the congregation, guests, and leaders from across the Southern District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod gathered to witness the Commissioning and Installation Service for Deaconess Barbara Edwards.

A Spirit-Led Celebration

The service was a moving testament to God's faithfulness and the call to serve His people. Centered on the theme from 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3—giving thanks for the work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in Christ—the liturgy was enriched with hymns of dedication and thanksgiving, reflecting both the solemnity and hopefulness of this important milestone in Deaconess Edwards’s ministry. The installation was conducted by Rev. Dr. Ulmer Marshall, Deaconess Edwards’s pastor and mentor, along with Rev. Dave Buss from The Southern District Office of Missions. Both pastors spoke words of encouragement, highlighting the calling and vocation of the deaconess within the life of the church.

Honoring a Life of Service

Deaconess Barbara Edwards, a recent graduate of Concordia Seminary’s Deaconess Program, has demonstrated a compassionate heart and steadfast faith throughout her preparation for ministry. Her work with children, the elderly, and women in need has already blessed many within the Trinity community. The service highlighted her gifts and the unique calling of deaconesses to works of mercy, teaching, and encouragement.

Words of Welcome and Commitment

During the installation, Deaconess Edwards publicly affirmed her commitment to serve Christ and His Church. The congregation responded with prayer and support, signifying the partnership between deaconess and congregation in the mission of the Gospel. Deaconess Heather Bien from Our Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church, Crestview, FL was honored to pin Deaconess Edwards, further connecting Deaconess Edwards to the broader LCMS family.

A Community United in Mission

Following the service, a reception in the Marshall fellowship hall provided the opportunity for joyful fellowship, words of encouragement, and gifts of appreciation. Members of the congregation spoke of Deaconess Edwards’s warmth and dedication, expressing gratitude for her presence and ministry among them.

The Southern District celebrates with Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and Deaconess Barbara Edwards as she begins this new chapter of service. We give thanks to God for raising up faithful servants and pray that He would continue to bless and guide Deaconess Edwards as she shares Christ’s love in Mobile and beyond.

For more photos and stories from the service, visit the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church website or contact the Southern District office.

As we turn the page to a new year, we do so with hearts full of hope and a renewed commitment to serve. In the LCMS Southern District, we know that disasters—whether hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes—can strike without warning. But when they do, the Church is called to respond with compassion, courage, and Christ-centered care.

That’s why we’re launching a district-wide initiative to expand Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training opportunities in 2026. Our goal is simple but bold: to prepare every corner of the Southern District to respond swiftly and faithfully when disaster strikes.

WHY LERT?

LERT training equips volunteers with the practical skills and spiritual readiness to serve in the aftermath of disaster. From debris removal and chainsaw safety to emotional and spiritual care, LERT-certified volunteers are trained to be the hands and feet of Jesus in times of crisis.

Whether you're a seasoned responder or someone who simply wants to help, LERT training offers a meaningful way to serve your neighbors with mercy and hope.

OUR 2026 VISION

We’re inviting every congregation, circuit, and ministry group to consider:

• Hosting a LERT training at your church or community center

• Partnering with nearby congregations to coordinate a regional session

• Encouraging members to attend a scheduled training in their area

Together, we can build a culture of readiness—one congregation, one volunteer, one act of love at a time.

LET’S BUILD A CULTURE OF READINESS - TOGETHER

If your congregation or group is interested in hosting or attending a LERT training in 2026, please reach out to the District Disaster Relief Coordinator, Rev. Paul Ernewein at forgedbyfireservices@gmail.com.

Together, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus in times of crisis—bringing hope, help, and healing to our neighbors in need.

WATCH & BE INSPIRED

Want to see LERT in action? Watch this short video from LCMS Disaster response to learn how LERT volunteers are trained and why their ministry matters.

Thanksgiving Spirit at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

This time of year is a time of hope and thanks. The members of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Clinton, MS, have gathered together to give back to the local community. Over the last month, church members collected items to provide Thanksgiving meals to 45 community families. November 19th, about 25 church members sorted and packaged the offerings, readying them for distribution on the 20th. Each family received vegetable sides, stuffing supplies, desserts, and a meat to celebrate the day of thankfulness. On distribution day, everything went smoothly and families were eager and grateful for the meals provided.  

First Lutheran Church of Florala, Al. Empowered by Jesus,

A Small But Mighty Light to Florala, Andalusia, Baker, Paxton, and Opp 

Called to serve the community of Florala, Al.  

The Florala Community Event, now in its third year, was well attended by residents who enjoyed activities including a large water slide, music, food, and fellowship. First Lutheran Church partnered with organizations such as Mental Health Services, mobile phone providers, and the staff of the Florala Community Center to host the event. Rev. Dr. Sean Ballard prepared over 50 hot dogs, and Jean Freeney assisted with serving attendees. Despite the threat of rain, the event was a success and was enjoyed by all. 

First Lutheran Church's 3^rd Annual Women’s Tea 

The LWML of First Lutheran Church hosted its third annual Women’s Tea Party, themed “Walking Together in Love.” Attendees included family and friends from Florala and Churches throughout our circuit. The attendees enjoyed a selection of teas and finger foods while wearing their finest tea party attire. Deaconess Heather Bien of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Crestview, Florida, delivered a message on the event’s theme, drawing from Ephesians 5:2. 

Called to serve our community of Opp, Al.

Jean Freeney of First Lutheran Church, along with the city of Opp’s Housing Authority, organized a soup-and-snacks event to address America’s possible worst hunger crisis in years, serving those affected by the November funding shortage, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Rev. Dr. Sean Ballard of First Lutheran Church joined the team, and 160 people were fed to the glory of God in Jesus Christ.  

We are still accepting sponsors for tables at the Gala, and we would be honored if your group would consider sponsoring a table for $1,000. This sponsorship not only provides a wonderful evening of fellowship, food, and entertainment but also directly supports the mission and work of Veritas Lutheran School:

Veritas Lutheran School (VLS) is a classical Lutheran parochial school located in Fairhope, Alabama, and is a mission of the parish of Redeemer Lutheran Church. Dedicated to the pure proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ as revealed in sacred Scripture and confessed in the Book of Concord, VLS prepares children for heavenly and earthly citizenship through a classical Lutheran education. Our students are grounded firmly in the truth of God’s Word, abound in wisdom and virtue, and are equipped to share God’s grace in all of their various vocations, present and future. Our mission is to raise up young men and women who are intellectually grounded, spiritually mature, and fully equipped to defend the faith with clarity, courage, and conviction.

In addition to table sponsorships, we are also seeking donations for our Silent Auction. Items such as themed baskets, gift certificates, unique experiences, and other valuable goods will be bid on by event attendees, with all proceeds directly benefiting the mission of Veritas Lutheran School. Your generosity in contributing an auction item is another wonderful way to support our school and engage with the community.

If sponsoring a table is not feasible at this time, we would greatly appreciate any connections you may have who might be interested in attending, donating an auction item, or contributing as a donor. Every bit of support helps us continue this mission and makes a meaningful impact in our community.

You may register and pay online through Eventbrite using THIS LINK. If you would prefer to avoid Eventbrite’s processing fees, please feel free to reach out directly to arrange payment by check at admin@veritaslutheran.org.

Thank you so much for considering this opportunity. Please feel free to reach out with any questions, to reserve your table, or to arrange a silent auction donation. We hope to celebrate with you at the Gala!

Thoughts on the hymn Silent Night….

One of my favorite Christmas songs is Silent Night, with lyrics adapted from Joseph Mohr’s poem Stille Nacht and music composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. Each year, as I hear this hymn sung in a darkened sanctuary illuminated only by candlelight, I find myself pausing to reflect…

On that first Christmas night, the world was hushed under the stillness of Bethlehem. In the quiet, God gave His greatest gift: His Son, Jesus. Silent Night reminds us that the Savior did not arrive with armies or trumpets, but with the cry of a baby born in a manger. As we confess, this is the miracle of the Incarnation: Jesus is both true God and true man, sent to live among us and bring us life.

The manger leads us to the cross, where this same Savior would give His life for the forgiveness of our sins. Christmas joy is more than a beautiful story; it is the Good News that “a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). Because of Jesus, we have peace with God, not by what we do, but as a gift of His grace. This is the heart of our faith: we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

As families, schools, centers, and Churches gather this season to sing the hymn, "Silent Night" we share in the wonder of the shepherds who heard the angels’ song. The light of Christ still shines in our hearts and classrooms, reminding us that God is with us in every season of life.



May this Christmas be filled with awe at the holy Child, joy in the forgiveness He brings, and hope as we carry His light into the world. Truly, Christ the Savior is born!

Immanuel Lutheran Church in Bossier held our Fall "Camping Under the Stars"movie night on November 8 for our youngsters and their families. A strong turnout for the event, which included crafts, a scavenger hunt, a meal, and a movie, We also had "non-Immanuel" families from the Shreveport-Bossier City area to enjoy the fun and hear the word of Our Risen Savior!

Lamb of God in Slidell, LA hosted their JOY Ladies Auxiliary Thanksgiving Luncheon and awarded their JOY Charity Beneficiaries - CCC, STARC, and JAS Junior Auxiliary of Slidell!

Mountain Lakes Zone LWML Update

The weather has finally said goodbye to summer—it just waited until mid-October to let go! As the cool mornings arrive, we give thanks for another season filled with opportunities to gather, serve, and grow together in faith across the Mountain Lakes Zone.

Our Fall Rally was held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Decatur, and what an incredible day it was! Their LWML group did an outstanding job hosting a record 78 ladies from across North Alabama. The sanctuary was filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt devotion as we came together around the theme verse Matthew 5:16 — “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” It was a beautiful reminder that our light shines brightest when we use our gifts in service to others.

During our business session, we discussed upcoming Zone election nominations and shared updates on Gulf States District nominations. We also set a service project date of January 31 for a special outreach effort — assembling “Go-To Bags” for First Responders in our communities. These bags will include happy notes, chapstick, bottled water, protein bars, coffee gift cards, and other small tokens of appreciation to let our local heroes know how much they are valued and prayed for.

It’s exciting to see the continued growth and connection within our Zone. Our societies are supporting one another by attending events, workshops, and fundraisers across congregations — a true reflection of the unity and love that defines our LWML family. Whether through acts of service, fellowship gatherings, or simple encouragement, the women of the Mountain Lakes Zone continue to live out the mission to “Serve the Lord with Gladness.”

As we move into the coming months, we look forward to our January service project and the opportunity to once again let our lights shine brightly together in Christ’s name.

Blessings and joy to all our sisters in service!

Emily Trahan

President, Mountain Lakes Zone

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School Celebrates 140 Years of Faith and Fellowship

This December, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Cullman, AL, will celebrate its 140th anniversary.

On Sunday, December 7th, we invite everyone who has ever had a connection to St. Paul’s—members, alumni, teachers, staff, students, and friends—to come and celebrate with us.

We will gather for Divine Service, followed by a reception and time of fellowship in the school gym. It will be a joyful opportunity to reconnect, reflect, and give thanks for the generations who have worshiped, learned, and served together at St. Paul’s.

Established in 1885, St. Paul’s has stood as a steadfast witness to Christ in Cullman for nearly a century and a half. The first building, a simple frame structure, was dedicated in 1887 on the same corner where the congregation continues to gather today. As the years passed and the congregation grew, new sanctuaries were built, including the current church dedicated in 1970. Its seven soaring laminated arches and family-circle design have made it one of Cullman’s most familiar landmarks and a lasting symbol of faith in the community.

For much of its early history, all of the liturgy, hymns, teaching, and preaching at St. Paul’s were in German. Even as the congregation transitioned to English, the German language remained an important part of worship for many years. That heritage continues today through the annual German Service during Oktoberfest, which honors the congregation’s roots and celebrates the unchanging nature of God’s Word through time and language.

St. Paul’s Lutheran School has always been deeply committed to Christian education. The school, first established in the late 1800s and reopened in 1954, continues to provide an outstanding education rooted in Christ. In recent years, St. Paul’s Lutheran School has embraced the Classical Lutheran Education model, serving children in grades three through six. Students attend daily chapel, study the Scriptures and Luther’s Small Catechism, and receive instruction in the liberal arts—cultivating both the mind and the soul. The liberal arts shape intellect and character by focusing on what is good, true, and beautiful, while faith is nourished through God’s Word, the Lutheran confessions, and the liturgy and hymnody of the Church.

For generations, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School has remained a cornerstone of faith and learning in Cullman. Among its alumni are many distinguished men and women who continue to make a positive difference in their communities and professions, each shaped by the foundation of faith and values instilled during their years at St. Paul’s.

As we prepare to celebrate this milestone, we give thanks for 140 years of God’s grace, for the faith of those who came before us, and for the ongoing mission of cultivating minds and nourishing souls in Christ.

We warmly invite you to join us on Sunday, December 7, for this special day of worship and celebration. If you have fond memories or stories of your time at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School, please share them with us by emailing secretary@stpaulscullman.com

Together, we give thanks for the past, rejoice in the present, and look forward in faith to the future God has prepared for His people at St. Paul’s!

ATTENTION: DCE'S, Youth Leaders, Parents, Pastors, and Anyone Who Loves Teens... 

Join us for our District-Wide Monthly Virtual Gathering to support, encourage, and equip those working with teens. Come join us on the Second Thursday of the month @ 7:00 PM via zoom....

Southern District Youth Ministry Zoom Night

Schedule (7-8 PM Second Thursday of Month):

We will discuss and apply the information from the LCMS Youth Ministry’s book -  “Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry” (7PHYM). Each night the plan is to have information shared and discussed, questions asked and wrestled with, and prayer.

    1.    Dec 11: Supportive Adults

    2.    Jan 8: Engaged Parents

    3.    Feb 12: Opportunities to Serve and Lead

    4.    Mar 12: Deeply Understand Their Baptismal Faith

    5.    Apri9: Develop a Resilient Identity in Christ

    6.    May 14: Live Out Their Unique Vocation

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE MEETING

Join Zoom Meeting INFORMATION

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88678752466

Meeting ID: 886 7875 2466

Any questions, feel free to contact David Moerbe @ dmoerbed2456@gmail.com.

Seeing the Christmas Story With Fresh Eyes

by Matt Peeples

Posted from the Real Christmas Book

I’ve been in ministry for more than 16 years now—17 if you count my vicarage—and that means I’ve preached through the Advent and Christmas texts from Luke and Matthew at least 17 times. Every year, as I get ready to step back into those same familiar stories, I catch myself wondering, Will I see anything new this time? It’s the same shepherds, the same manger, the same angels, the same Bethlehem. And yet, without fail, every single Advent, God surprises me. Every year there’s some detail that lands differently, some truth that speaks directly into my life, some insight I’ve never noticed before. These aren’t stale stories on a shelf. They’re living and active, still speaking into the real world we’re navigating right now—which is why I’ve always loved helping people “be” Christmas, to step into the story rather than simply observe it.

But I also know this season can be overwhelming. The calendar fills faster than we expect, the events pile on, and suddenly the time meant for slowing down and savoring Christ becomes the busiest stretch of the year. As pastors, we feel this pressure more than most. We’re caring for our people, planning services, preparing messages, and trying to be present for our own families—all while praying that somehow, in the midst of it, we still get to pause long enough to wonder at the miracle of God with us.

So if you’re feeling the weight of Advent already, you’re not alone. That’s normal. In fact, you can trust that every time you return to these stories, God will give you a fresh chance to see His grace again—because that’s what He does. And with that in mind, I wanted to give you a gift to help lighten the load this Advent.

Here are eight sermon outlines designed to offer clear, compelling messages so you can focus on your people—not just the prep. If these help lighten your load or spark an idea to build from, please feel free to use them in whatever way serves your congregation best. Pastors carry a lot during this season, and if this resource gives you back even a little margin to breathe, pray, and connect with your people, then I’m grateful.

You can download all eight outlines for free:

Download Here

Your partner in ministry,

Matt Peeples

Founder & Director, The Kairos Network

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