Official Workbook report source text
Official Workbook source-navigation report record. No analysis has been added.
- Report number/id
- R48
- Report title
- R48 SELC District
- Workbook start page
- 132
- Workbook end page
- 132
- Source pages
- 132
- Source status
- source_checked
- Committee
- Not available
R48 SELC District “For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have made you a light for the nations, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth’” (Acts 13:47). The Christian Church is a missionary endeavor. Our Lord equips his Church with Word and Sacrament and sends His apostles out, baptizing and teaching (Matt. 28:19–28). Jesus promises His Holy Spirit to empower the mission of the Church to the “ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The apostles and early Christians, overcome by the Good News of freedom, forgiveness and new life in Christ, could not “stop speaking about what they had seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). In our district theme verse, Acts 13:47, the apostle Paul reminds us of God’s divine appointment: we are called to be a “light to the nations.” This image of light carries profound implica- tions for how we live our daily lives and engage with those around us. In a world often shrouded in darkness—filled with uncertainty, confusion, and despair—our calling is to shine brightly. Just as a lighthouse guides ships safely to harbor, we are to reflect the love and grace of Jesus, guiding others toward Christ. The purpose of the light is clear: to bring salvation to the ends of the earth. This calling transcends geographical boundaries—it is a global mission. We are a “district without borders.” We are reminded that our faith is not merely for personal comfort or assurance but is meant to be shared. It is essential to remember that we do not shine by our own strength; it is the Holy Spirit who guides and empowers the witness of the Church. “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:17). Ministry Context The district carries out its mission in a challenging environment. Across North America, congregations face declining membership, aging demographics, pastoral shortages, and financial pressures. Fewer candidates are available for calls, leading to longer vacan - cies and increased reliance on part-time or multi-congregational ministries. Yet these realities have not led to retreat. Instead, they have sharpened our focus. Trusting that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ,” the district continues to center its work on proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. Church planting and congregational revitalization remain cen- tral priorities for our district. In recent years, the district has worked to strengthen existing congregations while developing new mission opportunities in communities where Gospel witness is urgently needed. In the United States and Canada, this includes revitalization efforts in New Jersey, “rebirthing” a dying congregation, ongoing multicultural outreach in Montreal, and new mission congregations in the South. The district has planted the first Hispanic mission in the St. Louis area. There, our missionary has begun conducting the Divine Service in Spanish. He also provides Bible studies, pastoral care, and English-as-a-Second-Language instruction, expanding Gospel outreach to underserved populations. To support our mission efforts, the district has strengthened its infrastructure for church planting by providing pastoral and admin- istrative support for mission leaders. Our goal is clear: that every nership with CUI and an agreement to “swap” the previous district office building (located on the main campus) for a new space on the third floor of the Spectrum campus building. The district is grateful to CUI for building out this welcoming and effective space. The new facility is tailored for 21st-century ministry support, featuring a 70-person high-tech conference center, breakout rooms, an area for catering and receptions, and collaborative workspaces that better serve district congregations and schools. It is with gratitude and humility that we give thanks to God for the congregations, schools, church workers, laypeople, district staff, and others who have served faithfully during the past triennium. We look with excitement to future ways that the churches and schools of the district will be used by God to proclaim the risen Christ! Soli Deo Gloria. Michael E. Gibson, President