August 2026 Update

Arvin Pirness  |  The Voice of Zion August 2026 - News & Notes --

Publications

• We extend a special thank-you to Ruth Delacey, who served as Publications Coordinator for the past five years. Her work in the Publications Department and the Opisto program allowed her to develop warm connections with many believers across North America. We are grateful for her service of love and wish her God’s blessings in the future.

• Helen Hillukka is serving temporarily as Publications Coordinator through the month of August. An announcement for this full-time position has been sent to congregations, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

• It was heartwarming to see so many people visit the bookstore during the 2026 LLC Summer Services. We pray that God will continue to bless us with publications that encourage and enrich the endeavor of faith.

• As always, the work of the Publications Department is supported by many volunteers through written, illustrated, and photographic contributions. Producers, editors, reviewers, and local congregation coordinators also play important roles. We are thankful for all who contribute their time and gifts to this work.

Facilities & Events

• We again experienced the blessings of gathering for Summer Services at Silver Springs. We thank the Menahga and Brainerd congregations for their diligent planning and the hundreds of volunteers whose efforts made it possible for service guests to enjoy a blessed weekend gathered around God’s Word.

• During the services weekend, attendees were invited to provide feedback regarding the Silver Springs site. All feedback will be reviewed by the Silver Springs Board as it considers improvements and long-term development of the property.

• In June and July, eight confirmation schools were held across North America, attended by 294 young people. Many pre-confirmation camps, youth camps, and other camps will continue to be held through August. We are thankful that God continues to bless this important work among our young.

Global Mission Work

• After a break in July, mission trips resume in August. Especially noteworthy are the confirmation schools in Kenya, including one for adults and one for youth. A youth confirmation school is also planned in Togo.

• One of the Global Mission Work teams is the Learning Materials and Education Team, which has developed Friend of Children: Illustrated Bible Lessons. The resource has been well received by teachers in Africa. A subcommittee is also developing a standardized curriculum and agenda for confirmation schools in Africa.

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Pastoral

• SRK and LLC summer speaker exchange trips have concluded. We rejoice in the unity of faith and the blessings we have experienced through serving one another at services, camps and in homes.

LLC Annual Meeting

• The 2026 LLC Annual Meeting was held at the Rockford Laestadian Lutheran Church, where delegates reviewed and expressed support for the proposed 2027 LLC Operating Plan. 

–  Delegates heard encouraging reports from congregations that incorporate the Apostles’ Creed into the Communion liturgy, noting the edifying experiences shared by some delegates. 

–  An update was provided on the work of the Catechism Review Committee. Following many years of study and careful consideration, a draft revision has been reviewed by the LLC Board and shared with LLC ministers. During the coming months, presentations will be held in congregations to introduce the draft and provide an opportunity for review and discussion. 

–  Delegates discussed the future of Hasscib Lake Camp, with additional conversations planned for the fall meeting of the Minnesota congregation boards and the East-Central Mission Area meetings in January. 

–  Following remarks from the Coastal California Laestadian Lutheran Church delegate and the presentation of several motions that did not receive a second, Annual Meeting delegates adopted a motion encouraging the LLC Board and staff to proceed with the steps necessary regarding Coastal California Laestadian Lutheran Church’s membership in LLC and to engage legal counsel as needed.