September 2026 Update

Sep 1

2 min read

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion September 2026 -News and NoteS --

As another summer draws to a close, the familiar rhythms of autumn begin once again. Children return to school and to Sunday school, congregational activities resume after busy summer months, and fields in many places are beginning to yield their harvest. These changing seasons remind us of God’s continued care, both for our daily needs and for our souls.

We give thanks for the many blessings of the summer – services, camps, weddings, visits, and opportunities for Christian fellowship that strengthened and encouraged believers. Now, as many return to their daily routines, we remember that God continues to gather and preserve His congregation through His living Word.

We remember those who have begun a new year of study at the opistos in Finland, praying that God would bless and keep them as they learn and study. May He grant His blessing also to children returning to Sunday school, to teachers and workers serving in His kingdom, and to each of us as we continue our journey together toward our heavenly home.

Following this summer’s Annual Meeting, some matters have been returned to the congregations for further discussion. As delegates seek input from those they represent, we encourage members to participate thoughtfully in these conversations. May God grant wisdom and unity as we seek His guidance together.

Updates on LLC Activities

Publications

It was refreshing to see the many visits to the Summer Services bookstore, July 2–5, 2026. Items that sold out at Summer Services are now back in stock. For example, Hymns Ascending: Songs and Hymns of Zion for Classical Guitar is once again available through the LLC Office and online bookstore.
Progress continues on books planned for release by the end of 2026:

– They Call Her Blessed is a collection of writings to support mothers of all ages, especially in our current times, when life is busy, large families are less appreciated, self is often emphasized and the world continues to move further away from God.

–The Fall into Sin, a children’s Bible story book, is in its final layout and is planned for release later this fall.

–Fiction novels are a relatively new form of publication in North American Zion. The first, Time for Words, tells the story of young people navigating the common struggles of the teen years. It remains our hope and prayer that two or three additional novels will be completed this year.

Pastoral

The 2026 Ministers and Wives Camp will be held at Kamp Kipa on September 18–20. We encourage ministers and their wives to attend if they are able.
Kyösti Pieviläinen of Joensuu, Finland, will arrive for the SRK Fall Speaking Trip on October 2 and depart on October 26. We welcome the Pieviläinens and look forward to their visits with many North American congregations.