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Carey Simonson | 2026 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Congregation Evening – Feb. 20 -- The kingdom of God is a very important topic. God’s kingdom is described throughout the Bible and in many articles and sermons. In fact, we could say that every sermon reveals something about God’s kingdom, and God’s kingdom is mentioned by name in most sermons. Furthermore, Jesus used many parables to illustrate the kingdom of God. He told His disciples: “The secret (or mystery) of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables” (Mark 4:11 NIV ) Therefore, many of you have heard much about God’s kingdom and you already know the mysteries of God’s kingdom. I hope this presentation will answer to your experience in God’s kingdom. To you on the outside of God’s kingdom, it is my prayer that God, through this presentation, would reveal God’s kingdom to you.   I have broken this presentation into several sections. Since Jesus spoke these words (“The kingdom of God is in your midst”) to the Pharisees, we will first review who the Pharisees were. We will then consider the meaning of the second petition of the Lord’s Prayer: Thy kingdom come. After this, we will consider: How can one see God’s kingdom? Where is God’s kingdom?, and finally, we will touch on the topics of False teachers, righteousness of life and the mission of the LLC as they relate to our topic.   Pharisees The title of this presentation comes from a conversation that Jesus had with the Pharisees and is recorded in the gospel of St. Luke, the 17 th chapter, verses 20 and 21.I will read from the New International Version (NIV). “Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”” (Luke 17:20-21 NIV )   As we begin, I thought it would be good to consider who the Pharisees were and why Jesus would have answered in this way, especially to them. The Pharisees were a group of religiously devout Jews who followed the written law of Moses and hundreds of other traditions that had been added over the centuries. They attempted to strictly follow these laws and traditions and believed in the righteousness of the law. (Phil. 3:6) Jesus called the Pharisees hypocrites because they didn’t practice what they preached. Compared to the Sadducees, which were mainly from the educated upper class, the Pharisees had widespread popular support among the common Jewish people. We may ask if there are religious teachers in our time that have widespread popular support among the common people. What would Jesus say to them? Jesus told the Pharisees: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when you have succeeded, you make them twice as much a child of hell as you are.” (Matthew 23:15 NIV )   Thy kingdom come Jesus taught His followers to pray quietly and humbly to the Heavenly Father rather than in the loud and proud manner of the hypocrites. He taught them to pray: “Thy kingdom come” (Matt. 6:10 KJV ). Luther explains in his small Catechism that “the kingdom of God comes indeed of itself, without our prayer, but we pray in this petition that it may come unto us also”. In his explanation of the 3 rd  article of the Creed, Luther writes in a similar way: “I believe that I cannot of my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Ghost has called me through the Gospel”. We see that we cannot approach God, but God approaches us. He comes to us. God’s kingdom does not come because of our prayer or efforts; it is a gift of God. It is good to pray that God’s kingdom would come close to us and support us personally in our moments of trial, sorrow, and joy. It makes our trials lighter and our joys more meaningful. Most importantly, it is from here within God’s kingdom that the Holy Spirit does His work of calling the seeking to a place of repentance and leading His own to live as children of God. Thereby making us Holy or sanctifying us unto God.   Luther further explains how God’s kingdom comes. It comes “when our Heavenly Father gives us His Holy Spirit, so that by His grace we believe His Holy Word, and live a godly life here on earth, and in Heaven forever. ” This aligns with Jesus’ teaching. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the gospel!” (Mark 1:15 NIV,KJV ) There is only one door into God’s kingdom. It is the narrow door of repentance where a sinner receives new birth when they hear and believe their sins forgiven and enter God’s kingdom, exchanging sin for grace, darkness for light, and unrest for peace. They become citizens of God’s kingdom. (Philippians 3:20) There is only one saving faith and this saving faith is found in God’s kingdom. As Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” (Eph. 4:4-6 NIV ).   Luther stated that those in God’s kingdom “live a godly life here on earth”. We will return to this topic of living a godly life later in the presentation. For now, we can agree that dwelling in God’s kingdom is more important than anything else. As Jesus taught, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33 NIV ) God’s kingdom is the everlasting kingdom that the former saints sang and wrote about. As the Psalm writer wrote: “Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.” (Psalms 145:13 NIV ). Isn’t it a miracle that God’s kingdom has come to you personally and that you can personally travel in its care and protection. This you own simply by faith, by believing! “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Eph. 2:8 KJV ) SHZ 428 aptly states: “2. These arms are Your blest kingdom / in which You lift and bear, / this home that You provide them / where they receive Your care. 3. And there the Word of mercy / with love and truth abides; / the wisdom of the Spirit / is always as a guide.” May we be preserved in this kingdom of grace.   How can one see (recognize) God’s kingdom? Since God’s kingdom is such a special place, we might ask: how can we see or recognize God’s kingdom? How is God’s kingdom revealed? There are many ways in which God’s kingdom approaches people or is revealed in this dark world. In this section, we will touch on only a few. We will hear how God’s kingdom can be seen by eyes of faith, by birth, and through important characteristics like love and forgiveness. As you listen, you may recall personal experiences where God revealed His kingdom to you or to others. You can share these in your homes and your personal conversations as God allows. It is important to emphasize that seeing or experiencing God’s kingdom is a gift of God. Only God can reveal His kingdom. Only God can enlighten one to see the beauty of His kingdom. It is written in Ecclesiastes: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV )   By eyes of faith:  The Pharisees had asked Jesus when the kingdom of God would come. Jesus answered: “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed”. God’s kingdom cannot be seen with natural eyes. It can only be seen by eyes of faith. Jesus told His disciples: “But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.” (Matthew 13:16-17 NIV )   By birth:  Most, but not all, children born in the world automatically become citizens of some country, depending on their place of birth and their parents. However, all children born into this world are born as citizens of God’s kingdom, regardless of where they are born or who their parents are. Jesus says that God has “hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.” (Matt. 11:25 NIV ). SHZ 394 beautifully relates: “Before my birth, Creator, before I was conceived, You knew my name and called me a child that You redeemed.” Many children are nurtured by believing parents who are also citizens of God’s kingdom and in the love and unity of God’s congregation. On the other hand, many children are raised by those who are not citizens of God’s kingdom. These children are citizens of God’s kingdom, even without a close physical connection with a local congregation. Unfortunately, many children leave their childhood faith and God’s kingdom as they grow and mature. Only God, who is king of His kingdom, knows when this takes place. A person may return to God’s kingdom through the gospel of forgiveness of sins preached from God’s kingdom. This is called new birth as Jesus explained to Nicodemus: “No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again” (John 3:3 NIV ) “New birth means receiving faith and becoming a child of God. Only faith opens one’s understanding to see the kingdom of God in the midst of people here in time.” (The Treasure Hidden in a Field) also Psalm 87:5-16.   Love:  After the last supper, Jesus told His disciples: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35 NIV ). This love among citizens of God’s kingdom is like a sign that reveals God’s kingdom (SHZ 195). God can use this sign to reveal His kingdom to those who are seeking. The love within God’s kingdom shines as a light into this dark world.   One might ask, what is this love? John answers: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 NIV ). Here we see that the love that is within God’s kingdom is first love from God. Through faith, this love of God ignites love within us. God’s love creates within us both love for God and love for His creation, including other people, especially those in God’s kingdom (Gal. 6:10). John writes: “For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” (1 John 4:20 NIV ). Jesus taught that “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” (John 14:23 KJV ) Here again we see that God and His kingdom come to us. If we love Jesus, we will follow His teachings, including His command to love one another (John 13:34).   Here in God’s kingdom there is love and unity of the Holy Spirit. It is true love: “not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18 NIV ) As believers we can feel this love, sometimes weakly, sometimes intensely. Unfortunately, it is nearly impossible to explain this love to one outside of God’s kingdom. Fortunately, we don’t need to explain it to someone within God’s kingdom.   Forgiveness: Jesus told His disciples “that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:47 KJV ) We can say that another sign of God’s kingdom is the gospel of the forgiveness of sins. The believers in Accra, Ghana (also Lome, Togo) have these words on their church “Temple Of Forgiveness Of Sins”. Jesus told Peter: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” (Matthew 16:18-19 NIV ) The same gospel of the forgiveness of sins that opens the door to God’s kingdom to a penitent sinner is the same forgiveness that helps preserve living faith in the hearts of the citizens of God’s kingdom. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet as a picture of forgiveness. He said: “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. ” (John 13:14 KJV ). Jesus taught us to forgive each other. Forgiveness is so important that Jesus taught that God will not forgive us if we don’t forgive others. “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15 NIV )   The Pharisees once asked Jesus: “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (Luke 5:21 NIV ). Today, we may hear the same question when we explain that God’s children forgive sins though the power of the Holy Spirit. This is a mystery that can only be understood through faith. We sing in SHZ 409: “And flesh shall never understand / that God such power gave to man. / The lowly servant Christ has sent / is but His humble instrument.”   By the Triune God: Although God has given many signs of His kingdom and has set His Holy Congregation as a light in this world, God’s kingdom can only be revealed by the Triune God. Jesus taught: “no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.” (John 6:65 NIV ) Luther writes in his explanation of the 3 rd  Article of the Creed in the Small Catechism: “I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me through the Gospel”. We don’t know unto whom  God will reveal His kingdom. We don’t know how God will reveal His kingdom or how  His kingdom will approach a lost one, such as a spouse, a parent, a child, a family member, a fellow student, a colleague at work, a neighbor across the street, or a stranger in a faraway country. Therefore, we desire to simply live as we believe in this world and pray that our weak light of faith would cause someone to ask about God’s kingdom. If we are asked, may we always be ready to give an answer with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). We also desire to preach God’s Word according to the Mission Command (Matthew 28:19-20) to our loved ones, neighbors and throughout the world as God allows. We don’t know who or how God will call, but we do know that God is still calling. It is still a day of work (John 9:4).   Where is God’s kingdom? We now return to the conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees. Jesus told the Pharisees concerning the kingdom of God: “nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst’”. Jesus was telling the Pharisees that God’s kingdom is here, on earth. God spoke to Isaiah in the same way: “I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit” (Isaiah 57:15 KJV ). John wrote in Revelations: “I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.” (Revelation 21:3 NIV ) God’s kingdom is right here where His Holy Congregation is on earth. We might say that it is hidden in plain sight. Luther wrote: “The devil can cover it over with offenses and tumults, so that you have to take offense at it. God, too, can hide it with faults and shortcomings of all kinds, so that you become a fool and pass such judgment on it. It will not be known by sight, but by faith, and faith concerns the things we do not see.” (Luther’s Preface to Revelations)   The Holy Spirit has separated God’s children from this world, and the same Holy Spirit can reveal God’s kingdom. Even if someone doesn’t see God’s kingdom, there are many blessings when God’s kingdom is in their midst. These are blessings from God to all people of a nation. We cannot even imagine the difficulties we would experience if God removed His blessings and protection from us, from our community or from our nation. These temporal blessings help us live a good and comfortable life here on earth. These blessings are for this life as we will discuss later in the section on righteousness of life.   False teachers After His conversation with the Pharisees, Jesus taught His disciples about false teachers saying: “The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. People will tell you, ‘There he is!’ or ‘Here he is!’ Do not go running off after them.” (Luke 17:22-23 NIV ). In another place, Jesus warned His listeners about false prophets in this way: “They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15-16 NIV ). Fruits are so important that Jesus repeated this instruction a few verses later, saying: “Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:20 NIV ). Meanwhile, Jesus taught in the sermon on the mount that “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5:3 NIV ). In addition, Jesus taught that citizens of God’s kingdom are meek, yearn for righteousness, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted. This does not mean, for example, that all people that are persecuted are citizens of God’s kingdom. It means that those in God’s kingdom are persecuted by the world, just as Jesus was persecuted. (John 15:19-20) Here we understand that the citizens of God’s kingdom display fruits of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23), including love and forgiveness as we already discussed. These fruits contrast with the fruits of false teachers.   Later when the disciples asked Jesus about the signs of the last times, He warned them that “there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” (Matthew 24:23-26 KJV ) It is important to have a tender ear to hear what the Spirit speaks in God’s kingdom (Revelations 2:7) because Jesus himself said “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’” (Matthew 7:21-23 NIV ).   Let us take these warnings of Jesus to heart so we would not be deceived by those who appear to be teachers of God. Jesus is only found in God’s kingdom, and the true teaching only comes from God’s kingdom through the power of the Holy Spirit. John taught to “not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1 NIV ). Paul also taught that we should not be surprised that false prophets disguise themselves as apostles of Christ because Satan also disguises himself as an angel of light. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15).   Righteousness of Life Does this mean that we should reject all teaching about God and Christian values in our schools and public institutions if the teachers are not in God’s kingdom? To answer this question, we can return to Jesus’ interaction with the Pharisees. Jesus clearly taught that the Pharisees were not in God’s kingdom, and warned His listeners about them. Yet, Jesus also saw good in their teaching. Jesus told the crowds and His disciples about the Pharisees “you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.” (Matthew 23:2-3 NIV ) Another time, John told Jesus that “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not one of us.” Luke records Jesus’ response in this way. “Do not stop him,” Jesus said, “for whoever is not against you is for you.” (Luke 9:49-50 NIV ) We can say the same about those who teach others in our society to live a moral and Christian life based on the teaching of the Holy Bible. We do not wish to stop them. Rather, we pray that God would guide our countries, including our leaders and our neighbors, to seek God and live a correct or righteous life. The familiar proverb states: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.” (Proverbs 14:34 NIV ) This righteousness is called righteousness of life. It is righteousness for this temporal life. We can also call this societal righteousness. Societal righteousness helps us live our temporal lives in peace and safety. It is not for eternity. It does not help us enter God’s kingdom.   There are many charismatic people who teach Christian values in our time. Some of these public evangelists or teachers correctly teach societal righteousness or righteousness of life even though they are not in God’s kingdom, just as the Pharisees did in Jesus’ time. We can say like Paul did about those who preach for the wrong reasons: “The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.” (Philippians 1:18 NIV ) We can be happy that there are those who teach people to live a righteous life, but we need to remember that their teaching is for this life. Jesus’ warning to “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.“ (Matthew 16:6 KJV )” confused the disciples until they understood that Jesus meant for them to be on their guard against the doctrine or teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees. This warning is relevant today.   Social media and the internet have given evangelists, teachers or activists platforms and audiences for their teachings. In the past, if we wanted to listen to such a person, we would have needed to go to their church or to a public speaking event. God’s children have always been hesitant to attend such events and thus have been spared from many false teachings and pitfalls. Today, however, we can hear their teachings without leaving home. We can be in danger without even realizing. It is interesting to think that Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, warned Timothy of this nearly 2,000 years ago. “For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. But you, keep your head in all situations” (2 Timothy 4:3-5 NIV ). With the internet, it is easy for anyone to gather many teachers. We can even select teachers that suit our own desires and those that teach what we want to hear. In addition, our search engines learn our tendencies and offer the media they think we want to consume. Paul’s instruction to Timothy to “keep your head” is good instruction today. We should also avoid those places where we cannot “keep our head” or where brothers or sisters in faith have noticed that we cannot “keep our head” because of our own nature and tendencies.   When I think of religious teachers of our time. I think of what Jesus said of the Pharisees. “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:20 NIV ). Righteousness of life does not bring one into God’s kingdom. We could say that righteousness of faith exceeds righteousness of life. Righteousness of life is found both within and outside of God’s kingdom, but righteousness of faith is found only in God’s kingdom. In God’s kingdom, we own righteousness of faith as a gift through Christ’s merit. This righteousness is for eternal life. It is the only righteousness that is acceptable to God for salvation.   One can receive temporal blessing when God’s kingdom is in their midst even if they are not in God’s kingdom. However, one must be within God’s kingdom, a citizen of God’s kingdom, to receive spiritual blessings including eternal life in heaven. Jesus once told a scribe, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” (Mark 12:34 NIV ) In Noah’s time, it was not enough to be near the ark, when the floods came to destroy the first world. A person needed to be in the ark to be saved. In the same way, a person must be in God’s battling kingdom here on earth to be accepted in God’s kingdom of glory in heaven and saved from endless perdition in hell. I have heard tell that there was once a person who attended the services of God’s children frequently but was not a child of God, not a citizen of God’s kingdom. One day, a believer spoke to him about the need for repentance. Unfortunately, he did not repent, and a few days later he died in a car accident. It didn’t help that he was close to God’s kingdom. He died in unbelief outside of God’s kingdom.   The captives in Babylon were encouraged by Jeremiah to work hard and to enjoy the temporal blessing in Babylon (Jeremiah 29:4-7). Yet, they prayed that God would take away these temporal blessings if they neglected God’s kingdom “If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill. May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not consider Jerusalem my highest joy.” (Psalms 137:5-6 NIV ).   Misson of the LLC, our church Our church has a three part mission: (1) to preach the gospel of repentance and remission of sins to all people, (2) to nurture and strengthen the faith of the believing and root our children in Christian faith in God's kingdom, and (3) to awaken and inspire Christian values and ethics, soberness of mind, love of homeland, and responsible citizenship among the people of our nations. In the final section of this presentation, we will touch on items (1) and (3) as they relate to our current topic.   Jesus said that “this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” (Matthew 24:14 KJV ) It is yet a time of work in God’s kingdom. This is especially evident when we hear that the Kingdom of Peace website has had over 1 billion views with over 1 million followers on Facebook. As God’s Word is preached around the globe via the internet, we acknowledge that we may never know who has heard and believed the gospel. Those who believe enter God’s kingdom. They “are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:19-20 NIV ). Maybe someone has heard and believed the gospel shortly before passing from this life. Maybe someone has heard the call into God’s kingdom and believed the gospel and yet has no possibility to be nurtured and refreshed in faith other than through the sermons on the Kingdom of Peace website. We just don’t know. Only God knows. However, we believe that God will not leave any of His own alone. We also acknowledge that those who have believed the gospel and have the means and possibility to connect to other believers will eventually find God’s children. God will help them connect via the internet or find a physical congregation. They will not remain orphans. Also, their acquaintances will notice the change in their lives. The fruits of their faith will be evident. Jesus says: “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” (John 10:16 KJV )   As we do the work of God’s kingdom, it is good to remember that we can never join with other churches in the work of God’s kingdom. There will be a continuous battle between the kingdom of God and the forces of evil until the end of time. As Daniel records: “the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever.” (Daniel 2:44 NIV ). Even in our mission to “awaken and inspire Christian values and ethics” God’s kingdom stands alone. “Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders.” (John 18:36 NIV ) We do not work with other churches even to promote righteousness of life. Although we may appreciate the work that others do to inspire Christian values and ethics, we cannot join or work with them because we know that we don’t believe the same. Jesus taught that we can never join in spiritual work with other churches. He said, “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined” and “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.” (Luke 11:17,23 NIV )   As believers, we fulfill or mission to awaken and inspire Christian values and ethics by our simple confession of faith, including how we live our life, rather than through large social media followings or public events. Even as we pray that God would increase Christian values and ethics among people in our families, communities and countries, we have a more earnest prayer that God would yet call these people into His kingdom and that they could own Christ’s righteousness through faith. “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17 KJV ) Above all, we pray that we could personally remain in His precious kingdom.   Conclusion In conclusion, it is comforting to repeat Jesus’ teaching “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.” (Luke 17:20-21 NIV )   It seems appropriate to recall Jesus’ warnings that “many false prophets will appear and deceive many people” and “because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold”, while taking comfort in His promise “but the one who stands firm (or endures) to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:11-13 NIV )   Although we may doubt and have weak faith, it is enough that we are still on the journey to heaven in the kingdom of grace here on earth. As Paul wrote: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 KJV ) We can be content that “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” (Romans 8:16 NIV )   Jesus said “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32 KJV ) and “upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18 KJV ) We can firmly trust that if we endure to the end of our lives in the safety of God’s kingdom, which is “the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15 KJV ), we will reach our goal of eternal life in heaven. One day this battling kingdom will be lifted to heaven as a kingdom of glory. There, with new tongues, we can praise God forever for the gift of His kingdom. Discussion Questions: How can one see (or recognize) God’s kingdom? How does God reveal His kingdom? Where is God’s kingdom? Do you have any personal experiences that you could share where God has revealed His kingdom to you or to others? Explain what happened and how it made you feel. When Jesus was on earth, he engaged in many conversations with and about the Pharisees, including the statement “The kingdom of God is in your midst.” What does this statement and other conversations Jesus had with the Pharisees teach us today? Do you have any experiences with false teachers that you could share? Where have you heard them teach? In what ways have you interacted with them? How did you realize that they were false teachers? Why are false teachers dangerous? Why do you think that Luther connects the request in the Lord’s Prayer “Thy kingdom come” to living a godly life here on earth, and in Heaven forever? What does righteousness of life or societal righteousness mean to you? Over your lifetime, do you feel that societal righteousness has increased or decreased? What specific examples could you share to show why you feel this way? Jesus says “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4  NIV ). What does the statement “it is yet a time of work in God’s kingdom” mean to you? How might a believer awaken and inspire Christian values and ethics among the people of our nations?

Swen Sorvala  |  The Voice of Zion February 2026 - Home and Family Articles -- Through His allegory of the true vine, Jesus teaches us that we are to remain in His kingdom throughout our lives. The overarching message is clear: each branch must stay attached to the main trunk in order to live. Connected to the life-giving trunk is the source of all nourishment and future hope. Jesus tells us why He gave this example – so that His “joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (John 15:11). Small buds grow from the main trunk – tender, fragile, and full of potential. These buds develop into shoots, which grow and produce leaves of their own. In the summer, flowers emerge. When these flowers are pollinated, fruit is born. Each stage – the bud, shoot, flower, and fruit – depends on the nourishment that comes from the main trunk. Jesus gives us this clear picture of how our faith life is to be lived. Throughout our lives, we are to acknowledge that our strength comes from Jesus’ merit work. The gospel of Christ is the “…power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16, NIV). This is true in every stage of life: youth, single or married life, escort or parental duties, and into our elder or twilight years. It is not sufficient to remain attached for only certain phases of life and then detach during others. There is no life-giving sustenance apart from the main branch. Branches that are not connected wither; “Such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned” (John 15:6, NIV). The hope of this series, God’s Perfect Plan for Our Lives with a Goal of Heaven,  is to help dear believers see that God’s kingdom is a source of comfort in every stage of life. Therein is hope: “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost” (Rom. 15:13). Our life is fleeting, and our body is but dust. May His righteousness keep our families and friendships firmly attached to His salvation message. “As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children” (Ps. 103:15–17).  Φ Not Alone on the Journey Shelley Ylioja As with any demographic, a single believer’s experience within the congregation can look quite different from one individual to another. A variety of factors shape that experience, including age, gender, personality, living situation, family of origin, physical and mental health, career, and interests. For instance, a young versus middle-aged single, one with several believing siblings versus none, one who lives alone versus with roommates, or one who is more introverted versus extroverted may differ significantly in how much they rely on congregation members and events for social opportunities and emotional support. Nevertheless, every believer needs the care of the congregation and the support of fellow believers to help reach our heavenly goal. The enemy of souls keeps the single believer in his target just as he does every member of God’s kingdom, even though the specific trials and temptations may differ. A single believer’s closest escort along the journey may not be the same as that of a married believer, whose spouse typically fills that role, but it is still necessary that each of us has such an escort. Over the course of adult life, this escort may change as friends marry and the group of singles becomes smaller. Singles may need to put more effort into forming new friendships with younger single believers and maintaining friendships with peers who have since married. It is a blessing to have escorts who are fellow singles in a similar walk of life. At the same time, friendships with believers in other life situations are also mutually beneficial. These relationships allow us to gain alternate perspectives and to recognize that both trials and joys are present in all circumstances of life. There can be many blessings in the life of a single believer. Singles often have greater autonomy over their time and flexibility to explore hobbies and travel. Especially for single females, there may be more opportunity than for married peers to pursue a career, which can bring fulfillment in temporal life. Compared to married siblings, singles may also be able to spend more time with aging parents and develop close relationships with nieces and nephews. The relationships of a single believer can be varied and rich, encompassing a wide range of ages and life situations. While it is not a spouse or one’s own child who fulfills the single person’s need for human love and connection, it may instead be a friend, sibling, niece, uncle, or parent at any given time. There is much joy and connection to be found with fellow believers from all walks of life in the congregation, if one chooses to look for it. God’s kingdom rightly emphasizes the blessing of being gifted a spouse, and congregation life naturally focuses on families and children. At times, single believers may question whether they are somehow less worthy for not having received this gift, or whether they are of lesser importance within God’s kingdom. There may also be temptation to look outside of God’s kingdom for a life’s partner. Singles can pray that they would not entertain such doubts and that they would truly believe every individual is equally important to God, each having a place within His congregation. When a single believer can trust that God has purposefully created each one of us and chosen our specific life’s path, this trust brings greater contentment in daily temporal life and helps us continue traveling as members of God’s kingdom.   God Provides What I Need Kamiryn Klassen  What Brings You Comfort and Fulfillment in God’s Kingdom? As a single person in God’s Kingdom, life brings doubts and trials as well as joy and fulfillment. Growing up, many young girls dream of becoming a wife and a mom, and even as I have gotten older, that dream still feels as far away as it did when I was a child. In my adulthood, like many others, I have found joy and freedom in being single by going to haps, strengthening friendships, and helping friends and family in need. Being a helping hand in the congregation has brought moments of joy to my heart. These opportunities have allowed me to connect with both young and old, hearing pieces of their lives through shared smiles, laughter, and conversation. As I have grown, I have realized that God works in mysterious ways and that I can live a fulfilling life through His creation and through the lives of the people I am able to touch. I was once told, “Sometimes you meet people who are meant to be in your life for a short time, and they bring the thoughts and comfort you need in that moment.” This has stayed with me as I continue to strengthen my faith and serve my community in whatever ways I can. As Galatians 6:2 (NIV) reminds us, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” We are not meant to travel this journey alone. As a young single person in the congregation, it brings comfort to my heart to know that I am never truly alone, and that peace can be found in the simple, beautiful interactions of daily life. What Kind of Support Do You Long For?  How Do You Find This Support? Growing up in God’s Kingdom, we often pray and hope that we would remain believing as we travel on our journey. I have found myself wondering how such a weak person can continue to believe, especially when I feel alone – even when surrounded by friends and family. During these moments, I look forward to haps and spending time with the youth in my church, strengthening lifelong friendships. Because of my job, I am not always able to attend services every week, so I go whenever I can and listen online when I am away. While much support comes from brothers and sisters in faith, music has also been a source of comfort – listening to and playing the songs and hymns of Zion along this narrow way. I have often wished and prayed for someone believing to share this journey with, especially on difficult workdays. As a first responder, I recently experienced something that felt impossible to explain. For several days afterward, I struggled to find the good in the world where it once seemed so bright. During that time, I turned to God and found comfort in Psalm 34:18 (NIV): “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” As I drove the two hours home after my final shift, that verse stayed with me. Though I felt broken, God was healing me through His Word. Even exhausted, I chose to go to haps. I didn’t say much, but the hugs, small smiles, and shared songs helped more than my friends could ever know. These moments remind me that though I may still long for a life partner, God provides what I need. Is There Pressure from the World? “We are part of the world, not of the world.” At work, it is often pointed out that I am different – that I don’t swear, watch certain TV shows, or live according to values they consider strange. Some have even told me that I live in a cult and need to escape. I’ve come to understand that many of these comments come from confusion rather than malice, and from unanswered questions. Long conversations, where I answered as best I could, seemed to help them better understand my life and my goal of reaching heaven. These discussions can be difficult, especially when I feel alone without believing support nearby. Satan can feel close in daily life, whispering doubts and telling me I am not enough. Still, I have also seen small moments of understanding. While my coworkers may not fully understand why I believe, many have come to respect it as part of who I am. Though there is pressure from the world to leave, I have never felt the need to hide that I am happy to belong to such a loving congregation and community.  In the Care of the Congregation Trevor Simonson Being single in God’s kingdom comes with its own trials and doubts, but also distinct joys and blessings. At times, it can seem that our life as believers centers around the family unit, and a single person may feel less noticed or valued than those with families of their own. Yet being single also carries unique benefits. As singles, we have freedom to explore different paths in life and opportunities to serve those around us. We can live joyful and fulfilling lives as single believers in God’s kingdom, where we are in the care of the congregation. The Apostle Paul writes, “For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I” (1 Cor. 7:7,8). It is our hope and prayer as believers that we would remain in God’s kingdom. Singles can come to rely heavily on the congregation for support on the narrow pathway that leads to heaven. This support comes in many forms and from many places. The greatest support the congregation offers is that it is the place where we can hear God’s Word. It has been a great blessing for me to set aside the matters of temporal life and listen to God’s Word, which guides and sustains us. In addition to spiritual nourishment, singles also have other needs that the congregation can help fulfill. Humans are created with a need to belong. The congregation can help ensure that singles feel accepted and valued as members of the body. This can happen through friendships, opportunities to socialize, and even through having duties to perform, which help one feel part of the life and work of the congregation. Those in the world share this same need to belong and seek it through countless groups and activities – teams, clubs, concerts, shows, and sporting events. Belonging to a community can add meaning to one’s life, and singles may be especially tempted in this area. Connections formed outside the congregation can sometimes begin to feel more meaningful than the sense of belonging that comes from our shared faith. It is important for singles to be reminded that the best place we can be is in the kingdom of God, among believers. “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God” (Eph. 2:19). Being single also brings many questions. Singles may wonder whether they will be blessed with a believing spouse, and there can be pressure and temptation from the world in this area. In today’s world of social media and dating apps, people can connect anytime and anywhere. There may be temptation to look outside God’s kingdom for a life’s partner, and Satan can be close in these matters, sowing doubt about the teachings of God’s Word. Living without a spouse or family of one’s own can lead to feelings of loneliness. From that lonely place, the world and its attractions can seem especially inviting. It may feel as though we are missing out on life, particularly as we watch peers take part in what the world offers. Life’s questions may not be answered in the way we expect, or they may seem unanswered altogether. In times of trial and doubt, it is important to return to what matters most – our faith. Singles can lean on the congregation as a guiding light that points us toward what is eternal.   How Can I Be an Escort in Faith? Speak openly about life and faith, walking alongside one another as a brother or sister in Christ. Forgive one another’s sins. Ask how others are doing – and truly listen, offering support in times of trial as well as in moments of joy. Recognize that singleness includes both joys and blessings, and understand that not all singles are seeking a spouse. Extend invitations into your home, especially during holidays or special occasions, and particularly to those who do not have nearby family. Offer simple gestures of welcome, such as greeting one another at church and making space for connection. Share stories openly, without measuring one life against another, trusting that hearing others’ joys and struggles can help us see the blessings in our own. Discussion questions What does it look like, in everyday life, to walk alongside someone as an escort in faith? What small actions or words have helped you feel supported? Where do you see the congregation already caring well for single believers – and where could that care grow or deepen? What joys or freedoms has your current stage of life given you, and how can those be received with gratitude rather than comparison? How can we create spaces where singles feel valued and included, even when much of congregational life centers on families? How can we share our joys and struggles openly while avoiding unnecessary comparison, trusting that hearing others’ experiences can help us recognize the good in our own lives? When pressure from the world challenges faith or belonging, what helps you remain rooted in God’s kingdom and connected to fellow believers?

Tommi Kinnunen  |  The Voice of Zion February 2026 - Doctrine and Life Article -- The just shall live by faith. – Romans 1:17  Every person who has ever lived on this earth has been a recipient of God’s goodness and gifts. These blessings are too many to count, and we cannot even begin to know them all, but some include our homes, good health, the beauty of nature, our senses and relationships. We often take many of these blessings for granted, even perceiving them as something we deserve or have a right to, but this is far from the truth. They are unmerited gifts of grace that God showers upon His creation.  In the life of a believer, we are also recipients of these gifts. Even more importantly, we are partakers of something far greater: the gift of faith and the forgiveness of sins in our daily lives. Even as children of God, we can begin to take these precious and unearned gifts for granted. These are blessings that only God can give, and it is good and necessary for us to be reminded of that.  The gift of faith is the most precious gift anyone can own. It is by faith in Jesus Christ that we are acceptable before God and given the promise of heaven when our journey of faith in this life has ended. What a wonderful matter it is that this does not depend on our wisdom, merit, works, abilities, or personal goodness. The Apostle Paul writes to the Ephesians, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Eph. 2:8,9).  Many times, when we attend services, we hear the Word of God explained through biblical history and God’s promises. These promises – for example that you are promised everlasting life in heaven and even the events of history – can only be believed and trusted by faith. Our human reason is incapable of accepting them as truth. The core message of the gospel is preached in faith, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and it is received and believed by faith – not by carnal understanding.  Living by faith, even when we are not actively thinking about it, belongs to the daily life of a child of God from morning to night. The gift of having Jesus – the miracle of Christmas – dwelling in our hearts teaches and guides us in all that we do and say. Faith is a guiding light that illuminates the path we walk.  Righteousness of life is closely connected to the topic of “living by faith.” One cannot live by faith according to Scripture while living in a way that contradicts its teaching. A child of God navigates this many times each day in temporal life. Often without realizing it, we are confronted with choices between light and darkness, good and evil, sin and obedience. Without Christ dwelling in our hearts, we would be left to weigh these opposites according to human reason, relying on our own wisdom and strength. God reminds us through Isaiah: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord” (Isa. 55:8).  If we would be left to our own devices to journey through life, we would go astray quickly.  A child of God endeavors to live a righteous life wherever he or she may be – at home, in school, at work, in military service, or on vacation traveling far from other believers. Faith is not practiced only in certain places but at all times and in all circumstances. This is especially important to remind our youth when they gather outside the familiar settings of home and church functions. Jesus teaches us: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).  Living a righteous life is our endeavor, and what God desires of us. Yet we also know that along the journey we fall into sin time and again. Sin clings to us, and God, through His grace, allows it to trouble our conscience so that we would put it away by hearing and believing the gospel. To live in sin while attending services and gatherings of believers is a futile endeavor. In doing so, we deceive no one but ourselves. Solomon writes: “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good” (Prov. 15:3). In our daily lives – at work or at school – we may face temptations that go against God’s Word because it would be easier and less costly than choosing the path that preserves a tender conscience. In these times, pray that God would give strength to preserve faith and a tender conscience in the choices we make. God sees all things, and His will is that we live our lives according to the teaching of the Bible, confess our sins when we have fallen, and believe the forgiveness that is proclaimed, and make new promises to endeavor as children of God on this journey of faith.  God is always willing to forgive the beggar of grace. Yet we must also remember that His readiness to forgive does not give us liberty to sin. Apostle Paul writes: “Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid” (Rom. 6:1,2).  Luther reminds us in the Small Catechism that each day the old Adam is drowned through repentance, and a new man arises to live before God in righteousness and purity. Most of us are blessed with fellow believers around us – angels in our midst – who are always willing to forgive a penitent sinner. When we attend services, we can also there believe the proclaimed message of the Gospel that is offered.  Faith does not remain strong on its own, nor can we preserve it by our own effort. God has not intended us to journey by faith alone, but together, in the fellowship of believers and in the hearing of His Word. God has given us His Word and the sacraments to strengthen and keep faith alive. When we hear God’s Word, faith is renewed and encouraged. In the baptismal covenant, God through His Word promises that He will always be near a child of God. Although we baptize only once, its promise is returned to daily as we repent, believe the forgiveness of sins, and begin again. Because faith is alive, it also shows itself in daily life. Good works do not make us children of God, but they follow naturally from faith, just as fruit grows from a living tree. In this way, God’s grace not only forgives, but also teaches and guides us to live as His children. To be in the hearing of God’s Word is always a blessing. Especially in times of trial and temptation, God offers grace through His promises to all who desire to fight against sin and their carnal portion. No matter where life takes us, God is present, seeing all things, and His grace surrounds us. In every blessing and every trial, we can journey trusting that His light guides our path, His forgiveness renews our hearts, and His presence never leaves us. May we live each day as faithful children of God, reflecting His light in all we do.  Key Thoughts God’s grace is present in both temporal blessings and, most importantly, in the gift of faith and forgiveness of sins. Living by faith shapes daily life, guiding our choices, preserving a tender conscience, and calling us to righteousness in every setting. Though believers fall into sin, God continually calls us to repentance and offers forgiveness through His Word and the fellowship of believers. Faith is sustained not by our own effort, but through God’s Word, the Sacraments, and His ongoing grace that teaches and guides us. Reflection Questions What helps us recognize God’s gifts and blessings in our daily lives? Where do we turn for guidance when we face difficult or tempting choices? What has helped you when facing temptations that wound the conscience? What daily practices help remind us of the gift of faith and forgiveness?

The Laestadian Lutheran Church (LLC) is the central organization of Laestadian Lutheran churches in North America. The website provides information about our faith, mission, organization, and activities. Welcome to our website and welcome to our services! SHEW ME THY WAYS, O LORD; TEACH ME THY PATHS. PSALM 25:4 LAESTADIAN LUTHERAN CHURCH The Laestadian Lutheran Church (LLC) is the central organization of Laestadian Lutheran churches in North America. The website provides information about our faith, mission, organization, and activities. Here you will find an overview of our publications and links to member congregations. Welcome to our website and welcome to our services! Donate New Hymnal Supplement Now Available The first supplement to Songs and Hymns of Zion (2008) is available digitally as of November 14, 2025. This release marks a significant milestone in the ongoing hymnal development work of the Laestadian Lutheran Church. It brings together familiar melodies, newly translated texts, and brand-new songs written by believers from across North America. Read more about this supplement here. Attention Hearken Users! Some users have occasionally reported usability issues with Hearken, especially on Android devices. We have created a form to help us collect information on these issues, so they can continue to be looked into and solved. If you have experienced issues while using the Hearken app, please take a moment to fill out the form at this link: https://forms.gle/Ht7x5phU2w9C1ptA6 Thank you! We value your feedback. International Mission Work Website Every month, tens of thousands of people search the internet for how sins can be forgiven, where the kingdom of God is and what repentance means. To help searching ones find God’s kingdom, and as a means of performing mission work in a digital space, the SRK, SFC and LLC have now launched a new website: kingdomofpeace.net Read more about this new website here. Hearken – Our Publications App Read The Kingdom of God Is in Your Midst (Luke 17:21– NIV) Carey Simonson | 2026 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Congregation Evening – Feb. 20 -- The kingdom of God is a very important topic. God’s kingdom is described throughout the Bible and in many articles and sermons. In fact, we could say that every sermon reveals something about God’s kingdom, and God’s kingdom is mentioned by name in most sermons. Furthermore, Jesus used many parables to illustrate the kingdom of God. He told His disciples: “The secret (or mystery) of the kin Presentations 23 hours ago God’s Perfect Plan for Our Lives, with a Goal of Heaven Swen Sorvala | The Voice of Zion February 2026 - Home and Family Articles -- Through His allegory of the true vine, Jesus teaches us that we are to remain in His kingdom throughout our lives. The overarching message is clear: each branch must stay attached to the main trunk in order to live. Connected to the life-giving trunk is the source of all nourishment and future hope. Jesus tells us why He gave this example – so that His “joy might remain in you, and that your joy mi Home & Family Feb 3 Faith and Grace in Daily Life Tommi Kinnunen | The Voice of Zion February 2026 - Doctrine and Life Article -- The just shall live by faith. – Romans 1:17 Every person who has ever lived on this earth has been a recipient of God’s goodness and gifts. These blessings are too many to count, and we cannot even begin to know them all, but some include our homes, good health, the beauty of nature, our senses and relationships. We often take many of these blessings for granted, even perceiving them as somethi Voice of Zion Featured Articles Feb 3 February 2026 Update Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion January 2026 - News & Notes -- As February begins, we enter the Easter period, a time when our thoughts turn toward Christ and His salvation work for us. The theme for the first Sunday, Unmerited Grace, calls us to reflect on the simplicity of faith. Faith is a precious treasure, and with it comes the quiet joy of believing. This joy does not come from our own efforts, but from God’s gift to us. Martin Luther taught that grace is truly unme News & Notes Feb 3 A Light for Our Reading and Our Faith The Voice of Zion February 2026 - Editorial -- Much of life today happens quickly and online. We read in fragments – headlines, captions, short updates – often moving on before a thought has time to settle. Over time, this shapes how we read and how we listen. Deep, sustained reading becomes harder, and with it the quiet attentiveness that faith itself invites. This matters because Scripture is not meant to be skimmed. God’s Word is not simply information about God; it is the Voice of Zion Featured Articles Feb 3 1 2 3 4 5 Shop Quick View Hymns Ascending Quick View Time for Words Quick View CD # 81 A Morn of Song Quick View Wait Upon the Lord: Annual Anthology 2024 Quick View CD # 79 Shield Me Forever Quick View In the Shelter of the Hill Follow us on Instagram @laestadianlutheran Load More On YouTube Play Video Play Video 05:56:21 2026 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Sunday Feb 22nd Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 37:21 Winter Services 2026: Marv Wittenberg Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 35:45 Winter Services 2026: Rick Nevala Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 56:15 Winter Services 2026: Adrian Pirness Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 38:55 Winter Services 2026: Juha Alanko Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 11:55:01 2026 LLC Phoenix Winter Services - Saturday Feb 21st Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 36:45 Winter Services 2026: Swen Sorvala Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services Play Video Play Video 39:10 Winter Services 2026 : Jart Warwaruk Welcome to the 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services! The 2026 Laestadian Lutheran Church Annual Phoenix Winter Services will be held at Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church in Phoenix Arizona. The Service motto: “Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47) The services will begin Thursday, February 19th and end Sunday, February 22nd. Welcome! https://www.llchurch.org/winter-services

Music Resources Do Not Webcast Song List When choosing songs, song leaders and organists should make sure they are not choosing songs that are in Do Not Webcast list for times when the broadcast is live. Often times the pre-service song and the closing songs are not webcast, so the placement of the song may allow you to sing the listed songs. Coordinate with your service director and webcaster as needed. Do Not Webcast List Copyright Information Copyright Information (PDF) Submit Music Submit Music Form SHZ Feedback Form Other Resources LLC Lectionary Ideas for Song Services Songs to Sing at Communion SHZ Introductions Cross Reference Song Leader & Organist Guide Hymnal VK & SL 2016 Cross Reference Wedding Guide Wedding Music Ideas for Processionals and Recessionals Hymnal Metrical Index Learn to Play with Pedals Song Leading Workshop September 2021 This video shows part of an actual lesson kept this fall for Elk River congregation song leaders. In this 15-minute excerpt, workshop leader Ben Huhta talks about e.g. pronunciation, breathing, preparing for higher notes and singing through long notes. Have your songbook handy when you follow along. Song Leaders & Organist Workshop - June 30, 2020 Introduction to Organ Hymn Introductions Hymn Playing Music in Congregation Life Music Committee Members Login This is intended for music committee members. If you should have access to this folder and don't, contact lkeranen@llchurch.org Choir Director Login This is intended for local choir directors. If you have an LLC choir and don't have access to this folder, contact lkeranen@llchurch.org