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Lance Clarke | The Voice of Zion December 2025 - Column --  Christmas often begins with lights in the streets, stores filled with shoppers, and Christmas music everywhere we go. The season can feel joyful, yet it can also bring stress, exhaustion, and financial pressure. We may sense that Christmas has drifted from its original purpose – to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Commercialism reaches into our homes and hearts, nudging us to pause and remember what this holy day truly means.  When Christmas Became a Business  In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, department stores realized that Christmas could increase sales, and gift-centered advertising quickly grew. Today, Christmas products appear in stores as early as October, shifting our attention toward shopping and gifts.  Giving gifts isn’t wrong. The wise men brought gifts to honor our Lord and Savior. Yet we do well to notice when our focus begins to drift – from gratitude and faith toward pressure and excess. The true meaning of Christmas can easily become hidden beneath wrapping paper. The most important gift one can receive is to hear the gospel of forgiveness of sins.  The Subtle Pressure to Buy Happiness  Advertisers know how to appeal to our emotions. We see images of perfect families, overflowing gift piles, and effortless joy. Those images hit deep in our hearts, and the enemy of souls can plant a false message, that love and happiness must be purchased with gifts.  For some families, this pressure leads to overspending and unnecessary stress. The glitter fades, but the strain can remain. Scripture gently reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Christ calls us back to peace – rooted not in what we buy, but in the gospel that washes sins away.  Refocusing on Christ  The first Christmas was simple. Jesus was born in a humble manger, not in abundance or luxury. The shepherds and wise men came not with extravagance, but with worship. The angel’s message was not “Buy and be merry,” but “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14).  Commercialism says joy is something we create or purchase. God teaches that joy is something already given – through Christ and living faith. When Christ becomes the center of our celebrations, the season regains its true meaning, its wonder.  Practical Ways to Keep Christmas Sacred  Reclaiming Christmas doesn’t require rejecting traditions. It simply means shaping them around what matters most. Here are a few ways we can do this:  Give with purpose. Choose meaningful gifts – such as a note of encouragement, shared time, or helping someone in need.  Slow down. Take quiet time for prayer or Scripture reading. Read the story of Jesus’ birth with your family. Reflect on what Christ’s coming means today.  Serve others. Show kindness, volunteer, visit someone who is lonely. Serving reflects Christ more deeply than any gift.  Stay connected to your congregation. Attend services, sing together, celebrate Communion. These moments renew our faith and remind us that Christmas is a holy ground.  The Real Gift of Christmas  When we quiet the noise, we find a truth that does not fade: Christmas is about God’s love coming into the world through His Son – who gave His life for us and freely offers forgiveness.  As we gather with family and friends, may we celebrate not with pressure or expectations, but with peace and gratitude. The miracle remains the same: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11).  The greatest gift did not come from a store, but from a manger.   Lance Clarke lives in Longview, Washington, and loves the beautiful Pacific Northwest. When he was 18, a car accident left him a quadriplegic. “I strive to live every day to the fullest with my family and quality friends by my side, under God’s helping hand.”

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. A Continuing Story of Song When Songs and Hymns of Zion was published in 2008, it gathered more than six hundred hymns cherished by believers. In the years since, new hymns have continued to be written and translated. Rather than republishing the entire hymnal, the LLC Hymnal Committee plans to issue periodic supplements – compact collections that reflect the living faith and creative gifts of God’s children. This first supplement, Supplement 1 (701–713), represents that effort’s first public expression. It includes thirteen hymns: two well-known English hymns, three translations from Finnish, one from 16th-century German, and seven original lyrics with eight original melodies written by believers from across North America. “These hymns represent many moments in the life of faith,” the editors write in the introduction. “They may be used wherever believers gather, including in the service broadcast.” Themes and Sounds of Faith The new hymns span the seasons and experiences of Christian life – Christmas, Epiphany, Morning and Evening, Praise and Repentance, even poetic reflections on God’s providence. Some are light and familiar, while others are deeply contemplative and new. Among them is “Christmas Peace (In the world of sin)” (701), which opens with the line: “In the world of sin we seek peace within, peace to rid all hearts of hate and malice, calling souls to Christ and His forgiveness” (v.1). The hymn continues with a prayer that “the Word of Christmas night spread on earth its peace and light.” This spirit of God-given, gospel-centered peace and renewal echoes through many of the new works. Where to Find the New Hymns All hymns in Supplement 1 are available digitally in the LLC Songbook app. To access them, open the app and look for hymns 701–713. If you do not yet have the app, search for “LLC Songbook” in your device’s app store (look for the logo with three flying golden birds on a white background). Purchase Songs and Hymns of Zion within the app to unlock all songs, including the new supplement. The older SHZ Hymnal app will not receive new supplements due to outdated technology. For Musicians and Congregations The 2025 Hymnal Supplement Chorale Book, containing printable musical arrangements, is also available for digital download at llchurch.org/shop . These accompaniment arrangements may be used for choir, congregational, or instrumental purposes. Some congregations may still be using an older version of the desktop hymnal to project song words for congregational singing. To be able to project songs from the new hymnal supplement, it may be necessary to purchase the new (launched in 2021) desktop version of the app. For more information, and to purchase the desktop app, visit laulukirja.srk.fi/en/ Feedback on lyrics, melodies, and harmonizations is warmly welcomed through the online form at   llchurch.org/shz-feedback-form . Those who wish to submit new hymn texts or compositions for consideration in future supplements can do so at llchurch.org/submit-music . Looking Ahead Going forward, the Hymnal Committee plans to release new supplements annually each autumn, ensuring that the shared collection of songs of faith and our journey continues to grow and reflect the lived experiences of believers across generations. In the words of the project team, “May God bless all who sing, play, and hear these hymns.”

The Voice of Zion  November 2025 - Editorial -- We live in a time when harsh words are never far away. We hear them in conversations, read them in headlines, and see them on our screens: voices urging us to despise those who think differently, to regard those who hold another view as enemies. These voices can confuse us. Our old nature is quick to echo the world’s anger, and repaying hatred with hatred can feel natural.  Yet amid these, there is another voice – sometimes faint, sometimes drowned out by the clamor. It is the voice of Christ, calling His disciples: “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you” (Matt. 5:44).  This love is not weakness. It is not shallow tolerance or approval of evil. Rather, it reflects the mercy of the Father, “for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good” (Matt. 5:45). Luther taught that the Fifth Commandment forbids not only violence but also “anger, hatred, and envy.” More than that, it calls us to help and befriend our neighbor, even when that neighbor seems an enemy. To entrust judgment to God and respond with kindness rather than revenge – these are not signs of weakness; they are fruits of faith that reflect Christ’s love.  But how can we hear Christ’s voice above the world’s noise? We can visit with other believers and find encouragement in fellowship. We can ask for forgiveness of our sins and vain thoughts, and believe again the gospel of grace. We can gather at services, tune into daily devotions, listen to hymns on Hearken , or pause for prayer. Even a fast from social media may quiet the world’s shouting so that Christ’s gentle call comes through more clearly.  In the online world, keeping faith and good conscience can be especially trying; choosing who we follow calls for discernment. The old adage reminds us, “You become like the company you keep.” In our time, this includes the voices we hear on our screens. Our nature is to become mirrors, reflecting the energy – positive or negative – of those who influence us. Do we pause often enough to ask what kind of light we are reflecting? Does it align with Christ’s teaching, or does it carry elements foreign to living faith – elements that, if allowed to grow, may keep us from loving our neighbor? Jesus’ great commandment calls us to love God and love one another. What do we gain if we cling to an ideology that suits us, but lose the freedom to be vessels of Christ’s love to all fellow humans, even causing others to hesitate to approach us to discuss matters of faith?  Feeling inclined to hate is not new. Paul wrote: “Recompense to no man evil for evil… If it be possible, live peaceably with all men” (Rom. 12:17,18). He urged believers not to avenge themselves, but to trust God as judge: “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord” (Rom. 12:19). Instead, he reminded them: “If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink” (Prov. 25:21). The conclusion is clear: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:21).  In the Lord’s Prayer, we pray “lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil”; we want to love our neighbor – not hate or detest them. Luther echoed this truth: “If you are God’s child, then show yourself to be one by doing good even to those who would hurt you.” He also reminded us that such love cannot arise from human strength: “No one can do this out of natural powers. It must come from a heart made new by faith through the Holy Ghost.” Left to ourselves, we are vengeful. But when we remember that we would ourselves be God’s enemies were we not forgiven for Christ’s sake, then a new heart is given, capable of mercy.  When we hear voices urging hatred, let us answer instead the loving call of Christ. Let us turn often to the places where that call grows stronger, until it shapes our thoughts, our words, and our deeds. Christ alone is the Truth and the Way, through whom we have the hope of heaven (John 14:6).

Keith Kariniemi | The Voice of Zion  November 2025 - Bible Class Lesson -- Synopsis: When Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem for the last time, he took a longer route through Galilee and Samaria. When passing through a village, ten men who were sick with leprosy cried out for mercy, standing at a distance because of their disease. Jesus told them to go show themselves to the priest, and as they went, they were miraculously healed. Only one, a Samaritan, returned to give thanks, falling at Jesus’ feet to praise Him. Jesus asked him where the others were and then told this Samaritan that his faith had made him whole.  Bible text:  Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him – and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” – Luke 17:11–19 Key Words: Leprosy  – A terrible skin disease that caused sores and damage to the body. People with leprosy were forced to live apart from others. It was thought to be very contagious and had no cure during Jesus’ time.  Samaritan  – A person from Samaria, a region north of Judea. Jewish people often looked down on Samaritans and did not consider them equals, but Jesus showed that God’s mercy and love extended to them too.  Priests  – In Jesus’ time, priests were responsible not only for temple worship but also for declaring whether someone was clean or unclean (see Leviticus 14). That’s why Jesus told the lepers to go show themselves to the priests.  Introduction: Jesus performed many miracles during His public ministry. These signs helped people believe that He truly was the Son of God and pointed them to the gospel message of the forgiveness of sins. In this account, Jesus healed ten men from their physical disease, but He also brought spiritual healing to the one who returned in faith to give thanks. This miracle reminds us of the importance of thanking God for all that He does for us. Most of all, we want to thank Him for the gift of living faith and His grace that saves us. Main Points: Be Thankful to God for Everything.  Only one of the ten healed lepers returned to thank Jesus. His gratitude showed the living faith in his heart. Jesus said his faith – not just his words – made him truly well and acceptable to God.  No One Is Too Low for God’s Grace. The one who returned was a Samaritan, a group despised by the Jews. Yet God’s grace reached him, showing that no one is beyond God’s mercy. He was the only one who showed fruits of faith, returning to thank and praise God for the miracle of his healing.  Faith Comes First, Fruits Follow. It was the Samaritan’s faith that made him whole; his praise and thanksgiving flowed naturally from that faith of the heart as its fruit.  Turn to God When You Need Help. All ten cried out to Jesus and were healed. God hears when we call to Him in our need, even with problems that seem incurable.  Many Hear God’s Word, but Few Believe.  The nine lepers received healing but did not return to Jesus. They are like the rocky soil in the parable of the sower – receiving God’s help for a moment but quickly forgetting Him. The Samaritan, however, showed the “good soil,” where faith took root and bore fruit in thankfulness and worship.  Conclusion: This miracle of the healing of the ten lepers teaches us many things, but most important is that the man was saved by faith. It is also important to be thankful to God for all that He does for us, His children. He bestows His grace upon us, blessing us in innumerable ways; first and foremost by forgiving us our sins. We do not want to go our own way in our blessings, departing from God, rather we must always remember where everything comes from. It is a precious matter that we have thankful hearts and that we bring our hearts to God in praise and thanksgiving. This thankfulness is a fruit of faith, and one that comes from keeping faith and good conscience.   Discussion: How can we thank and praise God in our everyday lives? What are some ways to show thankfulness?  When should we thank and praise God? Is it only when something good happens in our lives, or also at other times?  What does this story show us about who is good enough to merit God’s grace? Are there people who are ever too lowly to become heaven-acceptable?

Aaron Anderson | The Voice of Zion  November 2025 - The Sabbath Word 4 Article -- I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened. I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. – Daniel 7:9,10,13,14  Daniel was a believing man who lived in Babylon during the Jewish exile, more than five centuries before the coming of Christ. God gave Daniel gifts to be used for both temporal and spiritual purposes. He served the highest in the land in the king’s court and there was given the strength to confess his faith.  One result of his confession landed him in the lion’s den where God delivered him from certain death. In this foreign land of Babylon Daniel and the other believers were surrounded by those who did not serve the living God. In this environment, God gave Daniel visions to strengthen his and other believers’ faith with the certainty that the Lord of heaven and earth still rules. Babylon, like every kingdom of this world, was a temporal kingdom and its kings would fade. The true King was not Nebuchadnezzar. Not Cyrus. Not any ruler of men. The true King was the Son of Man who would come to rule forever.  Jesus used this title often: “Son of Man.” He came humbly, not with clouds of heaven, but with a mother’s embrace among manger’s straw. He walked among us, bore our griefs, and carried our sorrows. He was despised, rejected, and then crucified. But the Father raised Him and gave Him all authority in heaven and on earth. The vision is fulfilled: Christ reigns.  Then, as now, we do not always see it. Nations boast. Wars rage. The strong trample the weak. Violence abounds. Self-righteous men proclaim loudly of their devotion to Christ. In this environment the believer often fears, and doubts press close. Sin burdens the conscience. It can seem that Christ’s kingdom is small, fragile, hidden. But Daniel’s vision reminds us what is true: the Son of Man has everlasting dominion. His kingdom is not destroyed. His reign is sure.  Where is His throne? It is here, in His kingdom. In his congregation on earth. His kingdom is revealed in a way so different from the kingdoms of humans. Not with might or weapons, but with the gentle power of the gospel: the still, small voice of the spirit. When a believer through the Holy Spirit proclaims sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood, His kingdom draws nigh. The restless heart is quietened. The conscience answers with peace. No earthly king’s decree can do the same.  Daniel saw how God himself was seated in majesty on the last day, judgment day, and the books were opened. His throne was fiery with countless hosts standing before Him. Our flesh can even tremble to read the words and think about Judgement Day. He saw the Son of Man, approaching with the clouds of heaven. Dominion, glory, and a kingdom were given to Him – an everlasting kingdom that will never pass away.  Earthly powers pass away. The Word incarnate remains. His forgiveness is sure: we live in that everlasting kingdom here and now when we believe our sins forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood! The Ancient of Days reigns, the books are open, and the Son of Man is given everlasting dominion. Even now, His peace is ours.  “Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end.”  (Isa. 9:7)

The Voice of Zion  November 2025 - Home & Family Articles -- Luther wrote, “Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times.” Such faith cannot remain hidden – it naturally confesses, whether by word, deed, or quiet steadfastness in everyday life.  In a world that often misunderstands or rejects faith, believers may feel hesitant to speak openly about what they believe. Yet Jesus promises, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 10:32).  As the writers in this issue show, confession of faith takes many forms: a conversation at work, honesty about personal values, or a child’s simple answer at school. We may anticipate rejection, but often find respect, curiosity, and even gratitude in return. God calls His children to not fear the world, but to live in it, trusting that in every place and circumstance, He gives words, courage, and grace to be His light.  Confessing Faith in the Workplace  John Juntunen  When I first moved to Utah from Minnesota in September 2021, my plan was to stay for only a year before moving back. It quickly became evident that I would not return to Minnesota any time soon, so I began expanding my professional network in the area.  For the last nine years, I have worked as a CPA both in Minnesota and Utah. Often, people think of a CPA as an office job with little personal interaction. In my experience, that has not been the case. I have been responsible for business development and client management – both in the firm where I previously worked and now in my own CPA firm.  Through these roles, I have had the opportunity to interact regularly and deeply with those outside of God’s kingdom. To build trust, one must connect on a personal level. In doing so, topics such as faith, lifestyle, and hobbies often arise. As a result, confessing my faith has become a nearly daily occurrence.  In Minnesota, many of the networking events I attended centered around alcohol. When I began attending events in Utah, I noticed that alcohol was never present. Many in this area belong to faiths that emphasize moral living, family life, and abstaining from certain worldly behaviors. Their values and outward lifestyle resemble those of believers in some ways.  I have found that living and working among people of strong faith backgrounds can be easier than in more secular environments. Faith is a common topic – even in professional settings. Yet, even though we may share outward similarities, we know that true faith is a gift of the Holy Spirit, and we must hold fast to what God’s Word teaches.  Matthew 10:32–33 reminds us to confess our faith: “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.”  I have found that the best way to confess my faith is to be open and honest about what I believe – and to have that conversation early in a relationship rather than later. Not only does God teach us to live in this way, but it also makes future interactions easier. People understand from the beginning that I do not participate in sinful activities, and they tend to respect that. People outside of God’s Kingdom are often open and receptive to hearing how we believe.  The confession of faith can be difficult because we wonder what the reaction will be. Yet, we should strive to overcome that doubt, remembering that our conversation may be the moment they see the Light. We can trust that God will bless us, our life of faith, and our relationships when we live obediently.   Wherever We Live  Logan Jurmu  Our family has been blessed to live in several different areas in recent years. This year, we moved to Utah Valley, leaving behind our home congregation in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado. Each move has been bittersweet, yet we’ve seen how God hears our prayers and guides our way. We’ve come to recognize that each place has its own identity, and yet, as believers, we are called to be “in the world, but not of the world.” Wherever we live, our desire remains the same: to journey as God’s children, trusting His care in every circumstance.  During our time in Denver, we were somewhat isolated from a home congregation – a new experience for both my wife and me, as we had grown up in believing homes and congregations where we were cared for. For a time, ministers from the Colorado congregation came monthly to serve the small flock of believers. We deeply felt the unity of the Spirit during those visits and how our hearts longed to hear God’s Word and the joyous message of the gospel. Often, only a few were gathered, but as Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20). Those who came with their families to serve that small flock felt like angels from heaven.  Now that we’ve moved from an area that is less religious to a predominantly religious one, we’ve noticed that even when outward values may appear similar, it can still be difficult to confess our faith. God’s Word instructs us to “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Pet. 3:15). Paul also writes, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?” (2 Cor. 6:14).  Though God’s Word is clear, my flesh has often desired to fit in at school or work and resisted being different. Satan tempts with half-truths and lies, convincing us not to confess our faith for fear of ridicule. Yet, when God gives strength to confess freely, we often find that classmates, coworkers, and neighbors respond kindly and appreciate our willingness to share what we believe.  We journey with the prayer our Lord Jesus prayed for all believers: “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil” (John 17:15). God knows our lives and does not wish to remove us from this world, but to protect us from its evil. As His children, we travel under His rich grace, knowing He is with us always, and that “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (James 5:16).   Confessing Faith at School  Adeline Moll  In a small congregation like in Utah Valley, it’s common for believing kids to have friendships with classmates who don’t share their faith. I talked with several young people – Adam Hillstrom (11), Aiden Byman (9), Barrett Niemela (12), Vivian Skoog (12), Anabelle Niemela (14), and Sadie Jurmu (9) – about how they confess their faith and interact with others at school.  I asked about experiences where classmates have noticed they are different in some way. Adam said “They’ve never really noticed I was different, but they’ve asked if I’ve seen a movie, and I say I don’t watch movies.” Aiden added, “I say to them we don’t have a TV.”  Barrett remembered his friends asking last year if he was going trick-or-treating. “I told them I wasn’t going and they wondered why, so I told them at our church we don’t dress up and go trick-or-treating.” “There were girls that noticed I was different– like not watching movies or dancing – so I explained a bit about what we believe,” Vivian said.  People have asked Anabelle if she’s Mormon because of her large family. “I say no and tell them that I’m Laestadian Lutheran. They usually don’t know what it is, and I explain a bit more about what we believe.”  All the kids shared that they have friends at school who don’t share their faith. They can see how these friends are different from their believing friends. Sadie said, “Some of them have earrings or painted nails, and we don’t do that.” A friend invited her over to get her nails painted. “I told her we don’t do that, and I don’t think I can come if we’re doing that.”  Anabelle reflected on the difference in her friendships with those not in faith compared to believers: “I don’t talk about matters of faith with them, but with believing friends, I can talk with them about anything.”  As young ones face questions about their faith at school, we pray that God continues to give them strength and words to confess their faith and be a light unto the world.   Living Alongside Those of Another Faith  Katie Anderson  Four years ago, our family moved to Utah, a region where a faith community is deeply interwoven into many aspects of life. We quickly learned how its influence shapes local culture, routines, and expectations. Daily activities – school, community events, even business practices – often reflect the values and rhythms of the predominant faith.  My personal experiences in conversation and interaction have been overwhelmingly positive. People here are generally benevolent and conscientious, with values similar to our own. When you move in as their neighbor, they show up to help you unload your moving truck, and when your toddlers escape from the backyard, they’ll kindly bring them back. It’s easy to settle into the comfort of people who understand life with many children, avoid the vices of this world, and dedicate time each Sunday to worship.  Faith conversations arise naturally. People often ask what church we attend or what we believe. I’ve found that most are eager to share about their faith and curious about mine. Many express appreciation that we, too, hold Christian values, though our beliefs differ.  Over time, as I’ve learned more about various teachings and practices, I’ve realized how crucial it is to remain grounded in the truth of God’s Word. Outward goodness or similarity of lifestyle does not equal faith in Christ’s atoning work. Jesus once warned of appearances that may seem righteous yet conceal what is lifeless within (Matt. 23:27). It’s a sobering reminder to look beyond what seems wholesome and remember where salvation truly lies.  As a mother, I feel both comforted and cautious living among those of another faith. Their kindness and family-centered way of life make it easy to relax and let down one’s guard. Yet I remind myself – and my children – that salvation does not come through moral living or good works, but through faith in the forgiveness of sins. We are called to live lovingly and peaceably with all, while holding firmly to the faith that gives life.   Discussion Questions  What does it mean to “confess our faith” in today’s world? In what ways can confession happen without words?  Why do you think believers might anticipate a negative response when they share their faith?  How can we balance being “in the world, but not of the world” (John 17:15,16)?  What can we learn from the openness and honesty of children when they explain their faith to others?  How might living among people of another faith – such as in Utah – help us better understand both our own beliefs and the importance of confession?  In what ways can believers support one another in confessing faith courageously and lovingly?

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion  November 2025 - News & Notes Article -- As families across the United States gather for Thanksgiving, we do so mindful of the season that soon follows – Advent and Christmas. These weeks invite us first to thank God for the priceless gift of faith, and then for the daily provisions which He provides us. In this gratitude, the the hearts of God’s children are prepared for the celebration of our Savior’s birth.  It is my hope and prayer that our conversations during these days of celebration – whether around family tables or in fellowship with believers – may be open and free, even when touching on challenging or sensitive matters. Yet may they always conclude in the joyous sermon of faith: by faith our endeavor would conclude in heaven.  The writer to the Hebrews reminds us, “By faith the elders obtained a good testimony” (Heb. 11:2). On All Saints’ Eve, we recall this truth with thankfulness. The same faith that carried the saints of old now comforts and strengthens us as we continue the work of God’s kingdom today.  Updates on LLC Activities  Global Mission Work  We experience how much of the work we do is done together with brothers and sisters in Sweden and Finland. Adrian Pirness travels to the SRK office in Finland in early November for work sessions and meetings for global mission work.  Recently the believers in Ecuador and in Liberia have submitted necessary paperwork to be registered as a church in their respective countries.  A translators camp was arranged as part of an October mission trip to Guinea. Three members from the mission work translators team traveled to support this camp. Brothers from Liberia and Sierra Leone traveled to participate in the camp.  A webinar was arranged in late September to visit with pastors in Pakistan and India who have recently received the grace of repentance. We discussed the topic of the priesthood of believers.  Education  Part of Global Mission Work is education. A Learning Materials & Education Team (LMET) is developing teaching materials to support teachers in foreign mission areas. There are plans for three lesson booklets. The prayer of the LMET is to complete the first book by the end of 2025. These materials will also be available for LLC congregations and camp boards.  Pastoral  Area Mission Committees and boards have been gathering for their fall meetings. These sessions focus on local business matters and include planning for the year ahead. We’ve seen how valuable it is to share updates, communicate needs, and work together to serve the congregations within each area.  Arto and Helena Tölli have completed their mission trip in North America. They visited many congregations throughout North America. We have experienced the blessing of the exchange trips with our sister organizations. Through these trips we are able to hear God’s Word and the unity of the Spirit through services. It also gives us the opportunity to discuss mutual work.  We have begun planning for 2026 LLC Winter and Summer Services. A kickoff meeting was held at the Menahga church September 23. LLC representatives attended, shared planning information and formally began the planning for the upcoming services.  Publications Department  Content Creators Workshops have been held at Stony Lake Camp in September and Phoenix Arizona in October. The workshops included writing support, creating melodies and arrangements, visual arts, developing material for LLC Services broadcasts and setting up the broadcast studio. An online broadcast was held at each event.  A hymnal supplement of thirteen new hymns will be available November 14, 2025. These hymns are an assortment of new and translated hymns. Some of the melodies and arrangements for these hymns are also new. The new supplement will only be available digitally and on the LLC Songbook app. Note that due to outdated technology, the older LLC Hymnal app will not contain the new hymnal supplement.  Liisa Keranen, LLC Music Coordinator, continues to visit congregations and discuss updates in the area of music work along with music in the life of a believer and in congregation life.  Time for Words , the first young adult (YA) novel written by a North American believer, is available for sale. Heli Jurmu wrote the book and provided illustrations.

Kolet Simonson   |  The Shepherd’s Voice  October/November 2025 - Home and Family Article –   Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. – Ps. 32:1   Some of the words in this Bible verse are words that we know, while others might be ones that we haven’t heard before. Let’s take a look at the words.   Blessed  is a word we may hear at services. In simple words, to be blessed is to be fortunate or lucky. We could say we are blessed or lucky to have our homes and our families. As believers we understand that these things are blessings given by God. Can you think of other blessings from God?   Transgression  is another new word. When we do something that we are not supposed to do, like breaking a rule, we call it a transgression. Jumping on the couch might be against the rules in your home. If you jump on the couch, you have broken the rules and it would be a transgression. When we do things that God does not want us to do, we call it sin, and it is a transgression against God.   The last words we should look at in this verse are forgiven  and covered . Have you heard the message: “Believe all your sins forgiven  in Jesus’ name and blood”? These words that we hear at services and in our homes tell us that our sins or transgressions  are covered  by Jesus' blood. When we believe this message, our sins are forgiven and forgotten by God.   As God’s children, we truly are blessed that our sins are forgiven!   “Let your hearts be light and joyful, for your sins are washed away in the name and blood of Jesus, buried in the sea of grace.” – Song of Zion 450, verse 3   Things to visit about Can you think of blessings from God in your own life? What is an example of a transgression (breaking a rule) at home or at school? How does it make you feel to know that your sins are forgiven and forgotten by God?

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion  October 2025 - News & Notes Article -- In October, the focus at the LLC office turns to planning. We begin looking more closely at how to carry out the 2026 Operating Plan and prepare for the upcoming LLC Board Meeting. Several board committees will also gather during the month. In addition, we’ll connect with camp boards following the recent LLC Camp Board Workshop as we look ahead to planning for 2026 and early 2027. October also brings time to reflect on the Stony Lake Content Creators Workshop and other recent projects.  We are excited to announce that Adeline Moll has been hired to work as the LLC Facilities and Events Planning Manager. We are happy to welcome Adeline and wish her God’s richest blessings in the work.  October is when a number of congregations hold Fall Services. We wish to remember these gatherings around God’s Word in prayer. May God bless these moments for the strengthening of faith and to bring comfort from the fellowship of believing escorts. To our Canadian readers, Happy Thanksgiving!  Updates on LLC Activities  Pastoral  The 2025 Minister and Wives Camp was held at Prairie Shores Camp September 19–21. There were approximately 65 ministers and their wives that were able to attend this event. We were able to hear presentations and visit around the topics titled “The Gospel Begins at Home,” “Music in Zion” and “Supporting Those Experiencing Mental Illness.” God blessed our time together.  Arto Tölli and his wife Helena are serving many congregations in North America through the month of October. Arto will also attend the October LLC Board meeting.  The 2026 Service and Events calendar has been shared with congregations and those that have been asked to serve. There are over 350 events that are scheduled as camps, congregation special services and LLC trips.  Global Mission Work  In the fall, the Local Operations Team works with each country to plan in-country activities and related expenses. This collaboration is part of the budget planning process for the global mission work and more broadly LLC budgeting for 2027. Trips and plans for 2026 are also adjusted during the Fall to ensure that mission work continues to serve believers in their own communities and areas.  Facilities  The addition of additional LLC staff, approved at the LLC Annual meeting in July, has caused us to consider the existing office spaces and how they can be adjusted to better serve the needs. Plans are underway to add three office spaces at the LLC Office. Pending final approval, we expect completion around December 1, 2025.   The Silver Springs Camp Board continues to work through the considerations of constructing a new structure to support service events at Silver Springs. A building committee has been formed to assist in the planning of this structure.   Publications  At the LLC Annual Meeting on July 2, 2025, in Outlook, Sask., delegates approved adding one full-time equivalent position to the Publications Department. During September and October, following a review of changing and expanding needs, a decision will be made regarding the specific roles to be filled.  The LLC Communications Department has been reorganized into the Publications Department. Phil Jurmu has been appointed Publications Director, and Matt Keranen has assumed the role of Editor and Content Curator. In the coming months, Sandra Pylvainen will transition to a part-time position, with her responsibilities refocused on supporting fiction writers.  This fall, we will publish a digital hymnal supplement, approximately a dozen new songs, on the Songbook app. Note that we are able to publish these only on the LLC Songbook  app, and not on the older SHZ Hymnal app. Chorale arrangements will be available digitally as well. More information on this update will be sent to congregations in the coming month.  We will publish The Voice of Zion  in an updated format beginning January 2026. The content will remain the same, but the issue that arrives in your mailbox will look more like a magazine than a newspaper. This aim of this new format is to increase readability and also to provide more flexibility in how much content is published each issue.  The Voice of Zion  subscription will change slightly as well: Easter Messenger  will become the March issue of The Voice of Zion , and Christmas in Zion  will serve as the December issue of The Voice of Zion . These seasonal magazines will remain the same as before. In other words, the subscription will now comprise eleven items per year instead of the previous thirteen.  Our annual Content Creators Workshop, held September 12–14 at Stony Lake Camp, was well attended. There were three tracks: music composition, services broadcast, and writing. Harri Vähäjylkkä, SRK’s Communications Director, attended the workshop and kept several presentations, including one on current and future trends in communications and publications in God’s kingdom.

The Voice of Zion  October 2025 - Home & Family Articles -- We live in a world where social media has become part of daily life. Like many tools, it carries both blessings and dangers. On one hand, it offers opportunities for connection, encouragement, and sharing life with others – even across great distances. On the other, it can easily consume our time, feed comparison, or expose us to influences that weaken faith. The challenge for each of us is to approach social media thoughtfully, with prayer, balance, and awareness of the example we set.   In these articles, members of the Rockford, Minn., congregation ponder both the good and the potentially harmful sides of social media, and how we as Christians can walk carefully in this space while letting our light shine. Be with Us as We Use Our Devices  Stan and Briana Laulainen Dear Heavenly Father,   We write to you this day with sincere hope and prayer that You would guide our hearts as we share some of our thoughts about social media and its content. We are so faulty and weak. If we have strayed, steer us back to the center of the flock. “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Ps. 139:23,24). We are faced with many temptations; we battle the enemy of souls and our sin-corrupt flesh every day.  Dear God, may You be with us as we use our devices. Faith is personal. We are not a kingdom of rules. Each believer is given the gift of the Holy Spirit and a conscience, as stated in 1 Timothy 3:9, “Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.” May God’s kingdom be a support for us as we make choices with what is appropriate content on social media. Amen.  Blessings and Dangers  There are many blessings surrounding social media. We can stay connected to friends from friends far and wide. We can share our life experiences with close ones or the public. Resources found on social media or the internet can be used for a variety of purposes, whether for research or education or listening to live service events or archived sermons.   On the other hand, screen time can present dangers too. Before one even realizes, they can be faced with the addiction of screen time and its content. Behavior issues can arise,especially among children. Discontentedness can come from comparing one person’s life against another person’s life, desiring to have similar items, lifestyle and opportunities. Another danger of excessive screen time is when it prevents a person from being fully present at haps or visiting in general.   Even though there is a lot of good information and advice on the internet and social media, some viewpoints are contrary to God’s Word. With so much available on our portable devices nowadays, it is quite easy to fall into gray areas. Worldly music is often part of many posts and videos on various platforms. Content that seems harmless can begin to lead a believer astray.  Be Sober and Vigilant  “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet. 5:8). The enemy of souls starts with our little finger, then takes our whole hand, then our arm, then our whole body. Bit by bit he creeps in and pulls one from the center of the flock to the outskirts. Unforgiven sin hardens the heart and conscience and can lead to separating us from God. Eventually, a traveler has strayed out of God’s kingdom. “But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Isa. 59:2).  As the world continues to move farther from God, we as God’s children desire to be our brother’s keeper. If there is concern about the content a fellow traveler is posting, it is our hope and prayer that we can visit with that person. And if offense has been caused, we would want to take care of matters. We cannot make the journey to our heavenly home alone. “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden” (Gal. 6:1–5).   Being Yourself in Person and Online  Sarina Siljander Driving down the familiar road to Hasscib for Mid-Summer Services, my heart starts beating a little faster. I am excited! But also nervous. Here I am again, showing up alone to a social function where I know I belong and want to be and will be so happy I came, but the shy girl in me also knows I will stumble over my words at times and not know what to say besides “Hello, God’s Peace and good to see you!” How will the ice that separates small talk from connection be broken this time?  That thought leaves my mind as I walk towards the main lodge and into the sanctuary for the start of services. I see many familiar faces and experience many happy greetings and smiles. So many people I want to say hi to! I still don’t know what will be said after that, but over the years I’ve also learned to try get used to that feeling. If nothing else, the weather is an easy topic.  “Hello Sarina, God’s Peace!” I am greeted by a friend from my former home congregation who I haven’t seen for at least a year or more. “I want to know, have your couches arrived yet?”  My heart bursts with warmth and genuine laughter bubbles from my stomach, where all the nerves of social anxiety were having a heyday. The ice between small talk and genuine connection has broken.  You see, I enjoy sharing some of my life on social media and my most recent stories at that time had been about the furniture I had ordered for my house. I never assume anyone has seen or followed anything I have shared, but I find so much joy when these kinds of connections happen!  I enjoy photography, videography, story writing, and I especially enjoy connecting with people. No one believes that I was a really shy child. They just see the adult that has come of that shy child and don’t always realize the tools I use to help me connect with people, something that means so much to me.  I have found it easier to stay connected with more people using social media rather than phone calls and text messages. Somehow social media feels less intrusive, less demanding. Texting can make it feel more of an obligation to respond where direct messages in social media are nice to get to when you can. Social media is, for me, a non-intrusive way to stay connected with more people than I would otherwise.  It has always been important to me that I would be my genuine self as much as possible online as well as in person. When the purpose is to use this tool to stay connected, how genuine would it be if I just shared picture-perfect, curated content only? That’s not me. I would probably not dare show face in real life if I only curled my hair for online pictures when in real life I barely curl my hair. I think it would feel like I was living two lives, one online and one in the real world.  I have an online presence for business purposes also, including several social media accounts, websites, and YouTube channels. Some are for online-only businesses that are content or product-driven, or both. My main career is as a real estate agent, and I use those platforms for business awareness and to market properties.  The advice for growing an online business is all across the board: the algorithms are always changing, people are always selling this or that tool or online course to show you the best way to be found by customers online. I don’t know if this is still the case, but for a while the advice given to make viral reels on Instagram was to use “trending audio” on your content. This would then allow the reel to ride the success the audio was experiencing to increase your reel’s exposure. Is this part of what has led some to make music choices that are concerning and not something a believer would want to use?  A few years ago, we created a small group of believing small business owners in our area to meet regularly to discuss business. It started with the focus being social media because online is such a lonely place. It can feel like you are talking to a brick wall. This is still a focus in our discussions. We want to be our brothers’ keepers.  Even outside this group, we want to be our brother’s keeper with anyone we see online. It can be hard to do because no one of us is better than the other. When we see or hear something concerning, we can pray for the opportunity to say something to that person and for the words to say. I likewise hope that someone would reach out to me if I offend or have caused concern with something I have posted.  With both my personal accounts and my business accounts, I wish to always stay true to who I am as a person and as a believer. I would cautiously say I think there is a place for believers to be content creators in the online world, just like in the real world.  Along with blessings of the online world come many dangers. I think the ease of access is one of the biggest dangers. In the real world, we would have to drive to a movie theater, buy a ticket, walk in and sit down. In the online world we simply have to click on a website or an app. Technology can feed us temptations in the forms of popups, ads and “for you” content – sometimes it is content that we would never want to see but somehow it has now been delivered to us.  Another real danger with the online world is how lonely the experience can be. Not only lonely in the sense that our time spent there might feel like it’s fulfilling our need for real social interaction, but also lonely in the sense of being alone somewhere where no one else can see what you are doing.    As I was walking to my car at the end of Mid-Summer Services, I heard a car coming up behind me on its way out. The vehicle slowed, the window opened, and with a big smile the driver told me, “I’ll be waiting to see when your couches are delivered! Goodbye, God’s Peace!”   Before I post, comment or scroll, what are some good questions I can ask myself about my online presence?  Why am I posting or sharing this?  How much of my time is being spent online?  What kinds of things am I choosing to share?  Do I have permission before posting about someone else?  What message am I sending – does it let my light shine?  Could what I share be misunderstood or cause offense, even unintentionally?  Am I being a brother’s keeper online as well as in person? Phone Time  Debra Herrala  I find myself easily getting caught in the web of influencer stories and balancing reality. Nursing my baby and scrolling my phone. The 2 year old in the kitchen goes unnoticed. Soon I have powdered sugar all over the counter and floor. My patience is low because I’m distracted, and I snap. Is this the example I want to set as a mother to my children?   I lay my sleeping baby down, put my Hearken  app playing music, and set my phone aside. While I reflect on this moment and others like it, it makes me ponder the impact phone usage has on homes around us. Grandmas and grandpas lonely in their chair, teens craving constant interaction, and all ages in between.  Social media platforms can be a great way to stay in contact with family and friends from all over the world. Whether we share pictures or video clips, we get a glimpse of life in their corner.   While it comes with blessings, it can easily take over the day, and time spent “doom scrolling” might keep us from meeting up with a friend. Perhaps a post we had to perfect before sharing, made the evening at haps slip by staring at our phone and not visiting the ones in the same room. We quickly compare the places this person is going, or how another is redecorating a space again. Contentment for what we have can quickly vanish while comparison and envy take over.  Do we remember to connect with each other in person? Or does snapping someone replace the value of face-to-face connection? Are we allowing apps on our phone to replace the connection we have with our spouse? What example are we setting for those child eyes that are always watching?  It’s important to prioritize putting phones aside and spending time having a meal and quality time together without distraction. It is important to have boundaries for our own time usage, so we can also set them for our children. We can only teach by the example we ourselves are to others. Is what the kids view over your shoulder something you’d share with your own parent? Even the music that plays behind the stories we scroll; while we may tune them out, their little ears soak in, confusing the instruction of what’s appropriate. The sports game highlights they see over the arm of the couch can cloud the instruction of not letting sports become close to our flesh.   We can quickly become immune to the things we scroll past, and soon our own posts have background music or photo filters we wouldn’t have otherwise used. This again gives pause to consider the light we are being to those around us. While we scroll, create, post and like, may we keep in mind the instruction in Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”   What is doom scrolling?  Doom scrolling  is when we keep scrolling through news or social media longer than we mean to, often leaving us feeling weighed down instead of refreshed. Discussion Questions  Connection vs. Comparison: How can we use social media to genuinely connect with others without slipping into comparison or envy?   Boundaries and Balance: What practical boundaries could we set for ourselves and our families to keep social media in its right place?   Authenticity: What does it mean to be genuine and “real” in what we share online? How might curated or “picture-perfect” content affect others?   Influence and Example: How do the things we watch, post, or listen to online shape the example we set for our children, friends, and congregation?  Brother’s Keeper: In what ways can we look out for one another online? How might we lovingly address concerning content, or receive feedback ourselves? Faith and Conscience: How can we prayerfully use our conscience and God’s Word to navigate gray areas in online life?