Adeline Moll | The Voice of Zion September 2026 - Camp Matters article -- The LLC Language Camp was held at Kamp Kipa in Arizona July 7–13. The camp welcomed a group of 53 youth and leaders from Finland, along with North American participants, directors, teachers, and counselors, for a total attendance of 73. The Finnish group was accompanied by Mauno and Heli Soronen and Hannu and Kaisa Kinnunen as group leaders. Following participation in LLC Summer Services in Minnesota, Language Camp formed one part of the group’s month-long visit, which also included visiting several North American congregations. This was the first time the camp was held at Kamp Kipa, allowing the group to experience the well-loved camp setting in the Arizona mountains while building friendships, strengthening language skills, and, above all, gathering around God’s Word. Camp days included language lessons, presentations, devotions, and fellowship. Campers hiked to the fire tower overlooking the surrounding mountains, where one evening ended with singing and a devotion. The group also traveled to Sedona and the Grand Canyon, giving many participants their first opportunity to experience some of Arizona’s remarkable landscapes. Language lessons and small-group activities gave participants daily opportunities to practice one another’s languages, with Finnish participants learning English and North American participants learning Finnish, while building friendships across cultures. Liina Heilimo of Oulu, Finland, had long hoped to attend Summer Services in North America and saw Language Camp as the perfect opportunity. She looked forward to making new believing friends, being strengthened in faith, and experiencing places she had heard so much about. Visiting the Grand Canyon was “like living in a dream!” she said, but some of her favorite memories came through conversations with new friends. “I’ve had such nice discussions with Americans, and those have been one of the best things here.” She encouraged other young people to attend if given the opportunity. “It’s so lovely to get to know people around the world. Here you can learn about both Finnish and American culture, and it was wonderful to come here and meet people who have the same faith as we have.” Those same friendships left a lasting impression on participants from North America as well. For Allie Johnson of the Alaska Congregation, the camp was an opportunity to prepare for a future year at Opisto while meeting Finnish believers. “The biggest impression is how faith surpasses language differences and different continents,” she shared. “Even when we didn’t speak the same language, there was still that connection we all shared.” She encouraged others not to let language differences discourage them. “Be prepared for the language barrier, but it doesn’t always matter if you’re not fluent in each other’s languages. Fellowship with believers doesn’t always look the same, and you’re often still able to connect in different ways.” Watching those friendships develop was especially meaningful for the Finnish group leaders Mauno and Heli Soronen. Mauno, who serves as rector of the Haapavesi parish and is a member of the board of the Reisjärvi Opisto, has participated in previous Language Camp trips. Reflecting on the purpose of the camp, Mauno said, “The purpose of this trip has been to grow stronger in our shared faith, in love, and in language. These goals have been achieved exceptionally well.” He was especially encouraged by how naturally the young people connected. “Perhaps the biggest impression has been the warm welcome we have received and how quickly believing young people from different countries connected with one another. Despite their different cultures, they found unity through their shared faith and values.” Soronen also shared the experience of one young person who had hesitated before making the trip because of the cost and uncertainty about making friends. Looking back, that participant now speaks of the friendships formed and the blessing of spending a month with believers in North America. Soronen’s advice to future participants is simple: “Come with an open mind, without prejudices. The trip is a great adventure, and the perspective of faith is a valuable part of it.” Above all, he encouraged young people to pray that God would grant them the opportunity to participate with a believing heart. As Language Camp came to a close, participants left with greater confidence in using another language, new friendships, and memories of Arizona’s mountains and canyons. Yet, as many reflected throughout the week, the greatest blessing was experiencing how the fellowship of faith reaches across languages, cultures, and continents.

Taryn Laulainen | The Voice of Zion September 2026 - Round the Table articles -- Youth from the Utah Valley congregation share reflections about using social media with a believing heart. I’ve been an active social media user for the past ten or so years, and during this time, social media has changed many times over. In the early days of being online, it was much easier to manage our social media feeds. Now, with the never-ending scroll, we are never more than a tap or scroll away from more and more content. In recent years, social media has moved to algorithm-based feeds that are designed to maximize the amount of time spent online. With these developments, I’ve found it much more common to see things from people, companies or influencers I don’t actively follow. I’ve had to exercise much caution so I don’t end up scrolling for hours. There is always more to see, and seeing just one more post never seems to bring satisfaction. As I get older, I find social media to be an escape in more of a negative context. I’m an introvert by nature, so I’ve made an effort to avoid scrolling at church, haps, when playing card or board games or during meals. Having space in my life that is free from social media allows for better conversation and connections with others. When I started using social media, I spent a lot of time thinking about it. What should I post? What captions should go with each post? What should I comment on my friend’s post? But as time passes, I find I’ve gained confidence in myself as a person. I’ve become more secure in my faith and my opinions, which makes it easier to post authentically and allows me to present myself online in a way that is true to my personality. As I have gotten older, I’ve used social media and posted less frequently, especially as I have seen how a comment or post may go much further than intended. As widely as our circles can reach online, I find face-to-face connections to be more genuine. An online smile, though, is still good every once in a while. Social Media Swirl Abby Tolkkinen, Lillie Plough and Jessica Erickson Comparison When we look at other people’s pictures on social media, it can feel like we’re falling behind. We may think, “Wow, my life seems so boring and unfulfilling compared to theirs,” and try to copy them. For instance, we might go on a beach trip with friends and post fun pictures just because that’s what others are doing, and not because it’s something we truly wanted to do. Sometimes it’s less stressful just to avoid social media altogether, just to get away from the constant comparison and the social pressure. Negative feelings usually have less to do with the technology or platform itself, and more to do with how social media exposes our own insecurities. Ultimately, it all comes down to how we use it. Doomscrolling It’s easy to doomscroll for hours. The longer we do it, the more we stray into dangerous areas, and we can find ourselves watching videos that harm us. When we finally put the phone down, we feel dumb for wasting so much time. Even when doing other activities, such as reading, it’s easy to pick up the phone and start scrolling. Doomscrolling is mentally draining. It eats up our time and distracts us from going outside or doing other activities. Authenticity People are different on social media than they are in real life. But it’s still possible to be authentic on social media. As a viewer, it’s easy to think that someone else is having a perfect life when we only see their highlight reels. But we don’t always need to share our hard days either. It’s fun to see the exciting things friends and family get to do, even if they only are posting the good things that happen. What is doomscrolling? Dictionaries and mental health experts define doomscrolling as the habit of compulsively scrolling through negative or distressing news, videos, or social media posts, even when doing so leaves us feeling anxious, discouraged, angry, or emotionally drained. Unlike ordinary mindless scrolling, doomscrolling centers on upsetting content. As we continue scrolling, social media algorithms often show us more of the same, creating a cycle in which anxious feelings lead to more scrolling, and more scrolling increases anxiety and stress.

Gary Hoikka | The Voice of Zion September 2026 - The Sabbath Word 4 -- Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. – Colossians 2:16–23 This Bible portion, from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, explains to us the gift of a Christian’s freedom, which is the theme for the fourth Sunday in September, the Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost in the church lectionary. We can ask ourselves, what is Christian freedom, and how can we preserve this freedom? In the temporal sense, freedom can be defined as being free from debt or obligation to someone else. There are many examples of this that are familiar to each of us, no matter our age. When we are young, we are given chores to do at home, and we are obligated to be obedient to our parents and do these chores. When we become adults, we may purchase a car or a home, and we often have a loan or a mortgage to enable this type of purchase. We are then obligated to earn a wage so that we can pay this debt we owe. Freedom comes when the chore is completed or the loan is fully paid. Through reason, we can clearly understand this. We can complete work to release us from debt or obligation and thereby earn freedom. The Christian freedom that is spoken of in our text is not a freedom that can be earned or achieved by works. This freedom is a gift from our heavenly Father through the merit work of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jesus earned this freedom for us by coming to earth and being victorious over temptation, sin, the world, and Satan. He also achieved victory over death through His resurrection. It is only through believing our sins forgiven in the gospel message and trusting God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit to be our only Lord that we can own this Christian freedom. Owning this freedom is not a burden; it is a grace gift and the only true freedom found on earth. Because we are flesh and blood, our mind desires reason to guide our understanding. Through reason, we can be tempted to try to earn righteousness through works. This is exactly what Paul warns about, “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink” (v. 16). As humans, we can be tempted by the praise of our fellow humans. Perhaps we desire the compliments of others that we have been eating healthy and taking good care of our bodies. This is very prevalent in social media today, and it is an area of watchfulness for a child of God. God has created each one of us, and He has created us just as He wants us to be. God provides for our daily needs and has richly blessed us with the necessities of life. We do not want to measure one another based on outward things, such as diet or appearance, for this is contrary to God’s Word. Paul’s letter continues: “Let no man therefore judge you…in respect of a holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days” (v. 16). Here God’s Word instructs that our actions in, or even our attendance of, religious services are not works that will earn salvation. Nor should we attend church services or serve in God’s kingdom to earn the praise of others. We can simply attend church services and perform our given duties with joy in our heart that God has called us to be one of His own. Although we are imperfect people, we can do these tasks or actions with the gifts that God has given us and with the knowledge that Jesus has fully paid the price of our sins on the cross. We can believe in this to experience true Christian freedom. In the final verses of this Bible portion, Paul writes, “(Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh” (v. 21–23). Paul is reminding the believers of his time, and also us today, that even though our mind may interpret actions of humility, open worship, and temporal righteousness to be seen as positive and good in the eyes of others, these actions, if done for the purpose of showing or elevating ourselves, will have no benefit to our soul’s eternal salvation. If done for show and praise, these actions will only puff up our own mind and cause self-righteousness to work in us. This does not mean we should not do good deeds or respect the laws of our land and the leaders God has placed in power. Indeed, God’s Word instructs us to love our neighbors and to be helpful to them, and that we need to be obedient to our leaders. God’s Word also instructs us and encourages us to attend services and to be with the believers for the benefit of our faith. As it is recorded in Hebrews, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Heb. 10:25). We do not do these actions to gain righteousness or salvation, but rather we do these things because the Holy Spirit within us guides us to do that which is right. We can preserve the gift of living faith and the Holy Spirit in our hearts by believing the gospel message. The gospel removes all the sins, doubts, and shortcomings that we experience on this journey, strengthening our faith to take yet another step on this narrow way to heaven. We experience true Christian freedom when we believe that precious gospel message: Dear son or daughter, your sins are forgiven in Jesus’ name and blood. When we endeavor in this freedom here on earth, we will then experience the freedom and peace that no words can describe when God calls us home to heaven one day.

Todd and Connie Erickson | The Voice of Zion September 2026 - Home and Family articles -- Listen to your father, who gave you life and do not despise your mother when she is old. – Proverbs 23:22, NIV We’ve spent the past 30 years raising our children to adulthood. As we move toward retirement and reflect on life, questions and thoughts swirl: How will our children remember their childhood home? I hope our children haven’t picked up our bad habits. I hope they have more patience than me. I hope they don’t remember a sharp response or harsh words when things don’t go smoothly. I hope they are quicker to forgive. Will our weaknesses and shortcomings as parents stand out? A parent’s lot is never to feel confident in our ability to raise children. Believing parents want their children to grow up in an environment that supports faith: going to services, Bible class, Sunday school and camps. We pray for guidance, and that our children would learn to love God and His kingdom despite our frailties and failings as parents. When parents and children freely share the gospel, worries and sorrows fade. Children remember the love and warmth of their believing childhood home. Even ones who later lose the gift of living faith are often thankful for their Christian upbringing. Now as our older children move away and the house gradually empties, we have more time for ourselves, as a couple. This is a nice blessing. But it’s important to remember not to move on too quickly and neglect the care and guidance that our children at home still need. The words of the hymn Good and Gracious Lord are especially fitting: “Good and gracious Lord, Thank You for our home, for our family and our loved ones, for the life which you have given, all those dear to me, precious gifts from Thee” (SHZ 431:1). Adolescents Need Parental Involvement in Their Lives Gail Korpi Adolescence can be a difficult time for a young person’s parents. Parents might find themselves withdrawing from their adolescent child. Sometimes parents withdraw because they are frustrated or confused by the situation and wish to avoid conflict. Perhaps a busy and stressful schedule deprives them of the energy and patience needed to effectively communicate with their child. Or they may even be so wrapped up in their own matters that they can’t bring themselves to care – a fruit of cold, selfish indifference. Parents might even fear that they will lose their child’s love and respect if they are seen to be interfering in his or her life. But when parents withdraw from an adolescent child, they desert him or her when parental support and guidance is needed most. A wide variety of cultural, political and religious beliefs surround us in our multicultural society, and many of these values are at odds with the teaching of God’s Word and kingdom. When confronted by trends, values and beliefs that challenge or belittle the values and beliefs they learned at home, adolescents may feel confused or overwhelmed. It is important for young people to test and evaluate their beliefs. But they also crave parental respect and support and need boundaries for their own safety and security. Outwardly, adolescents seem to resent their parents at times. But inwardly, most admire and esteem their parents. They respect their parents’ judgment and advice. Nevertheless, conflicts may arise when the parents and the adolescent both feel a need to assert their own will. Conflicts arise when an adolescent tests the boundaries to see whether the stated limits are the same as the actual limits. Sometimes an adolescent, perhaps unknowingly, feels a need to test the strength of a parent’s convictions to see whether they are the sincere values of the heart or merely the hollow assertions of the mouth. Believing youth and parents are not immune to the difficulties and conflicts of adolescence. Believing parents may be tempted to withdraw from their children’s lives during this time. If believing adolescents feel that their parents are uninterested in them, they are unlikely to approach their parents when meaningful concerns arise. Balancing the adolescent need for independence with their need for boundaries and security requires a delicate mixture of firmness, empathy and patience. Sincere questions about a child’s whereabouts, company and activities – as well as making reasonable rules and curfews – all convey the parents’ concern for their children and give a sense of security. In the heat of the moment, adolescents may express resentment at what they perceive to be a lack of trust or unnecessary interference. But later in life they often come to recognize the security it provided. In certain localities there are many believing young people who form a cohesive group. It is a great blessing to have believing peers. But even in groups, believing young people are susceptible to temptation. Young people who are experiencing spiritual struggles often form their own splinter groups, where they more freely engage in unwholesome activities. Parents should not assume that adolescents are fully equipped with all the skills they need to properly support one another. It is not healthy for adolescents to spend their free time only with other youth. Believing adolescents need the stabilizing influence and role models that are found in the company of believing adults. Believing adults are real-life examples who have tested the beliefs and values that they learned in childhood and found them to be reliable and true. This in no way diminishes the fact that adolescents still need the support and guidance of their parents. Parents must work hard to keep the lines of communication open throughout their child’s life. When communication is open and free, it is possible for parents and adolescents to discuss matters, particularly matters that weigh heavily or are confusing. Together, they can search God’s Word for answers on the questions of salvation, and for the sure foundation to build their lives on. The gospel is the healing medicine for the wounds and offenses that often occur between parents and children. But adolescence is not all conflict and difficulty. It is also a rich and rewarding time. This is especially true where God’s Spirit and love operate. This is an excerpt from the book Fortifying the Foundation: Keeping a Christian Household (LLC 2016, pp. 152–154). When My Child Starts Looking Kyösti Heikkilä When I was young, I remember thinking how the adult world seems to offer so many captivating things: independence, freedom, opportunity and more. I impatiently waited for adulthood. It felt like time was creeping along too slowly. But since I’ve become an adult, things have felt just the opposite. In adulthood, time runs away, and we quickly fly through different phases in life. I’ve experienced how the children I seemingly just carried in my arms have grown up and are beginning to find their own spouses. As a weak father, I offer advice and encouragement to you, a young person, and to myself as well. God gives us various stages in life: childhood, youth, adulthood, and old age. The time of youth is spent preparing for the responsibilities of adulthood. Marriage and family are wonderful gifts, but they also come with duties, obligations and much work. They require maturity. For this reason, I hope you do not begin courting too young. Prepare yourself for it. Remember that believers do not casually date one another just for fun; rather, we court with marriage in mind. If someone is not ready for marriage – physically, psychologically, emotionally or spiritually – then he or she is not ready to start courting. Believing young people want their lifelong companion also to be in living faith. It’s impossible to build a complete life together – where everything, including the Holy Spirit, is shared – with someone who is outside of God’s kingdom. We don’t want to play with serious matters, such as courtship with someone who isn’t believing. Remember, you can approach your heavenly father in prayer, asking Him to reveal a companion and to give a spouse. Even after you begin courting, you can pray together that God would give you to each other in marriage. The times of courtship and engagement are intended for getting to know each other. But during these times, you do not belong to each other yet. For this reason, it is important to remember the Holy Spirit’s advice, as Paul writes, “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Tim. 2:22). Nowadays, many young people freely share that they have decided to start courting, and their courtship begins openly. This is a beautiful way of doing things. Courting couples who do this are not looking to hide in the corners or shadows where many dangers lurk. It makes me happy to see my child’s companion freely coming into our house and feeling at home with our family. But it’s important to remember that the time of courtship certainly includes much more than courtship itself. Study, work, home, and the other believers all continue to be a part of life, and courtship should not push them aside. As a parent, I also want to remind myself about a few important matters concerning my child’s courtship. My children have their own lives, which include establishing their own households and families. Courtship and the selection of a spouse are early parts of this process. They will find their spouses on their own and as God allows. I want to pray for my child and ask God to give my child a suitable spouse. Fatherhood obligates me to talk with my children about the responsibilities and duties of marriage, and to remind them how important a pure courtship is. Oh, how I wish to do this lovingly – as an escort and friend! My own personal experience prompts me to share these thoughts, and I believe that many fathers and mothers also share them. You, our young people, are the children of many prayers! Remember that the grace altar is found in God’s kingdom, and that someone who is weak and faulty has permission to approach it. The blood of our Lord Jesus cleanses penitent ones from the faults of life’s journey. When you thus endeavor to keep faith, God will bless your life. This is an excerpt from the book Fortifying the Foundation: Keeping a Christian Household (LLC 2016, pp. 89–91). A Psalm for Parents Your precious gems from heaven – the young blessed to our care – Lord, give us strength to raise them. Your Gospel help us share, to teach of Jesus’ mercy, of His abundant grace, until at home in glory we see His loving face. Alone we cannot do this, we need God’s kingdom here. As Mother, She directs us and quells our every fear. Our children, She protects them within Her warm embrace. Oh, may they always hearken and heed Her call to faith. We pray, on life’s endeavor in faith they would remain, that they forsake it never, and heaven’s shore attain. And when the battle’s ended, their travel staff set down, Lord, take them home to heaven as jewels for Your crown. Ed Tolkkinen, 2024, rev. 2026 Instructions from Scripture How shall the young secure their hearts and guard their time of youth? God’s Word the counsel best imparts to live in love and truth. Your Word, O God, is heav’nly light that guides us all the day, and through the dangers of the night a lamp to lead our way. Among the children in Your fold Your Word is preached and known. They travel on the paths of old where living faith is sown. Your teachings give direction wise to walk the narrow road. Oh, quash vain thoughts in me that rise. Oh, help me love Your Word. Your Word is everlasting truth; how pure is every page! Your Holy Book shall guide our youth, and well support our age. Isaac Watts 1719; alt. Aaron Wuollet 2026 Discussion questions When is a parent’s job done? How do relationships between parents and children change as children grow older and begin to move out of the home? What are some things parents and their young adult children can do to establish and maintain a positive and mutually beneficial relationship? In what ways can parents continue to support, mentor and encourage their children who have left the nest? The fourth commandment instructs us to honor our parents, and God’s Word gives no expiration date for it. How do young adult children continue to honor and esteem their parents? Who is responsible for putting more effort into building a positive relationship – parents or their adult children? Why?

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion September 2026 -News and NoteS -- As another summer draws to a close, the familiar rhythms of autumn begin once again. Children return to school and to Sunday school, congregational activities resume after busy summer months, and fields in many places are beginning to yield their harvest. These changing seasons remind us of God’s continued care, both for our daily needs and for our souls. We give thanks for the many blessings of the summer – services, camps, weddings, visits, and opportunities for Christian fellowship that strengthened and encouraged believers. Now, as many return to their daily routines, we remember that God continues to gather and preserve His congregation through His living Word. We remember those who have begun a new year of study at the opistos in Finland, praying that God would bless and keep them as they learn and study. May He grant His blessing also to children returning to Sunday school, to teachers and workers serving in His kingdom, and to each of us as we continue our journey together toward our heavenly home. Following this summer’s Annual Meeting, some matters have been returned to the congregations for further discussion. As delegates seek input from those they represent, we encourage members to participate thoughtfully in these conversations. May God grant wisdom and unity as we seek His guidance together. Updates on LLC Activities Publications It was refreshing to see the many visits to the Summer Services bookstore, July 2–5, 2026. Items that sold out at Summer Services are now back in stock. For example, Hymns Ascending: Songs and Hymns of Zion for Classical Guitar is once again available through the LLC Office and online bookstore. Progress continues on books planned for release by the end of 2026: – They Call Her Blessed is a collection of writings to support mothers of all ages, especially in our current times, when life is busy, large families are less appreciated, self is often emphasized and the world continues to move further away from God. –The Fall into Sin, a children’s Bible story book, is in its final layout and is planned for release later this fall. –Fiction novels are a relatively new form of publication in North American Zion. The first, Time for Words, tells the story of young people navigating the common struggles of the teen years. It remains our hope and prayer that two or three additional novels will be completed this year. Pastoral The 2026 Ministers and Wives Camp will be held at Kamp Kipa on September 18–20. We encourage ministers and their wives to attend if they are able. Kyösti Pieviläinen of Joensuu, Finland, will arrive for the SRK Fall Speaking Trip on October 2 and depart on October 26. We welcome the Pieviläinens and look forward to their visits with many North American congregations.

Arvin Pirness | The Voice of Zion August 2026 - News & Notes -- Publications We extend a special thank-you to Ruth Delacey, who served as Publications Coordinator for the past five years. Her work in the Publications Department and the Opisto program allowed her to develop warm connections with many believers across North America. We are grateful for her service of love and wish her God’s blessings in the future. Helen Hillukka is serving temporarily as Publications Coordinator through the month of August. An announcement for this full-time position has been sent to congregations, and applications will be accepted until the position is filled. It was heartwarming to see so many people visit the bookstore during the 2026 LLC Summer Services. We pray that God will continue to bless us with publications that encourage and enrich the endeavor of faith. As always, the work of the Publications Department is supported by many volunteers through written, illustrated, and photographic contributions. Producers, editors, reviewers, and local congregation coordinators also play important roles. We are thankful for all who contribute their time and gifts to this work. Facilities & Events We again experienced the blessings of gathering for Summer Services at Silver Springs. We thank the Menahga and Brainerd congregations for their diligent planning and the hundreds of volunteers whose efforts made it possible for service guests to enjoy a blessed weekend gathered around God’s Word. During the services weekend, attendees were invited to provide feedback regarding the Silver Springs site. All feedback will be reviewed by the Silver Springs Board as it considers improvements and long-term development of the property. In June and July, eight confirmation schools were held across North America, attended by 294 young people. Many pre-confirmation camps, youth camps, and other camps will continue to be held through August. We are thankful that God continues to bless this important work among our young. Global Mission Work After a break in July, mission trips resume in August. Especially noteworthy are the confirmation schools in Kenya, including one for adults and one for youth. A youth confirmation school is also planned in Togo. One of the Global Mission Work teams is the Learning Materials and Education Team, which has developed Friend of Children: Illustrated Bible Lessons. The resource has been well received by teachers in Africa. A subcommittee is also developing a standardized curriculum and agenda for confirmation schools in Africa. Pastoral SRK and LLC summer speaker exchange trips have concluded. We rejoice in the unity of faith and the blessings we have experienced through serving one another at services, camps and in homes. LLC Annual Meeting The 2026 LLC Annual Meeting was held at the Rockford Laestadian Lutheran Church, where delegates reviewed and expressed support for the proposed 2027 LLC Operating Plan. – Delegates heard encouraging reports from congregations that incorporate the Apostles’ Creed into the Communion liturgy, noting the edifying experiences shared by some delegates. – An update was provided on the work of the Catechism Review Committee. Following many years of study and careful consideration, a draft revision has been reviewed by the LLC Board and shared with LLC ministers. During the coming months, presentations will be held in congregations to introduce the draft and provide an opportunity for review and discussion. – Delegates discussed the future of Hasscib Lake Camp, with additional conversations planned for the fall meeting of the Minnesota congregation boards and the East-Central Mission Area meetings in January. – Following remarks from the Coastal California Laestadian Lutheran Church delegate and the presentation of several motions that did not receive a second, Annual Meeting delegates adopted a motion encouraging the LLC Board and staff to proceed with the steps necessary regarding Coastal California Laestadian Lutheran Church’s membership in LLC and to engage legal counsel as needed.

Tommi Kinnunen | The Voice of Zion August 2026 - Round the Table article -- From the youngest children in Sunday school to elders in quieter stations of life, all of us are called to serve one another using the gifts God has given us. Service involves showing care and reflecting God’s love, particularly in our interactions with others. Every gathering is an opportunity to make others feel welcome, especially newcomers, and to remind one another that each of us is valued and loved as a child of the same Father. In God’s kingdom, each of us has a place to be, and a place to serve. People are naturally social creatures. From a young age, children try to find their place in a group as they learn to connect and interact with others. Sunday school or services might be a child’s first experience navigating how to fit into a larger group outside their own family. Exploring social dynamics within the comfort and care of God’s kingdom is a wonderful way for children to learn how to interact with peers and fit into a group. Social development follows a natural course as they grow. But even in God’s congregation our fallen nature can cloud the God-given desire to belong. For example, we may try to elevate ourselves by putting someone else down, or by excluding others. Such treatment and exclusion aren’t always overtly cruel. Often, especially among older children and adults, they can take the form of silence and ignoring a person, sometimes simply with a lack of smiles, being unwelcoming or withholding kindness. Most young people naturally (and fortunately) form a tight bond with their peers, their fellow believers. They explore the outside world together, hanging out around town and engaging in group activities. Together, they may be tempted to tease, insult or otherwise mistreat others who are not part of their group. They may even be tempted to respond or take revenge as a group when someone else mistreats one of them. But no matter how justified we may feel our actions to be, mistreating another person is never acceptable. Whether we call it bullying or something else, the effect is the same: someone is hurt. Apostle Paul writes, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:17–21, NIV). God’s Word calls us to recognize and care for those who may be overlooked. Following the Fifth Commandment, we are to help and comfort our neighbor in every way. Jesus is our example: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matt. 11:29, NIV). He sought out those who were most ignored: Zacchaeus, little children, lepers and others who were considered unclean or undesirable. Jesus approached them with love and kindness, offering God’s grace to them. Jesus teaches us that Christian love is active, not passive; it is to notice those who are often unnoticed, to speak words of kindness and care, and to extend hands of welcome. From time to time, each of us can feel excluded, sometimes even in our home congregation. We may find ourselves sitting alone at a gathering, or we may feel uneasy or misplaced in a Sunday school class, or we may wonder if we truly belong. Among the larger group, inner circles form naturally, often without cruelty. This usually happens through patterns of seating, impromptu invitations or shared interests. In this area, adults have an opportunity to set a good example. If adults exclude or favor others based on social norms, family or interest, children learn to do the same. On the other hand, if children see adults noticing those who are often overlooked and extending kindness and inviting others into their circles, children see the love of Christ at work and learn by that example as well. Our words carry weight. Proverbs tell us that gracious words are like honey – sweet to the soul and healing to the body. In contrast, cruel words or even silence can hurt deeply. The childhood rhyme, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” is not always true. Sometimes words cut deeply and leave lasting scars. Thus, we are called to speak kindly, to be “kindly affectionate” in our speech, even when it’s difficult, or when someone has caused us personal pain (Rom. 12:10). But what does “kindly affectionate” mean? As people embedded in social networks, we routinely show courtesy and respect to others as a matter of routine, or out of duty or politeness. But believers are taught to go even further, and to approach others with the mind of Christ in humility, patience and forgiveness. The “kindly affection” God’s Word speaks of is the care, kindness and goodwill that springs from Christian love. Such affection is a fruit of living faith. In the Old Testament, Joseph was sold into slavery in Egypt by his brothers. God remembered Joseph and blessed him, and he rose from slavery to be a powerful ruler in Egypt. When a famine swept through the region, Joseph’s brothers went to Egypt seeking help and food. Our human reasoning would justify Joseph being angry and harboring thoughts of bitterness and revenge toward his brothers, even turning his back on his brothers and sending them away empty handed. Instead, he forgave and helped his brothers. This example points to the nature of Christ, who taught us to turn the other cheek and break cycles of hurt and wrong. This is not easy. Nevertheless, it is central to a life rooted in faith. It reflects God’s character. Our actions express our love and care. We are called to notice those in need – those with the least strength or status – and offer help with a generous and kind heart. For example, when a small child asks about a homeless person, we can teach compassion rather than judgment. Faith is not only words; it is also deeds. God’s Word reminds us that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). This does not mean that we can earn our soul’s salvation in any way through our own works, but rather that the fruits of faith are made visible to others through our words and deeds. Good works are gifts from God, and not of ourselves. Each act of kindness, each invitation we extend, each word spoken with love, regardless of if it is toward a believer or toward those outside of God’s Kingdom, shows the mind of Christ. A message we can give anyone – child or adult – is simple: everyone matters. Everyone can belong. God made each one of us. God loves each one of us. Each believer has a place in the family of God. Our shared sense of belonging will always require our attention and care. May the Holy Spirit guide our hearts so that our speech and actions reflect the love of Christ and that we see, welcome and value each person we encounter, especially those of the household of faith.

Tanner Collette | The Voice of Zion August 2026 -The Sabbath Word 2 -- Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein. Also I set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We will not hearken. Therefore hear, ye nations, and know, O congregation, what is among them. Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it. – Jeremiah 6:16–19 Jeremiah was an Old Testament prophet to whom God gave a difficult task. He was instructed to preach to those who had forsaken God’s teaching and had lost their fear of God. The Lord called them a backsliding people for so boldly disobeying Him. Their hearts were hardened by sin, and they refused to repent. Jeremiah bluntly rebuked them, “Thine own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore and see that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the Lord thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord God of hosts” (Jer. 2:19). God wanted to forgive His people. He instructed Jeremiah to remind them that He remembered the kindness of their youth, and still loved them, yet His patience would not last forever. Their time of visitation would someday come to an end. God has not changed. He still loves His people and has mercy for us, even when we fall into sin. This message is still timely for us today. When sin burdens the conscience, we can turn to a travel escort and receive the Gospel message, restoring that heavenly peace in our hearts. The Old Testament travelers of Jeremiah’s time had found pleasure for their flesh in the sinful ways of the world. Their hearts had been consumed to the point that they no longer feared God and even attempted to justify their worldly lifestyles. They listened to false prophets that proclaimed, “Peace, peace; when there is no peace” (Jer. 6:14). Today, there is a loud message from this increasingly turbulent world that tells us there is an easier path, one that pleases our flesh and allows all manner of sin. There are false prophets all around us, luring us with a deceitful message that if we simply ignore our conscience, sin will no longer be a burden. Our text illustrates that this is an age-old lie of the enemy of souls. God’s Word has not changed: “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and forever” (Heb. 13:8). The Holy Spirit continues to guide God’s children, and it is important that we heed the trumpet that sounds so clearly in God’s congregation. We know that God’s Word is a two-edged sword: it either heals or it offends. To the people of Jeremiah’s time, it was an offense. Sometimes it may be that the message of God’s Word we hear in the congregation has a bit of a sting to it. This is a good sign that we should care for matters. It would be dangerous to be as those to whom Jeremiah preached and begin to defend ourselves and our actions against God’s instruction. If ever the beauty of God’s kingdom loses its appeal, pray that repentance and a humble heart could lead you back to the middle of the flock and to fellowship with the believers. Jesus explained to His disciples that those who hated Him, hated Him because He had exposed their sin. “If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin” (John 15:22). It is important that we put sin away. Trying to forget about or hide our sin is simply the cloak that Jesus speaks about here. If we allow sin to build, our conscience will become hardened, and eventually we will lose faith. God is loving and merciful, but, as is recorded for us in Scripture, He will not tolerate sin and disobedience forever. If we choose the wrong path in this life, there is no promise of another time of visitation. Continue to ask for the old paths, and here in God’s precious kingdom, you will find rest for your soul.

The Voice of Zion August 2026 - Editorial -- As children, many of us spend years simply receiving. We come to church and services, sit beside our families, attend camps and gatherings, and receive care and teaching from those around us. Others prepare lessons, organize events, care for practical needs, and carry responsibilities we may hardly notice. There is nothing wrong with this. Children are meant to receive. Jesus Himself said of little children, “Of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 19:14). Children do not earn their place in a family. They simply belong. As young people grow older, however, something beautiful often begins happening. Many already feel at home in the congregation. Gradually, they begin to see that this home carries responsibilities and opportunities. And they realize that they too can help carry some part of the work God gives His congregation. Scripture compares believers to members of one body (1 Cor. 12). Not every member has the same task or purpose. Some serve in visible ways, while others work quietly and unseen. Yet God Himself places the members where it pleases Him, and each belongs to the whole. Belonging comes first. Service follows (Eph. 2:8–10). The apostle Peter writes, “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another” (1 Pet. 4:10). God gives different gifts and different opportunities, but He gives each believer a place within His congregation. God’s kingdom has always been carried through generations in this way. Those who came before us carried the work faithfully in their own time. They taught classes, prepared meals, worked in kitchens, cleaned buildings, served in leadership roles, and tirelessly looked after countless details. Many of those hands that once carried responsibilities are now slowing. Some have already been called home. Yet the work itself was never theirs. It is God’s work. And God continues to gather and call people into His congregation, giving each generation opportunities to help carry it forward. We all share in both the work and the blessings God gives through His congregation. We enjoy the fellowship, teaching, music, care and encouragement that come through the efforts of many willing hands. And all of this work is ultimately done for the sake of the gospel and to the glory of God. Those who serve often discover that in return they receive much: precious fellowship, encouragement, and lasting connections with other believers. This gives encouragement both to younger and older believers. Young people should not simply be expected to someday find a way to serve on their own. Sometimes an opportunity is found because someone notices them, invites them, and gives them something meaningful to do. Perhaps someone is asked to help in the kitchen, direct parking, assist at camp, help with music, work in the bookstore, or simply lend a hand where there is a need. We come to know one another while serving together. We learn names, share conversations, and form bonds. God often cares for us through these ordinary connections. When invitations to serve are extended broadly, people often discover gifts, friendships and ways to participate that might otherwise have remained hidden. At the same time, perhaps some young people hesitate to step forward. No one wants to appear overly pleased with his or her own abilities. Some may worry whether volunteering or offering help could somehow seem prideful or self-seeking. Yet using gifts in God’s kingdom is not first about being noticed. It is about being willing. The question is not, How will I appear? but rather, How may I help? God often works through ordinary willingness and humble service. As young people enter adulthood, congregation membership can also be understood in this light. It is more than a practical step or a financial commitment. It can be one way of saying: I want to help carry this too. Not because our place among believers somehow needs to be earned. Christ has already paid that price. Rather, we serve because we belong. We receive, and in time, we begin helping carry what others once carried for us.

The Voice of Zion August 2026 - Home and Family Articles -- Amidst our busy family life, the believing home can be a place of contentment and peace, a refuge from the world, a setting where God’s perfect plan for our lives unfolds day by day. Family life often involves many moving parts and much noise. The shape of family busyness differs from one household to another, as well as from one season of life to another. Each household and season carries its own joys and sorrows, along with its own responsibilities and demands, and each has its own form of contentment and beauty. Yet busyness must be carried with wisdom. We do not want to be idle. Idleness is a playground for the devil. But neither do we want to be overly busy so that we fail to see one another’s needs or neglect the relationships and duties that give a home its strength. A household is not made lovely by activity alone, but by the spirit in which that activity is shared. A believing home and family is a place where the Holy Spirit lives and works. When each member of the family works and contributes to the life of the home, responsibility takes root, and the sense of belonging deepens. The ordinary tasks of daily life are part of a family’s unique character, and meaningful work is one of the good gifts woven into home life. Above all, we wish to remember to invite the Lord Jesus into our family hubbub. He promises to join even the smallest home congregation: “Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them” (Matt. 18:20, NIV). We can, and should, remind each other to freely use the gospel in our home. Then, even amid full days and many duties, our home remains a place of rest and comfort. A busy family of God’s children is a shelter of grace where love is renewed and burdens are lightened, and where the joy of believing permeates the rhythms of everyday life. Strength for Each Day Adam Wuollet It seems nearly impossible to accomplish everything that needs to be done in a day. Unexpected situations arise and call for immediate action, causing our other tasks to pile up. Heavy trials may come and make the way forward seem impossible. We may feel overwhelmed and wonder how we can take another step forward. The demands in a busy home are significant. Where can we turn except to cast all our care upon Him who cares for us (1 Pet. 5:7)? We can simply and confidently say that it is not of our own ability and strength, but only through the power of God, that we are able to care for our families. No matter how difficult our situation may be, our heavenly Father wishes us to be encouraged and hopeful, and He provides strength when we need it (2 Cor. 4:8; Isa. 41:10). We can trust in Him with the same trust that little children place in their parents. Through faith we wish to obey God’s Word and will. We battle the lies of the devil, the influence of the world, and the lusts of our sinful flesh. With joy we can accept the work and blessings that come with a busy home and family. But we are weak, and our patience and our love are tested. Our flesh is drawn to life outside of God’s kingdom, which seemingly offers relief from the challenges of running a home and raising a family. However, God gives enduring joy and contentment when we endeavor in faith, looking after ourselves, our family, and our home in obedience to His Word and in the care of the gospel. “Godliness with contentment is great gain;” we can find them both in our small home congregation (1 Tim. 6:6). Many distractions compete for our time and attention, and each of us has personal needs and interests. A parent’s duties often require putting the needs of the family above the individual interests of either parent. Hobbies or interests may draw us away from our family, or devices may absorb our attention while family members sit right in front of us. Before we know it, we find ourselves wrapped up in activities of far lower priority than our home and family. Pausing to take inventory of our time can be helpful. One elder said, “Don’t tell me what your priorities are. Tell me what you spend your time doing, and then I can tell what your priorities are.” Selfishness gets in our way and makes a burden of serving in the home. Our society and culture, especially social media, emphasize selfish pursuits and accumulating possessions. Yet such things may be beyond a family’s financial means, which can tempt a parent to work long hours to attain them. This is one way our priorities can become misaligned and misplaced. It is good to regularly remind each other of our mutual destination and to continually look for ways to help one another. Jesus teaches that when we first seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, all other things will follow (Matt. 6:33). Difficulties of health, work, and finances can create doubt about providing for our family. Jesus encourages us not to worry about the future, but to trust in God’s promise to provide (Matt. 6:34). Our heavenly Father cares for all His creation, especially for His dear children. Another way we help each other is by doing chores together. It is necessary and good for children to help around the home. This makes the workload manageable for the entire family. Shielding children from work strips them of an important role of service. God gives a sense of purpose and fills the heart with joy when we see how our work benefits others. Through serving others, we serve God Himself. No matter what we do, we should do it “heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Col. 3:23). Serving God’s children, even those who are members of our own family, is important. God’s Word teaches that such service is a fruit that will differentiate believers from unbelievers on Judgment Day (Matt. 25). It is helpful to talk with older believers who have passed through our stage of life. Their experience has brought wisdom and good counsel. It is also good to visit with other believing parents who are in a similar phase of life and who can reassure us that we are not alone in our struggles. Although we come from different backgrounds and ways of living, we share a mutual endeavor of faith and have many similar concerns in keeping a home and family. As people, our essence has not changed from those who came before us. The circumstances we encounter change. Technology and tools change. Our children grow, and our situation evolves. In every phase we find that we need to learn and grow, then learn and grow again. Jesus, our Master Teacher, gives the best example of how to live. He exhorts us to turn in prayer to our heavenly Father, the Giver of all good things. He teaches us to turn to God’s Word in times of trial and temptation, as well as in times of contentment and joy. In the Lord’s Prayer, He instructs us not to pray for the unknown needs of an uncertain tomorrow, but simply for the needs of today. Jesus lived a life of service. He helped those in need. He gave of Himself throughout His life and suffered to save all people from sin. He sacrificed Himself on the cross so that all who believe in Him can inherit eternal life (John 3:16). How fortunate we are to have such a loving Teacher and Savior! We strive to live according to God’s Word. We find that we fall short and often need to seek the gospel of the forgiveness of sins. Amid a busy home life, we experience God’s peace and joy. And by continuing to endeavor in faith, we will one day be able to exchange our cross for a crown of glory in heaven. Retiring to a Small Congregation in a New Area Sandra Hall My husband, Steve, and I were both born in Minneapolis, Minn., and grew up in the Minneapolis congregation. We got married at a young age, and moved to the western metro area, where we joined the Rockford congregation. Throughout our working years, we enjoyed traveling and visiting new places, but for us Minnesota was always home. As our children grew up, graduated from school, and moved out, our house began to feel empty. I took a job at Building Hope, a group home for people with special needs that believers manage. Getting to know the residents brought such joy, and I got to spend my days caring for my new friends! The work was meaningful, and it filled a void. During the painful and confusing times of heresy a few years ago, my work helped to keep me emotionally afloat and to stay focused on the most important matters of life. I found my calling. My everyday routines of work, home life, kids and grandkids brought comfort. One day, our son and his wife announced they were moving their growing family to Missouri. They wanted to settle in a rural area with acreage to raise their growing family. Their move wasn’t surprising. For the first years of their marriage, they had moved around the country and had lived away from established congregations. As a mom and grandma, I was happy that they wanted to be near other believers. Once they moved into their new home, we went to visit them. Steve immediately fell in love with the area and suggested that we make it our part-time home in retirement. I balked at the idea! Moving out of state sounded way too overwhelming! What would I do to fill my time? What about the rest of our kids? When would we see our grandkids? What effects would such a move have on our family? Motherhood is a role that never ends, and I have found that loving and cherishing my kids and grandkids has brought a jumble of joys and worries no matter how old they are or where they live. But the more Steve talked about Missouri, the more I warmed up to the idea of a new adventure. Before long, we found ourselves packing up and moving away from Minnesota for the first time in our lives. When I finally agreed to give it a try, it was with trepidation and heavy heart. I’ve always wanted to live near other believers and can’t imagine life without them. We’d always been part of the bustling life of a large congregation. Moving meant settling among only a handful of believing families, and a big change of pace. I wondered where our home truly is. I wondered where we belong. Many prayers arose to God to guide our steps. I have grown to love the tranquility of the Ozarks, the forested hills of southern Missouri we now call home. Our congregation is small, which is quite a change for us from Minneapolis and Rockford. We gather every Sunday for services and Sunday school, as well as once a month for Bible class. Four times a year, we have weekend services with visiting ministers. It’s a joy to host family, ministers and visitors passing through the area. Living here has made me appreciate Jesus’ words in a new way: “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I, in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20). There is something special about this small congregation. Maybe it’s because everyone here has the shared experience of moving here from somewhere else. A peaceful, secure, loving feeling reigns in my heart when I can gather with the other believers. There is a closeness that connects everyone of all ages. We have been able to spend our past few winters with believers in Florida and Arizona, and we’ve returned to Minnesota each summer. Gathering with believers from across North America truly is a blessing. Our house projects and travel keep us busy and moving. The comings and goings of family and friends are refreshing bright spots. I’ve especially noticed a new appreciation in our family for our summers together back in Minnesota. Part of my heart will always be at home in Minnesota. We have a dear congregation there, where most of our children still live. As we age, we increasingly wish to be near our children and grandchildren. Here in Missouri, in this peaceful place far from where we grew up, it’s wonderful still to be in the busyness and hubbub of family, home and congregation life. Heaven does not exist here on earth; but there’s no place I’d rather be than among God’s children. What Brings Comfort and Fulfillment? Sean and Mandy Wuollet When our family was gathered inside our home as a powerful storm was thundering outside, we talked about what brings us comfort and fulfillment. Such storms show the power of God. When temporal storms bring fear into our lives, the reassurance of the gospel and gathering with other believers bring us comfort. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we feel God’s protection. In our discussion, the children shared that they feel fulfillment when going to services, being with other believers and singing together. God’s Word instructs us to gather with other believers as the end of time nears: “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near” (Heb. 10:25, ESV). In God’s kingdom we find comfort, strength and peace. Here we find contentment in temporal life and, more importantly, in spiritual life. As God’s children, we need each other. We reassure and encourage one another along life’s way. We can believe our sins are forgiven. We can own the hope of eternal life in heaven one day. Being with believers brings peace and joy to our lives. It’s easy to become swept up in the demands of everyday life and personal pursuits. But God’s Word reminds us to pause and discuss matters of faith at home. Our most important conversations are those with our loved ones in our precious home congregation. Amid the busyness of life, may we always hold dear the time we can spend as family reading and discussing God’s Word, comforting and encouraging each other in faith. Our greatest fulfillment is gained on heaven’s shore. Discussion questions: What brings you comfort and fulfillment? Who has been a good example of contentment in your life? What are some blessings and challenges of family life? What are some everyday habits that can help build gratitude, contentment, and peace? What distractions can pull our attention away from faith, family, and serving others? How can family members support one another and share in the work of the home? Why is it important to gather with other believers and discuss matters of faith? What does it mean to seek first the kingdom of God in daily life?