Friends For Life — LCMS Life Ministry

Pornography isn’t all that bad, is it? This is the lie that culture is telling and our children’s peers are pushing. Listen as guest Daniel Weiss and Steph talk about the dangers of pornography, how it misses the mark for God’s plan for sexuality, and why God’s vision for sex is good and beautiful and altogether better than the counterfeit of porn. Bio: Daniel Weiss is the executive director of the Sexual Integrity Leadership Summit, which equips, supports, and collaborates with Christian leaders to promote Gospel-centered sexuality in the Church. Daniel has a passion for the sexually broken and the need for pastors, parents, and Christian leaders to respond with courage, compassion, and truth to the sexual challenges of our age. In addition to his professional work, Daniel and his wife work daily to create a home of faith, forgiveness, laughter, and love in the Wisconsin countryside where they live with their five children. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What is a compassionate Christian response to people within the LGBTQ+ community? Rev. Brian Barlow joins Steph to talk about the Church’s role in bringing compassion and truth to people struggling with their sexuality. Bio: Reverend Brian Barlow has invested over 20 years in ministry to those who struggle with relational and sexual brokenness. Having been reconciled out of gender broken past, Reverend Barlow offers a life-giving testimony of God’s healing grace. He has held leadership positions for local and international para ministries specifically focused in providing pastoral care to individuals and families impacted by gender dysphoria. Rev. Barlow offers a voice of hope individuals, pastors, church leaders, and parents of gay and transgender children. He and his family reside in Southern California and serve at Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church, Quartz Hill, California. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Having once lived in the gay community, guest Rev. Brian Barlow shares his story of self-discovery and re-discovery and how Jesus changes everything. Bio: Reverend Brian Barlow has invested over 20 years in ministry to those who struggle with relational and sexual brokenness. Having been reconciled out of gender broken past, Reverend Barlow offers a life-giving testimony of God’s healing grace. He has held leadership positions for local and international para ministries specifically focused in providing pastoral care to individuals and families impacted by gender dysphoria. Rev. Barlow offers a voice of hope individuals, pastors, church leaders, and parents of gay and transgender children. He and his family reside in Southern California and serve at Resurrection Evangelical Lutheran Church, Quartz Hill, California. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What does it mean to identify as Trans today? What seems to be behind the trend in the growing number of teens and adolescents who identify as transgender? How do Christians respond in compassion and care while remaining true to God’s Word? Clinical psychologist Dr. Beverly Yahnke helps us to navigate these questions. Bio: Dr. Beverly Yahnke is a clinical psychologist serving DOXOLOGY, a RSO of the LCMS, dedicated to providing care, counsel and advanced instruction for LCMS pastors and their parishes. From 2010-2015 she served as Chair and Professor of Psychology at Concordia University Wisconsin. Previously, Dr. Yahnke spent over 20 years in private practice serving church workers and their families in the clinical group she founded in Milwaukee. Dr. Yahnke has written numerous articles about psychology, education and faith, and is a frequently invited speaker for clergy and educator conferences. Concordia Theological Seminary has awarded her with the Doctor of Humane Letters Degree, Honoris Causa and Concordia Seminary honored her with the Christos Vivit Award. She currently serves as a member of the Ft. Wayne Seminary’s Board of Regents. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Is sex a social construct, or is a person created male and female by design? Concordia Seminary professor Dr. Joel Biermann lays the groundwork for a biblical discussion of gender and sexual identity. Access Dr. Joel Biermann’s “Woman and Man According to God’s Plan” Lay Bible Institute class at scholar.csl.edu/lbiwomanandman. Bio: A full-time member of the faculty at Concordia Seminary since 2002, Joel Biermann revels in teaching doctrinal theology to Concordia’s students – and to anyone else he can persuade to listen. He was ordained in 1987 and spent eleven years as a parish pastor serving congregations in Minnesota and Michigan before returning to the seminary for graduate work. He and his wife, Jeannalee, enjoy spending time pursuing a variety of activities afforded by the city, but most especially they cherish time with their three children and their spouses and their ten grandchildren all who live in the St. Louis area. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Why do Christians care so much about issues around sexuality? Isn’t it a private matter? Listen as Tiffany and Steph introduce the “why” behind this season and how God’s written and natural law change everything. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Dr. Robert Kolb’s article can be found at witness.lcms.org/2023/lutheran-witness-october-2023. Find Every One His Witness Resources at everyonehiswitness.org/course/witnessing-to-lgbtq-people. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

You won’t want to miss this short but sweet episode! Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

How does the Church care for refugees? How are all believers like strangers in a strange land? How can Christians support the sojourners among us, particularly the incoming refugees from Ukraine? Pastor Chris Asbury and his wife Kelly join Steph to discuss real and practical love for these new neighbors among us. Learn more about the LCMS Ukraine Refugee Grant Program at lcms.org/serve/grants/ukraine-refugee-grant-program and Lutheran Bible Translators at lbt.org. Bio: Pastor Chris Asbury has served Grace, Norfolk since 2008 when he graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. He loves Jesus, his family, and church. He enjoys playing trumpet, guitar, golf, and gets pretty competitive at board games. Pastor and his wife, Kelly, are blessed with five children: Becca, Noah, Megan, Ashley, and Hannah. A 2002 graduate of the University of Colorado, Boulder, and a diehard buff, pastor now respects all things red in our cornhusker state. He grew up in central California and gets to visit his family in Denver. If you don’t find him at church, he may be visiting members, playing with his kids, drinking coffee with friends, golfing, or hiking up a mountain. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Adoption is a journey filled with hope, longing, and sometimes heartbreak. Tim and Rebekah Janke join us for a second time to share an update on their journey to adoption and what they’ve learned about Jesus’ love and care for them in these last two years. Bio: Tim and Rebekah Janke live in North Dakota with their young son, Elijah. Tim is a veterinarian at a local veterinary clinic and loves caring for “all creatures great and small.” Rebekah is a trained Lutheran school teacher and currently works as an instructional coach for other teachers at her local middle school. Together, their family loves outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and fishing. They’re active in their local church and have a special heart for children and passing along their faith. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Tiffany is joined by special guest, Dr. Stephen Saunders, to talk about the stigmatization of mental illness within the church - in both the past and the present - and how Luther himself addressed matters of mental health. Bio: Dr. Stephen Saunders is Professor and Chairperson of Psychology at Marquette University. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Dr. Kevin Voss, Director of the Center for Bioethics at CUW, joins Tiffany and Steph to talk about the field of bioethics and how our Lutheran theology helps us navigate the nuanced world of reproductive technology. Bio: Kevin Voss is a Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Center for Bioethics at Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW). He has been at CUW since 2003 and teaches philosophy, bioethics, and ethics courses. Dr. Voss has a PhD in Health Care Ethics from Saint Louis University, is an ordained Lutheran minister (Concordia Seminary St. Louis 1999), is a Fellow of Christian Apologetics, and is a licensed veterinarian, having practiced for 14 years in Bonduel, Wisconsin. He has authored peer-reviewed articles and written several articles for the Lutheran Witness. Rev. Voss has given numerous presentations about bioethics issues at national conferences. Dr. Voss is a member of the Sanctity of Human Life Committee of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Society for Bioethics and Humanities, the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, and the Evangelical Philosophical Society. He is Chair of Concordia University's Institutional Review Board. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Tiffany is joined by Lauren Muzyka and Nate Robertson of Sidewalk Advocates for Life to talk about SAFL’s impact on families across the country through their peaceful approach to advocacy on the sidewalks outside of abortion and abortion-referral facilities. Learn how to get involved in Sidewalk Advocates for Life in your own community and how to be a faithful witness of the mercy and love of Jesus to women in crisis. Lauren Muzyka serves as President & CEO of Sidewalk Advocates for Life (SAFL) where she oversees the organization’s vision, mission, and program. Lauren is a licensed attorney whose passion for defending the sanctity of human life led her into the pro-life movement. For over two years, Lauren served as Campaign Strategist for the National 40 Days for Life Team, advising their 300+ campaigns in North America. Lauren holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Spanish from Texas A&M University, as well as an Advanced Certificate in International Affairs. She is a 2009 cum laude graduate of Ave Maria School of Law (AMSOL) where she served as President of the Lex Vitae Society, a Student Bar Association Class Senator, and remained active in Moot Court Board and The Advocate Radio Show. In 2008, Lauren was selected as Best Oralist in the State of Michigan Moot Court Competition, where the AMSOL team also won the championship. She was also selected by her classmates to be a 2009 Student Commencement Speaker. Lauren has interned with organizations such as Alliance Defending Freedom, Americans United for Life, Liberty Institute, Texas Alliance for Life, and the Collin County District Attorney’s Office. Lauren is a trained Sidewalk Advocate of more than 20 years and has been interviewed on various media outlets throughout the country and world. Her greatest joy is her relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church, being married to her husband, chasing after her rescue dogs, and bringing God’s people together across denominational lines in the pro-life movement. Nate Robertson serves as Vice President of SAFL. In that role, he oversees the Programs Department, assists with program inquiries, trainings, and location mentorship, and helps builds community relationships. Nate is passionate about the pro-life cause and has ministered on dozens of sidewalks outside of abortion facilities throughout America. His involvement in the pro-life movement can be traced back to his childhood, when he was greatly moved by the fight for life for the unborn. He has networked with many pro-life groups and organizations over the years and is excited to see SAFL aim to cover all uncovered abortion facilities in the U.S. — and beyond — with peaceful, loving advocates. He desires to facilitate the advancement of the pro-life cause through awareness and accountability. Nate built a strong reputation as a business leader in account management for over 10 years. He is actively involved in ministry at his local church, as well as traveling and ministering to other congregations. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Union University in Jackson, TN, where he also served as student body Vice President (2003). Prior to joining the SAFL National Team, Nate served as a Co-Program Leader for SAFL-Louisville, KY. Nate and his family live in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys spending time with his wife and children and is active in his local church to help continue advancing the pro-life cause through awareness and accountability. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

What couple doesn’t want a happy marriage? Surely every husband and wife get married hoping to have a healthy and ever-growing happy marriage, yet quickly find just how damaging sin, resentment, miscommunication, and the withholding forgiveness can be. With just SEVEN essential habits, guest Dr. Randy Schroeder gives a crash course in implementing and achieving a Christ-focused, God-oriented marriage that will almost certainly also lead to happiness and contentment. Find Simple Habits for Marital Happiness at cph.org. Bio: Dr. Randy Schroeder wrote the 2020 three-time national award-winning Christian marriage book, Simple Habits for Marital Happiness. The only marriage book that provides practical, specific words, actions, and essential knowledge in the seven major areas of a relationship to help every couple achieve a gratifying marriage. He has helped thousands of spouses achieve a consistently satisfying happy marriage with these simple, yet very effective habits. His 2021 two-time national award-winning book, Simple Habits for Effective Parenting is the only parenting book that provides detailed guidance in the seven key aspects of parenting. Happy, confident children driven to reach their full potential with self-motivation, good decision-making skills, a positive attitude, and determination are raised by parents who use these simple successful habits. Dr. Schroeder joined Jim Daly, President, and John Fuller, Vice President, on FOCUS ON THE FAMILY national broadcasts for six interviews: Simple Habits to Embrace in Your Marriage – January (BEST of 2022); Forming New Habits for Your Marriage I – September 2022; Forming New Habits for Your Marriage II – September 2022; Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting – July (BEST of 2021); More Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting I – November 2022; and More Effective Habits to Embrace in Parenting II – November 2022. These six FOCUS ON THE FAMILY interviews can be found on YouTube. Dr. Schroeder was born and raised in Austin, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University Chicago and received a Master of Education in Administration from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He also earned a Master of Divinity from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana and holds a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from The Chicago Theological Seminary. The first eight years of his professional career were spent as a Lutheran high school teacher, assistant principal, athletic director, and head varsity basketball and football coach. In 1982, after eight years as an educator, he felt called to serve the Lord as an LCMS pastor and left the teaching ministry to prepare for the pastoral ministry. After graduating from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana in 1986, Dr. Schroeder became a Professor of Pastoral Counseling, Vice President of Student Personnel Services, and Dean of Students. For nearly 25 years he taught pastoral counseling classes including Premarital Counseling, Marriage Counseling, Family Counseling, Crisis Counseling, Ministry to the Sick & Dying, and Pastor as Counselor. He also wrote a Family Counselor column for the Lutheran Witness magazine for 15 years. In 2010, after being an educator for 36 years, he strongly desired to serve God and others as a full-time Christian counselor to help individuals, marriages, and families with the practical wisdom that makes a profound positive difference. Dr. Schroeder is a Marriage and Family Counselor and has a successful practice at Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Carmel, Indiana. For over four decades, Dr. Schroeder has spoken to and counseled thousands of individuals, spouses, and parents about the simple, yet effective habits that are essential for an enjoyable life, a happy marriage, and for effectively parenting a child. Dr. Schroeder believes a lack of valuable knowledge about specific practical words, actions, and skills, not a lack of desire, is what holds people back from...

It can be hard enough to seek the counsel of a professional psychologist, let alone find one that can speak to your specific struggles with good and true theology. Grounded in Scripture, centered on Christ, distinguishing Law and Gospel, and living under a theology of the cross, Lutherans have a unique approach to Christian counseling. Guest Dr. Rick Marrs is a seminary professor and licensed psychologist who authored the book Making Christian Counseling More Christ Centered. In this episode, Dr. Marrs guides listeners through the initial hurdle of identifying a trusted Christian counselor and describes what makes counseling through the lens of Lutheran theology unique and particularly beneficial. Marrs also answers questions about the modern trend toward telehealth counseling and discusses the upsides and downfalls of this practice. Bio: Dr. Richard “Rick” Marrs is professor of Practical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. Marrs was called to the faculty in the fall of 2006. He previously served as the dean of faculty (2010–13), director of Continuing Education and Parish Services (2007–09) and director of the Master of Divinity (M.div.) and Residential Alternate Route (RAR) Programs (2013-21). His areas of interest and expertise include pastoral care and counseling, Christian counseling and Christian reconciliation. Before coming to the Seminary, he served at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Junction City, Kan. (2000–06), first as a vicar and then as a pastor. He was a professor of psychology and a counselor at St. John’s College in Winfield, Kan. (1983–86; admissions counselor 1982–83), and at Concordia University Chicago, River Forest, Ill. (1986–98). He also has done counseling, clinical and consulting work with Lutheran Child and Family Services; the Baldwin Center for Psychological Services; the Center for Applied Psychology and Forensic Studies; the Kansas State University counseling center; Rapha (a Christian inpatient psychiatric group); Concordia University, Ann Arbor, Mich.; Lutheran Special Education Ministries; and various districts of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). Marrs received certification for pastoral ministry through the Seminary’s RAR Program and earned his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) both from Concordia Seminary (2001, 2008). He also holds an Associate of Arts (A.A.) from St. John’s College (1978); a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Concordia College, River Forest, Ill. (now Concordia University Chicago) (1980); a Master of Science (M.S.) in counseling from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan. (1985); and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in counseling psychology from Loyola University Chicago in Chicago, Ill. (1994). He has been licensed as a psychologist since 1996. In 2019, Marrs published the book Making Christian Counseling More Christ Centered, which focuses on the relevance of Luther’s soul-care theology in Christian counseling (WestBow Press). He continues and expands that discussion in a blog series on Concordia Theology. He and Seminary Emeritus Professor Dr. Robert Kolb also are co-authoring an article about Lutheran contributions to the theology of Christian psychology. Marrs contributed the new introduction to the reprint of Walter J. Koehler’s book Counseling and Confession: The Role of Confession and Absolution in Pastoral Counseling (Concordia Publishing House, 1982, 2011). He has authored numerous Bible studies, articles and training programs for the LCMS. He also co-authored The Lesson Organizer Routine, a special education learning strategy trainer for the University of Kansas’ Edge Enterprises, which has sold more than 20,000 copies. Marrs is married to Laura, who operates her own professional organizing business. They have two adult daughters, two sons-in-law and four grandchildren. Marrs coached the Seminary’s varsity tennis team from 2007–16 and still enjoys playing tennis. He also competes nationally in stair-climb races. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at...

With 8 children at home and another on the way, Zach and Dawn Schnare have a lot on their plate! Even so, they find time to sit down with Steph to talk about the joys, the challenges, and the many blessings that come with having a large family and a full home. If you’ve ever wondered how families with lots of kids do it, then you won’t want to miss the Schnares share their experience with honesty and humor! Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Are there certain cases where abortion really is the best option? Should we allow for certain “exceptions,” even while maintaining our pro-life stance? What if rape or incest are involved, or both? Guest Kristi Hofferber was conceived in rape and incest; yet despite the circumstances of her life’s beginnings, Kristi advocates for life without exception. Bio: Kristi Hofferber, MSW, is CEO Beacon of Light Pregnancy Help Center. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Prepare to laugh as you join Steph, Tiffany, and our favorite fun-loving group of four women, known to many as the Lutheran Ladies’ Lounge! On this, our 50th episode (and Second Birthday), we’re celebrating all that is good, beautiful, and blessed about LIFE. This is as close to a favorite things episode as one could get! Find The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge podcast at kfuo.org/category/lutheran-ladies-lounge, connect with the Lutheran Ladies on social media in The Lutheran Ladies’ Lounge Facebook discussion group (facebook.com/groups/LutheranLadiesLounge) and on Instagram @lutheranladieslounge. Bio: The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge is a weekly podcast from KFUO Radio celebrating Lutheran life, faith, history, and culture from a woman's perspective. It is hosted by Sarah Gulseth, Erin Alter, Brianne Gerzevske, and Rachel Bomberger. In addition to hosting The Lutheran Ladies' Lounge, Sarah Gulseth serves as Digital Media Specialist for KFUO and cohost of its mid-morning broadcast talk show The Coffee Hour. Erin Alter is Director of Short-Term Missions Teams at the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, where she also hosts and produces the 5 Minutes with a Missionary podcast. Brianne Gerzevske works as account director at Meyer Partners, LLC and is married to a fourth-year seminarian. Rachel Bomberger is a homeschool mom, Navy chaplain's wife, and occasional contributor to The Lutheran Witness, where she was formerly managing editor. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Join Tiffany and guest Rev. Dr. Matthew Durance as they discuss the rich theology of life within the Divine Service and how our Lutheran liturgy is overflowing with what is needful for forgiveness, life, and salvation. Bio: Rev. Dr. Matthew Durance currently serves as Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church and School in Harbor Beach, MI. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Pastor Tyler Arnold joins Steph to talk about the vital role that visitation plays in the life of the Christian community. Author of the recent release Pastoral Visitation: For the Care of Souls (available from Lexham Press), Pastor Arnold makes a compelling case for church members to pay visit to one another and for pastors to visit their people – to be with one another as the fellowship of believers is a good way to do life together. Learn about what Pastor Arnold describes as this “with” way in Episode 48! Bio: Tyler C. Arnold was born August 23, 1973 in Alton, Illinois. He graduated from Roxana High School in 1991 and Concordia University, River Forest in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. He attended Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and graduated in 1999 with a Master of Divinity degree. In 2019, Pastor Arnold received his Doctor of Ministry degree from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN in the area of Pastoral Care. Pastor Arnold has served as a parish pastor since 1999. He was the Assistant Pastor at Christ Lutheran, Platte Woods, MO. from 1999-2004. In 2004 he accepted a Divine Call to serve as Pastor of Trinity Lutheran in Millstadt, IL. He later returned to Christ Lutheran in Platte Woods in 2006 to serve as Sr. Pastor where he served until 2022. He is currently Pastor at Village Lutheran Church, Ladue, MO. Pastor Arnold has served on the Board of Congregational Support for the Southern Illinois District, as the Chairman for the Committee on Structure and Administration for the Missouri District as well as the District’s Structure and Administration Task Force (Rev. Dr. Kevin Golden was the Chairman of the Task Force). He has also served on the Board of Directors at Unity Lutheran School in East St. Louis, IL as well as Pastoral Advisor to the Executive Council of the Northland Lutheran School Association in the Kansas City Northland. He served for nine years as a Circuit Visitor and on various District program and conference committees. Currently, he serves as a member of the Board of Regents for Concordia Seminary, St. Louis and is a “Fellow” on the Collegium of Pastors for DOXOLOGY – The Lutheran Center for Spiritual Care and Counsel. Pastor Arnold is the author of the book, Pastoral Visitation: For the Care of Souls published by Lexham Press. He has written articles published in by the LCMS blog, The Lutheran Witness, SEELSORGER – A Journal for the Contemporary Cure of Souls, LOGIA and Christianity Today. He also wrote a Bible study called, Finding Balance and Perspective in Ministry published by the LCMS. He has been a speaker at District Pastors Conferences and various retreats on the topic of the care of souls. He was joined in Holy Matrimony to Andrea (nee Thur) in 1995 at Holy Cross Lutheran in Ste. Genevieve, MO where her father served as pastor at the time. They are blessed with two sons: Jacob, 25, a graduate of Missouri State University lives in Herculaneum, MO and works for Roeslein and Associates and Benjamin, 22, is a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corps. His Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) is signals intelligence. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Pastor Caleb Weight joins Steph to bring comfort, hope, and honesty to the conversation of miscarriage and mourning from a father’s perspective. In this episode, he shares his own story of loss and his ongoing journey with both faith and grief. Bio: Rev. Caleb Weight serves as Associate Pastor at Peace in Christ Lutheran Church in Hermantown, Minnesota, where he is the steward of God’s gifts and stubbornly points people to Jesus. Rev. Weight is married to his wife Kara and has three children and three others who rest in the arms of Christ. He is a contributor at The Jagged Word where he often likes to write about suffering and the Christian life. In his free time he loves to cook, eat good food, drink good coffee, play board games, and hang out with his family. Learn about LCMS Life Ministry at lcms.org/life, and email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org. Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.