Action in Ministry
The final episode of Action and Ministry was released January 5, 2021.
Thank you to all of our Action in Ministry guests and listeners, we pray you’ll continue to put Action in your ministry! Visit lhm.org/podcasts to check out other LHM podcasts including “Speaking of Jesus” with Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler, Speaker of The Lutheran Hour.
Be sure to download and save your favorite episodes shown below.
Recently Aired
January 5, 2021 : A New Year's Send Off
Guest: Dr. Rev. Mike and Amy Zeigler
This new year, 2021, carries hopes beyond what any could have understood a year ago. Hear how we can have a renewed passion to share the Gospel with our neighbor on this "Action in Ministry."
December 22, 2020 : A Bronner Christmas
Guest: Wayne Bronner
The Bronner's Christmas store in Frankenmuth, Michigan is one of the biggest attractions in the state. Hear how keeping Christ in Christmas is drawing millions from around the world on this "Action in Ministry."
Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland Download MP3
December 8, 2020 : Crisis Aid International
Guest: Cindy Malott
Ministry is always worth it, but it's not always easy. Crisis Aid International is in the trenches of human trafficking, internet predators and humanitarian aid. They have seen proof that a holistic, faith-based approach at healing is changing lives. That's on this "Action in Ministry."
Crisis Aid International Center for Exploited and Missing Children Download MP3
November 24, 2020 : Visual Faith Ministry
Guest: Pat Maier, Connie Denninger, Dionne Lovestad-Jones
Could doodling in your Bible and craft projects deepen your prayers and make Bible study more engaging? Hear how Visual Faith Ministry is impacting individuals and inspiring outreach on this "Action in Ministry."
Visual Faith Ministry Download MP3
November 10, 2020 : Outreach and the Reformation
Guest: Erik Herrmann
Martin Luther sought to make the Gospel known and the Scriptures accessible. Hear how the Reformation exemplifies outreach and can still motivate us today. That's on this "Action in Ministry."
Center for Reformation Research Download MP3
October 27, 2020 : Moms Life
Guest: Brooke Hollatz
Moms carry a big load and every day can be exhausting! But the Moms-Life ministry is trying to lighten the load as they encourage, inspire and give some needed mom time. Hear how MomsLife is bringing hope to moms on this "Action in Ministry."
Moms Life St. John's Lutheran Download MP3
October 13, 2020 : ACTS of Hope
Guest: Nikki Peters and Kate Matson
When medical expenses hit or insurance plans cause an unexpected financial burden, "ACTS of Hope" steps in with the power of music. Hear how they're giving help and hope in difficult times on this "Action in Ministry."
September 29, 2020 : Community Intentionality
Guest: Seth and Emily Gehrke
Whether traveling abroad, living in an apartment or settling down in a neighborhood, Emily and Seth are always focused on the same goal - to share the love of Jesus with those around them. Hear a story of Gospel intentionality on this "Action in Ministry."
Contending Patterns Download MP3
September 15, 2020 : Christian Rider Ministry
Guest: Cory White
Bikers in leather and tattoos may be a little intimidating but some riders have one mission, to share Christ with those they encounter. Hear about Christian Riders on this "Action in Ministry."
Christian Rider Ministry Download MP3
September 1, 2020 : In Gospel Fashion
Guest: Simon Everts and Teya Everts
While many found themselves with nothing to do during the pandemic of 2020, others became very creative and productive! Here how 2 young people are getting people talking about their new clothing line on this "Action in Ministry."
Adriel Collective Download MP3
August 18, 2020 : Spiritual Conversations: Let's Talk!
Guest: Don Everts
Your stomach might be in knots at the thought of sharing the good news of the Gospel. Why is that? Does it have to be that hard? Learn to be an eager conversationalist and share Jesus with delight on this "Action in Ministry."
Spiritual Conversations Download MP3
August 4, 2020 : Orphan Grain Train
Guest: Rev. Ray Wilke
A personal burden to help feed the hungry in Latvia led to a 30 year worldwide ministry known as Orphan Grain Train. Hear the gripping story that fueled the founder and president on this "Action in Ministry."
Orphan Grain Train Download MP3
July 21, 2020 : Racial Tension Part 1: Stories Told
Guest: LeChelle Jones, John Schmidtke, Gerard Bolling
Join us as we begin a series to delve into the topic of race relations. Hear the stories of pastors and a community worker on the front lines, gain understanding of how a church can reach a diverse community and learn how you can be part of the solution. Don't miss this special extended "Action in Ministry."
Bethlehem Lutheran Church Center for Urban Families Download MP3
July 7, 2020 : Sharing Jesus in Peace Park
Guest: Otis Woodard
Otis Woodard takes Jesus to the streets as he ministers to the homeless, the addicted and the hungry. His work in Peace Park, through Peace Park Lutheran, is making a difference in the lives and hearts of many every day.
Lutheran Outreach College Hill Peace Park Download MP3
June 23, 2020 : Acting in Faith
Guest: Elizabeth Bernhardt
An actor will play many roles over the course of his career but being a Christian might be one of the more challenging. Hear about an actor's struggle to unite faith and work on this "Action in Ministry."
Elizabeth Bernhardt Download MP3
June 9, 2020 : Pandemic Ministry
Guest: Melody Cain
The Pandemic of 2020 has opened doors for ministry in new ways amidst lock-downs, social distancing, fear and uncertainty. Hear how one Tennessee woman is impacting her community through prayer and encouragement on this "Action in Ministry."
May 26, 2020 : From the Street to the Bakery
Guest: Fred Domke
The homeless find a home, a family and an ongoing paycheck at Bridge Bread Bakery. Hear how baking bread is getting people off the streets and feeding the hungry on this "Action in Ministry."
Bridge Bread Bakery Download MP3
May 12, 2020 : Ministry on the Reservation
Guest: John Hall
While the families on the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota struggle with generations of alcoholism, suicide, depression and poverty, the Gospel is impacting the Lakota Tribe and changing lives.
Hands of Faith Ministries Download MP3
April 15, 2020 : Telling the Story of the Bible
Guest: John Walsh
Storytelling has been used for generations in cultures all around the globe to pass along history and heritage. Hear how Bible storytelling has ears finely tuned to the Gospel!
April 14, 2020 : Not In Our City: A Fight Against Trafficking
Guest: Angie Goeke
The subject of sex trafficking is scary. It's a reality we would prefer to just ignore and hope it goes away, but it won't. The ministry "Not in Our City" is facing the problem head on. Hear that story on this "Action in Ministry."
March 31, 2020 : From Space Engineer to Praying Mom
Guest: Sally Burke
Living life as a space shuttle engineer, Sally Burke had an encounter with God that completely changed everything. She's now the President of "Moms in Prayer International" making an impact on schools, children, and moms worldwide. Hear that story on this "Action in Ministry."
Moms in Prayer International Download MP3
March 17, 2020 : Bethesda for All Abilities
Guest: Mike Thirtle
Each day, Bethesda Lutheran Communities serve men and women who have developmental and intellectual disabilities; to educate, advocate for and empower them so they can live a full life. Hear how this is not just a cause, but a ministry, on this "Action in Ministry."
Bethesda Lutheran Communities Download MP3
March 3, 2020 : Good News!
Guest: Tim Ezell
Behind the creative, fun personality of St. Louis morning news reporter, Tim Ezell, is a heart for ministry and someone who has broken the mold of industry standards to share Good News! That's on this "Action in Ministry."
The Thread St. Louis Download MP3
February 18, 2020 : Abba's House for Refugees
Guest: Michael Meissner
Abba's House joins God in caring for the oppressed as they welcome refugee women and children as they transition to the United States. Hear how they're caring for their physical and spiritual needs on this "Action in Ministry."
February 4, 2020 : Moms in Prayer
Guest: Fern Nichols
When Fern Nichols' children headed off to Junior High she knew of one thing she must do: Pray! Out of her commitment grew an army of moms doing the same now called "Moms in Prayer." Hear that story on this "Action in Ministry."
Moms in Prayer International Download MP3
January 21, 2020 : Mission Gate Ministry
Guest: Trish Mathes and Laura Kresyman
When crime has sent men and women to prison, Mission Gate steps in to point the convicted to Christ. Hear the story of regeneration, rehabilitation and reintegration and on this "Action in Ministry."
January 7, 2020 : The Breakfast Club
Guest: Harold Niebergall
Three mornings a week you'll find a wonderful, hot breakfast at the Rock Lutheran Church in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The meal is not for church members but members of their community who call the streets their home. Hear about their commitment to feed and minister through the "Breakfast Club" on this "Action in Ministry."
The Rock Edmonton Download MP3
December 24, 2019 : One Petal at a Time
Guest: Dick and Lynn Gast
For 130 years the Tournament of Roses Parade has been an annual tradition to mark the new year in America. Now, just 1 Christian float remains - the Lutheran Hour Ministries float - built one flower at a time by the Petal Pushers. Hear about the hearts behind the hands on this "Action in Ministry."
December 20, 2019 : Hannah's Ranch
Guest: Trish Mathes and Laura Kresyman
When crime has sent men and women to prison, Mission Gate steps in to point the convicted to Christ. Hear the story of regeneration, rehabilitation and reintegration and on this "Action in Ministry."
Mission Gate Prison Ministry Download MP3
December 10, 2019 : Christmas Angel Mission
Guest: Trish Mathes and Laura Kresyman
Nearly 3 million children will experience Christmas this year while their mom or dad is in prison. Mission Gate Ministry helps fill this gap by delivering gifts of joy for some of these children through their Christmas Angel Mission. That's on this "Action in Ministry."
Christmas Angel Mission Download MP3
November 26, 2019 : Feed My Starving Children
Guest: Mark Crea
Each year Feed My Starving Children shipped 360-million hand-packed by more than 1-million volunteers to children all over the world. Executive Director and CEO, Mark Crea, shares this mission of delivering food and hope in Jesus' name on this "Action in Ministry."
Feed My Starving Children Download MP3
November 12, 2019 : Supporting Military Families
Guest: Benita Koeman
Life in the military often means deployment for 1 or even both spouses. They have needs many civilians just don't understand and my never even consider. Benita Koeman knows this life and its needs personally and has decided it is her duty to help! That's on this "Action in Ministry."
Operation We Are Here Download MP3
October 29, 2019 : Halloween as Outreach
Guest: Amy Zeigler
Ghosts, goblins, princesses and princes you'll find roaming the streets on Halloween. But can you also catch a glimpse of Jesus? See how one Christian mom sees tricks and treats as a great opportunity on this "Action in Ministry."
Epiphany Lutheran St. Louis Download MP3
October 15, 2019 : The Story Garden
Guest: Danielle Tietjen
Danielle lives in North Minneapolis where her neighborhood is diverse in ethnicity, religion and culture. Hear how a community garden is crossing barriers of all kinds and fostering unlikely relationships. That's on this "Action in Ministry."
October 1, 2019 : Hope for Orphans in Zambia
Guest: Martin and Amy Winslow
A God-ordained meeting of a new friend leads to a powerful international partnership that feeds and educates hundreds of children in Africa. Hear about this journey of ministry from Martin and Amy Winslow on this "Action in Ministry."
Bethlehem Christian Academy Download MP3
September 17, 2019 : Sewing Life God's Way
Guest: Lanette Marquardt
Lanette Marquardt has a gift with needle and thread that's taken her from classrooms to noted theaters across the nation. But it was the gift of becoming a mother that completely changed everything. Hear the story God wrote for her on this, "Action in Ministry."
Sienna Sewing with Miss Lanette Download MP3
September 3, 2019 : Divine Design of Fostering
Guest: Paul Devantier
At any given time, there are more than 400,000 children in foster care. While the needs are overwhelming, our guest embraced the opportunity and graciously welcomed more than 80 children in his home. It's a ministry of risk and reward on this, "Action in Ministry."
Lutheran Child and Family Services Download MP3
August 20, 2019 : Camp Ministry 101
Guest: Bob Polansky
Studies prove that Christian camp experiences for young people can make a lasting impact on one's spiritual life. Our camp director guest knows its power first hand and continues to see God working through this outdoor ministry. Find out how on this "Action in Ministry."
August 6, 2019 : Ministry in the Midst of Disaster
Guest: Michael Meyer and Ross Johnson
While most are called to avoid areas devastated by hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes and floods, these volunteers are getting in the middle of loss and destruction to provide help, relief and lasting hope. Outreach in the midst of disaster on this "Action in Ministry."
LCMS Disaster Response Download MP3
July 23, 2019 : Intersecting Art and Life
Guest: Sarah Bernhardt
A local artist realized a unique opportunity to turn brokenness into something beautiful. Hear how she and her local church are rescuing their community one art project at a time. That's on this.. "Action in Ministry."
Intersect Art Center Download MP3
July 9, 2019 : Reaching Out in the Silicon Valley
Guest: Rev. Paul Schult
Sometimes outreach seems obvious and easy in a welcoming community. Other times the desire to reach a community pushes you out of your comfort zone. We're looking at ministry in the Silicon Valley on this "Action in Ministry."
Redeemer Lutheran Church Download MP3
June 25, 2019 : Embrace Grace for Life
Guest: Tiffany DeLapp
You choose to keep your baby, but then what? Negotiating the waters of an unintended pregnancy is difficult and often lonely but our guest today believes in embracing grace toward these mothers. Hear her story and how the church has a great opportunity to share Christ on this "Action in Ministry."
June 11, 2019 : Outreach IN the Home
Guest: Jason Broge and Don Everts
While outreach generally conjures up thoughts of outward programs and ministering to one's community, on this "Action in Ministry" we consider outreach beginning inside the home. What does a spiritually vibrant home look like and how can we reach others through it? That's on this "Action in Ministry."
Households of Faith Download MP3
May 28, 2019 : Serving Those Who Serve
Guest: Chaplain Steven Hokana
While military men and women stand post protecting our freedom in times of peace and war, Chaplains help tend to wounded, give comfort to the hurting and pray for all. Military Chaplain Steve Hokana joins us on this "Action in Ministry."
Ministry to the Armed Forces Download MP3
May 14, 2019 : Gertrude's Orphanage
Guest: Gertrude Bien-Aime
Poverty in Haiti is rampant and the future for many is bleak. Gertrude - is doing her part to love the outcasts as she rescues children's who might otherwise be forgotten. Hear her story on this "Action in Ministry."
Gertrude's Orphanage Download MP3
April 30, 2019 : Public School Partnership
Guest: Jarred Irby
When a church sits right in the middle of a culturally diverse neighborhood and a next door to a school bustling with children, there is great opportunity for ministry! Hear how Epiphany Lutheran in St. Louis, MO is building a recognizable name for themselves through a relationship with their local public school... on this "Action in Ministry."
Epiphany Lutheran St. Louis Download MP3
April 16, 2019 : Hope in Friendship
Guest: Dr. Stanish Stanley
Christian Friends of New Americans serve as a welcoming commitee for immigrants and refugees in the St. Louis area. Stanish Stanley is passionate about meeting their needs; not only physical, but spiritually.
April 2, 2019 : Homelessness and Human Trafficking
Guest: Angela Valdes
Angela Valdes takes church to the streets as she helps those who live there and those who become victims because of it. Hear how she's taking on homelessness and human trafficking for the sake of Christ on this "Action in Ministry."
Churches on the Streets Download MP3
March 19, 2019 : Rescuing Structures and Lives
Guest: Chris Shearman
A mission-minded, community focused organization is turning dilapidated buildings into community treasures. Find out how these transformations are not only rescuing buildings but changing lives. That's on this "Action in Ministry."
Lutheran Development Group Download MP3
March 5, 2019 : Sin Fronteras Hispanic Ministry
Guest: Rachel Theolus
This mission-minded woman lives life to serve others and has a special ministry to Hispanic children. Hear how she is showing the love of Christ in the St.Louis metro area to Spanish speaking families.
February 19, 2019 : Vacation Bible School Success
Guest: Kellie Hudson
Vacation Bible School has been a tradition in churches all across our nation for years. Hear why Hope Church is known in the community by their over-and-above VBS program and how they make it such a success.
Hope Church, Rochester, NY Download MP3
February 5, 2019 : Aim High Academy
Guest: Jennifer Patterson
Ministry through back bends and balance beams teaches competitive level gymnastics skills but also offers hope and meaning to children's lives. Hear all about "Aim High Academy" on this "Action in Ministry."
January 22, 2019 : Ministry Chicago Style
Guest: Dave VanWinkle
A church in uptown Chicago adopts their block; feeding the hungry, caring for the elderly and extending love to all they meet. Hear how Missio Dei Chicago passionately shares Jesus with their community.
Missio Dei Chicago Download MP3
January 8, 2019 : Stephen Ministry Helps the Hurting
Guest: Ann Tobin and Pastor Bill Wilson and Pastor Justin
Churches are able to help the hurting in a systematic, yet personal way when they are equipped as a Stephen minister. Here how this ministry cares for the hurting in the church and among their community.
December 25, 2018 : A Refugee Christmas
Guest: Joanie Akers and Lisa
Thousands of refugees in the St.Louis area experience difficulty in beginning their new journey. But a local organization not only helps meet their needs but shows them the love the Jesus in a special way at Christmastime.
Oasis International Download MP3
December 11, 2018 : Heart to Heart with Rev. Dr. Zeigler
Guest: Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler
From the local church to the global outreach of Lutheran Hour Ministries, Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler's heart for outreach is unchanged. We're talking "outreach" with LHM's new Speaker of "The Lutheran Hour" on this "Action in Ministry."
The Lutheran Hour Download MP3
November 27, 2018 : Journey to Bethlehem
Guest: Bill Sontag
Journey to Bethlehem takes 15-thousand visitors to the Christmas story through an outdoor drama of live actors, animals and Biblical scenes. Hear how Christmas comes to life on this "Action in Ministry."
Journey to Bethlehem Download MP3
November 13, 2018 : Football Ministry
Guest: Lane Reuter, Erik Christensen and Doug Werth
Opportunities to share the Gospel come with team dinners and cheering for touchdowns for a Nashville church. Hear how this congregation is loving their community in Christ's name and developing a beautiful partnership.
October 30, 2018 : Shower Up Nashville
Guest: Paul Schmitz
While many homeless have access to clothing and food provisions, very few have access to a shower. A Nashville couple is meeting a great need and giving hope with their ministry, "Shower Up."
Shower Up Nashville Download MP3
October 16, 2018 : Take a Hike in Ministry
Guest: Pastor Mark Friedrich
When you love to hike, why not invite along your friends and neighbors for a natural opportunity for ministry in action. Hear how one Arizona pastor uses nature as a springboard for ministry on this "Action in Ministry."
Mountain View Lutheran Church Download MP3
October 2, 2018 : The Turkey Blessing
Guest: David Lanius and Matt Schelp
While many look forward to a wonderful Thanksgiving meal with loved ones, one St. louis church is prepping for a great turkey blessing for those who might otherswise miss out! Call it a modern day feeding of the 5-thousand!
Concordia Kirkwood Download MP3
September 18, 2018 : Public School Partnership
Guest: Bill Marsaw and Kelly Sperduto
When Hope Church asked Long Ridge Elementary what their needs were, they had no idea the impact they'd make on the students, faculty and the church. Hear how ministry can work in public schools on this, "Action in Ministry."
Hope Church, Rochester, NY Download MP3
September 4, 2018 : One Culdesac At a Time
Guest: Becky Wade
When Redeemer Lutheran in Richmond, Virginia, realized a high percentage of those living around then were unchurched they decided to take the church to them. Hear about how the Culdesac Ministry is reaching families in their community in a fun and inviting way.
Redeemer Lutheran Church Download MP3
August 21, 2018 : Church Theater Impacts Community for Christ
Guest: Larry Jost and Dianne Mueller
One musical production has opened the doors for an entire theater production ministry at one St. Louis church. It's not only for members but has given opportunities for the entire community.
Christ Memorial Productions Download MP3
August 7, 2018 : International Ministry Reaches Jewish Communities
Guest: Steve Cohen
Much of the Jewish community in the United States and around the world remains unreached with the Gospel. Hear how "Apple of His Eye" is spreading the good news of Jesus as Messiah.
July 24, 2018 : Quilting for God
Guest: Barb Bitterman
A little needle and thread can go a long way when ministering to the community and this multi-generational ministry is reaching the community like never imagined.
July 10, 2018 : Rebuilding Community in East St. Louis
Guest: Dr. Willie Stallworth
East St. Louis has been devastated by poverty leaving that community in desperate need. Dr. Willie Stallworth helps rebuild this community through God's love and a lot of hard work.
June 26, 2018 : POBLO International Provides Refuge and Help
Guest: Gary Rohwer
Many refugees and immigrants in the United States will never meet a American, but POBLO International is working to change that. Hear how POBLO International connects refugees and immigrants to local Christians who show them the love, compassion and forgiveness of Jesus Christ.
Poblo International Download MP3
June 12, 2018 : The Hope Movement
Guest: Desiree Skeya and Wendi Barfield
Climbing out of addiction is wrought with many trials. Hear how "The Hope Movement" is bridging the gap for young women striving for full physical and spiritual recovery.
The Hope Movement Download MP3
May 29, 2018 : A Church of All Nations
Guest: Chris Paavola
Your church should be as diverse as the community it serves. See how one St. Louis church lives out this motto as they effectively reach those from across the globe with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
All Nations Lutheran Church Download MP3
May 15, 2018 : Exploring Missions in Cambodia Online
Guest: Jon Christopher and Samantha Prinster
No packing involved for this Mission Trip. Just hop online and join our Lutheran Hour Ministries team as they travel to Cambodia. Hear all about Online Mission Trips on this "Action in Ministries."
Online Mission Trips Download MP3
May 1, 2018 : Community Embraces Fitness Church
Guest: Chad Kirchoff
The combination of fitness and church may seem unusual, but for a pastor in Hastings, Minnesota it is working. Hear how a community diverse in ethnicity, age, interest and religious background are flocking to "Redo Fitness."
April 17, 2018 : Sharing Jesus at Peace Park
Guest: Otis Woodard
Otis Woodard shares the love of Jesus on the streets as he ministers to the homeless, the addicted and the hungry. His work in Peace Park, alongside College Park Lutheran Church and countless volunteers, is making a difference in the lives and hearts of many every day.
College Park Lutheran Peace Park Download MP3