Appalachian Lutheran League News
The Revival Mission Project
August 13, 2025
The Board of A.L.L. met yesterday morning, with another meeting planned for mid-September. Several exciting new things are happening as we move forward, and we want to let you know about them.
First, members of the board have specifically identified non-Lutheran congregations that desire Lutheran doctrine. We are also in communication with these congregations. The locations of these congregations vary widely across Appalachia. We will share these locations in the future when they are more prepared to confess Lutheran doctrine. I can tell you this, the prospects of what God may have in store for us are very exciting.
Second, members of the board have also specifically identified LC-MS congregations across the 6 districts in the region where direct Word and Sacrament ministry is needed.
With these two types of very different opportunities that are in front of us, we created a “model” approach that may fit well into either scenario. We have always had this in mind: that whatever approach we take, that it directly relates to Word and Sacrament ministry. God gives the growth, while we sow seed and water.
Here is a brief description of the model:
*3-4 months of monthly pulpit supply over and above what the congregation already may have budgeted and planned.
*A 1-week “revival mission” where 1-2 pastors spend time with the congregation and community: preaching the Word in and out of season, teaching confessional Lutheran doctrine, and visitation within the congregation and out in the community. The pastor(s) can then more accurately assess what the next steps at that preaching station might be.
The members of the board yesterday approved this very model to be applied at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Alderson, WV from September through December. Rev. Em. Paul Becker, on the board, has volunteered to be the first to design and carry out the revival mission project. This will likely take place during Reformation week, the last week of October. Notably, COS Lutheran Church in Alderson, WV will celebrate its 10th anniversary as a mission plant in October.
Other news from the board yesterday:
- The rate of giving this year is up about 50% vs. last year. Current balance after expenses is above $11,000
- Current highest expense is the newsletter, about $400 per issue.
- Next newsletter article theme will be Missions in Appalachia: Past, Present, and Future to be published late September. Also included will be some resources for readers.
- We narrowed questions for our long-term goal of calling an Appalachian Circuit Rider.
- Who administers the call? Who holds the keys?
- Fundraising goals for initial start?
- In detail, what will the work be?
- Preaching station location possibilities.
We prayerfully thank God for your support to A.L.L. Several congregations have added us to their giving budgets, and many very generous donations have come in. If you have not done so, please pray and think about adding your congregation to our supporter list.