Tetramorph Standings
Important Conference Information
Higher Things ICE – 319-455-6737
Campus Safety – 503-768-7777
Campus Safety Emergency Line – 503-768-7777
Guest Service Number – 503-839-4495
Higher Things Housing – 1-888-482-6630 x710
Wifi – PioNet-Guest (no password)
Coffee Options –
There are NO Coffee Shops on campus :(.
Head to Information for a free cup of coffee!
Two other great locations nearby:
Tetramorph Assignments –
Aquila: Washington, Non-USA, Michigan
Bos: California, Colorado, Utah, North Dakota
Leo: Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Montana, Minnesota
Vir: Oregon, South Dakota, New Mexico, Nevada, Alaska
Meals –
Augustana – Lutheran Church of our Savior:
11:00 am // 5:00 pm
Messiah – Zion:
11:45 am // 5:45 pm
Conference Updates!
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Conference Schedule
- Tuesday 23 Jul 2024
- Wednesday 24 Jul 2024
- Thursday 25 Jul 2024
- Friday 26 Jul 2024
Tuesday 23 Jul 2024
9:00 am - 2:00 pm Registration / Check-In
// Copeland Hall
1:00 pm - 1:45 pm Choir Rehearsal
// Flannagan Chapel
1:00 pm - 1:45 pm Leaders’ Meeting
// Fowler - Stamm East
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Opening Divine Service
// Flannagan Chapel
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Plenary 1 // Rev. Merritt Demski
// Evans Music Center - Auditorium
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Dinner
// Field Dining Room - Fowler
7:00 pm - 7:45 pm Breakaway A
// Classrooms
“Martin Luther – Spiritual Forefather of Adolph Hitler?”
Rev. Jeffery WareMiller 105
“Next to the devil, a Christian has no more bitter and galling foe than a Jew” – Martin Luther. Shocking comments like these have led some historians to conclude that the seeds of anti-Semitism in Germany, which led to the Holocaust, were planted by Martin Luther himself. Is this true? How do we respond to those who would lay blame for the Holocaust at the feet of Martin Luther? More importantly, how should we treat our Jewish friends and neighbors today?
Rev. Ware is the pastor of All Saints Lutheran Church in Charlotte, NC. He also serves on the board of directors for Higher Things. You can reach him at revware@outlook.com
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Being Human: What the Catechism Teaches
Rev. Dr. John PlessOlin 204
This session will look at Luther's Teaching on what it means to be human in both the Small and Large Catechisms exploring the topic from the perspective of each article of the Creed, distinguish the law from the gospel, the demands that come on us in creation from the promise given in Baptism which frees us to live with faith in the forgiveness of sins in lives of love directed to the neighbor.
Rev. Dr. Pless is the assistant professor of pastoral ministry and missions at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN. He also serves on the board of directors for Higher Things and is a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, IN.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Created Body and Soul
Rev. Kevin BelterJr. Howard Hall 135
In Luther's explanation to the First Article, we confess that "God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul." The fact that we have real, physical, bodies is self evident. What about the soul? The philosophies of physicalism or materialism, which deny the existence of an immaterial substantial soul, still dominate many university departments and professional fields. As Christians who live in but are not of the world, how can we confidently say to God, "You have delivered my soul from death." (Psalm 56:13a)
Rev. Belter is the pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church Danville, CA. You can reach him at westfarthinger@gmail.com
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Helping Others Understand the Liturgy
Rev. Jeffery RiesJr. Howard Hall 102
We all have non-Lutheran friends and family, many of whom are either unchurched, or who go to non-sacramental churches often described under the blanket term, "American Evangelical." They often criticize the liturgy to us without really understanding what they are criticizing. This breakaway is designed to help us learn to speak of the liturgy in "gift" language, understanding that we practice it not because of our own preferences, but because it was given to us for our good, handed down through many generations. The liturgy's purpose is to keep us focused on Christ rather than ourselves, to deliver the gifts of Christ, and to prepare us for the fullness of life eternal.
Rev. Ries is the pastor of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tacoma, WA. You can reach him at rev.ries@gmail.com
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Isaiah and the Drunken Peasants
Rev. Dr. Peter ElliotMiller 102
In Isaiah 6, we witness the prophet's terror concerning his sin and how the Lord comforts him through the atoning sacrifice. By his encounter with the Word, God has graciously worked contrition and faith in Isaiah, and this faith bears fruit in his willingness to serve. This is where God wants us. However, like drunken peasants, we often fall off the horse on either side. We are constantly tempted to self-righteousness and to lawlessness. We are prone to both pride and despair. Left to ourselves we'd bring our faith to nothing, but God's Word is powerful to save!
Rev. Dr. Elliott is the pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church Hanover in Seattle, WA. You can reach him at pastor.elliott@messiahseattle.org
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Jesus Angry as Hell
Rev. Eric LangeBoDine 300
The Bible pictures Jesus as Meek and Mild, but sometimes He appears angry as hell. Why does it seem like Jesus says two different things? And what does this mean in our Christian lives? Come find out what's up with Jesus and learn how this impacts you and your vocation.
Rev. Lange is the pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Gresham, OR. You can reach him at rdmr-lcms@juno.com
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Seeing God Behind the Pain
Rev. Alexander LangeOlin 301
Why do we suffer in this life? Is God punishing us for some particular sin? Is God just capricious and mean? Often people wrestle with the Problem of Pain. Sometimes the seemingly arbitrary suffering that fills this world shakes our faith. We wonder, “If I am truly righteous in God’s sight, then why does he seem to be against me?” Job is a very profound and complex book. Using poetic dialogue, Job encourages reflection on human suffering. Job doesn’t answer all of our questions, but in the end God does comfort his children by revealing his grace hidden behind the pain.
Rev. Lange is the pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Albany, OR. You can reach him at gracealone11@gmail.com
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Self-Esteem Is Demonic
Rev. Harrison GoodmanFowler Council Chambers
Self-esteem is a no-win scenario. Too little is bad, but so is too much. And you don't get to choose. When what’s expected of us crashes into what we actually do, the mess left behind very rarely matches up with the person we wish we were. It leaves us feeling lost, worthless, and without a place. When we carry all that baggage around, expecting someone to actually love us becomes an exercise in schizophrenia or a lifetime spent in fear of people finding out the truth. Your worth is not in what you can do. It's found in what's been paid for you.
Rev. Goodman is the content executive for Higher Things and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, IA. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
8:00 pm - 8:30 pm Evening Prayer
// Flannagan Chapel
8:30 pm - 11:00 pm Free Time and Entertainment
// Campus
9 Square King of the Tetramorph Hill Challenge #2
Griswold Stadium
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Basketball (outdoor)
Near Tamarack Hall
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Bingo // Billiards // Social Deduction // Games
Copeland Main Lounge
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Exhibitor Trivia Tetramorph Challenge #1
Fowler Student Center Foyer
// unitl done
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Inflatable Bonker Ball // Archery Tag // 9 Square (after challenge)
Griswold Stadium
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Line & Swing Dancing Lessons & Demo
Diane Gregg Pavilion
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Mini Golf // Foam Party
Lower Griswold Lot
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Paint-A-Long
JR Howard Hall 202
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Tri-Volleyball // Cornhole // Spikeball
Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm
8:30 pm - 8:45 pm Private Confession
// Flannagan Chapel
11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Compline
// Dorms
Wednesday 24 Jul 2024
7:00 am - 8:45 am Breakfast
// Fields Dining Room // Fowler
8:00 am - 8:45 am Choir Rehearsal
// Flanagan Chapel
9:00 am - 9:30 am Matins
// Flanagan Chapel
10:00 am - 11:00 am Plenary 2 // Dr. Scott Keith
// Evans Music Center - Auditorium
11:00 am - 12:30 pm Lunch
// Fowler - Field Dining Room
11:15 am - 11:45 am Leaders’ Meeting
// Fowler - Stamm East
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm Vespers
// Flanagan Chapel
1:45 pm - 3:45 pm Free Time
// Campus
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm Panel Session
// Evans Music Center - Auditorium
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm Breakaway B
// Classrooms
"The Other lord's prayer"
Dr. David VetterMiller 102
Consider that the Gospel contains a second "lord's prayer". Jesus made a point of warning us about this prayer that we are tempted to pray in our lives. He offered our best defense against this temptation in His true "Lord's Prayer". The Parable of the Rich Fool illustrates the false prayer, taking the form of a soliloquy. Comparing and contrasting these prayers - who we are praying to, who we are praying with, and what we are praying for - we begin to realize that the Lord's Prayer is intended to be our very own family prayer as Believers.
Dr. Vetter is a member of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Milton, WA.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Cantorology 101
Cantor Paul SoulekFlanagan Chapel
Hear from Cantor Soulek about the what, why, and how of church music. What do church musicians do? Why do we sing the things we sing? How do we equip God's people to do this? Participants will join in choral warmups, hymn selection exercises, and will also dive into the basics of the pipe organ and its role in supporting the congregation's song.
Paul Soulek is the cantor of St. John Lutheran Church in Seward, NE. He also serves as the cantor for Higher Things. You can reach him at paul.soulek@stjohnseward.org
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Humility Under God's Mighty Hand
Asa HoffmanMiller 105
"Let each his lesson learn with care, And all the household well shall fare.” Every generation inherits the goods and the ills of its fathers, and youths are often so overwhelmed by the prospect of undoing the ills that they neglect and even despise the goods. As inheritors of a rich Christian tradition, we can look to the clear instructions of Holy Scripture which Dr. Luther compiled in the Table of Duties. Do you bear the withered fruit of a twice-dead tree or the bountiful harvest of Christ’s vine? God has ordained good works in which for you to walk!
Asa Hoffman is the Advancement Officer at Luther Classical College. You can reach him at a.hoffman@lutherclassical.org
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Humility Under God's Mighty Hand
Miller 105
"Let each his lesson learn with care, And all the household well shall fare.” Every generation inherits the goods and the ills of its fathers, and youths are often so overwhelmed by the prospect of undoing the ills that they neglect and even despise the goods. As inheritors of a rich Christian tradition, we can look to the clear instructions of Holy Scripture which Dr. Luther compiled in the Table of Duties. Do you bear the withered fruit of a twice-dead tree or the bountiful harvest of Christ’s vine? God has ordained good works in which for you to walk!
Asa Hoffman is the Advancement Officer at Luther Classical College. You can reach him at a.hoffman@lutherclassical.org
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Hurt (or what I wish I knew to tell Ashley)
Rev. Harrison GoodmanFowler Council Chamber
When someone close to you is hurting, you just want it to stop. When it leaves scars and welts, it’s terrifying. The temptation to answer with platitudes like “it will be OK” gives way to outright lies that only try to bury the hurt instead of facing it. The truth is, sin isn't just an idea that can be pushed aside by a smile and positive thinking. Sin is brokenness and hurt, but our God really did bleed for sin. Our God really did die for you. It is already finished.
Rev. Goodman is the content executive for Higher Things and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, IA. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Jesus Angry as Hell
Rev. Eric LangeOlin 204
The Bible pictures Jesus as Meek and Mild, but sometimes He appears angry as hell. Why does it seem like Jesus says two different things? And what does this mean in our Christian lives? Come find out what's up with Jesus and learn how this impacts you and your vocation.
Rev. Lange is the pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Gresham, OR. You can reach him at rdmr-lcms@juno.com
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
My Name's Christian, but I Care What You Think
Rev. Michael MillerJr. Howard Hall 102
What are you insecure about? Your looks? What you’re good at? Who would ever be attracted to you? There are answers, but they direct you to an unattainable past, or a super-human stone skin. What security can we actually find for the insecurities which plague each of us? Come and learn what a precious foundation and identity God gave you in Baptism. Take comfort, too, in how He continues to uphold you whenever you are racked by doubt.
Rev. Miller is the pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lebanon, OR. You can reach him at rev.michaelamiller@gmailcom
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Wet & Miserable
Deac. Emma HeinzBoDine 300
Being wet and miserable sounds, well, miserable! We avoid being uncomfortable or experiencing pain. We sometimes expect our faith to spare us from suffering and evil. We put our trust in God to preserve us from evil (rightly), but we then forget the words of Christ Jesus which plainly tell us if we lose our life for His sake, we will gain life eternally (Matthew 16:25). So what are we to do? Cling to your baptism! Suffering in this life will not be removed but take heart, Christ has overcome the world. Remember your baptism and learn to faithfully endure being wet and miserable, knowing that Christ Jesus is with you.
Deac. Heinz is the registrar for Higher Things, and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN. You can reach her at e.brauckman@gmail.com
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Who's That in the Dress?
Vicar Jonah ClausenOlin 301
This breakaway will cover the vocation of the pastor, starting in worship settings and stretching out until it covers his role at conferences. You will learn the symbolism behind the various pieces of vestments and why the pastor faces the altar and, at other times, faces the congregation. By learning more about your pastor's identity and vocation, you will learn more about how his identity relates to yours. While his vocation might differ from yours, he is here to remind you of the love of Christ.
Vicar Clausen is the Higher Things summer vicar. He's receiving his training from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN. You can reach him at Jonah.clausen@ctsfw.edu
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Dinner
// Fowler - Fields Dining Room
7:00 pm - 7:45 pm Breakaway C
// Classrooms
Christians and Gender Dysphoria
Rev. Merrit DemskiFowler Council Chamber
A lot of people say a lot of things about gender and sexuality. It can be confusing and overwhelming. We’ll discuss what scripture says about man and woman and how we live out our Christian faith amid this world that is increasingly filled with people talking about Gender Dysphoria / Transgenderism. This is a Christ-centered opportunity to dig into Scripture, ask questions, and cling to the peace that passes all understanding in Christ regardless of your background or knowledge of the topic.
Rev. Demski is the pastor of St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Church Work Vocations and You
Glenn RollinsOlin 204
Have you thought about what career you want to pursue after high school? Do you prayerfully ponder serving the Lord in a full-time church work vocation? Have you considered how your gifts, talents and abilities will inform how you can make a positive impact in this world? Come and hear about LCMS church work vocations and listen to the stories of current Concordia church work students. Learn to their pathway toward a church work vocation to help you understand your own vocational journey.
Mr. Rollins is serving the Synod as the manager of Set Apart to Serve - LCMS Church Worker Recruitment. You can reach him at glenn.rollins@lcms.org
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Faith That Sees Through
Rev. Dr. Alfonso EspinosaMiller 105
Dr. Espinosa will take us through the dualities and paradoxes in the Word of God which help protect our identities in Christ as we walk by faith and not by sight. We affirm the right answer to “Who am I?” when we understand exactly what stands against us – sin, the world, and the devil -- and the new identifies we have in Christ as Christians, Disciples, and Royal Priests. We are also fortified in our identities in Christ when we can answer the questions according to God’s Holy Word: “What is Real?”, “What Am I?”, “To Whom Am I Speaking?”, “Where Are We?”, “When Are We?”, “and “What Do I Say?”.
Rev. Dr. Espinosa is the pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA. You can reach him at revdrespinosa@gmail.com
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Helping Others Understand the Liturgy
Rev. Jeffrey RiesMiller 102
We all have non-Lutheran friends and family, many of whom are either unchurched, or who go to non-sacramental churches often described under the blanket term, "American Evangelical." They often criticize the liturgy to us without really understanding what they are criticizing. This breakaway is designed to help us learn to speak of the liturgy in "gift" language, understanding that we practice it not because of our own preferences, but because it was given to us for our good, handed down through many generations. The liturgy's purpose is to keep us focused on Christ rather than ourselves, to deliver the gifts of Christ, and to prepare us for the fullness of life eternal.
Rev. Ries is the pastor of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tacoma, WA. You can reach him at rev.ries@gmail.com
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
How To Train Your Imagination
Rev. Samuel SchuldheiszJr. Howard Hall 102
Everyone has it. Everyone uses it. But what is your imagination? Imagination in one way, is like a muscle, you never really lose it; it’s always there, but it certainly can weaken, or atrophy when we don’t use it.
Rev. Schuldheisz is the pastor of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Milton, WA. You can reach him at samwise.schuldheisz@gmail.com
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Lord, Remember Us in Your Kingdom and Teach Us to Pray: Praying the catechism with Luther
Vicar Sam ScheltensJr. Howard Hall 135
How should I pray? For what should I pray? God commands us to pray and promises to hear our prayers, but sometimes it’s hard. He’s God after all – what am I supposed to say? Luther’s letter to his friend, Peter Beskendorf the barber, teaches us how to meditate and to consider the catechism (Ten Commandments, Lord’s Prayer, Apostles’ Creed) as a framework to focus our prayers when we aren’t sure what we should say to God. Together we’ll dive into the Word of God with Luther and learn to pray.
Vicar Scheltens is serving at Messiah Lutheran Church in Danville, CA. You can reach him at henry.scheltens@ctsfw.edu
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Self-Esteem Is Demonic
Rev. Harrison GoodmanOlin 301
Self-esteem is a no-win scenario. Too little is bad, but so is too much. And you don't get to choose. When what’s expected of us crashes into what we actually do, the mess left behind very rarely matches up with the person we wish we were. It leaves us feeling lost, worthless, and without a place. When we carry all that baggage around, expecting someone to actually love us becomes an exercise in schizophrenia or a lifetime spent in fear of people finding out the truth. Your worth is not in what you can do. It's found in what's been paid for you.
Rev. Goodman is the content executive for Higher Things and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, IA. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
Wet & Miserable
Deac. Emma HeinzBoDine 300
Being wet and miserable sounds, well, miserable! We avoid being uncomfortable or experiencing pain. We sometimes expect our faith to spare us from suffering and evil. We put our trust in God to preserve us from evil (rightly), but we then forget the words of Christ Jesus which plainly tell us if we lose our life for His sake, we will gain life eternally (Matthew 16:25). So what are we to do? Cling to your baptism! Suffering in this life will not be removed but take heart, Christ has overcome the world. Remember your baptism and learn to faithfully endure being wet and miserable, knowing that Christ Jesus is with you.
Deac. Heinz is the registrar for Higher Things, and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN. You can reach her at e.brauckman@gmail.com
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm
8:00 pm - 8:30 pm Evening Prayer
// Flanagan Chapel
8:30 pm - 8:45 pm Private Confession
// Flanagan Chapel
8:45 pm - 11:00 pm Free Time and Entertainment
// Campus
Basketball (outdoor)
Near Tamarack Hall
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
Bingo // Billiards // Social Deduction // Games
Copeland Main Lounge
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
Chalk the Walk Challenge #4
Front of Pamplin Sports Center (by dog statue)
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
Laser Tag // Bonker Balls // 9 Square // Spikeball // Cornhole
Griswold Stadium
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
Lego Master Challenge Tetramorph Challenge #3
Fowler - Council Chamber Room
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
Line & Swing Dancing Lessons & Demo
Diane Gregg Pavilion
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
Paint-a-Long
JR Howard Hall 202
Wed 8:45 pm - 11:00 pm
11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Compline
// Dorms
Thursday 25 Jul 2024
7:00 am - 8:45 am Breakfast
// Fowler - Fields Dining Room
8:00 am - 8:45 am Choir Rehearsal
// Flanagan Chapel
9:00 am - 9:30 am Matins
// Flanagan Chapel
10:00 am - 11:00 am Plenary 3 // Dr. Scott Keith
// Evans Music Center - Auditorium
11:00 am - 12:30 pm Lunch
// Fowler - Fields Dining Room
11:15 am - 11:45 am Leaders' Meeting
// Fowler - Stamm East
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm Vespers
// Flanagan Chapel
2:00 pm - 2:45 pm Breakaway D
// Classrooms
Does Life Have A Purpose?
Rev. Matt ThompsonOlin 301
The world will tell you that there is no order or purpose to life and that your life has no real meaning. This is simply not true. God created the world with order and design and every part of creation serves a purpose. You also were created for a purpose and your life has real meaning and an eternal goal. In this break out session, we will discuss from the Bible the revealed purpose of God in creation.
Rev. Thompson is the pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Bismarck, ND. You can reach him at mt@midco.net
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
Faith That Shines In Culture
Rev. Dr. Alfonso EspinosaMiller 105
Dr. Espinosa will fortify your identity in Christ by helping us understand THE (singular) Call that makes us the baptized children of God. From our singular or VERTICAL Call, we are then put in the position to understand our several calls (plural). These are our HORIZONTAL calls in life. All these take place within God’s three great estates or realms: The Family Estate, The Church/Congregational Estate, and the State Estate. Through all of them, we learn that Christ’s love for the neighbor works in and through us so that His light reaches everyone in our lives (known as our estate of Christian love or “spiritual estate.” To know these is to become strong in one’s identity in Christ.
Rev. Dr. Espinosa is the pastor of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA. You can reach him at revdrespinosa@gmail.com
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
How to Talk to the Devil
Rev. Mark NiermanJr. Howard Hall 102
Can we talk to the devil? Sure we can! Luther did it often. Few people today believe that the devil is even real. The Scriptures proclaim that he is real, and he diligently tempts us to sadness and despair. Luther understood the devil’s power, but confidently believed that Christ has overcome the devil. When Luther talked to the devil he constantly reminded him of Christ’s victory. He rubbed it in the devil’s face. We can do it too. Luther will show us how.
Rev. Nierman is the pastor of Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Loveland, CO
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
Hurt (or what I wish I knew to tell Ashley)
Rev. Harrison GoodmanFowler Council Chambers
When someone close to you is hurting, you just want it to stop. When it leaves scars and welts, it’s terrifying. The temptation to answer with platitudes like “it will be OK” gives way to outright lies that only try to bury the hurt instead of facing it. The truth is, sin isn't just an idea that can be pushed aside by a smile and positive thinking. Sin is brokenness and hurt, but our God really did bleed for sin. Our God really did die for you. It is already finished.
Rev. Goodman is the content executive for Higher Things and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, IA. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
I Am Not Worthless
Rev. Glenn WorcesterMiller 102
What do you say you’re worth? What does the world say you’re worth? More importantly, what does God say you’re worth? And why does it matter? Paul writes in Romans 5 that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Even in your sin, you are worth saving. There may be times in your life where you feel worthless. As take a look at the cross you will see that you are not worthless. In fact, what you are worth is nothing less than the precious life of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Worcester is the pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in Winnepeg, MB, CA. You can reach him at pastorg@peacelc.com
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
The Idol of Uniqueness
Rev. Merritt DemskiBoDine 300
It’s tempting to put our fear, love, and trust in what makes us different from others. We’re often tempted to start glorifying our skills and talents rather than thanking God and doing all things to His glory. God doesn't use a cosmic cookie cutter to make us, but we also don’t want to place our confidence in being unique. God calls us through His Word to be one people of one mind in Christ. We thank, praise, serve, and obey Him rather than ourselves.
Rev. Demski is the pastor of St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
What's in a name?
Mr. David PrattOlin 204
What kind of evidence do we have that Scripture is true? Is it possible there are details in the Gospels that give solid testimony of the fact that the authors were eyewitnesses of the events they describe or was the New Testament written long after the life of Christ and the first disciples? This session will examine the use of names and other details in the Bible and compare archaeological evidence to show how Christians can have confidence in what they read and in who they are in Christ.
Mr. Pratt is a Theology teacher at Faith Lutheran Middle and High School in Las Vegas, NV. You can reach him at davepratt@mac.com
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
Who's That in the Dress?
Vicar Jonah ClausenJr. Howard Hall 135
This breakaway will cover the vocation of the pastor, starting in worship settings and stretching out until it covers his role at conferences. You will learn the symbolism behind the various pieces of vestments and why the pastor faces the altar and, at other times, faces the congregation. By learning more about your pastor's identity and vocation, you will learn more about how his identity relates to yours. While his vocation might differ from yours, he is here to remind you of the love of Christ.
Vicar Clausen is the Higher Things summer vicar. He's receiving his training from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN. You can reach him at Jonah.clausen@ctsfw.edu
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm Free Time
No workshops in this session.
2:45 pm - 3:45 pm HT4U Reception
// Sponsored by HT4ME // Flanagan - Gregg Pavilion
4:00 pm - 4:45 pm Breakaway E
// Classrooms
“Martin Luther – Spiritual Forefather of Adolph Hitler?”
Rev. Jeffrey WareJR Howard 135
“Next to the devil, a Christian has no more bitter and galling foe than a Jew” – Martin Luther. Shocking comments like these have led some historians to conclude that the seeds of anti-Semitism in Germany, which led to the Holocaust, were planted by Martin Luther himself. Is this true? How do we respond to those who would lay blame for the Holocaust at the feet of Martin Luther? More importantly, how should we treat our Jewish friends and neighbors today?
Rev. Ware is the pastor of All Saints Lutheran Church in Charlotte, NC. He also serves on the board of directors for Higher Things. You can reach him at revware@outlook.com
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
A Biblical Theology of Missions
Rev. Joel FritscheBoDine 300
Mission talk in the Church today often flows from our Lord’s Great Commission of Matthew 28:18-20. That’s certainly biblical, but a biblical theology of mission spans the entire Scripture: Old and New Testament. The mission of the Gospel of Jesus Christ has its basis in the salvation God planned in the sending of His Son from before the foundation of the world. God’s people of old asked, “Who am I?” just like you and I do. What does it mean that you are the new Israel in Christ? Come find out!
Rev. Fritsche is the Director of Vicarages and Deaconess Internships and Assistant Professor of Exegetical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. You can reach him at fritschej@csl.edu
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Be a Man! A Godly man. (math was never my strong suit)
Rev. Randy SturzenbecherOlin 301
This is a tough life for a young Christian man. Social media, culture, family dynamics, and let’s not forget the temptations of our sinful flesh have very strong opinions on what a man is or should be. Christianity and masculinity are both under attack. To be a Christian is to be viewed as narrow-minded and weak. To embrace your masculinity is considered toxic. What does a 21st century Christian man look like? We will explore the qualities of manliness, good and bad, throughout the Scripture and especially in the perfect man, Jesus the Son of God. Ladies, this is for you too, so you know what to expect in a Godly man.
Rev. Sturzenbecher is the pastor of Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church. He also serves as the president of the Higher Things board of directors. You can reach him at dslcpsturz@divineshep.org
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Cantorology 101
Cantor Paul SoulekFlanagan Chapel
Hear from Cantor Soulek about the what, why, and how of church music. What do church musicians do? Why do we sing the things we sing? How do we equip God's people to do this? Participants will join in choral warmups, hymn selection exercises, and will also dive into the basics of the pipe organ and its role in supporting the congregation's song.
Paul Soulek is the cantor of St. John Lutheran Church in Seward, NE. He also serves as the cantor for Higher Things. You can reach him at paul.soulek@stjohnseward.org
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
My Name's Christian, but I Care What You Think
Rev. Michael MillerMiller 102
What are you insecure about? Your looks? What you’re good at? Who would ever be attracted to you? There are answers, but they direct you to an unattainable past, or a super-human stone skin. What security can we actually find for the insecurities which plague each of us? Come and learn what a precious foundation and identity God gave you in Baptism. Take comfort, too, in how He continues to uphold you whenever you are racked by doubt.
Rev. Miller is the pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lebanon, OR. You can reach him at rev.michaelamiller@gmailcom
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Rags to Riches to YOU
Michelle BaumanMiller 105
A spoiled king and an orphan girl. A beauty pageant and an evil villain. An uncertain bride and an oblivious groom. Sounds like the storyline from The Selection series by Kiera Cass, doesn’t it? But this rags-to-riches tale is real. Even more, it reminds us of who we are and how we’re equipped for such a time as this to uphold life. Find out how YOU are called and equipped to be God’s hands, feet, and voice in the world. Find out how you are blessed to uphold LIFE!
Michelle Bauman is the executive director of Y4Life, the youth arm of Lutherans for Life. You can reach her at michelle@y4life.org
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Soemtimes the Devil Loves it When You Pray
Fowler - Council Chambers
Everyone knows prayer is important. It's just that sometimes it's hard. Prayer can put face to face with the giant chasm between all the things God promised and what the world actually looks like. Sometimes the devil loves it when you pray because you're doing it wrong. Jesus says there are wrong ways to pray. He teaches us in a different way. Our Father who art in heaven...Prayer is about comfort.
Rev. Goodman is the content executive for Higher Things and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, IA. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
Youth Ministry 101
Crysten SanchezOlin 204
Thinking about putting together a youth program can seem daunting. Let's start with some building blocks that go into a healthy, sustainable, safe youth program! We'll share resources and ideas as well! Crysten Sanchez, former youth coordinator at a church in Iowa, will walk you through the many pieces of the puzzle.
Crysten Sanchez is the events executive for Higher Things and is a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mt. Vernon, IA. You can reach her at csanchez@higherthings.org
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Dinner
// Fowler - Fields Dining Room
7:00 pm - 7:30 pm Evening Prayer
// Flanagan Chapel
7:30 pm - 7:45 pm Private Confession
// Flanagan Chapel
8:15 pm - 11:00 pm Free Time and Entertainment
// Campus
9 Square // Cornhole // Spikeball
Griswold Stadium
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Basketball (outdoor)
Near Tamarack Hall
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Bingo & Games
Copeland Main Lounge
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Laser Tag // Mad Dash // Archery Tag (after challenge)
Griswold Stadium
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Line & Swing Dancing Lessons & Demo
Diane Gregg Pavilion
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Mad Dash Cones Tetramorph Challenge #5
Griswold Stadium
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Magician
Auditorium of Evans Music Center
Starts at 7:45
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Paint-a-Long
JR Howard Hall 202
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
Talent Show Tetramorph Challenge #6
Auditorium of the Evans Music Center
Thu 8:15 pm - 11:00 pm
11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Compline
// Dorms
Friday 26 Jul 2024
7:00 am - 8:45 am Breakfast
// Fowler - Fields Dining Room
8:00 am - 8:45 am Choir Rehearsal
// Flanagan Chapel
9:00 am - 10:00 am Plenary 4 // Rev. Merritt Demski
// Evans Music Center - Auditorium
10:30 am - 12:00 pm Closing Divine Service
// Flanagan Chapel
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Lunch & Check Out
// Fowler - Fields Dining Room
University Directions
Exhibitors
Visit the exhibitor’s tables for a special tetramorph challenge this year!
