Nebraska Conference Portal

Tetramorph Standings

Important Conference Information

Higher Things ICE(319) 455-6737

Campus Safety (402) 643-3033

Higher Things Housing(888) 482-6630 x710

Wifi Network: CUNEGuest

Coffee Options – None on campus. Some cute ones are in town.

Tetramorph Assignments – 

Aquila: Kansas, Wisconsin, Idaho, Louisiana
Bos: Missouri, iowa, Montana, North Dakota, Michigan
Leo: Nebraska, Colorado, Tennessee, South Dakota, Indiana, Arizona, California
Vir: Texas, Illinois, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Washington, Minnesota
Meals

For Lunch and Supper:

  • Churches St. M – Z – Eat in the Cattle Conference Room.
  • Churches I-St. Luke – 1st Half of the meal in the Dining Hall (11:00 am & 5:00 pm)
  • Churches A-H – 2nd Half of the meal in the Dining Hall (11:45 am & 5:45 pm)

Breakfasts will only be served in the dining hall as previously planned.

Conference Updates!

Check the update to the meal order for lunch and supper in the “Important Conference Information Section!”

Evaluate Breakaways!

Conference Schedule

  • Tuesday 8 Jul 2025
  • Wednesday 9 Jul 2025
  • Thursday 10 Jul 2025
  • Friday 11 Jul 2025

Tuesday 8 Jul 2025

9:00 am - 1:45 pm Registration / Check-In

// Janzow - Lobby

1:00 pm - 1:45 pm Choir Rehearsal

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

1:00 pm - 1:45 pm Leaders’ Meeting

// Thom - Auditorium

2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Opening Divine Service

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Plenary 1 // Rev. Eli Lietzau // The Tree Of Death Overcome By Christ

// Friedrich Arena

5:00 pm - 6:45 pm Dinner

// Janzow- Dining Hall

7:00 pm - 7:45 pm Breakaway A

// Classrooms

Adult Continuing Ed Course: In Holy Conversation: The Word of God, Preaching, and Prayer in the Life of Christ’s Church

Rev. Dr. Todd PeperkornThom 005

Adult Continuing Ed Course: How is it that the pastor preaches the Word of God and, at the same time, speaks for the Church as the Body of Christ? This study examines the relationship between the Scriptures, the preacher, and the prayer life of the Church as the holy conversation where heaven and earth meet.

This is a Continuing Education Course for pre-registered adults. Rev. Dr. Peperkorn is the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN. You can reach him at todd.peperkorn@ctsfw.edu.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Doom of the Great Dragon

Rev. Matt ThompsonThom 011

When God the Father says that he is making all things new in Revelation 21, this includes the curious phrase "and the sea was no more". Learn how this obscure promise of God relates to physical oceans in the new heaven and the new earth; the doom of Leviathan, Sea Monsters, and the Great Dragon; and our struggle with Chaos in life today.

Rev. Thompson is a pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church and St. John's Lutheran Church in Bismarck and McClusky, ND. You can reach him at dakotapastor@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

ELCA/LCMS, What's the Difference?

Vicar Morgan PhillipsThom 203

You live in a world where when someone asks you what church you belong to, your answer is more than likely to be, "Well, I'm a Lutheran!" But then the follow up question gets asked, "Well, what kind of Lutheran are you? Are you LCMS? Or are you ELCA?” Join us, as we explore what both Lutheran Synods believe when it comes to issues like the Trinity, Creation, the Person and Work of Christ, the Resurrection, and many of the top pressing social issues of the day (such as abortion, homosexuality, gender identity, and end of life practices).

Vicar Phillips serves Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN. You can reach him at morgan.phillips@cune.org.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Eternity Now!

Rev. David WarnerThom 113

Eternity Now! God’s Gifts for Living New Each Day. Every day we are tempted with the next new thing, but the world’s new things always turn out to be the same old thing. God has a better way for you. The life of daily repentance is, by God’s grace, also the life of daily renewal. From the Psalms to the Hymns, from the Catechism to ancient rites, the Holy Spirit would use His Word to make each day new for you, in Christ. This is the day that the Lord has made new, for you.

Rev. Warner is the pastor at Our Redeemer in Custer, SD. You can reach him at kerusso66@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

For the Bullied

Rev. Harrison GoodmanThom Auditorium

When you’re the kid who gets bullied, the weight of each day gets heavier. You wake up and go to sleep feeling unsafe. Alone. Worthless. Trapped. In short, it’s a reversing of everything God speaks about you in the Gospel. Words have power, but God’s Word speaks louder and more. It points you to the places where your identity is secure as He gives strength to endure your enemies with long-suffering patience and even hope. The Bible doesn’t make bullies go away, but it secures us in something that endures. We are more than conquerors through Him who loves us!

Rev. Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology of Higher Things. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Heaven on Earth

Rev. Brent KuhlmanBorland Choir Room 201

Did you know that when the Lord Jesus gathers you around Himself in the divine service through His Word and Sacrament you are in heaven even before you go to heaven? You are! I'll put it this way in strict Kuhlman-ese: In the divine service you get to go to heaven before you go to heaven! You get a whiff of that when you hear the following: "With angels, archangels and all the company of heaven ..." Those words are what you hear right before you sing the Sanctus and then go to the Lord's Supper. It's heaven on earth if you will. It's incredible! Come and find out more in this breakaway.

Rev. Kuhlman is the pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Murdock, NE. He's also the Chaplain for this conference. You can reach him at kuhlman.brent@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Lord's Prayer: Our Family Prayer?

Dr. David VetterDunklau 150

God created each of us unique individuals. More than that, he created us within a relationship – a family. That broken family is already restored in and for us. “to all who did receive him… he gave the right to become children of God…” In the Gospel, Jesus highlights two contrasting prayers. First, is the Rich Man’s soliloquy. In recounting his wealth management plans, he prays to himself, by himself, for himself, and for what he thinks will make him happy. Jesus tells us how we ought to pray, and offers us our own family prayer - “Our Father…”.

Dr. Vetter is a member at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Milton, WA. You can reach him at vetterdp@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

New Every Week

Rev. Travis KleinschmidtThom 001

You are made new in your baptism and you are renewed week in and week out by the Lord’s Supper. The Lord Jesus invites you to abide in him and he in you. We live from Sunday to Sunday looking forward to receiving the Lord's Body and Blood. This is better than the new phone you want or the new Jordans that you just have to have. Jesus sustains you as you wait for that Last Day and makes you new each Sunday.

Rev. Kleinschmidt is the pastor at St. Jakobi Lutheran Church in Shawano, WI. You can reach him at trkleinschmidt@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Real Love, Real Life

Mrs. Michelle BaumanThom 205

Love. We think about it. We want it. We wonder when we’ll find it. We wonder IF we’ll find it. And if we do, how long will it last . . . because, let’s be honest, relationships break. Hearts break. People break. Is love really all it’s cracked up to be? The simple answer is, YES! God desires to give His people life-affirming love, and one of the ways He provides the blessing of love is through marriage. Learn how to spot real love, how to grow it, and how to give it as you abide in the love of Christ. Interested in learning more about REAL LOVE and how it upholds LIFE? Join this session, young lover

Mrs. Bauman is the Director of Y4Life, the youth arm of Lutherans for Life. You can reach her at michelley4life@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Slapping Yourself in the Face

Rev. Ian KinneyThom 111

You do not have a body. You ARE a body. You do not have a soul. You ARE a soul. Your goal is not to go to heaven. Your goal is the Resurrection. What you do to your body will impact your soul. What you do to your soul will impact your body. And until the Resurrection, you are called to live as an embodied soul whom Christ has redeemed.

Rev. Kinney is the pastor at First Lutheran Church in Sabetha, KS. You can reach him at pastoripkinney@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

So... How Do You Do That?

Rev. Michael MohrsDunklau Pohlman Lecture Hall 109

You’ve heard about it in HT sermons. Plenary and sectional speakers extol its benefits. There’s time set aside each day after Evening Prayer. But what exactly is individual confession and absolution? In this sectional, we will walk through the rite and then observe dramatic reenactments of what you can expect when you visit your pastor to hear again those blessed words that by Christ’s gracious absolution, you have been made new. We will also explore how this rite can guide our words as we confess our sins committed against others, as well as when “we forgive those who trespass against us.”

Rev. Mohr is the District President of the Central Illinois District of the LCMS. He also serves Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Vandalia, IL. You can reach him at mmohr@cidlcms.org.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

The Apocalypse of John - Revelation

Rev. Steve Andrews Jr.Walz Fieldhouse Viewing Room

Jesus Christ promised that He is coming soon. Even though the beautiful book of Revelation is lost to most of the Church today because it has been taught falsely as a hidden book of codes and terrifying destruction, the Spirit inspired John to write this letter to give His suffering Church comfort and hope in the midst of persecution and death. This is a Bible study on Revelation 12, "The Dragon, the Woman, and the Child" as an example of how to read Revelation, with a brief overview of the book, its common symbols, and its overall message of hope.

Rev. Andrews is the pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO. You can reach him at andrews@gracefaithlove.org.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

The Devil's Porn Strategy

Rev, Merritt DemskiWeller Chapel

The devil, the world, and our sinful nature wants us enslaved to our passions, but Christ comes to make us new. People are being exposed to and ensnared by porn at younger and younger ages all the time. So how do we help the people we love when they feel isolated and alone in their battle against sin? This session will talk about the realities of porn usage, the gifts that Christ gives in light of the devil’s porn strategy, and various resources that are available so you can help others and yourself to fight the good fight of faith.

Rev. Demski is the pastor at St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

The Weimar Altar Piece And You

Rev. Ben OckreeThom 101

We’ll take a close look at the Weimar Altarpiece, a powerful piece of art by Lucas Cranach the Elder. He proclaims Christ's victory over sin death and the devil, but he also invites us to be a part of that story. We’ll explore how Cranach uses familiar faces, bold images, and smart design to remind us that what Jesus is for us, right now. Come see how this painting invites you to step into the story of salvation and see yourself in the light of Christ’s victory.

Rev. Ockree is the pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church, Topeka, KS. You can reach him at bockree@gmail.com.
Tue 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

8:00 pm - 8:30 pm Evening Prayer

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

8:30 pm - 11:00 pm Free Time

// Campus

Bingo

Thom #001

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Country line dancing

Cattle Conference Rm-Janzow

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

ESports: Nintendo

Thom #004

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Exhibitor Trivia

Thom Lobby

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Gaga Ball // Four Square Volleyball // Spikeball

Quad

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Gaga Ball Challenge

Quad

Starts at 8:45

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Knockerball// 9- Square //Spikeball

Bulldog Stadium

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Paint-A-Long

Thom #113

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Ping-Pong, Pool Table

Janzow Game Room

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Sand Volleyball

Sand Volleyball Courts

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Toxic Meltdown//Basketball

Fieldhouse

Tue 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

8:30 pm - 8:45 pm Individual Confession

// St. John Lutheran Church -Sanctuary

11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Compline

// Dorms

Wednesday 9 Jul 2025

7:00 am - 8:45 am Breakfast

// Janzow - Dining Hall

8:00 am - 8:45 am Choir Rehearsal

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

9:00 am - 9:30 am Matins

// St. John Lutheran Church -Sanctuary

10:00 am - 11:00 am Plenary 2 // Rev. Jason Schockman // I'm Not Resurrected Yet

// Friedrich Arena

11:00 am - 12:45 pm Lunch

// Janzow - Dining Hall

11:00 am - 12:00 pm Orchestra Rehersal

St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

11:15 am - 11:45 am Leaders’ Meeting

// Thom - Auditorium

1:00 pm - 1:30 pm Vespers

// St. John Lutheran Church -Sanctuary

1:45 pm - 3:45 pm Free Time

// Fieldhouse

Freetime Basketball and Popcorn

Fieldhouse

Wed 1:45 pm - 3:45 pm

2:00 pm - 2:30 pm CUS Information Session

Thom 001 - CUNE
Thom 005 - CUC
Thom 101 - CUW
Thom 111 - CSL
Thom 011 - CTSFW

2:45 pm - 3:45 pm Panel

// Friedrich Arena

4:00 pm - 4:45 pm Breakaway B

// Classrooms

Adult Continuing Ed Course: In Holy Conversation: The Word of God, Preaching, and Prayer in the Life of Christ’s Church

Rev. Dr. Todd PeperkornThom 005

Adult Continuing Ed Course: How is it that the pastor preaches the Word of God and, at the same time, speaks for the Church as the Body of Christ? This study examines the relationship between the Scriptures, the preacher, and the prayer life of the Church as the holy conversation where heaven and earth meet.

This is a Continuing Education Course for pre-registered adults. Rev. Dr. Peperkorn is the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN. You can reach him at todd.peperkorn@ctsfw.edu.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Are you Ready for War?

Rev. Craig MuehlerDunklau 151

Are you Ready for Spiritual Combat? Preparation and readiness are critical in planning, especially in planning a defense. Are you ready to face the challenges that come your way? Are you ready for the battles and sufferings that you will face? Are you ready for Spiritual Combat? What is your plan to sustain you on the battlefield of life? How will you endure? We will take a deep dive into Ephesians 6, the Armor of God, to see God has given us what we need as we face our enemy!

Rev. Muehler is with the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces. You can reach him at navychaps73@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Doom of the Great Dragon

Rev. Matt ThompsonThom 011

When God the Father says that he is making all things new in Revelation 21, this includes the curious phrase "and the sea was no more". Learn how this obscure promise of God relates to physical oceans in the new heaven and the new earth; the doom of Leviathan, Sea Monsters, and the Great Dragon; and our struggle with Chaos in life today.

Rev. Thompson is a pastor at Holy Cross Lutheran Church and St. John's Lutheran Church in Bismarck and McClusky, ND. You can reach him at dakotapastor@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

ELCA/LCMS, What's the Difference?

Vicar Morgan PhillipsThom 203

You live in a world where when someone asks you what church you belong to, your answer is more than likely to be, "Well, I'm a Lutheran!" But then the follow up question gets asked, "Well, what kind of Lutheran are you? Are you LCMS? Or are you ELCA?” Join us, as we explore what both Lutheran Synods believe when it comes to issues like the Trinity, Creation, the Person and Work of Christ, the Resurrection, and many of the top pressing social issues of the day (such as abortion, homosexuality, gender identity, and end of life practices).

Vicar Phillips serves Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ossian, IN. You can reach him at morgan.phillips@cune.org.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Eternity Now!

Rev. David WarnerThom 113

Eternity Now! God’s Gifts for Living New Each Day. Every day we are tempted with the next new thing, but the world’s new things always turn out to be the same old thing. God has a better way for you. The life of daily repentance is, by God’s grace, also the life of daily renewal. From the Psalms to the Hymns, from the Catechism to ancient rites, the Holy Spirit would use His Word to make each day new for you, in Christ. This is the day that the Lord has made new, for you.

Rev. Warner is the pastor at Our Redeemer in Custer, SD. You can reach him at kerusso66@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

For the Bullied

Rev. Harrison GoodmanThom Auditorium

When you’re the kid who gets bullied, the weight of each day gets heavier. You wake up and go to sleep feeling unsafe. Alone. Worthless. Trapped. In short, it’s a reversing of everything God speaks about you in the Gospel. Words have power, but God’s Word speaks louder and more. It points you to the places where your identity is secure as He gives strength to endure your enemies with long-suffering patience and even hope. The Bible doesn’t make bullies go away, but it secures us in something that endures. We are more than conquerors through Him who loves us!

Rev. Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology of Higher Things. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Heaven on Earth

Rev. Brent KuhlmanBorland Choir Room 201

Did you know that when the Lord Jesus gathers you around Himself in the divine service through His Word and Sacrament you are in heaven even before you go to heaven? You are! I'll put it this way in strict Kuhlman-ese: In the divine service you get to go to heaven before you go to heaven! You get a whiff of that when you hear the following: "With angels, archangels and all the company of heaven ..." Those words are what you hear right before you sing the Sanctus and then go to the Lord's Supper. It's heaven on earth if you will. It's incredible! Come and find out more in this breakaway.

Rev. Kuhlman is the pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Murdock, NE. He's also the Chaplain for this conference. You can reach him at kuhlman.brent@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Lord's Prayer: Our Family Prayer?

Dr. David VetterDunklau 150

God created each of us unique individuals. More than that, he created us within a relationship – a family. That broken family is already restored in and for us. “to all who did receive him… he gave the right to become children of God…” In the Gospel, Jesus highlights two contrasting prayers. First, is the Rich Man’s soliloquy. In recounting his wealth management plans, he prays to himself, by himself, for himself, and for what he thinks will make him happy. Jesus tells us how we ought to pray, and offers us our own family prayer - “Our Father…”.

Dr. Vetter is a member at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Milton, WA. You can reach him at vetterdp@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Merciful Father - All Things New

Rev. Daniel VothThom 205

“There was a man who had two sons.” So begins one of Jesus’ most famous parables. Both sons are lost and separated from their father. Can they be made new? Will they be made new? Can you be made new, not just in eternity, but here, now, in this age? Join me as we dig into Jesus’ parable from Luke 15 and see how you can be made new now and for eternity because of the compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Rev. Voth serves Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, ND. He's also the Higher Things Catechesis Coordinator. You can reach him at rev.voth@higherthings.org.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

New Creation - Stilling Sinning?

Rev. Isaac WirtzWalz Hall of Fame Room

2 Cor 5:17 Tells me that I am a new creation in Christ. I believe the Bible, but I keep sinning, again and again, the same stupid sin over and over! When can I expect to be free from this sin, and where can I find comfort after falling so many times?

Rev. Wirtz is the pastor at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Tucson, AZ. You can reach him at isaac.h.wirtz@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

New Every Week

Rev. Travis KleinschmidtThom 001

You are made new in your baptism and you are renewed week in and week out by the Lord’s Supper. The Lord Jesus invites you to abide in him and he in you. We live from Sunday to Sunday looking forward to receiving the Lord's Body and Blood. This is better than the new phone you want or the new Jordans that you just have to have. Jesus sustains you as you wait for that Last Day and makes you new each Sunday.

Rev. Kleinschmidt is the pastor at St. Jakobi Lutheran Church in Shawano, WI. You can reach him at trkleinschmidt@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Slapping Yourself in the Face

Rev. Ian KinneyThom 111

You do not have a body. You ARE a body. You do not have a soul. You ARE a soul. Your goal is not to go to heaven. Your goal is the Resurrection. What you do to your body will impact your soul. What you do to your soul will impact your body. And until the Resurrection, you are called to live as an embodied soul whom Christ has redeemed.

Rev. Kinney is the pastor at First Lutheran Church in Sabetha, KS. You can reach him at pastoripkinney@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

So... How Do You Do That?

Rev. Michael MohrsDunklau Pohlman Lecture Hall 109

You’ve heard about it in HT sermons. Plenary and sectional speakers extol its benefits. There’s time set aside each day after Evening Prayer. But what exactly is individual confession and absolution? In this sectional, we will walk through the rite and then observe dramatic reenactments of what you can expect when you visit your pastor to hear again those blessed words that by Christ’s gracious absolution, you have been made new. We will also explore how this rite can guide our words as we confess our sins committed against others, as well as when “we forgive those who trespass against us.”

Rev. Mohr is the District President of the Central Illinois District of the LCMS. He also serves Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Vandalia, IL. You can reach him at mmohr@cidlcms.org.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

The Apocalypse of John - Revelation

Rev. Steve Andrews Jr.Walz Fieldhouse Viewing Room

Jesus Christ promised that He is coming soon. Even though the beautiful book of Revelation is lost to most of the Church today because it has been taught falsely as a hidden book of codes and terrifying destruction, the Spirit inspired John to write this letter to give His suffering Church comfort and hope in the midst of persecution and death. This is a Bible study on Revelation 12, "The Dragon, the Woman, and the Child" as an example of how to read Revelation, with a brief overview of the book, its common symbols, and its overall message of hope.

Rev. Andrews is the pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO. You can reach him at andrews@gracefaithlove.org.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

The Devil's Porn Strategy

Rev, Merritt DemskiWeller Chapel

The devil, the world, and our sinful nature wants us enslaved to our passions, but Christ comes to make us new. People are being exposed to and ensnared by porn at younger and younger ages all the time. So how do we help the people we love when they feel isolated and alone in their battle against sin? This session will talk about the realities of porn usage, the gifts that Christ gives in light of the devil’s porn strategy, and various resources that are available so you can help others and yourself to fight the good fight of faith.

Rev. Demski is the pastor at St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

The Weimar Altar Piece And You

Rev. Ben OckreeThom 101

We’ll take a close look at the Weimar Altarpiece, a powerful piece of art by Lucas Cranach the Elder. He proclaims Christ's victory over sin death and the devil, but he also invites us to be a part of that story. We’ll explore how Cranach uses familiar faces, bold images, and smart design to remind us that what Jesus is for us, right now. Come see how this painting invites you to step into the story of salvation and see yourself in the light of Christ’s victory.

Rev. Ockree is the pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church, Topeka, KS. You can reach him at bockree@gmail.com.
Wed 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

5:00 pm - 6:45 pm Dinner

// Janzow - Dining Hall

7:00 pm - 7:45 pm Breakaway C

// Classrooms

A Cubs Fan, and a Red Sox Fan, and Jesus?

Rev. Jason SchockmanBorland Choir Room 201

We are waiting for the "revelation of the sons of God...the redemption of our bodies, for in this hope we were saved." Our lives since Baptism bear the hope of greater things to come, but it’s been a while, just ask a Cubbies fan. We hold to things unseen; we live by things not yet. The future is so sure and great that the present burden of a hitting slump, weak bullpen, blind umpires, cannot remove our hope of the pennant to come. Or as a Red Sox fan would say it…“THIS IS OUR YE-Ah.” BRING YOUR BIBLE and let's "Play ball!"

Rev. Schockman serves St. Paul's Lutheran Church, School, and ECC in Oconomowoc, WI. You can reach him at pastor.schockman@splco.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Christian Care for LGBT Communities

Rev. Merritt DemskiWeller Chapel

We live in a culture that is entrenched in a battle over pronouns, sexuality, and the nature of man and woman. God has created us male and female but there are many people who wrestle with the truth. This session will talk briefly about the L,G, and B elements of LGBT, but will focus on the T part of the acronym. What is “Transgenderism” and how do we approach it as Christians? We’ll approach the topic through the lens of Christ who makes all things new. We’ll talk about how we got where we are today, how we can more faithfully articulate this through the lens of Christ and bring the mercy and forgiveness of Christ to those who are broken and hurting in the world.

Rev. Demski is the pastor at St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Do Not Be Anxious

Rev. Harrison GoodmanThom Auditorium

Jesus says, “Do not be anxious about anything.” Yet this statement alone produces even more anxiety. But that’s not all He says! There’s no off switch for anxiety just because Jesus tells you not to be anxious. It isn’t a question of whether you should have anxiety. It’s a question of what to do with the anxiety you have. By contrasting worry and imagination, we’ll tackle anxiety, what it is, what Jesus promises for those who struggle with it, and what to do with it when you have it.

Rev. Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology of Higher Things. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Made New by Fasting/Feasting

Rev. Zachariah BurgdofDunklau 151

The practice of fasting has fallen out of use in the modern church. At the practice of intermittent fasting, as well as numerous fasts from specific foods, litter the secular world promising a better and healthier life. In this breakaway, we will consider Christ’s admonition to fast in light of Matthew 6 and compare Christian fasting to the modern idea of fasting. We will attempt to recover an appreciation and joy in fasting not for worldly gain and glory but so that we might be made new in Christ and rejoice in the feast of all feasts, the Lord’s Supper.

Rev. Burgdorf is the pastor at Risen Savior Lutheran Church in Basehor, KS. You can reach him at revburgdorf@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Merciful Father - All Things New

Rev. Daniel VothThom 205

“There was a man who had two sons.” So begins one of Jesus’ most famous parables. Both sons are lost and separated from their father. Can they be made new? Will they be made new? Can you be made new, not just in eternity, but here, now, in this age? Join me as we dig into Jesus’ parable from Luke 15 and see how you can be made new now and for eternity because of the compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Rev. Voth serves Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, ND. He's also the Higher Things Catechesis Coordinator. You can reach him at rev.voth@higherthings.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

New Creation - Stilling Sinning?

Rev. Isaac WirtzWalz Hall of Fame Room

2 Cor 5:17 Tells me that I am a new creation in Christ. I believe the Bible, but I keep sinning, again and again, the same stupid sin over and over! When can I expect to be free from this sin, and where can I find comfort after falling so many times?

Rev. Wirtz is the pastor at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Tucson, AZ. You can reach him at isaac.h.wirtz@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Organ Boot Camp

Cantor Paul SoulekSt. John Lutheran

The organ is the king of instruments . . . and for good reason! The organ occupies a key role in the Lutheran liturgy and in presenting the church’s music. But sometimes the organ can seem a bit intimidating. What do those buttons actually do? Do you really play with your feet? And how many pipes is too many (trick question . . . you can never have too many!)? This session will explore how the organ works, what it takes to play the organ well, and what makes for a great church organist.

Paul Soulek is the Cantor at St. John Lutheran Church in Seward, NE. He also serves as the HT Cantor. You can reach him at paul.soulek@stjohnseward.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Recalled to Life

Mrs. Jocelyn BensonThom 111

“It was the best times, it was the worst of times. . . .” This famous line from Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities is only the beginning. A few pages in, a mysterious message gets delivered and the return message is simply: “Recalled to life.” What does this mean? A Tale of Two Cities helps us to grapple with life in the “now, but not yet.” With Dickens, we’ll ponder the baptismal realities of daily dying and rising as we live out our vocations this side of heaven.

Mrs. Bensen is the Headmaster of Wittenberg Academy. You can reach her at joyful1j@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Recreation: No Time to Rest

Dr. Kurt RouserThom 001

While living in a state of grace, we are continually transformed by the renewing of our mind. In the beginning, God created from nothing, but His recreative work, as revealed by Jesus’ healing miracles, shows that new things are made from what has been corrupted by sin. So, whatever our vocation, even students, we don’t expect a vacation. The Holy Spirit continues the recreative work in us and through us to weary souls. This session encourages youth to “be ready always to give an answer to every man who asketh you a reason for the hope that is in you.”

Dr. Rouser works at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. You can reach him at kurtrouser@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

The Gospel According to Carrie Underwood

Rev. Brent KuhlmanDunklau Pohlman Lecture Hall 109

Who would have thought? Carrie Underwood and the Gospel? You bet! Come learn about these topics from some of her most famous videos: that heaven is our home, that there will be a happy reunion in heaven for all believers in Jesus, that the blood of Jesus atones for all sin, and that holy baptism gives you God's divine and saving name! What joy! Come and enjoy!

Rev. Kuhlman is the pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Murdock, NE. He's also the Chaplain for this conference. You can reach him at kuhlman.brent@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

The Legend of the Martyr

Rev. Steve Andrews Jr.Dunklau 150

Jesus, our Lord, says, "Do not fear what you are about to suffer...Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life," - Revelation 2:10. Jesus is making all things new, and Paradise is going to be better than we could ever imagine! But, in the meantime, how do we endure suffering? How do we stand firm in the face of persecution? How do we train and discipline our bodies and souls? Join Rev. Andrews in seeing how we can be encouraged by the stories of the martyrs, heroes of the faith who have gone before us.

Rev. Andrews is the pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO. You can reach him at andrews@gracefaithlove.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Who Are the ELCA?

Rev. Dr. Matthew DuranceThom 203

What comes to your mind when you hear someone mention the "Evangelical Lutheran Church in America?" If asked, could you give a brief summary of what they believe, teach, and confess? How are they different than the LCMS? Are they even Lutheran? In this breakout, we will study the history of the ELCA, what they believe, teach, and confess, and how to talk to your ELCA friends and neighbors about the truth of God's Word, and what it truly means to be a Lutheran.

Rev. Dr. Durance is the pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Harbor Beach, MI. You can reach him at pr.matthew.durance@gmail.com.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

You’re Depressed, Now What?

Deac. Emma HeinzBorland Music Recital Hall

Congratulations, you have depression! There are a million contradictory ideas about how you got depression, why you have it, and how to deal with it. Some say that medication will fix all your problems. Some say that just praying more will make it all better. How does a baptized child of God deal with depression? How should we view those who struggle with depression when their disorder leads to doubt or despair? How can a Christian faithfully suffer with depression? Short answer: Through the work of the Holy Spirit. But for a slightly longer answer, come on over!

Deac. Emma Heinz is the Registrar at Higher Things. You can reach her at registrar@higherthings.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

Youth Ministry 101

Mrs. Crysten SanchezThom 201

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.

Mrs. Sanchez is the Executive Director of Operations for Higher Things. You can reach her at csanchez@higherthings.org.
Wed 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

8:00 pm - 8:30 pm Evening Prayer

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

8:30 pm - 11:00 pm Free Time

// Campus

Archery Tag// 9-square// Spike ball//Cornhole

Bulldog Stadium

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Bingo

Thom #001

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Chalk The Walk Tetramorph Challenge

Quad

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Football Blitz//Buzzer Beater//Basketball

Fieldhouse

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Gaga Ball//Laser Tag// Four Square Volleyball//Spikeball

Quad

 

 

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Laser Tag

Quad

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Lego Master Tetramorph Challenge

Weller Chapel

Ends at 10:30

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Paint Along

Thom #113

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Ping-Pong, Pool Table//Social Deduction & Coup games

Janzow Game Room

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Volleyball

Sand Volleyball Courts

Wed 8:30 pm - 11:00 pm

8:30 pm - 8:45 pm Individual Confession

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Compline

// Dorms

Thursday 10 Jul 2025

7:00 am - 8:45 am Breakfast

// Janzow- Dining Hall

8:00 am - 8:45 am Choir Rehearsal

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

9:00 am - 9:30 am Matins

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

10:00 am - 11:00 am Plenary 3 // Rev. Dr. Todd Peperkorn // Is this the end, or the beginning?

// Friedrich Arena

11:00 am - 12:45 pm Lunch

// Janzow - Dining Hall

11:00 am - 12:00 pm Orchestra Rehersal

St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

11:15 am - 11:45 am Leaders' Meeting

// Thom - Auditorium

1:00 pm - 1:30 pm Vespers

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

2:00 pm - 2:45 pm Breakaway D

// Classrooms

Adult Continuing Ed Course: In Holy Conversation: The Word of God, Preaching, and Prayer in the Life of Christ’s Church

Rev. Dr. Todd PeperkornThom 005

Adult Continuing Ed Course: How is it that the pastor preaches the Word of God and, at the same time, speaks for the Church as the Body of Christ? This study examines the relationship between the Scriptures, the preacher, and the prayer life of the Church as the holy conversation where heaven and earth meet.

This is a Continuing Education Course for pre-registered adults. Rev. Dr. Peperkorn is the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN. You can reach him at todd.peperkorn@ctsfw.edu.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

All Things New: Iron Curtain

Rev. Carl StenzelBorland Band Room 206

God gave strength to His people under totalitarian oppression in East Germany and other countries behind the Iron Curtain. Using original artifacts and authentic stories, we will see how Jesus guided His people under the Cross and even to triumph over these evil regimes.

Rev. Carl Stenzel serves St. Paul Lutheran Church in Germantown, IA. You can reach him at cbstenzel@hotmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Christ in Our Struggles: African Youth Perspectives

Rev. Dr. Dinku BatoThom 001

In contexts often marked by poverty, conflict, unemployment, and social uncertainty, young African Christians wrestle with profound questions of faith, justice, and resilience. Drawing from biblical narratives, especially the suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ, we’ll highlight how African youth see their trials not as signs of abandonment but as opportunities for deeper trust in God’s promises. Their testimonies and insights reveal a vibrant theology of hope rooted in Scripture, shaped by community, and sustained by the Spirit which speaks to the global church. Come listen, learn, and be encouraged by the witness of African youth who carry their crosses with eyes fixed on the risen Christ.

Rev. Dr. Bato is with Lutheran Heritage Foundation in Macomb, MI. You can reach him at dinkubato@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Christian Care for LGBT Communities

Rev. Merritt DemskiWeller Chapel

We live in a culture that is entrenched in a battle over pronouns, sexuality, and the nature of man and woman. God has created us male and female but there are many people who wrestle with the truth. This session will talk briefly about the L,G, and B elements of LGBT, but will focus on the T part of the acronym. What is “Transgenderism” and how do we approach it as Christians? We’ll approach the topic through the lens of Christ who makes all things new. We’ll talk about how we got where we are today, how we can more faithfully articulate this through the lens of Christ and bring the mercy and forgiveness of Christ to those who are broken and hurting in the world.

Rev. Demski is the pastor at St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Do Not Be Anxious

Rev. Harrison GoodmanThom 205

Jesus says, “Do not be anxious about anything.” Yet this statement alone produces even more anxiety. But that’s not all He says! There’s no off switch for anxiety just because Jesus tells you not to be anxious. It isn’t a question of whether you should have anxiety. It’s a question of what to do with the anxiety you have. By contrasting worry and imagination, we’ll tackle anxiety, what it is, what Jesus promises for those who struggle with it, and what to do with it when you have it.

Rev. Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology of Higher Things. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Get To Work: Righteous Training

Rev. Caleb ScheweThom 111

This breakaway will challenge the new man within you and you will love it. If you attend, come hydrated from the font and eager to sweat. You'll embrace theological negative reps with David and the Psalms, threshold endurance training with St. Paul, and earn brain callouses from the Table of Duties. You're a Christian. Already, you train on being new. We work. We train. We shoulder a cross and march on. If you need an edge, blood doping and HGH are available. Jesus lives and you are baptized. Let's get to work.

Rev. Schewe is the pastor at St. John's Lutheran Church in Monticello, IA. You can reach him at caleb.schewe@ctsfw.edu.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Here Am I, Send Me!

Mr. Glenn RollinsThom 201

Have you thought about what career you want to pursue after high school? Have you considered how your gifts, talents and abilities will inform how you can make a positive impact in this world? Have you heard the Lord asking, “Who will I send?” (Isaiah 6: 8) Come and hear about LCMS church work vocations and listen to current Concordia University church work students as they talk about how they made the decision to be sent to serve the Lord. Learn to their pathway toward a church work vocation to help you to decide upon your own vocational journey.

Mr. Rollins is with the office Set Apart to Serve from the LCMS. You can reach him at glennrollins79@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Jesus Is Genesis

Rev. Todd JerabekThom 101

Jesus declared that the Scriptures (Old Testament) were more than a guidebook for holy living, they are a testimony to Him. We will begin with Genesis 1 and open our eyes to see Jesus. Bring your Bibles.

Rev. Jerebek is the pastor at Zion/St. Peter/St. John Lutheran Churches in Embarrass, WI. You can reach him at revjerabek@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Love: God's and the World's

Rev. Philip HaleDunklau 150

Love is a word used to defend and encourage sin against God today. This presentation will explore the love that is ever new in Christ in scriptural terms, comparing it to how unbelievers sinfully use the term. The world sees love as transitory and focused on the sinner. Christians see love for what it is in Christ’s death and saving will for mankind. True love is from, like, and rooted in God—good, eternal, and unwavering—in Him who does not change. We will consider love in God, who is love, contrasted with the sinful perversion of true love.

Rev. Hale is the pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Omaha, NE.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Real Love, Real Life

Mrs. Michelle BaumanThom Auditorium

Love. We think about it. We want it. We wonder when we’ll find it. We wonder IF we’ll find it. And if we do, how long will it last . . . because, let’s be honest, relationships break. Hearts break. People break. Is love really all it’s cracked up to be? The simple answer is, YES! God desires to give His people life-affirming love, and one of the ways He provides the blessing of love is through marriage. Learn how to spot real love, how to grow it, and how to give it as you abide in the love of Christ. Interested in learning more about REAL LOVE and how it upholds LIFE? Join this session, young lover

Mrs. Bauman is the Director of Y4Life, the youth arm of Lutherans for Life. You can reach her at michelley4life@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Recalled to Life

Mrs. Jocelyn BensonDunklau Borland Colab 151

“It was the best times, it was the worst of times. . . .” This famous line from Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities is only the beginning. A few pages in, a mysterious message gets delivered and the return message is simply: “Recalled to life.” What does this mean? A Tale of Two Cities helps us to grapple with life in the “now, but not yet.” With Dickens, we’ll ponder the baptismal realities of daily dying and rising as we live out our vocations this side of heaven.

Mrs. Bensen is the Headmaster of Wittenberg Academy. You can reach her at joyful1j@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Salvation Songs for Sufferers

Rev. Robert MayesThom 011

No one likes to suffer. Yet sometimes you can't avoid it. Is there any comfort when you hurt? Can anything good come from suffering? Come meet a historic Lutheran pastor who also suffered much: Pastor Paul Gerhardt. We will hear what Gerhardt suffered, and see the comforting hymns that came out of it. Only one who suffered as much as Paul Gerhardt could write hymns as comforting as he did.

Rev. Mayes is the pastor at Immanuel and Zion St. John Lutheran Churchs in Beemer and Wisner, NE. You can reach him at revmayessermons@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

The Gospel According to Carrie Underwood

Rev. Brent KuhlmanDunklau Pohlman Lecture Hall 109

Who would have thought? Carrie Underwood and the Gospel? You bet! Come learn about these topics from some of her most famous videos: that heaven is our home, that there will be a happy reunion in heaven for all believers in Jesus, that the blood of Jesus atones for all sin, and that holy baptism gives you God's divine and saving name! What joy! Come and enjoy!

Rev. Kuhlman is the pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Murdock, NE. He's also the Chaplain for this conference. You can reach him at kuhlman.brent@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

The New Jerusalem

Rev. Aaron ZimmermanThom 113

Revelation can be a confusing and scary book. Some people make Revelation more confusing and scary than it really is! The Book of Revelation is actually a comforting book meant to give you hope and strength for your earthly pilgrimage. In this breakaway we will be doing a Bible study on Revelation chapters 21-22 on the New Jerusalem along with the new heavens and new earth that Christ will usher in. Be sure to bring your Bibles as we go verse by verse through these two chapters and dive into the comfort that Christ gives you about the joys of eternal life with Him!

Rev. Zimmerman is the pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Farnhamville, IA. You can reach him at pastorzimmerman2019@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Who Are the ELCA?

Rev. Dr. Matthew DuranceThom 203

What comes to your mind when you hear someone mention the "Evangelical Lutheran Church in America?" If asked, could you give a brief summary of what they believe, teach, and confess? How are they different than the LCMS? Are they even Lutheran? In this breakout, we will study the history of the ELCA, what they believe, teach, and confess, and how to talk to your ELCA friends and neighbors about the truth of God's Word, and what it truly means to be a Lutheran.

Rev. Dr. Durance is the pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Harbor Beach, MI. You can reach him at pr.matthew.durance@gmail.com.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

You’re Depressed, Now What?

Deac. Emma HeinzHeinz Recital Hall 119

Congratulations, you have depression! There are a million contradictory ideas about how you got depression, why you have it, and how to deal with it. Some say that medication will fix all your problems. Some say that just praying more will make it all better. How does a baptized child of God deal with depression? How should we view those who struggle with depression when their disorder leads to doubt or despair? How can a Christian faithfully suffer with depression? Short answer: Through the work of the Holy Spirit. But for a slightly longer answer, come on over!

Deac. Emma Heinz is the Registrar at Higher Things. You can reach her at registrar@higherthings.org.
Thu 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm

2:45 pm - 3:45 pm Free Time

// Fieldhouse // Quad

2:45 pm - 3:45 pm Group Leader Reception // Sponsored By CUNE

// Janzow - Cattle Conference Room

4:00 pm - 4:45 pm Breakaway E

// Classrooms

A Christian Approach to Infertility

Rev. Merritt DemskiWeller Chapel

How do Christian’s approach questions about bringing children into the world in an age of scientific advancement? How do we walk down these paths in faithful, God-pleasing ways as we’ve been made new in Christ? We’re told to be fruitful and multiply, but what do we do if the doctor says that’s not possible for some reason? This breakaway will discuss the blessings of children in God’s design of marriage as well as the technologies that exist promising to give children to couples but without always explaining what all comes along with that promise.

Rev. Demski is the pastor at St. John Lutheran Church Hanover in Alta, IA. You can reach him at pastor.demski@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

A Cubs Fan, and a Red Sox Fan, and Jesus?

Rev. Jason SchockmanBorland Choir Room 201

We are waiting for the "revelation of the sons of God...the redemption of our bodies, for in this hope we were saved." Our lives since Baptism bear the hope of greater things to come, but it’s been a while, just ask a Cubbies fan. We hold to things unseen; we live by things not yet. The future is so sure and great that the present burden of a hitting slump, weak bullpen, blind umpires, cannot remove our hope of the pennant to come. Or as a Red Sox fan would say it…“THIS IS OUR YE-Ah.” BRING YOUR BIBLE and let's "Play ball!"

Rev. Schockman serves St. Paul's Lutheran Church, School, and ECC in Oconomowoc, WI. You can reach him at pastor.schockman@splco.org.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Adult Continuing Ed Course: In Holy Conversation: The Word of God, Preaching, and Prayer in the Life of Christ’s Church

Rev. Dr. Todd PeperkornThom 005

Adult Continuing Ed Course: How is it that the pastor preaches the Word of God and, at the same time, speaks for the Church as the Body of Christ? This study examines the relationship between the Scriptures, the preacher, and the prayer life of the Church as the holy conversation where heaven and earth meet.

This is a Continuing Education Course for pre-registered adults. Rev. Dr. Peperkorn is the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Missions at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN. You can reach him at todd.peperkorn@ctsfw.edu.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

All Things New: Iron Curtain

Rev. Carl StenzelBorland Band Room 206

God gave strength to His people under totalitarian oppression in East Germany and other countries behind the Iron Curtain. Using original artifacts and authentic stories, we will see how Jesus guided His people under the Cross and even to triumph over these evil regimes.

Rev. Carl Stenzel serves St. Paul Lutheran Church in Germantown, IA. You can reach him at cbstenzel@hotmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Are you Ready for War?

Rev. Craig MuehlerDunklau 151

Are you Ready for Spiritual Combat? Preparation and readiness are critical in planning, especially in planning a defense. Are you ready to face the challenges that come your way? Are you ready for the battles and sufferings that you will face? Are you ready for Spiritual Combat? What is your plan to sustain you on the battlefield of life? How will you endure? We will take a deep dive into Ephesians 6, the Armor of God, to see God has given us what we need as we face our enemy!

Rev. Muehler is with the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces. You can reach him at navychaps73@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Christ in Our Struggles: African Youth Perspectives

Rev. Dr. Dinku BatoThom 001

In contexts often marked by poverty, conflict, unemployment, and social uncertainty, young African Christians wrestle with profound questions of faith, justice, and resilience. Drawing from biblical narratives, especially the suffering, death, and resurrection of Christ, we’ll highlight how African youth see their trials not as signs of abandonment but as opportunities for deeper trust in God’s promises. Their testimonies and insights reveal a vibrant theology of hope rooted in Scripture, shaped by community, and sustained by the Spirit which speaks to the global church. Come listen, learn, and be encouraged by the witness of African youth who carry their crosses with eyes fixed on the risen Christ.

Rev. Dr. Bato is with Lutheran Heritage Foundation in Macomb, MI. You can reach him at dinkubato@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Get To Work: Righteous Training

Rev. Caleb ScheweThom 011

This breakaway will challenge the new man within you and you will love it. If you attend, come hydrated from the font and eager to sweat. You'll embrace theological negative reps with David and the Psalms, threshold endurance training with St. Paul, and earn brain callouses from the Table of Duties. You're a Christian. Already, you train on being new. We work. We train. We shoulder a cross and march on. If you need an edge, blood doping and HGH are available. Jesus lives and you are baptized. Let's get to work.

Rev. Schewe is the pastor at St. John's Lutheran Church in Monticello, IA. You can reach him at caleb.schewe@ctsfw.edu.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Here Am I, Send Me!

Mr. Glenn RollinsThom 201

Have you thought about what career you want to pursue after high school? Have you considered how your gifts, talents and abilities will inform how you can make a positive impact in this world? Have you heard the Lord asking, “Who will I send?” (Isaiah 6: 8) Come and hear about LCMS church work vocations and listen to current Concordia University church work students as they talk about how they made the decision to be sent to serve the Lord. Learn to their pathway toward a church work vocation to help you to decide upon your own vocational journey.

Mr. Rollins is with the office Set Apart to Serve from the LCMS. You can reach him at glennrollins79@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Hurt (or What I Wish I Knew to Tell Ashley)

Rev. Harrison GoodmanThom Auditorium

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 Executive Director of Mission and Theology of Higher Things. You can reach him at rev.goodman@higherthings.org.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Jesus Is Genesis

Rev. Todd JerabekThom 101

Jesus declared that the Scriptures (Old Testament) were more than a guidebook for holy living, they are a testimony to Him. We will begin with Genesis 1 and open our eyes to see Jesus. Bring your Bibles.

Rev. Jerebek is the pastor at Zion/St. Peter/St. John Lutheran Churches in Embarrass, WI. You can reach him at revjerabek@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Love: God's and the World's

Rev. Philip HaleDunklau 150

Love is a word used to defend and encourage sin against God today. This presentation will explore the love that is ever new in Christ in scriptural terms, comparing it to how unbelievers sinfully use the term. The world sees love as transitory and focused on the sinner. Christians see love for what it is in Christ’s death and saving will for mankind. True love is from, like, and rooted in God—good, eternal, and unwavering—in Him who does not change. We will consider love in God, who is love, contrasted with the sinful perversion of true love.

Rev. Hale is the pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Omaha, NE.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Organ Boot Camp

Cantor Paul SoulekSt. John Lutheran

The organ is the king of instruments . . . and for good reason! The organ occupies a key role in the Lutheran liturgy and in presenting the church’s music. But sometimes the organ can seem a bit intimidating. What do those buttons actually do? Do you really play with your feet? And how many pipes is too many (trick question . . . you can never have too many!)? This session will explore how the organ works, what it takes to play the organ well, and what makes for a great church organist.

Paul Soulek is the Cantor at St. John Lutheran Church in Seward, NE. He also serves as the HT Cantor. You can reach him at paul.soulek@stjohnseward.org.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Recreation: No Time to Rest

Dr. Kurt RouserThom 203

While living in a state of grace, we are continually transformed by the renewing of our mind. In the beginning, God created from nothing, but His recreative work, as revealed by Jesus’ healing miracles, shows that new things are made from what has been corrupted by sin. So, whatever our vocation, even students, we don’t expect a vacation. The Holy Spirit continues the recreative work in us and through us to weary souls. This session encourages youth to “be ready always to give an answer to every man who asketh you a reason for the hope that is in you.”

Dr. Rouser works at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK. You can reach him at kurtrouser@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Salvation Songs for Sufferers

Rev. Robert MayesThom 111

No one likes to suffer. Yet sometimes you can't avoid it. Is there any comfort when you hurt? Can anything good come from suffering? Come meet a historic Lutheran pastor who also suffered much: Pastor Paul Gerhardt. We will hear what Gerhardt suffered, and see the comforting hymns that came out of it. Only one who suffered as much as Paul Gerhardt could write hymns as comforting as he did.

Rev. Mayes is the pastor at Immanuel and Zion St. John Lutheran Churchs in Beemer and Wisner, NE. You can reach him at revmayessermons@gmail.com.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

Vocation in the Now and Not Yet

Mr. Nathan DemlowThom 205

As Christians, we live in the tension of the “now but not yet”—redeemed by Christ and called to live with purpose, even as we await the fullness of His Kingdom. In this breakaway session, we’ll explore what it means to live out your God-given identity and purpose today, in the middle of a world that feels unfinished and uncertain. Through Scripture, discussion, and practical encouragement, you’ll discover how God works through your everyday life to serve others, share hope, and glorify Him—even as you wait for what’s still to come.

Mr. Demlow is with Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN.
Thu 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm

5:00 pm - 6:45 pm Dinner

// Janzow - Dining Hall

7:00 pm - 7:30 pm Evening Prayer

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Free Time

// Campus

Basketball//Pickleball

Fieldhouse

Ends at 10:30.

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Bingo

Thom #001

End at  10:30

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

ESports: Nintendo

Thom #004

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Gaga Ball // Four Square Volleyball // Spikeball

Quad

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Human Foosball Challenge

Fieldhouse

End at 10:30

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Laser Tag//Ultimate Frisbee// 9-Square // Cornhole

Bulldog Stadium

End at  10:30

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Paint-A-Long

Thom #113

End at  10:30

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Ping-Pong, Pool Table, Games

Janzow Game Room

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Ropes Course

Dunklau Parking Lot

Ends at 10:30.

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Sand Volleyball

Sand Volleyball Courts

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

Talent Show Challenge

Weller Chapel

Starts at 8:00 and ends at 10:30.

Thu 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

7:30 pm - 7:45 pm Individual Confession

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Compline

// Dorms

Friday 11 Jul 2025

7:00 am - 8:45 am Breakfast

// Janzow - Dining Hall

8:00 am - 8:45 am Choir Rehearsal

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

9:00 am - 10:00 am Plenary 4 // Rev. Eli Lietzau // The Tree Of Life Made Ours By Christ

// Friedrich Arena

10:30 am - 12:00 pm Closing Divine Service

// St. John Lutheran Church - Sanctuary

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Lunch & Check Out

// Janzow -Dining Hall

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