Ordinarily, I use this monthly space to address a seasonal issue. With Easter just past and Confirmation coming up at the end of this month, we could just as easily continue that tradition.

However, I have something on my heart that I feel must take this space this month. Early in this past Holy Week, Mr. David Strand, our Synod’s Executive in charge of Communications, abruptly cancelled KFUO’s popular afternoon program, Issues, Etc. In addition, without warning they terminated the employment of the show’s host, Rev. Todd Wilken and its producer Mr. Jeff Schwarz (a member of St. Paul-Hamel). This has created a great deal of consternation in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. There have been letter campaigns, an on-line petition and even an editorial in the Wall Street Journal. This does not reflect well on us.

Now, you may be asking, “Just what does that have to do with me?” I must admit that it is a good question. I don’t know how many of you actually listened to the show. It was a fine program that truly represented our Lutheran Church very well. This show is just an example of the broadcast tradition that the LCMS has had for over 80 years. KFUO was the place where Dr. Walter A. Maier started the world famous radio program called “The Lutheran Hour” that still airs today. It is the tradition of broadcast evangelism that requires our attention

April 17, 18 and 19 is KFUO’s annual Share-a-thon. It is this effort that helps pay the expense of the station. This is not a small task. It is Share-a-thon’s goal to reach $100,000. This has been made difficult by the Issues, ETC debacle. Here is where the rank and file members of the LCMS need to stand up. Would you prayerfully consider taking part in this Share-a-Thon? I would consider it a personal favor if the members of Zion would step up and help this ministry. I am going to be on the air on April 17 from 1-3 PM. I would love to be able to mention a bunch of names from Staunton!

Here is another idea. KFUO has a Day Sponsorship. A day costs $480. Would it be possible for a number of people from Zion to get together and sponsor a day? If the Lord blesses, maybe more? We have truly been blessed by KFUO’s opportunity to broadcast our early service during the months of May, June and July. We will be able to do this yet again this spring. Now we need to step up. If you can help, please contact me at the office (635-2880) or by email ([email protected]).

I commend this heart issue for me to the Lord and you. I know that I will not be disappointed.