Spring, 2025
What shaped your faith in your youth? Or what did you notice in your neighbors or teachers or other adults that made Jesus known to you?
“… when I was being made in secret … Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me …” (Psalm 139:15–16).
Truth is, God knew you and had a plan for you as you were “being made in secret.” If your parents raised you in a Christian home, you worshipped in church, read the Bible, prayed with your family, and served in fellowship with others. If you didn’t grow up this way, you undoubtedly came into contact with people who were “different” and demonstrated genuine care for you.
Friends, this is why I encourage you to keep your “eyes on Jesus.” Our lives are filled with opportunities to deliver God’s life-changing Gospel. Let me share the ways we focus on changing and strengthening young lives in the Michigan District.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).
The Michigan District has a network of 126 early childhood centers, 66 elementary schools, and 5 high schools that serve families in our churches and neighborhoods. Along with Superintendent of Schools Travis Grulke, our principals and teachers participate in annual District training and incorporate discipleship and service opportunities into their curriculum. Every day, students learn about the love of Jesus and the opportunity to grow in His Word and to serve Him.
“Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord” (Psalm 34:11).
The Michigan District’s urban ministry through Acts 2 Enterprise (A2E) gives children an opportunity to learn a new sport or activity, receive a nourishing meal, and learn about Jesus. In Detroit, missionary-at-large Rev. Chris Bodley leads volunteers in summer camp programs where children experience the love of Jesus and take their excitement home to share with their families.
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
Considering the pressures that junior high and high school youth face, the Michigan District is committed to providing a place of support and strength in numbers at District-sponsored youth gatherings. Students learn, talk, play, listen, and connect with each other and with adult chaperones to focus on Jesus and His plan for them. At a critical life stage, the Holy Spirit can and has led students to make important life decisions after these experiences.
“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed” (2 Timothy 3:14).
Sons and daughters of Michigan District congregations attending LCMS Concordia Universities or LCMS Seminaries for church work programs are eligible to receive annual District scholarship assistance. As the largest district in the LCMS, we have the privilege of raising up future leaders in the Church who will be called to many roles and many places. Our prayers, encouragement, and financial support help them focus on Great Commission preparation.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” ( Jeremiah 29:11).
Building on the heritage of Lutheran education, we believe that students on Michigan’s college campuses need connections to spiritual support during their higher education journey. The Michigan District will expand campus ministry throughout the state to support nearby congregations that create innovative, effective ways to build student relationships and share the love of Jesus with them. We are also exploring the opportunity to plant a vocational school in the District that will help students pursue personal career paths and know and share Jesus in the communities where they work.
One of the most important things we can do for our youth is to provide consistent presence and support in their lives. Through your financial assistance, the Michigan District can continue to build up the programs that bring Jesus into their lives in powerful ways.
Will you help us care for God’s children by giving a gift today?
Gifts to the Michigan District are not meant to replace or reduce gifts to your congregation or other ministries. Instead, these gifts support our current congregations and church workers through district-wide training opportunities, congregation/circuit collaboration, strategic congregation partnerships with the community, and vision support for future ministry and innovation as we carry out this work together as People of Hope.
May you, as God’s child, know that He loves you dearly.
…eyes on Jesus …
Rev. David A. Davis, President
Michigan District, LCMS
Download printable Spring Appeal Letter (legal size paper)
Photos by Elisa Schulz/Michigan District, LCMS
