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Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion October 2020 - News and Notes -- As summer fades to fall, we are reminded again how our life is in God’s hands. We understand that all people suffer and feel the effects and trials of life, but the believer can rejoice knowing that he or she faces them securely as God’s own. We can feel secure remembering how God blessed our Summer Services and meetings even in an online environment. At the Annual Meeting, congregation delegates gave clear support to the work of the LLC board and staff here at the office. And although the camp season was much different than what we had planned, delegates expressed heartfelt thanks to God for His abundant blessings to the confirmation schools. Our young are to be remembered and we pray for God’s increase to the seed sown in the hearts of His own. Updates on LLC Activities Opisto scholarships for 2021–22 have been awarded to 14 North American students. We wish the students God’s blessings as they begin planning for their year abroad. Opisto students for 2020–21 have begun their studies after being quarantined for 14 days upon arriving in Finland. Phil Jurmu has been hired as LLC Facilities Manager. It is a new full-time position which will oversee the general management and operations of all LLC-owned facilities, including Silver Springs. The primary focus of the position is to maintain the overall spiritual atmosphere at camps while supporting the camp boards with planning and overall supervision of camp operations and maintenance. We wish Phil God’s blessings as he begins work at the LLC office. Although we can feel frustrated by the changes to our lives and work caused by the world-wide pandemic, we have seen many positives which have come from it. It feels that God has stopped us for the moment to refocus on the purpose and nature of LLC work. While none of us knows when God will allow things to return to normal or what new normal He might lead us to, we trust that He knows all things and has allowed matters to go as they have. Due to the pandemic, an increase in online content has been evident. While it doesn’t replace meeting in-person, it has given opportunities to experience God’s blessings in other ways. For example: ~ We have experienced both Winter and Summer services as online services. Though we prefer to meet in person, many have shared positive experiences which have come from online events. ~ The LLC Annual Meeting was held as an online meeting. All of us felt God’s presence there. ~ Now, regularly scheduled evening devotions have reached far and wide. One father mentioned how his unbelieving daughter often joins the services when she wouldn't normally do so. We find with this kind of medium that the threshold to hearing God’s Word is lowered. - Listening to online services continues to be the most accessed feature on our website. This has been accessed 33,000 times in the past months! - The map above shows the locations from which people have accessed the LLC website in the past three months. During this time there have been over 115,000 website visits. - We began broadcasting evening devotions in April, and there have been over 70 listeners each evening. Since April, the archived evening devotions have been listened to over 11,000 times. ~ An LLC YouTube channel has been created where you can find e.g. Sunday school lessons which were made last spring. Monthly lessons are planned for the 2020–21 Sunday school year as well. ~ With travel bans, live online services are broadcast and translated weekly for the congregations in Ecuador. Believers there from different localities are interacting much more than ever before on a regular basis. ~ Weekly WhatsApp services are recorded and sent to Kenya, where they are translated into many different languages and used in homes and villages in different parts of the country. ~ With religious gatherings in Minnesota limited to 250 people, the LLC Silver Springs Youth Days will be changed to an online event for youth in North America. It is planned for November 13–14, 2020. More details will follow as plans are developed. One blessing from this kind of event is that it gives opportunity to those outside of Minnesota to attend. When we must change our plans and adjust schedules, it can be hard to accept. Looking ahead in times like these, we don’t always see the blessings that may await, but afterwards we can often reflect on how God continues to care for us. ~ 2020 LLC Ministers camp was rescheduled for April 9–11, 2021 at SLC. We are also planning to hold a Board member workshop next spring as well, with dates still to be worked out. ~ 2020 Peace Gardens Youth Days were also postponed until 2021, due to closures caused by the pandemic. ~ As we look toward the new year, we pray circumstances will allow SRK and SFC mission trips to North America to resume in 2021. Planning committees in the Eastern area congregations are ramping up again in preparation for 2021 LLC Summer Services in Marquette, Michigan. Much of the planning was done already last year and was put on hold due to the rescheduling of the event. The Superior Dome on the Northern Michigan University campus has been reserved for July 1–4. The annual Ministers Teleconference, originating from the LLC office, will be held November 5. This teleconference gives the opportunity for ministers to gather around matters central to the work. The teleconference serves as a tool to communicate unity and love of the Spirit, which is so important in these times. We ask for your prayers that God would continue to guide and bless His work.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion November 2020 - News and Notes -- The cold winds of winter are starting to bite in the upper Midwest. An early snow reminds us that another year is coming to a close; what a year it has been! Despite the challenges that the worldwide pandemic has brought, we can be thankful for God’s protection and care. November also marks the end of the church calendar year and the approach of Advent. On November 1, All Saints’ Day, we lovingly remember those who have gained the victory of heaven. We remember them with longing and with the hope of a reunion one day. At the end of the month we observe Thanksgiving Day. As this holiday approaches, and as we look forward to Advent and Christmas that follow, may we remember our Heavenly Father’s many blessings and the hope of heaven that waits at the end of our earthly journey. Updates on LLC Activities The pandemic has halted travel, but services continue to be arranged in foreign mission fields. Weekly services are hosted each Sunday via Zoom for Ecuadorian believers. The midwestern area mission trip to Rolla did not take place this October, but was replaced by remote services using Zoom. Recorded sermons are sent via WhatsApp to support our brothers and sisters in Africa. We marvel how God has opened these possibilities during this time! The southwest area congregations extend a warm welcome to online LLC Youth Days hosted from the Phoenix church November 13–14. The theme for the weekend is “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able” (1 Cor. 10:13). A presentation will be kept Friday evening titled “Bear One Another’s Burdens,” followed by an evening devotion. Youth Days will continue on Saturday with services at 4 p.m. and a panel discussion at 7 p.m. Youth Days will be shared online via Zoom, and also streamed through Mixlr. A new piano primer Make a Joyful Noise is now available! It is a beautifully illustrated piano book that helps beginners learn to play songs and hymns of Zion. Order your copy online at the LLC webshop or ask for it at your church bookstore. The annual ministers teleconference, originating from the LLC office, is held November 5. Discussion centers around timely matters and concerns. This gives opportunity for ministers to discuss matters central to the work and also serves as a tool to maintain unity and love of the Spirit, which is so important in these times. The LLC Board of Directors met on October 24 and took several actions, some of which include: ~ Approved 2021 staff wage and benefit package ~ Approved amended 2020 budget ~ Approved 2021 Operating plan and budget ~ Approved proposal to name the LLC Easter magazine Easter Messenger. This special Easter magazine, similar in concept to Christmas in Zion, will be published early next March. ~ Approved Lea Waaraniemi’s appointment to the LLC Music Committee. We wish Lea God’s blessings as she takes Saana Johnson’s spot on the committee. We also thank Saana for her years of service. ~ Approved adjusting LLC Confirmation Schools to seven-day camps, with further curriculum development for Pre-Confirmation camps. ~ Board members John Stewart and Steve Haataja gave notice of their plans to retire when their board terms are up in 2021. Communication has been sent to area mission committees to begin discussions for their replacements. ~ The board agreed that an LLC-wide meeting of ministers, board members and delegates is necessary in order to discuss spiritual matters that have caused concern for some years in North American Zion. Communication on this will be sent to LLC congregations as plans develop. The Eastern Mission Area holds its annual fall area-wide meeting as an online meeting on Saturday, Nov. 7. The Midwest Mission Area (MBMAC) holds its annual fall meeting at the Rockford church on Saturday, Nov. 21. Since the fall SLC Ministers Camp was canceled, plans are now being made to hold a Ministers Camp at SLC April 9–11, 2021, God so willing. We ask for your continued prayers that God would continue to guide and bless His work.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion December 2020 - News and Notes -- Lo, how a rose e’er blooming from tender stem has sprung! Of Jesse’s lineage coming as men of old have sung. It came, a flower bright amid the cold of winter, when half spent was the night. Isaiah had foretold it in words of promise sure, and Mary’s arms enfold Him, a virgin meek and pure. Through God’s eternal will, this Child to us is given at midnight calm and still. SHZ 19:1,2 During this festive season we are thankful for the many blessings which God has given. We are most thankful for the fulfillment of the promise of a Savior. For this we say, “Immanuel, God is with us” (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:23). On behalf of the LLC office staff, I wish each of you a joyous and peaceful Christmas. May the message of God’s perfect gift to humankind be centermost as we celebrate this Christmas season. Updates on LLC Activities Just in time for Christmas, we have released two new items. One is an album, called Christmas Peace, of Christmas music on classical guitar and organ. The other is our latest board book, titled Away in a Manger. Both would be wonderful gifts for loved ones and can be purchased on the LLC website or in your local congregation bookstore. Approximately 100 ministers joined the annual LLC Ministers Teleconference on November 5. LLC Board Chairman Jim Frantti opened the teleconference by summarizing the current spiritual situation in North American Zion. He then presented the topic “The Christian & Government.” The discussion on the presented topic was united and one-minded. We wish to remember one another in love and patience, serve our neighbor amid challenges presented by the worldwide pandemic and be respectful to and obey the various mandates which are currently in place. Representatives from the Eastern Region congregation boards met online November 7. Midwestern Region boards met in Rockford, Minn., November 21. Ben Waaraniemi introduced the topic “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost,” from 1 Thess. 1:5, as basis for the spiritual discussion. The meeting also addressed terms for LLC Board members, camp board members and region mission committee members. In early November, we asked for input from parents who have a 2021 confirmand to indicate their first and second choice for Confirmation school. Based on those results, eight LLC Confirmation Schools will be held in 2021. The signup for confirmation will open January 4. Dates and locations of the 2021 Confirmation Schools are as follows: ~June 20–27: Hasscib Lake 1 ~July 10–17: West Coast 1 ~July 11–18: Prairie Shores ~July 11–18: Stony Lake 1 ~July 17–24: West Coast 2 ~July 18–25: Hasscib Lake 2 ~July 18–25: Kamp Kipa ~July 25–Aug. 1: Stony Lake 2 Capacity at Stony Lake is 50 students and 30 at the other locations. Positions are open for SLC Caretaker and Kitchen Manager. For additional information, contact LLC Facilities Manager Phil Jurmu (pjurmu@llchurch.org). Submit your application for these positions by December 31, 2020. Watch also for announcements regarding core staff openings for the 2021 camp season at all LLC-owned facilities. Notices will be sent to congregations in December or January. There will also be openings for paid kitchen staff at HLC for the months of July and August. Subscription renewal notices have been sent out for the 2021 Voice of Zion and Shepherd’s Voice. Note that along with this subscription, access to digital and audio versions is available by contacting the LLC office. We thank you for your subscription! It helps to support LLC work. In December, the Humanitarian Aid Committee sends an annual Christmas gift package to congregations in Ecuador, Togo, and Ghana. This year, due to the world-wide pandemic, the package serves as a well-received gift for believers in far-away lands. Year-end contributions can be made for this effort on the LLC website. Click Donate and then write “HAC Christmas gift” in the Payment for box. It’s not too early to start making plans for 2021 LLC Services. Winter Services in Phoenix, Ariz., are being planned for Desert Mountain Middle School, March 18–21. The Phoenix church is reserved as a back-up location, in case the pandemic affects our planning. Summer Services will be held July 1–4 in Marquette, Michigan. As further information becomes available, it will be published in the Voice of Zion, on LLC social media and on the LLC website. As the year comes to an end, may each of us pause to reflect on the abundant blessings God has showered on the work of His kingdom. At LLC, we are mindful of the generosity of believers who support our central organization’s work in its many forms. We ask God to richly repay you as only He can. I wish for you all God’s abundant blessings in the New Year!

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion January 2021 - News and Notes -- Happy New Year 2021! The year 2020 was like no other in recent memory. What started as a normal year has certainly changed in ways that we could not have predicted. Due to the pandemic, Winter and Summer Services were moved to an online environment, foreign mission trips were postponed, confirmation schools were scheduled and rescheduled, most of the summer camps were canceled and local congregations adjusted their service arrangements. We became familiar with distance learning, working from home, limits to social gathering and so on. Many things have changed around us and there may have been sorrows and trials, yet around us we see God’s abundant blessings. The greatest blessing is that one has been preserved in faith and can enter the new year as a child of God. Thus we face another year securely trusting in God’s guidance and direction for our own personal endeavor of faith and also for the work of His kingdom. It has been heartwarming to see the care and generosity of believers in supporting the work. At the beginning of 2021, we prayerfully ask for God’s continued blessings. Most of all, the child of God has a living hope that one day faith will be changed to eternal life in the glory of heaven. LLC Update Tour Continues The LLC Update Tour was partially completed in 2020 as scheduled. Due to the pandemic, a number of congregation stops have been postponed into 2021. We have found the tour, which happens every three years, to be an important and needed means of communication throughout North American Zion. The plan is to complete the tour as early in the year as possible. Staff Changes Kathy Laho will be retiring from her position as LLC Communications Assistant early in 2021. A notice for filling this position has been sent to LLC congregations. Kathy has served in LLC work for many years and will be missed at the office. We wish Kathy God’s blessings for the days and years to come! 2021 LLC Winter Services We extend a heartfelt welcome to 2021 LLC Phoenix Winter Services March 18–21. The current plan is to hold the services at the Phoenix church. Services are also scheduled to be held Wednesday, March 17, in Prescott Valley. The theme chosen for services is Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth (John 17:17). The topic for the congregation discussion evening will be based on this theme and will be presented by Sam Roiko. 2021 LLC Summer Services 2021 LLC Summer Services are scheduled for July 1–4 in Marquette, Michigan. Please see additional information on page 15. Confirmation Schools 2021 Planning for 2021 Confirmation Schools began with a web conference for directors and teachers on Monday, December 8. There will be eight camps this year, each planning for 30–35 students, with the exception of Stony Lake which can handle additional students due to the recent renovation. Online sign up began on January 4. New LLC Office Building Recently we’ve communicated plans to our member congregations regarding the purchase of a facility that we will use as our central office after the lease expires at our current location. The lease for the current LLC office space is expiring in 2021 and over a sixty-percent increase was planned in negotiations of a new lease. The purchase of the building in Monticello, Minnesota, is under contract. Currently a 60-day due diligence period allows discussion with city officials and exploration of buildout costs. With the purchase of the new building and subsequent buildout, monthly costs are expected to be similar to current expenses. The closing is scheduled for February 25. Information will be communicated regularly to LLC congregations as the project develops. Seasonal Positions Open Seasonal positions for 2021 are available at each of our camp facilities, including core counselor, lifeguard, kitchen help, and caretaker’s assistant positions. Look for the information sent to your congregation. Contact LLC Facility Manager Phil Jurmu (pjurmu@llchurch.org) for additional information. Please submit your application by completing the Camp Work Application online. Silver Springs Development The LLC Facilities Committee, along with the Silver Springs Development Committee (SSDC) and Management Committee (SSMC) met at the LLC office on December 3, to consider future development at Silver Springs. The meeting prioritized five immediate needs and coordinators will communicate those plans to LLC congregations early in 2021. Publications Updates The Communications Department intends to publish two books in the coming months. One is titled The Heavenly Father’s Gift, which is a sequel to Where Has the Heavenly Father Gone?, an illustrated story originally published by the SRK. Our other new book will be Christ is the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever. The individual chapters of this book have been printed in the Voice of Zion in 2019–2020 issues, and now they will be compiled into a book. We excitedly await the publication of Easter Messenger, the LLC’s new Easter magazine. Voice of Zion subscribers can watch for this new publication in the mail mid-March. Speaking of the mail, we are aware that some subscribers have recently experienced delays in receiving their periodicals in a timely fashion. This appears to be due to the fact that we utilize bulk mail to reduce postage and subscription costs. We are investigating ways to avoid this in the future. The Voice of Zion contained an insert in the October, November and December issues. The insert, called Round the table, aims to provide education, inspiration and activities that foster connections and discussion. We have received appreciative feedback on the insert, for which we are thankful. In 2021, we will publish Round the table every other month, in the February, April, June, August, October and December issues of the Voice of Zion. The Communications Department made an effort to provide a variety of digital content around the Christmas holidays. These efforts have been well received, and we are considering ways to make such content available on a more regular basis. Workshop for New Ministers An online workshop for new ministers is scheduled for January 22–23 and will focus on a minister’s responsibilities. The workshop aims to provide basic information, resources and support for pastoral duties. This first workshop for new ministers is especially intended for ministers called in 2017 or later. Information about the workshop has been sent to congregation contacts. Mission Work Update A church facility was recently completed in Busumbala, Gambia. Construction of the church facility in Atimé, Togo, is now underway. Weekly online services for Ecuador have been scheduled through May 2021. Recorded devotions are being delivered in WhatsApp in both English and French for congregations in Africa and Pakistan. Evening devotions have been scheduled for four evenings per week through 2021. Operating Plan At the beginning of 2021 preparation for the 2022 LLC Operating Plan has begun. The theme chosen are words of Jesus, Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness (Matt. 6:33). The Operating Plan is an important tool for office staff as it gives clear direction to the work of the LLC. God has given us a blessed time of work; may God continue to guide and bless our new year as only He can.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion February 2021 - News and Notes -- We continue to make modifications to LLC work due to the ongoing pandemic. I want to thank all of you for being patient with us as we adjust plans, often at the last minute. Our hope is that despite these changes and challenges, God’s Word would still reach to those who need comfort and encouragement on the way to heaven, and that those who are yet seeking a place of refuge would find it. The theme for the 2021 LLC Operating Plan “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd,” will also be central in planning our camp season and other LLC activities. As plans are being made, my thoughts often turn to our children and youth. They are in the forefront of the battle, yet we see how God helps prepare our young for that which is ahead. May God continue to bless each of us and carry us safely one day to the shore of heaven. LLC Winter and Summer Services • After careful consideration, and through discussion with planning committees, the LLC Board along with the planning committees for the Phoenix Winter Services and Marquette Summer Services has decided to hold both of these 2021 LLC service events as online-only events. The decision comes with some sadness knowing how eagerly many of us have waited to gather again as in years past. Yet, in light of the continuing challenges brought by the pandemic, this is the prudent decision to make. The plan is to use the same format as 2020 Summer Services with both audio and video broadcast. As details develop, they will be communicated to congregations. Information will also be posted on social media and on the LLC website. God willing, we can look to gather again in person for the 2022 Winter Services in Phoenix, and 2022 Summer Services in Longview. Mission Work • Greg Jacobson was blessed into the office of the ministry by the Montana Laestadian Lutheran Church on January 17. Greg is the first minister to be called in Montana. We wish Greg, along with his wife Caroline and family, God’s abundant blessings in this new calling. • Mission Work 3 (MW3) has announced that all foreign mission trips are cancelled for the first half of 2021. The committee will continue to monitor travel restrictions due to the pandemic, and mission trips will resume when possible. • Dedication Services were recently held in Busumbala, The Gambia. Joseph Kuse traveled from Ghana to attend the Dedication Services for the recently completed church in Busumbala. The congregation expressed gratitude that they now have a church where they can gather to hear God’s Word. At the entrance of the church, the name “Temple of God’s Peace” greets all who come. We join in the Gambian believers’ joy. Over 300 service guests attended the dedication services. Facilities and Camp Work • New LLC office project: with a new closing date of February 3, the LLC board at its January 30 meeting discussed final details in purchasing the building in Monticello for LLC office space. With board approval, the purchase will take place and construction of the buildout will begin in mid-February. Regular communications will be sent to LLC congregations as the project moves forward. • Doug Karvonen has retired as Kamp Kipa caretaker and Tom Kuopus has been hired to fill his spot. We wish to thank Doug for his many years of dedicated work at the camp. At the same time we wish Tom and his family God’s abundant blessings in their duties ahead. • Again this year “Camps at a Glance” has been published. Look for it in your local bookstore or download it from the LLC website. • The annual Camp Staff Workshop and teleconference will be held on March 4. • Online enrollment is open for 2021 camps. Visit the LLC website to register. We remain thankful for God’s continued blessings and protection. He has given us a time to work, and He has also blessed us with needed gifts, both temporal and spiritual. We pray for His continued care and direction.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion March 2021 - News and Notes -- For those living in northern lands who experience long dark cold days of winter, March welcomes longer days and the hope of spring. This year March also marks the Lenten season which leads us to the celebration of Easter and the Lord’s resurrection. One day, at the end of this journey, children of God will close their eyes of faith to open them in the glorious resurrection in heaven, and there, experience spring eternal. Updates on LLC Activities • Online 2021 LLC Winter Services broadcast will begin at 8 p.m. CDT, Thursday, March 18, and continue through Sunday afternoon, March 21. Visit the LLC website for details. • An extra day of meetings for LLC Board and staff will take place during the Winter Services weekend. The extra day of meetings will give opportunity to discuss short- and long-term planning needs of the LLC. • Planning has started for the 2021 online Summer Services and are planned to originate from the new LLC office. We hope to have a regular daily schedule of services which will be broadcast with both audio and video feeds. Details will be communicated on the LLC website and on social media as they develop. • Many prayers have been offered as the LLC Board and Pastoral Committee works on plans for a continent-wide meeting on May 7–8. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss spiritual concerns affecting North American Zion. • Kathy Laho retired as Communications Administrative Assistant on February 28. Kathy worked over 14 years in various supporting roles at the LLC office. Replacing her is Ruth DeLacey. We wish Kathy abundant blessings in retirement, and welcome Ruth to her new duties at the office. • Adeline Moll was hired at the LLC office in February to fill Helen Hillukka’s position as Mission Work Administrative Assistant. We welcome her and wish Adeline God’s blessing as she begins her work at the office. • Phoenix Laestadian Lutheran Church (PLLC) has begun their search for a new full-time pastor to replace Harri Vahajylkka, who returned to Finland in July 2020. The Phoenix congregation hopes that this will continue to be a shared position between PLLC and the LLC. We pray and trust that God will guide this search as He has guided those in the past. For more information about this pastoral position, please reach out to Andy Kesti in Cave Creek, Ariz. • Progress on the new office facility in Monticello, Minn., is coming along very well. Many volunteers have been working diligently on the project. At the end of February, interior framing was complete, electrical and plumbing rough-ins were mostly complete and drywall hanging was started. We plan to move into the new office in May. In that case, our Summer Service broadcast will originate from the new office. • A new songbook app for purchase is planned to be released in June. It will contain songbooks from three organizations, Songs and Hymns of Zion (LLC), Siionin Laulut ja Virsikirja (SRK) and Sions sånger och psalmer (SFC). The development was necessary as the old songbook could no longer be upgraded to new technology. • The annual camp staff workshop was held on March 4 in support of those asked to serve at 2021 LLC camp events. • The biennial LLC Ministers Camp will be held at Stony Lake Camp April 9–11. The main focus of the camp will be on timely topics and spiritual concerns experienced in North American Zion. • Summer camps are being planned as scheduled. Necessary precautions will be taken as COVID-19 guidelines evolve throughout the summer. Online enrollment is open on the LLC website to register. May God continue to bless His work as only He can.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion April 2021 - News and Notes -- Easter dawns, our day of vict’ry; mercy’s morn is shining bright! Now the chains of hell are broken; lonely captives rise to light; fears of night and wrath are vanished – ev’ry cloud our Sun has banished. Death, where is your stinging scepter? Where, O grave, your victory? Satan, you are proved a liar. Ended is your tyranny! In your kingdom Jesus found us. There He crushed the chains that bound us. O my soul, be overtaken! Praise the Son, your gracious friend. Haste, my harp, my tongue awaken, let the triumph-song ascend. Praise to God, and adoration. Sing Hosanna, all creation. (SHZ 106:1,2,6) I wish for each of you a blessed Easter, with this greatest hope, the hope of resurrection in the glory of heaven. ‍Updates on LLC Activities • 2021 LLC Winter Services were held again this year as an online event. Though we await the time when we can gather again in-person, God granted His abundant blessings to the services. • An extra day of meetings during Winter Services allowed the LLC Board and staff to discuss ongoing spiritual concerns and short- and long-term planning needs of the LLC. We are thankful for the mutual love and unity of spirit which was experienced there. – The board approved the development of an LLC publications app. Final details are being worked out, but plans for a nominal monthly fee will allow access to all LLC printed, digital and audio content, including music. – A first of its kind LLC logo was approved. The logo will be used broadly throughout LLC work and also as a design theme for the new LLC office in Monticello. Additional information about the logo will be communicated in a future issue of the Voice of Zion. – The board approved using donated funds from the estate of a departed sister for furnishings at the new LLC office. – The board heard and approved plans for the continent-wide meeting on May 7–8. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss spiritual concerns affecting North American Zion. • Planning continues to host the 2021 online Summer Services and LLC Annual Meeting from the new LLC office in Monticello. We plan to have a fairly normal daily schedule of services along with additional programming which will be broadcast on both audio and video feeds. Details will be communicated on the LLC website and on social media as they develop. • The 2021 LLC Annual Meeting notice, agenda and delegate package will be sent to congregations in mid-April. In addition, the 2022 draft LLC Operating Plan will be sent for review. The theme of the plan is “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness” (Matt. 6:33). A video with highlights of the plan will be available for the congregations to view in preparing their delegates for the Annual Meeting. Currently, we are planning for an online meeting via Zoom similar to 2020. • It has been heartwarming to see the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly on the new LLC office in Monticello, Minn. At the end of March sheetrock and taping was complete, and painting was finished until the trim is ready and a final coat is needed at the end of the project. Concrete floor polishing was finished, and epoxy was applied to the bathroom and kitchen floors as well as in the storage and work areas. Cabinets are being built and planned for installation in early April. The drop-ceiling grid is installed. Final electrical and plumbing fixtures will be installed once the drop-ceiling is in place and tile work is finished in the bathrooms. Words seem inadequate, yet many thanks to all who have contributed both with time and energy and also with financial donations. We plan to move into the new office sometime in May. • The new songbook app for purchase is still planned to be released in June. It will contain songbooks from three organizations, Songs and Hymns of Zion (LLC), Siionin Laulut ja Virsikirja (SRK) and Sions sånger och psalmer (SFC). • The biennial LLC Ministers Camp will be held at Stony Lake Camp April 9–11. The main focus of the camp will be on timely topics and spiritual concerns experienced in North American Zion. • Plans are in place to keep the summer camps as scheduled. Necessary precautions will be taken as COVID-19 guidelines evolve throughout the summer. Online enrollment is open on the LLC website to register. • We have switched the broadcast format for the evening devotions that air on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings. The devotion for each evening will air for the first time at 8 pm EDT and on the hour at 8 pm in each of the North American time zones. Following the devotion, songs will be broadcast for the remainder of the hour. God has graced us with a time of work. May He guide and bless the efforts of His children.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion May 2021 - News and Notes -- In May, let us pause to remember the special occasion of Mother’s Day. It is the one day of the year which is set aside in honor of mothers. Too often, a mother’s work is overlooked and forgotten. May God richly repay for the unselfish care that you provide for your families. We wish God’s abundant and continued blessings! May He protect and keep you always as His own. Thank you, mother dear, so precious for the love which you have shown. We thy children are so grateful for this love that we have known. Give abundant gifts, dear Father, to our mother on the way. Guide her on the way to heaven unto rest with Thee one day. (SHZ 425:1,4) May also marks the beginning of graduations. Congratulations, 2021 graduates! It is a milestone you will always remember. May God grant life’s blessings for each of you. Updates on LLC Activities • God granted His abundant blessings for the LLC Ministers Camp which was held at SLC April 9–11. There, we experienced concretely the unity of faith and mutual love which joins God’s children together. In addition to many hours of open discussion the following presentations were kept over the weekend. – What is faith? – a translation of Ari Pelkonen’s presentation to the 2021 SRK ministers meeting – The Word of God is Quick and Powerful – Jon Bloomquist – Current Work and Conditions in North America – Jim Frantti These opportunities give younger and older ministers needed time to gather together to discuss the mutual work of serving and to be refreshed and encouraged in their walk of faith. • The final agenda and meeting details have been sent to LLC congregation boards, delegates and ministers for the LLC-wide meeting to be held in Monticello, May 7–8. • After considering many options it was decided to keep LLC Summer Services as an online only event again this year. We all wait for the day when the “birds of heaven” can gather again in-person. How wonderful that will be! • The LLC Annual Meeting will also originate from the LLC office and be an online event. Meeting and voting details will be communicated to LLC congregations in early June. • The new LLC office project is nearing completion with plans to move from the current office location by the end of May. For all of you who have generously supported the effort, may God richly repay your work and labor of love. • Travel for foreign mission trips remains on hold and will commence only when deemed safe to do so. In the meantime, online and recorded sermons are kept regularly for those gathered in faraway lands. • In preparation for the 2021 camp season, a COVID-19 preparedness plan will be in required at all LLC owned camp facilities. The plans will vary and will be tailored to local and state guidelines. It will require patience on everyone’s part to assure regulations are followed, which in turn will allow a full camp season for the benefit of all – especially our young.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion June/July 2021 - News and Notes -- I wish to offer congratulations to all 2021 high school, college and university graduates. You have achieved a milestone in life! May God grant life’s blessings for each of you. Each year in June we also celebrate Father’s Day. May the heavenly Father bless you dear fathers for the love and care that you have extended to your families and loved ones. The days we live are troubled and your children need clear, loving instructions. May God also bless those attending confirmation school this summer. It is an important time in the life of a young believer. Please remember that your parents and loved ones are sending you to camp with many prayers that you will make lasting friends, but mostly that your childlike faith will be strengthened. Updates on LLC Activities • At the end of May a new chapter of LLC history began when after fifteen years the office moved from Loretto, Minnesota into the new LLC office in Monticello, Minnesota. Many hours of volunteer labor allowed the project to be completed. While the old office served very well, we are thankful for God’s abundant blessings in granting us a new home. After the last projects are completed, plans are to have an open house and dedication service for all who would like to join. May God richly repay you who have lovingly supported the effort with your generosity and labor. • 2021 LLC Online Summer Services, July 1–4, will originate from the LLC office in Monticello, Minnesota. A few notes about services: – The service motto is, Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life (Rev. 2:10). – The service schedule can be found on the LLC website and essential service information will be available to download. – Sermons will be broadcast live on the LLC website, LLC YouTube channel – A part of our service broadcast will also air July 10–11 on the SRK Summer Service Radio (kesaseuraradio.fi). This gives you an opportunity to listen again or to hear parts of the broadcast you may have missed. – Facebook users can find service information at Laestadian Lutheran Church – Instagram users can find information @laestadianlutheran – At 2:00 p.m. each afternoon there will be a children’s service. – A congregation evening presentation will be broadcast Friday evening. – A youth presentation using the motto of the services will be broadcast Saturday evening. • The 2021 LLC Annual Meeting will be online and originate, Saturday July 3, from the LLC office in Monticello, Minnesota. The meeting agenda, 2022 draft operating plan and video have been sent to help congregations prepare their delegates for the meeting. Meeting and voting details will be communicated to LLC congregations in early June. • We continue to monitor if the COVID-19 pandemic will affect this summer’s camp activities. As of now, we will hold all scheduled summer camps following local and state guidelines. Any proposed changes will be communicated to students and families with ample time to make any necessary adjustments. • The pandemic has affected quite broadly in Ecuador and the believers there ask to be remembered. With travel restrictions in place, weekly online services continue for believers throughout Ecuador. May God continue to bless such opportunities as they are needed. • Foreign mission trips have been paused through the 3rd quarter of this year. It may be possible to begin scheduling a few trips for late this fall as COVID-19 restrictions are eased. • Over twenty applications for the 2022–23 opisto year were received in May. There are fourteen scholarships available, so the scholarship committee will meet in July to make selections and send word out soon thereafter.

Eric Jurmu | The Voice of Zion August 2021 - News and Notes -- The motto chosen for 2021 Summer services, “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev. 2:10), promises that God will grant eternal life to those who remain believing. And although we were again unable to gather at Summer Services in Marquette, Michigan, God provided a way in which we could still be refreshed around His Word. I continue to marvel how God has given the necessary gifts and knowledge to host services as an online event. Coverage about services and those instrumental in making it happen appears in this month’s Voice of Zion. Many, many thanks to all involved in making the online services a possibility. 2022 LLC Summer Services, hosted by Longview and the neighboring congregations in the Northwest are scheduled for July 1–4. Welcome! LLC Board Meeting July 1 • Board members reviewed planning updates for the current Summer Services and future Winter and Summer services. The 2022 LLC Phoenix Winter Services will be held March 17–20, with the motto for services, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever” (Heb. 13:8). 2022 LLC Summer Services will be hosted by the Longview, Washington, congregation, and held at the Kelso High School on July 1–4, 2022, with the motto, “I will be glad and rejoice in thee” (Ps. 9:2). • The board gave final approval for the development of an LLC digital publications app. Subsequent to the meeting, the LLC entered into contract with the app developer with plans for a December 16 launch date. The board also approved making the current part-time Digital Administrative Assistant a permanent half-time position to support the work. • Professional teachers Wendy Agbowada and Jake Muhonen were added to the LLC Education Committee. LLC Annual Meeting July 3 • As in 2020, the 2021 LLC Annual Meeting was held as an online event. The meeting was held via Zoom with a chat feature that allowed discussion between delegates and the LLC board and staff gathered at the LLC office. A voting app was used to allow secure voting during the meeting. • LLC delegates reviewed and gave support for the proposed 2022 LLC Operating Plan, which included plans for no dues increase. • There was discussion to move the LLC Summer Services to the weekend after SRK’s Suviseurat. The LLC office will draft a communication explaining the potential date change, and delegates will bring the proposal back to member congregations for discussion and decision at a future LLC annual meeting. • Delegates re-elected George Koivukangas and Keith Waaraniemi (Midwestern Area), and Peter Kuopus (Eastern Area), to three-year terms on the LLC Board. Delegates also elected Randy Hillukka to replace Steve Haataja (Midwestern Area); and Marv Wittenberg and Lauri Nevala to replace retiring board members John Stewart and Ken Wuollet (Western Area). • Dates for 2022 LLC Winter and Summer Services have been set: – 2022 LLC Phoenix Winter Services: March 17–20 – 2022 LLC Summer Services Longview, Wash.: July 1–4, 2022 • Delegates will be prepared to give a detailed report to congregations when meeting minutes have been finalized. Updates on LLC Activities • Parents of 2021 confirmation students are to be thanked again for their patience as we worked through details in planning confirmation camps this summer. As you are aware due to the uncertainties of COVID-19, there were many starts and stops to planning. But in the end plans were made and we pray for God’s blessings as students are sent to camp for this important milestone in their lives. • Although there may be some small changes to camp activities due to the pandemic, all of the other LLC summer camps are being held as scheduled. • Peace Garden Youth Days will be held this year Sept. 4–5, 2021. Those who wish to attend, 18 years and older, can sign up online at llchurch.org by Aug. 27. • The Phoenix, Arizona, congregation asked Eric Mattila to serve as their full-time pastor. We wish Eric, his wife Katrina, and their entire family God’s abundant blessings with this calling. • Currently foreign mission trips are still on hold. There is hope that some foreign trips can resume later this Fall. Through the pandemic online services are kept regularly for those in many foreign countries, and this practice may continue. • As COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the remaining 2020 LLC update tour to congregations will be finalized. We hope that as summer winds down all will have opportunities to spend time with family and friends before school and fall activities begin. And again, we thank you for the continued prayers and support for the work of God’s kingdom.