The Mission Table , where we pull up a chair with everyday leaders doing extraordinary things for the sake of the Gospel. Today’s story is one that spans continents, cultures, and the unmistakable fingerprints of God’s grace. We’re joined by Pastor Uma, the newly installed pastor at Messiah Lutheran Church in Ewa Beach, Hawai‘i. His journey is nothing short of remarkable—born and raised in Sri Lanka in a Hindu family, shaped by years spent as a refugee in Liberia, and ultimat

Redeemer Lutheran School in Redwood City, California hosted the first CNH District Knowledge Bowl of the year on November 6. Six teams from the CNH District participated in this event. The Knowledge Bowl has two divisions, a 5/6th grade division and a 7/8th grade division. Teams of 5 students are given a list of questions on topics that include religion, math, science, literature, history, geography, art, music, sports, and current events. At the end of four rounds of com

Zion Lutheran School is the smallest and most remote school in the CNH District. It has a long history in the rural area of Terra Bella, a few miles outside Porterville, California. The school was founded in 1909 and currently has 10 students in kindergarten through 6th grade and the faculty consists of two teachers and two aides. Six of the students are members of Zion Lutheran Church. Along with the teachers, the current vacancy pastor, Lloyd Willweber, also provides su

On a beautiful Sunday in Honolulu, members and friends of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church  gathered to celebrate the installation of Rev. Dallas Dubke  as their new Transitional Interim Pastor . The service was filled with joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of God’s guiding hand. Pastors from across the Hawai‘i Circuit , including those serving on O‘ahu and the Big Island , joined together to represent the broader fellowship of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and to pray God’s

By Fred Hammer, Area Director  Joni and Friends Central California According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 80 million people worldwide need a wheelchair.  However, only 5-35% have access to one.  Through the Joni and Friends Wheels for the   World Program, we are changing that reality—one chair, one life, and one soul at a time. Here in Central California, our office is honored to sponsor and support partners in the Middle East and Mozambique, Africa, while o

Directors of Christian Education and youth leaders met for their annual retreat in South Lake Tahoe November 6-8. This retreat is an opportunity for youth leaders in the CNH District to come together for fellowship, rest, and a time of spiritual and professional growth. The schedule allowed time to meet in discussion sessions on a variety of current and relevant topics. Youth leaders could learn and share new ideas with one another in a relaxed and safe environment. There