Advent is such a powerful time to tell the story - the story of light coming into the darkness and overcoming it (John 1:5). It is the time when we celebrate our Savior's birth and look forward to His second coming. He is the true light, which enlightens everyone and has come into the world (John 1:9). This is the story many Native people need to hear.

The mission work LIM does in Alaska is unlike anything we see in the lower 48 states. The sheer size of the state and distance between villages makes it hard to help everyone, so the Sternbecks use volunteers whenever possible.

Lutheran Indian Ministries is excited to announce the newest member of our ministry staff, Carissa Wittig!

Through our core of volunteers and the ministry staff who served before us, and through you, our faithful partner in ministry, we are seeing God work in the lives of the children, teens, adults and elders in these villages and lives are being changed in service to God and His Kingdom!

Thank you, Stranger.

I don't know who you are, but I know that without your prayers and donations to Lutheran Indian Ministries, I would not be where I am today. I know that you are the one who allows LIM's ministry staff to work all over the country to help Native people, of all nations, learn about the love and mercy and faithfulness of our Heavenly Father and the salvation we have through his Son, Jesus. Your support helps Native people, as a whole, to spring forward into God's glorious light.

So, thank you! And even though I don't know you, Stranger, I consider you my friend.

The village was still asleep when our plane landed and we loaded up our gear. I stood on the edge of the airstrip looking at the mountains and river and quiet houses around me.

I suppose my story is not unique from anyone else’s.

Every missionary has their story of falling in love with the people and the heartbreak of when they must leave.

Father, because of our sinful nature, we will always remain like a helpless infant, unable to correct our condition apart from your intervention. Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, who was willing to rescue us from eternal damnation and separation from you and help me to lead others to the cross. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

In the ancient church, the weeks leading up to Easter were a time of preparation for those who were to be baptized with the Easter vigil on Holy Saturday. So, it is seems especially fitting, during this time of reflection and soul searching, that we ask for your help.