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At the beginning of this new year, we celebrate the heritage of Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History Month. Check out the library’s Bibliographic Brief for Black History Month.

Faculty and staff, do you have professional news that you’d like to share with Story magazine readers? Have you recently published a book or article or presented publicly? Did you represent Luther Seminary at a conference or other event? Submit your news to communic@luthersem.edu by January 30.

If you’re going to be at the ELCA Extravaganza—join us Friday, January 30 from 5-7 p.m. at the Shark Bar (just a short walk from the E) for drinks, apps, and conversation All students, alums, and Luther Seminary friends are welcome. Contact Jen or Jessi in Admissions with any questions. See you in Saint Louis!

Following Grace Pomroy’s 2023 Funding Forward Research Project—which took a broad look at how ministries across North America are experimenting with alternative income sources and self-sustaining ministries—many congregations have requested more information about what sustainable ministry looks like in rural and small town contexts. Grace would appreciate your help in identifying any congregations that you believe might be a good case study site. You can find out more about the specifics of the research project and submit congregation recommendations using this google form by January 31.

Ready to step into 2026 with a new approach to your finances but missed meeting with Grace Pomroy, Director of the Stewardship Leaders Program, during RFS? No worries! Grace is here to accompany you outside of RFS, too. She will listen to your goals without shame or judgement and can help you figure out next steps. Schedule a Zoom meeting with her on Mondays and Wednesdays throughout the winter term. Prefer a different day or time? Email Grace at gpomroy001@luthersem.edu.

In this devotion, Stephen Pera ’88 M.Div., considers what we display publicly as signs of what we treasure most. Read today’s God Pause.