In this episode, we welcome Pastor Justin Schmidt of Peace Lutheran Church in McMurray, Pennsylvania. As a circuit visitor in the English District, Pastor Schmidt provides an encouraging perspective on the future of the Missouri Synod, arguing that we have more advantages than we realize and that the work ahead is hard but rewarding. He shares his personal journey from studying engineering to becoming a pastor, a path his family never expected.

Pastor Schmidt also dives into the crucial topic of pastoral community, explaining how building strong, supportive relationships among ministers is revitalizing the synod and creating a sense of hope. He challenges common misconceptions about church growth, advocating for hard, consistent work and relational ministry over trendy, quick-fix solutions. This episode is a powerful reminder that with Christ at the center, the future of our church is bright.