Mission trips. Is it about mission or the people going? It's not about me, it won't solve all the world's problems, but fundraising is easy if the mission taps the passions and strengths of those promoting the trip. 

Poverty. It's a religious issue. How are Lutherans affected? How are Lutherans helping? What is the role of the wealthy? The poor? We examine models of rich and poor working together to resolve poverty. 

Spiritual, not religious. This is now the fastest growing segment in the religious landscape. Where are Gen X/Y adults if they're not in church? But some faith communities do draw them in — what do they have in common? What does "spiritual, not religious" mean today, and what does it mean for the church? 

Sunday school. Congregations face many challenges with Sunday school programs. Why is it disappearing? We look at what's new and working and what are the best ways to reinvigorate a dwindling Sunday school. 

Two Kingdoms: The general elections of 2012 provide many "Two Kingdoms" opportunities. In a pluralistic country that strives to separate church and state, what does the Lutheran tradition offer at the intersection of faith and politics? 

Overconsumption. Stuff. And more stuff. We expect it to fill up empty places in our souls. We warehouse it. We throw it away and ship it off to underdeveloped countries. This theological piece challenges our relationship with the material world.

Shrinking church. Shrinking rural America tells us not only about the future of the church, but also the communities in which congregations typically flourished. 

Ten scholars you should know. An introduction to 10 relatively new or younger Lutheran scholars just tenured or about to be tenured, especially those who make efforts to connect the academy to church and society. 

Unusual ministry partners. Congregations are connecting in new and exciting ways, creating some "strange bedfellows" in attempts to grow. We zero in on partnerships that take some mutual risks to bring their assets together for a common purpose. 

Favorite hymns. A "tell us" story, you tell us about a favorite hymn or song of faith that carried you through a time of joy or difficulty. In 200 words of less, tell us the hymn or song, where we can find it, and what it means to you. 

Resurrection wonders. Congregations that everyone thought should be put to sleep and disbanded suddenly find a new sense of purpose and energy. These are resurrection stories based on discovery and ministry, not on a large bequest or stubbornness.