The Concordia Plan Services team returned from the “Best Practices for Ministry Conference” in Phoenix energized by meaningful connections with members and ministry leaders from across the LCMS. The theme, “You Are Not Alone,” truly came to life as thousands gathered with a shared passion to serve in His name.

Several moments still stand out — and have us looking forward to more opportunities to connect, including this summer’s Synodical Convention.

We love meeting our members!

Whenever we travel, face-to-face conversations with members of our health, retirement and disability plans are the highlight. Pastors, educators, church workers and family members stopped by with questions about benefits, retirement readiness and available resources.

It’s especially rewarding to provide clarity and peace of mind — sometimes answering questions that have lingered for weeks or months.

We also cherish the stories. Many stopped by simply to say hello or share how the Plans have supported them. Those conversations are powerful reminders of the real lives impacted by the work we do.

Thank you to everyone who visited — even if it was just to grab a highlighter or hand-held fan. (Thursday was warm!) We look forward to seeing you next time we’re in your area.

We love sharing with “Best Practices” attendees!

Beyond our booth, our team shared insights during conference sessions.

President and CEO Jim Sanft spoke on leading through crisis, drawing from his experience guiding Concordia Plan Services through the 2008–2009 financial crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and more. The discussion with fellow LCMS leaders focused on practical, resilient leadership.

Health and Wellness Educator Kelly Menke led an engaging session on the Vitality app, helping participants track healthy habits and maximize rewards.

Senior Financial Educator Amy Klein offered financial fitness tips for all ages, equipping attendees with practical strategies for budgeting, saving and strengthening long-term financial well-being.

We were also grateful to partner with the LCMS Office of National Mission for “Caring for Those Who Serve: A Panel Discussion.” Facilitated by Assistant Vice President Dave Kuschel, LCMS leaders shared actionable ideas to support worker well-being.

We began with a simple but powerful question: “Why is your ministry focused on caring for workers?”

The discussion that followed blended leadership strategy with everyday practices. Highlights included:

• Deaconess Dr. Tiffany Manor (Office of National Mission) emphasizing how lay people can actively care for church workers — sometimes through something as simple as a handwritten note or prayerful encouragement.
• Rev. Vince Parks outlining leadership initiatives at Salem Lutheran (Tomball, Texas) to promote healthy habits, including Vitality incentives, healthier campus snacks and flexible scheduling.
• Dr. Vanessa Seifert (Nebraska District) highlighting the impact of coaching on leadership growth, resiliency and overall wellness.
• Dr. Ben Stellwagen describing Emmanuel-St. Michael School’s (Fort Wayne, Ind.) rotational teacher program, which provides additional days off to support teacher well-being.

We love building new — and strengthening existing — relationships!

Some of the most meaningful connections happen between sessions. Relationships formed or strengthened in Phoenix may lead to new partnerships, new ways to serve LCMS workers or greater engagement with the Plans.

This trip was further enriched by time with Lutheran school leaders at the Lutheran Education Association administrators’ conference, where conversations around AI in education sparked thoughtful dialogue with district executives and school leaders.

We’re deeply thankful for the staff and volunteers of Christ Church Lutheran in Phoenix, led by Pastor Jeff Schrank, whose hospitality makes this event possible. Each year, hundreds of volunteers — including many children — joyfully serve the thousands who attend.

If “Best Practices” fits your ministry’s schedule and budget, we encourage you to consider attending in 2027. The opportunities to connect, learn and grow are invaluable — and we would love to experience it with you.

Until then, look for us at upcoming LCMS events. We hope to see you soon — and some of you back in Phoenix at the Synodical Convention!