Written and Submitted by Mike Wind, SON Director of Development and Adult Education

For over 32 years, SON has served as a bridge between churches in North America and believers in post-communist and spiritually orphaned regions. We have connected through English Bible Camps and Life & Adventure Teen Camps, introducing the Gospel to young people. Our Generation of Faith Global Education Fund provides scholarships for future Christian leaders. With Adult Education and Church Partnerships we strengthen global Christian communities. During the start of the war, our Ukraine Relief Fund began, supporting war-affected families and churches. As global dynamics shift, SON remains committed to stewarding this ministry for decades to come. The mission of the Church has not ended—God is still writing new chapters of grace, redemption, and hope through those who faithfully serve. How will you be part of this ongoing story of faith and mission?

1. Christ-Centered Proclamation – The Gospel of grace through faith remains at the heart of all SON’s mission efforts.
2. Relational Discipleship – Mission is not transactional; SON builds lasting relationships with those it serves.
3. Partnership & Empowerment – SON doesn’t replace local churches; it equips and strengthens them.
4. Vocation & Everyday Witness – Every believer is called to mission, whether at home or abroad.

Beyond the U.S. – A Growing Global Church

One of the great paradoxes of our time is that while Lutheran churches in the U.S. are shrinking, the global Lutheran Church is growing significantly. Why?

1. The Gospel Thrives in Unlikely Places

• In Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe, Lutheran churches are flourishing. Where the church is persecuted, faith grows deeper. People in post-communist and post-colonial nations hunger for theological depth.

2. The Church in the West vs. the Church in the Global South

• In the West, Christianity is often viewed as optional or outdated. In places where Christianity was previously forbidden or suppressed, people treasure their faith. The future of the Lutheran Church is being shaped by these emerging regions.

3. Why International Mission Matters More Than Ever

• Lutheran mission today is not about exporting American Christianity—it’s about supporting and learning from the global Church. There needs to be equipping of local leaders to strengthen their own communities, and partnering in mutual fellowship and mission. With the shift in global Christianity, SON’s role is more important than ever!

Our focus is on equipping local leaders through pastoral and lay training and education, providing scholarships for future church leaders through the Generation of Faith Education Fund, all while serving as a bridge between Western churches and the growing global Lutheran movement. As we observe the future of mission, there is a call to action that we must acknowledge. As the church declines in the U.S. but thrives elsewhere, the question is: How will we respond? Will we retreat inward, focusing only on our local congregations? Will we embrace our calling to support, equip, and learn from our global brothers and sisters?

The history of mission is a story of God’s faithfulness—from Pentecost, to the Reformation, to today’s global church! SON is honored to play a role in this ongoing story, and we invite you to join us. Pray for the global Church. Partner in mission through giving or going. Support local and global Lutheran and Christian ministries and missionaries. The mission continues— will you be part of it?