For Giving Tuesday this year, the Northern Illinois District supported congregations helping those in need.

About 30 congregations and ministries in the LCMS Northern Illinois District help provide food and other necessities to families in need, and the Northern Illinois District office wanted to add to this physical provision the message of God’s Word.

The District collected funds and purchased Arch Books, published by Concordia Publishing House, which retell Bible stories with beautiful illustrations for children. Congregations across the District then distributed these books to appropriate-aged children.

The books were available in English, Spanish, and bilingual English/Spanish versions.

Books were distributed at St. Paul, Dorchester, St. Paul, Mount Prospect, Immanuel, Hillside, and other locations.

“Can you imagine a mom or a dad reading the book with their children? The child is hearing God’s Word, [the parents] are hearing God’s Word… and there’s power in the Word of God!” said NID President Allan Buss in a video message. “Can you imagine that maybe some of those parents would never buy that book for their kids or their grandkids—but it’s provided for them, and with the Word is the Spirit.”

Click to view the full Giving Tuesday video on the NID YouTube channel.

Some of the Arch Books included were The Lord Calls Samuel; Hungry Mouths, Hungry Hearts; Jesus’ Beach Breakfast; and Felipe y el etíope (Philip and the Ethiopian).

Part of the District’s mission is to encourage Christian life rich in Word and Sacrament. These precious little books lead children to treasure the Word of God in their hearts.

The District thanks those who joined in supporting this effort.

Look for more opportunities to participate in District projects next Giving Tuesday, November 29, 2021.

WELLNESS: Promoting and encouraging health and vitality in congregations, schools, ministries, professional workers and lay-leaders.

Arch Books for Kids: Giving Tuesday 2020