Go First! is a MNS District mission initiative that supports transformational ministry in and through the congregations in our district. Congregational teams from across our district are invited to participate by planning new, entrepreneurial approaches to connect with people in their community.  This initiative invites your congregation to envision, develop, and engage in a new ministry effort for the sake of the Kingdom of God in your local community.

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Rationale

Personal experience and formal studies both speak to the simple truth that Christian congregations are most effective in reaching new people for Christ, and bringing believers to a greater maturity of faith, when they develop new opportunities for service and discipleship that touch the lives of people beyond their current membership. In other words, when Christians are taught and encouraged to exercise their faith through loving actions that serve others, new relationships begin to form, and in those new relationships the gospel can be more personally shared.

One means of encouraging congregations toward Christ-like service in their community is providing them with resources to help implement intentional acts of service both inside and beyond the congregation. This approach is encouraged by our Lord Jesus when he taught His disciples "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet." (John 13:14)

Approved Go First! Ministry Grants

These congregational teams have been approved to receive grants. Perhaps some of these ideas will inspire your congregation to submit a proposal!

There is a dire need to provide biblical teaching and advocacy for the unborn in Minnesota and we are well-positioned to help meet that need. We will provide an exceptional event that encourages God’s people to speak up for life, care for people in body and soul, and teach about the sanctity of human life.

This event will feature knowledgeable, accomplished speakers and it will be bolstered by the collaboration of pastors within the Minnesota South District and the involvement of appointed district leaders.

Our plan is to begin a monthly event for people with disabilities, their families, and their caregivers. It will have an accessible worship service, a meal, and further fellowship time enabled by crafts, service projects, and recreation. Through these events, participants will experience: Jesus First (His ways are our ways; grace for every person near and far), Love Gives (it is self-sacrificial for the good of another according to the Father’s will), Nurture New Life (we are refreshed by gathering around God’s Word, the Lord’s Supper, worship, and fellowship), Purpose-filled (God’s Word shapes our identities and equips us to serve and share His Kingdom), and Beyond our Doors (sharing our resources with those in need).

First responders are those who regularly carry the weight of trauma, crisis, and service to others. They often lack space to rest, process, and receive spiritual care. This ministry is rooted in Christ’s call to love those who serve others. Through faithful presence, shared meals, and God’s Word, first responders will encounter rest for weary bodies and souls, a community that sees and values them, and the hope, forgiveness, and peace found in Jesus. Faith will be shared through accessible Bible study, prayer, faith conversations, and ongoing relationships that invite participants to grow at their own pace.

The goal is to have an uncommon approach to a fair booth. Utilizing eye-catching banners and topic stations, curious fair goers will have a non-threatening opportunity to explore Christian topics. The congregational volunteers staffing the booth will have the chance to teach God’s Word, evangelize by planting seeds of the Gospel, build name recognition, and invite people to church.

The purpose is to establish an LCC (Lutheran Church Charities) K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry that aligns with the mission of bringing Mercy, Compassion, Presence, and the Proclamation of Jesus Christ to those in need. The funds will support the acquisition, training, and sustainability of the Comfort Dog program, enabling meaningful community engagement and outreach.

In the fall of 2025, the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe and DCE Jessica Blocker noticed an uptick in questions coming from parents and older generations about technology and artificial intelligence (AI). These questions ranged from “What apps are safe for my kids to use?” to “How do you download the AI?” Students themselves were trying to navigate the proper use of resources. As a result, in January 2026, Nathan Sutherland of Gospel Tech led two nights of “Tech, AI, and the Gospel.”

The first night, presented to students and youth leaders, focused on how to use the best tech well. There were one hundred participants from the surrounding area! The second night was geared for parents and other interested adults. Nathan stressed the difference between “Tool Tech” and “Drool Tech,” and addressed three major issues resulting from tech and AI: deep fakes, relational AI, and sextortion. Read more here.