These first three months of 2026, I continue to lead weekly Persian-language Divine Services at Zion Hamburg and teach two courses at Riga Luther Academy: Overview of the Bible and now also Introduction to Dogmatics. In the latter class, I am teaching the basics of Christian doctrine from a Lutheran point of view (Law and Gospel; the Means of Grace; justification and sanctification, etc.). As I have noted on Facebook, there are two groups of seminarians in my classes: Europeans who were raised in a secular Western society, and Africans who view the world from a biblical vantage point—without the often-destructive teachings of secularism. These contrasting worldviews are fascinating for me as an instructor, and they keep class discussion lively. God willing, I hope to meet most of the seminarians in person this summer, when we all gather for an in-person intensive in Nairobi, Kenya. More about that in a few months… I’m also very excited about the new pre-seminary class I have assembled, preparing three gifted Iranian Lutherans who wish to start at Riga Luther Academy this coming fall. That little band of men encapsulates my missionary work: sharing the Gospel with Iranians and Afghans, and training up future pastors from that ethnic group who will someday, God willing, be able to pastor Lutheran churches in Persian communities either here in Germany or even back home in a liberated Iran. That latter scenario might even play out in world politics in the next few weeks or months. God alone knows the timing. But His timing is always perfect. In the meantime, thank you so much for your continued love and support. It is a privilege for Lula and me to serve on your behalf, out here on the front lines.
God bless you all!
Pastor Tiews and Lula
The Tiews in Germany 