Serving the Church Together: LBT at the Multiethnic Symposium 

From May 5-6, 2026, Concordia Seminary St. Louis hosted its annual Multiethnic Symposium. LBT was grateful for the opportunity to gather alongside church leaders and participate in two days of praise, conversation, and connection. LBT’s Executive Director and CEO Rich Rudowske along with David Federwitz, director of Partnerships and Scripture Engagement; Kyla Rodriguez, Outreach and Engagement coordinator; and Caitlynn Butcher, Program Data and Partnership coordinator, represented LBT. 

The symposium centered around the theme United in Praise: Celebrating God’s Love and Faithfulness Across All Nations. Participants enjoyed a strong academic lecture series on theology and music, including the 20th Annual Lecture in Hispanic and Latino Theology and Mission: Himnario Luterano and the Birth of New Lutheran Hymns by Rev. Roberto Weber, LCMS Missionary, Dominican Republic. Chapel services over the two days featured rich theological hymns from many cultures around the world, and every Scripture reading was shared in two languages. Music grounded the event, making the atmosphere light and joy filled, opening participants up to explore challenging concepts and engage in crucial mission conversations.  

Downtime between presenters provided opportunities for forming connections and finding common ground in the exhibit hall. United around a shared theology and identity as redeemed sinners through Christ, church leaders engaged with LBT staff in fruitful conversations about practical resources for supporting their multiethnic communities. The symposium was a beautiful glimpse of what is possible when ministries come together to serve the multicultural Church with unity, creativity, and a shared commitment to God’s Word. 

In the evening of the first day, LBT representatives relaxed with other attendees at the Festival of Nations dinner. A live mariachi band set the stage, and everyone feasted on authentic Yucatán Mexican food.  

After the primary conference, David Federwitz and Caitlynn Butcher were welcomed into the multi-Asian group, MAIN (Multi Asian Inter-ethnic Network). This group includes Asian pastors and church workers wanting to intentionally engage in meaningful conversation with LCMS members from different ethnic groups. Their time included meaningful insights about multicultural ministry in the United States, and how LBT can continue to support Scripture access and engagement for domestic language communities.