2026 Annual Pastoral Counseling Conference

Luther’s Soul Care Theology for Pastors
Rev. Dr. Rick Marrs, Concordia Seminary Professor and Licensed Psychologist

Sponsored by The Nebraska District LCMS & GracePoint Institute for Relational Health

Date: Monday, June 1, 2026 at University Lutheran Chapel, Lincoln

Speaker: Rev. Dr. Rick Marrs, senior professor of Practical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, and Licensed Psychologist

Topic: Confessional Lutheran pastors have inherited a wondrous theology from Luther and other 16th century theologians. We know how to let that theology guide our preaching and teaching of God’s Word, but how can it also guide our Seelsorge, our care of souls? In this workshop we will explore together how to use Law and Gospel, Two Kinds of Righteousness, and other aspects of our theology to share Christ’s Gospel with people suffering from trauma and other Anfechtung. How can we teach others to meditate on God’s Word in ways that are faithful and edifying for their souls?

This one-day conference will also benefit those who serve as deaconesses, DCEs, parish nurses, etc.

Please contact Kimberly Myers with any questions at kimberlym@ndlcms.org or 402-643-2961, extension 1009.

Conference Location: University Lutheran Chapel, 1510 Q St., Lincoln, NE 68508

Cost: $90 for pastors/church workers, $50 for guest/spouse

Agenda: 9:00-4:00 (registration opens at 8:30)

Registration & Payment: Please register by Friday, May 22. Online payment is preferred and offered with the registration below. If you prefer to pay by check, register using the form below, then choose the “I am paying by check” payment option. Mail the payment to: Nebraska District LCMS, PO Box 407, Seward, NE 68434. Make checks payable to “Nebraska District LCMS” and please note Pastoral Counseling Conference on the memo line. Your registration is only complete when we have received your payment.

Lodging: Lodging is not included in the registration fee. Some options near the Chapel include:
Embassy Suites in the Haymarket –  402-474-1111
Holiday Inn Express & Suites – 402-904-6701
Hilton Garden Inn – 402-475-9000
The Graduate – 402-475-4011

Register now at this link