The 2026 Lutherans For Life Fall Gala was held on Friday, September 18, at the Holiday Inn Aiport in Des Moines, Iowa, bringing together nearly 80 guests for fellowship, inspiring stories, and celebration. The gathering highlighted the God-given value of every human life and the people who are speaking up For Life.
The night began with a delicious meal and a word of thanks to the event sponsors and participants. Guests then watched videos from the 2026 Lutherans For Life National Essay Contest winners. Connor Jones, the national winner for grades 6-8, shared “Against the Odds,” while Olivia Brown, the national winner for grades 9-12, shared “That They May Have Life.” Watching these young people share their words and faith was a wonderful way to begin the night.
The Teaching 4 Life Award was presented to Chelsea Adams, a kindergarten teacher at Mount Olive Lutheran School in Des Moines. Chelsea is helping young children learn to recognize and treasure the gift of life God has given them. Her work is a reminder that teaching the value of life can begin at an early age.
The Dominus Vitae Award was presented to Dr. Päivi Maria Räsänen, a physician and member of the Finnish Parliament. Dr. Räsänen shared her personal story of standing publicly for her Christian convictions in Finland and the persecution and years of legal proceedings she has experienced because of her faith. Her testimony reminded guests of the courage it takes to remain faithful to God’s Word and the hope we have in Christ.
The night concluded with Rev. Dr. James Lamb, who shared the stories and the history of Lutherans For Life, connecting it all with a memorable message about sheep, the Good Shepherd, and the ministry of LFL. His message brought smiles and pointed everyone back to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who knows His sheep, laid down His life for them, and faithfully cares for them.
Following the program, a fundraising appeal helped raise money so Lutherans For Life can continue encouraging people to be Gospel-motivated voices For Life. More than $18,000 was grossed from our Fall Gala, and we praise God for the generosity that made this possible. (Click here if you would like to donate.)
The night was a joyful celebration of faith, fellowship, and the God-given value of every human life.
(l-r) Cori Meier, Interim Director of Y4Life, Chelsea Adams, winner of the 2026 Teaching 4 Life Award, Diane Albers, President of Lutherans For Life, Rev. Dr. Aric Fenske, Executive Director of Lutherans For Life
(l-r) Col. John Eidsmoe, a member of the LFL Board of Directors, Diane Albers, Marie Fenske, Rev. Dr. Aric Fenske, Dr. Päivi Maria Räsänen, winner of the Dominus Vitae Award, Nilllo Räsänen, Rev. Dr. James I. Lamb, RoxAnne Lamb