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Title: Lutheran Vespers Turns 50 ELCA NEWS SERVICE - NEWSBRIEF July 16, 1997 LUTHERAN VESPERS TURNS 50 Lutheran Vespers, a radio ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, celebrates 50 years of programming. Lutheran Vespers began as an evening radio broadcast on WNAX, Yankton, S.D., in 1947. Today Lutheran Vespers is carried on over 200 stations in the United States, Africa and Guam. Hosted by master storyteller and author the Rev. Walter Wangerin, Jr., Lutheran Vespers is heard weekly and features sacred music, both traditional and contemporary, complementing Scripture readings and homilies. "Walt speaks about our day-to-day living," said Irene Stangland, ELCA director for program services. "His words help us to find direction in our spiritual journey. Walt is forthright and clear about life's experiences. There is a real lesson to be learned when listening to his words," said Stangland. Lutheran Vespers will celebrate its anniversary at the ELCA's Churchwide Assembly in Philadelphia August 13-20. August 16 has been set aside as "the day to give thanks" for Lutheran Vespers. Wangerin will speak at a gala banquet that evening. Other anniversary plans include a celebration at Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, Oct. 24, and two seven-day "Alaskan Summer Solstice Cruises" in June 1998. Wangerin will be the storyteller at both events. For information contact: Ann Hafften, Director (773) 380-2958 or [log in to unmask] http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html