God has a wonderful way of turning simple gifts into great blessings.
LCA International Mission’s Stamps for Mission project has now raised nearly $550,000, with every dollar directed to LCA International Mission programs and projects.
Stamps for Mission began in 1938 through the efforts of Pastor Ted Koch and Mr Ern Unger. Ern became the first stamp receiver and served in this role for 65 years, inspiring and encouraging countless others to contribute in their own way. In earlier years, Stamps for Mission proceeds were sent to the Lutheran Youth of Australia. Proceeds from Stamps for Mission transitioned to LCA International Mission (formerly the Board for Mission) in 2008, through which funds continue to be directed to mission programs and projects with our partner churches.
Over the years, Stamps for Mission has supported a broad range of ministries. Each project has been chosen because it strengthens gospel proclamation, discipleship, leadership formation, and compassionate service within our partner churches. Past support has included:
- the training of pastors, evangelists, and church workers,
- theological education and seminary development,
- care programs for vulnerable children and families,
- leadership development and discipleship training,
- youth ministry initiatives,
- women’s and men’s ministry and diaconal training, and
- community programs that embody Christ’s love in practical ways.
It is remarkable to consider how much ministry has been supported through something as small and seemingly insignificant as used postage stamps. None of this would be possible without the faithful dedication of volunteers who collect, clean, sort, package, and sell stamps. And God multiplies this behind-the-scenes service far beyond what we could imagine. We give thanks to God for this remarkable legacy and for every volunteer and supporter whose simple gifts make such a wide-reaching impact.
Preparing stamps
If you would like to participate in God’s mission through this simple yet powerful ministry, please post your used stamps to one of our volunteer stamp receivers (listed opposite). To make their work easier, we have prepared some guidelines on how best to trim and prepare your stamps. Download the guidelines.
If you would like to help promote the project, you can also print a poster to display at your church building, school, office, or stamp‑collection point download the poster here.
2026 Programs and Projects supported by Stamps for Mission
Thai Good News Centre, Singapore
The Thai Good News Centre (TGNC) is a key mission outreach of the Lutheran Church in Singapore, serving Thai migrant workers and Thai residents seeking community and spiritual support. TGNC offers a welcoming environment where the Thai community can hear the gospel, receive pastoral care, and engage in culturally and linguistically appropriate discipleship. TGNC plays a vital role in ensuring Thai workers far from home experience compassion, encouragement, and the love of Christ in a way that honours their language, culture, and identity. With your support, the Centre continues providing fellowship gatherings, Bible studies, practical assistance, and outreach programs that nurture faith and emotional wellbeing.
Christian Education Training, Indonesia
The National Committee for the Lutheran World Federation in Indonesia (KN‑LWF) supports workshops that strengthen Christian Religious Education (PAK) in Indonesian Lutheran junior and senior high schools. These programs help teachers apply teaching modules grounded in Martin Luther’s Small Catechism, which encourages a contextual and life‑shaping approach to faith formation. Teachers explore how to connect Scripture with the real‑life experiences of their students, while cultivating safe, respectful classroom conversations. Your support enables each workshop to affirm the teacher’s calling as a sower of faith and equip them to guide students with confidence, cultural sensitivity, and a deeper understanding of Lutheran identity.
Tang Krang Community Centre, Cambodia
The Tang Krang Community Centre (TKCC), established by the Lutheran Church in Cambodia in 2016, strengthens families and community life in Kampong Cham Province. With your support, TKCC continues offering a wide range of holistic activities including family ministries, agricultural projects, sports programs, home visits, language classes in Khmer and English, preschool learning, and the Alpha course for young people. The centre also facilitates outreach in nearby Bek Peang village, hosts parent–teacher gatherings that encourage children’s school attendance, and provides monthly Bible studies alongside practical assistance to families in need. Each Sunday afternoon TKCC brings the community together for worship, fellowship, and encouragement.
Saturday Club, Thailand
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thailand’s Saturday Club nurtures children and young people by strengthening relationships between congregations and their surrounding communities. Each week, local volunteers provide a safe, welcoming space where children can explore their cultural heritage, learn about their worth and rights in Thai society, and engage in hands‑on activities that build confidence and connection. With your support, the Saturday Clubs offer a nutritious meal, practical lessons in environmental care, and creative engagement with Scripture through music, art, and interactive storytelling. These activities help children grow in identity, faith, and resilience while deepening the church’s presence within local communities.
Download the programs/projects flyer or contact the LCA International Mission office to request hard copies.
Need more inspiration?
Read these stories about our stamp receivers and the difference Stamps for Mission is making in God’s mission.