Join Rev. Dr. Eric H.F. Law on Thursday, May 8, for a free webinar that reimagines stewardship through storytelling. Learn how the simple act of writing “love letters to our church” can inspire natural generosity rooted in gratitude and connection. No registration needed—just join online from 4–5:30 p.m. AZ/NV or 5–6:30 p.m. UT/Navajo Nation.
Read MoreOver 20 ELCA leaders from Region 3 gathered March 7–8 at Camp Onomia to discern how God is calling us to end hunger together. Guided by worship, Bible study, and community, the retreat resulted in five shared focus areas: worship, giving, local networking, leader connection, and education. The retreat, supported by an ELCA World Hunger grant, offered hope and renewed purpose in a time of challenge. Click here for more to read Rev. Sarah Stadler’s full reflection on the gathering.
Read MoreOn March 7–8, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania co-hosted a powerful event with United Lutheran Seminary exploring Christian nationalism and how we as followers of Jesus are called to respond. Featuring speakers Amanda Tyler of Christians Against Christian Nationalism and Dr. Lori Brandt Hale on Bonhoeffer’s legacy, the gathering emphasized relational approaches, theological clarity, and communal courage. ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton preached at the closing worship, reminding us we are part of a movement of truth, freedom, and love. Click here to read the full blog post and explore the original article.
Read MoreWhat do Legos have to do with Lent? For Pastor JJ Dygert and others in his congregation, the answer is everything. By limiting their daily Lego builds over 40 days and pairing the practice with devotional readings, they’ve discovered a rhythm of discipline, reflection, and spiritual growth. This creative and surprisingly profound Lenten practice is spreading—brick by brick. Click here to read the full article from Living Lutheran.
Read MoreThe ELCA’s 1993 social statement Caring for Creation and its 2023 companion message call us to faithful, courageous climate action grounded in grace. A recent Living Lutheran article invites us to reflect on the theological roots of climate change, reform unjust systems, and speak hope into a world in crisis. Click here to read the full article on Living Lutheran.
Read MoreJoin Women of the ELCA for the 2025 Leadership Event on Saturday, April 5, from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm MST/PDT(12:00–4:00 pm MDT), held on Zoom. Centered on the theme “Yes! What’s Next?” this virtual gathering invites servant leaders to reflect on calling and mission with dynamic speakers, small group discussion, and a digital toolbox. Registration is open—come be inspired, challenged, and renewed.
Read MoreIn honor of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Dr. Robin Lauermann reflects on a recent ELCA Association of White Lutherans for Racial Justice board retreat in Montgomery, Alabama. The group visited the Legacy Museum and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, deepening their understanding of white supremacy’s legacy and the call to faithful advocacy. Stories of injustice and resilience, like that of Anthony Ray Hinton, challenge and inspire us as people of faith. Click here to read the full reflection.
Read MoreAfter a nine-month journey in space, astronauts returned to Earth to great celebration—an image that parallels the surprising welcome of the prodigal son in this week’s Gospel. As Lent nears its close, we reflect on the radical grace of God, who welcomes us home with joy, no matter how far we’ve strayed.
Read MoreJoin the ELCA Seminaries for a virtual Fireside Chat on Thursday, April 10, as Deacon Krista Anderson and Deacon Beth Anderson explore the ministry of Word and Service in the ELCA. This engaging conversation will offer insight into the call to diaconal ministry and is perfect for those discerning a call or seeking to understand this unique role in the life of the church.
Read MoreThe March 2025 Advocacy Connections update from the ELCA highlights critical federal policy developments affecting public servants, energy and climate programs, immigration enforcement, and international aid. Of particular concern to our synod are proposed HUD staff cuts, threats to solar tax credits used by congregations, funding freezes to Augusta Victoria Hospital in Palestine, and a broader retreat from humanitarian support. These changes call for faithful public witness rooted in our Lutheran theology of justice and care for neighbor. Click here to read the full update from the ELCA Advocacy Office.
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, and violence: Ukraine and Russia, Palestine and Israel, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Syria, Mali, Pakistan, Yemen…
For those affected by the measles outbreak, and for all children at risk for disease and malnutrition around the world…
For astronauts who explore the vastness of the cosmos, and for safe return of astronauts from the International Space Station…
For areas of the United States affected by storms, tornadoes, and blizzards…
For victims of the Honduran plane crash…
For libraries, museums, schools, and all institutions that empower curiosity and education…
For those monitoring earthquakes on the Mount Adams volcano in south-central Washington state…
For medical researchers and all who advance public health through the development of treatments, cures, and safe vaccines…
Mental health struggles are rising, but as a church, we can respond with faith, care, and action. Explore a free study guide from Living Lutheran to learn about mental illness, break stigma, and discuss how congregations can offer support. Download the resource here: Mental Health Study Guide.
Read MoreThis year marks the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a historic gathering that shaped Christian theology and gave us the Nicene Creed. As Lutherans, this is an opportunity to reflect on the creed’s lasting significance in our faith and worship. What does it mean to confess the Nicene Creed today? How does it continue to unite (and sometimes divide) Christians across denominations? Join the conversation as we explore the history, theology, and impact of this pivotal moment in the life of the church. Read more in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreWhen faced with over $1 million in building repairs and no settled pastor, First Lutheran Church in Ketchikan, Alaska, could have crumbled. Instead, through strong lay leadership, deep theological reflection, and an unwavering commitment to mission, the congregation found renewal. Awarded a $175,000 Sacred Places grant and strengthened by support from Lutheran Disaster Response, First Lutheran has not only restored its historic church but also revitalized its faith community. Now, as they prepare to call a new pastor and celebrate their 100th anniversary, their story is one of faith, perseverance, and God’s guiding love. Click here to read more.
Read MoreThe March 2025 Mission Support Memo from ELCA Mission Support connects us as partners in relationship. Hear about how the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin welcomed lay and rostered leaders across the synod to the Grove, providing a beautiful space to wonder, learn, connect, collaborate, and explore how vital ministry can happen in the name of Christ.
This memo also asks to connect with you to get your important feedback about the memo through a short survey seeking to improve this work we do together. We are so grateful to be in partners in relationship across our ELCA synods and congregations.
Read MoreThe March 2025 issue of Administration Matters covers key updates for ELCA leaders, including the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix, new clergy tax guides, insurance trends, and best practices for church administration. Learn about managing employee time, navigating clergy tax status, and strengthening your church’s digital presence. Read the full update here: ELCA Administration Matters – March 2025.
Read MoreLent reminds us that even in the valley, God walks with us into new life. On March 18, join March Good Green News for reflection, resources, and encouragement for faithful creation care. Have a story about your church using Clean Energy Tax Credits? ELCA Advocacy needs your input to help protect these vital incentives. Plus, don’t miss the National Faith + Climate Forum (March 27), the EcoFaith Summit (April 5), and our Earth Day Connections Call (April 22).Finally, March 31 is the last day to direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to Lutherans Restoring Creation—don’t miss this opportunity to support environmental faith initiatives! Read more here.
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, and violence, especially Ukraine, Palestine, and South Sudan…
For ongoing ceasefire and release of hostages in the Middle East…
For victims of a passenger train attack and hijacking in Pakistan…
For areas of political transition or turmoil, including Greenland, Syria, the Philippines, and Portugal…
For an end to discrimination, harassment, and bullying…
For students who rely on free and reduced-cost school meals…
For all farmers, especially on small and local farms…
For all modern prophets and truth-tellers who boldly declare God’s justice for the poor, the vulnerable, and the outcast…
For all suffering measles, RSV, and long Covid…
For gifts of education, research, science, and medicine, that build up the common good…
Looking for ways to deepen your worship ministry? This month’s ELCA Worship partner updates include music and worship events across the country, from Lutheran Summer Music for young musicians to Music That Makes Community training workshops. The Institute of Liturgical Studies, ALCM Conference, and Augsburg Fortress music clinics offer further opportunities for learning and inspiration. Find registration details and new worship resources in our latest blog post. Read more in the ELCA Worship blog post.
Read MoreIs God calling you to lead? The ELCA, in partnership with its seminaries, is offering Online Discernment Groups—a three-session opportunity to explore church leadership and seminary. Whether you’re considering ministry or just curious, these groups provide a space for reflection and connection. Sign up at elcaseminaries.org or email recruitment@elca.org. Rostered ministers interested in leading a group can email Rick.Summy@elca.org.
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