Three years into the Russia-Ukraine war, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) continues to walk alongside refugees and those impacted by the conflict. From helping families find safety in Romania and Hungary to equipping Roma children in Ukraine with coding skills for a brighter future, LDR’s presence is making a difference. Read about the resilience of those receiving support and how ELCA congregations are part of this ongoing mission. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreFaith-based advocacy is a powerful way ELCA members live out their calling to love God and neighbor. Former state public policy office (SPPO) directors share their insights, emphasizing the persistence, faith, and courage it takes to work for justice. Whether advocating for climate action, hunger relief, or racial equity, Lutherans across the country are making a difference—one conversation, prayer vigil, and legislative meeting at a time. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreELCA state public policy offices nationwide are actively advocating for justice, equity, and compassion. Recent highlights include Arizona's Lutheran Day at the Legislature, Minnesota's housing and environmental initiatives, New Mexico's broad social justice agenda, Pennsylvania's defense of vulnerable communities, Texas's robust advocacy teams, and Virginia's focus on healthcare and criminal justice reform. Explore how Lutherans across the U.S. continue to make a difference. Read the full update here.
Read MoreELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton speaks to the church about the need to check in on one another during this time of great anxiety and fear for so many members. "We may not know what tomorrow brings, but we have each other. And we have the promise of a God who meets us in our fear, who walks with us in our struggles, and who calls us to be bearers of hope.”
Read MoreNew ELCA World Hunger resources for Lent offer ways to deepen faith and take action against hunger through study, prayer, and service. Living Lutheran returns to print with a quarterly edition, and Nuestro Casa para Todos in Puerto Rico opens its doors as a ministry of welcome. Bishop Eaton responds to misinformation, reaffirming the ELCA’s mission. In honor of Black History Month, we highlight the contributions of Black Lutherans in shaping our church. Read more about these stories and more in the latest Seeds Monthly.
Read MoreMercy is more than a word—it’s a call to action. This Sunday’s Gospel reading (Luke 6:27-38) challenges us to love our enemies, give freely, and embody God’s mercy in a divided world. As Lutheran social ministries face funding challenges, we are reminded that mercy is at the core of our faith, not an optional extra. How will we answer Jesus’ call to mercy today?
Read MoreNew ELCA Worship resources are now available, including liturgies for wildfires and hurricanes, newly released Arabic-language worship resources, and guidance on ethical music choices. Plus, explore upcoming Music That Makes Community events, new Lenten devotionals, and a worship planning handbook. Stay informed with the latest worship updates and resources—read the full newsletter here.
Read MoreIn a world where the “common good” feels more elusive than ever, how do we navigate the tension between legality and morality, division and unity? Courtney Hall of the Lutheran Office of Public Policy – California reflects on faith as a guiding light in the midst of uncertainty, especially for those working in advocacy. Instead of placing blame in times of struggle, she encourages us to lean on each other and keep our eyes on the shared values of love, grace, and compassion. Click here to read more in this devotional from the New Year Devotional Series.
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, or political instability, especially Ukraine, Gaza, and Bangladesh…
For safety for all travelers, especially air travel…
For health care workers, researchers, environmental workers, educators, and all professions affected by political changes…
For those who rely on medication for health and well-being…
For Pope Francis, during his hospitalization and treatment…
For flooding in Kansas and West Virginia…
For winter weather and those who live without home or shelter…
A recent funding freeze has halted U.S. foreign aid programs critical to global health, refugee resettlement, and disaster relief—programs already approved by Congress. As Lutherans, we are called to serve our neighbors in need. Contact your congressional representatives today to urge them to restore this lifesaving aid. Take action now: Click here.
Read MoreOn Sunday, Sept. 7, ELCA congregations will come together for “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday, an annual day of service celebrating our call to love and serve our neighbors. Whether through food drives, community clean-ups, or acts of care, this is an opportunity to put faith into action. If your congregation can’t participate on Sept. 7, choose another date—service is ongoing! Visit ELCA.org/DayOfService for resources and inspiration. Mark your calendar and join us in serving our communities!
Read More“Is This Not the Fast I Chose?” (Isaiah 58:6) inspires the 2025 Lenten Series from Sumud and Bethlehem Bible College. Centered on the theme, “Our Christian Call to Disrupt Injustice,” this series invites reflection and action rooted in our faith. Lenten resources will be available in March at Sumud’s webpage: elca.org/sumud.
Read MoreProposed Medicaid cuts in Congress could significantly impact low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—many of whom are served by Lutheran ministries. As people of faith, we are called to protect healthcare access for the most vulnerable. The ELCA is mobilizing action through advocacy alerts, a webinar on March 6, and direct outreach to legislators. Now is the time to act—contact your representatives, sign coalition letters, and learn how your congregation can engage. Click here to read more and take action.
Read MoreELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton calls on Lutherans to take action following an executive order rolling back immigration protections in places of worship, schools, and hospitals. In a video message, she urges congregations to raise their voices and stand with the most vulnerable. While the ELCA cannot be a plaintiff in lawsuits challenging this policy, affected congregations may have legal standing. Watch the full message here and learn how we can respond as church together.
Read MoreWe often struggle with the idea of self-love, yet Scripture reminds us of a deeper truth: we are already God’s beloved. Bishop Kristen Kuempel reflects on the mystery of this love—one that doesn’t rely on our perfection but instead finds joy in who we truly are. In baptism, we are claimed as God’s children, and no flaw, failure, or self-doubt can change that. Read more in her powerful reflection on the Women of the ELCA’s Café blog. Click here to read.
Read MoreJesus calls us to love—our friends, our neighbors, and even our enemies. But what does that look like in practice? In Faith Reflections: The Labor of Love, Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni explores love as a verb, a call to action rather than mere emotion. Reflecting on the parable of the Good Samaritan, she reminds us that loving others doesn’t always mean feeling affection—it means working for their well-being, even through prayer. Click here to read the full reflection on Boldcafe.
Read MoreThe U.S. refugee resettlement program is at a standstill, leaving thousands stranded and vital services in limbo. As Lutherans, we are called to act. The ELCA, in partnership with the Interfaith Immigration Coalition, has drafted a faith-based letter urging the administration to reinstate refugee resettlement. Faith leaders and organizations can sign on today to stand in solidarity with those seeking safety. Read the letter and add your name today.
Read MoreProposed Medicaid cuts in Congress threaten millions of low-income children, seniors, and people with disabilities—including many served by Lutheran ministries. As Lutherans, our faith calls us to protect the vulnerable and advocate for just policies. Learn about the proposed changes, why they matter, and how you can take action through advocacy alerts, upcoming webinars, and direct engagement with lawmakers. Read more and find ways to get involved at ELCA.org.
Read MoreIn a time of division, how do we live out our faith together? Drawing from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, this ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows devotional reminds us that our differences—political, ideological, or personal—are not barriers but strengths. Through advocacy and listening, we can build a society that reflects God’s love for all.
Read MoreIs your congregation prepared for a crisis? A Seattle church recently experienced a disruption during worship, underscoring the importance of having a crisis communications plan in place before it’s needed. The ELCA Strategic Communications team has released best practices and planning guides to help congregations prepare for emergencies, ensure clear communication, and work with local partners. Read more and download the full crisis planning resources to protect your congregation.
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