This Lent, the five synods of Region 2 are coming together for the 2025 Lenten Challenge, inviting participants to reflect on hunger and water, inspired by Isaiah 58:11:

“The LORD will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in drought, and strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden.”

The challenge centers on spiritual and community practices, learning about hunger and water justice, and supporting the 70-year-old Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission (NELM) in Rock Point, AZ. The synod with the most individual participants earns “bragging rights” in a fun, friendly competition.

How It Works

Participants commit to three (or more!) of the following practices during Lent:

• Daily Devotion – Receive daily devotions by Pastor Bill Dohle or use ELCA World Hunger resources.

• Daily Diligence – Conserve water, learn about water resources, and engage with water in meaningful ways.

• Daily Dedication – Participate in community worship, Bible studies, or activities like water walks and World Water Day celebrations.

• Daily Donation – Pledge $1/day for 40 days to Lutheran Disaster Response, benefiting NELM.

Our goal is for individuals representing 50 congregations per synod to join. Families are encouraged to sign up every member!

Why Lent?

Lent is a season to reflect on our dependence on God and each other. By participating in this challenge, we embody the church’s call to care for the world, share the good news of Christ, and grow as a community of faith.

How to Sign Up

Visit lentenchallenge.org to pledge your participation, explore resources, and find tools to promote the challenge in your congregation. Weekly updates will be shared, and hunger leaders will track progress.

Join us this Lent to deepen your faith, support an essential ministry, and strengthen our connection as the church together.