Standing for Justice: Pastor Christine Stoxen Advocates for YIGBY Bill

Pastor Christine Stoxen of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chandler, testified before the Arizona House Appropriations Committee in support of HB2191, the “Yes In God’s Back Yard” (YIGBY) bill. Representing Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) and Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), she spoke on the critical role faith communities play in addressing Arizona’s housing crisis. While the bill advances, significant challenges remain, and continued advocacy is essential. Click here to read the full story on the LAMA site and see how you can help keep up the momentum!

Advocacy as an Act of Hope: ELCA Leaders Share Wisdom

Faith-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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2025Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Living LutheranComment

Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care

ELCA 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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2025Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment

More Questions than Answers: Finding Hope in Advocacy and Faith

In 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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Act Now: Lift the Freeze on Lifesaving U.S. Foreign Assistance

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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2025Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Church and SocietyComment

Defending Care: Why Lutherans Must Speak Out for Medicaid

Proposed 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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 18, 2025Church and Society, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Defending Medicaid: A Call to Action for Lutherans

Proposed 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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 14, 2025Church and Society, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Raising Lutheran Voices: A Powerful Day of Advocacy in Nevada

Lutherans from across Nevada gathered in Carson City for Lutheran Lobby Day, a day of worship, learning, and advocacy. Participants engaged with state leaders on Voter Engagement, Creation Care, and Affordable Housing, living out their faith through action. Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada is committed to continuing this work—and you can be part of it. Join the movement and raise your voice for justice!

200 Lutherans, 40 Lawmakers, 3 Bills: A Day of Faithful Advocacy

On February 10, 200 Lutherans from 29 districts gathered at the Arizona State Capitol for a day of advocacy, meeting with over 40 lawmakers and speaking out on key issues. Guided by faith, participants attended legislative meetings, engaged in training, and shared in prayer and fellowship. Read the full recap on the LAMA site and see photos from this inspiring day of action.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), Advocacy, Church and SocietyComment

Advocacy Days Mobilize Lutherans for Justice

Faith and advocacy go hand in hand. As Rev. Kelly Bayer Derrick of the ELCA Virginia Synod reminds us in this ELCA blog post, engaging in civic life is a way to live out our faith and seek abundant life for all. Across the country, ELCA-affiliated public policy offices are hosting advocacy days to help Lutherans and faith-based advocates voice their concerns on issues like housing, hunger, migration, and environmental justice. Want to get involved? Find an upcoming event near you or contact your local synod office to learn how you can participate in shaping just policies in your community.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Urgent Appeal for Refugee Support Amid Policy Shifts

The recent halt on refugee resettlement and a stop-work order have left hundreds of refugee families in Arizona without critical support. Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is responding to this crisis, but we need your help. Contact your representatives, educate your community, volunteer, or give to ensure that newly arrived refugees receive the support they need. Now is the time to stand together in faith and action. Read more to learn how you can make a difference, and visit LSS-SW’s Refugee Crisis page to act today.

Call to Action: Support Global Health, Refugees, and Food Security Programs

The foreign assistance funding freeze has halted critical global health, refugee, and disaster relief programs—including Lutheran-supported efforts like PEPFAR and Augusta Victoria Hospital. These disruptions put millions of lives at risk by suspending already-approved aid for refugees, famine prevention, and lifesaving medical care. Urge Congress to lift the freeze today. Learn more and take action here: ELCA Action Center.

Brian FlatgardFebruary 6, 2025Church and Society, Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Immigration and Refugees, August Victoria HospitalComment

A Symphony of Prophetic Voices: Lutherans Advocating for Justice at the UN

Lutherans are raising their prophetic voices for justice at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) this March, where the global church will review progress on the Beijing Declaration’s gender justice commitments. Deacon Erin Brown of the Lutheran Office for World Community reflects on the diverse ways Lutherans advocate for the common good, ensuring that God’s love, compassion, and justice are proclaimed. From pastors to students to international leaders, the Lutheran delegation amplifies stories and solutions that work toward a world free from violence and oppression. Read more about how faith informs advocacy and how you can support this vital mission.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 6, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Make Your Voice Heard: Lutheran Day at the Arizona Legislature 2025

Join Lutherans from across Arizona on February 10, 2025, for Lutheran Day at the Legislature. From 9:30 am to 1:30 pm at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix, we’ll advocate for LAMA’s 2025 policy priorities. Prepare with training sessions on January 23, February 6, and February 20. Visit lamaz.org/lutheran-day-2025 to register today!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 3, 2025Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment

Join Lutheran Lobby Day: Advocate for Justice in Nevada

On February 10, 2025, join Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada for a day of faith and action at the Nevada State Capitol. The event begins with worship at St. Paul’s in Carson City and moves to the Capitol for legislative advocacy rooted in Lutheran values of justice and compassion. Registration is required. Click here to learn more and sign up.

Matthew 25 and the Power of Mutual Aid: A Devotional Reflection

In uncertain times, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by fear and division. Yet, Scripture reminds us of our call to community and mutual aid. Reflecting on Matthew 25, ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow Emily Ahern shares how faith can move us beyond isolation into active love and care for those in need. In a world that often feels unwelcoming, how can we create pockets of peace and solidarity? Read the full devotional and join in reflection on building communities of justice and care.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 31, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Foreign & Domestic Nutrition Aid Paused—What You Can Do

The administration has issued an executive order temporarily pausing U.S. foreign aid, including vital nutrition programs that support millions globally. Domestic food programs such as SNAP and WIC may also be impacted, putting 48 million people at risk. Bread for the World urges immediate action—contact your members of Congress today to call for an end to this pause and to protect life-saving food assistance. Read more on the LAMAZ.org site about this action alert from our coalition partners at Bread for the World.

Standing Strong: How You Can Support Refugees in Arizona Today

Recent cuts to humanitarian parole and the suspension of refugee resettlement threaten the safety and future of countless families. As people of faith, we are called to welcome the stranger and stand firm in our commitment to hope and hospitality. Refugees who have already arrived need our continued support—through volunteering, donations, and advocacy.

Learn how you can make a difference today and help keep the flame of hope alive in Arizona in this article from Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, reprinted on the LAMAZ.org site.

Medicaid at Risk: Your Voice Can Make a Difference

The Medicaid program, crucial for millions, is at risk of deep cuts by new Congressional leadership. Lutheran Services in America invites Lutherans to advocate for Medicaid’s protection. Learn how your voice can make a difference in preserving this vital program serving children, families, and seniors.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 29, 2025Lutheran Services in America (LSA), Church and Society, AdvocacyComment

Lutherans in Leadership: A Look at the 119th U.S. Congress

The 119th U.S. Congress includes several legislators with Lutheran affiliation, reflecting the ELCA’s belief in public service as a worthy calling. Learn who’s representing our faith on Capitol Hill and join us in prayer for their work in service to the common good.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 23, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Grand Canyon Synod

News

Connect

Communicate

create