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

Stand for justice in 2025 with ELCA Advocacy: January’s Policy Notes, Events, and Action Alerts

January’s email newsletter from ELCA Advocacy includes critical legislative developments, action alerts for PEPFAR and UNRWA funding, and events like the COP29 webinar (Feb. 5). Learn how to advocate for peace, justice, and creation care this year. Read more here.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 22, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

ELCA Advocacy Update: Critical Federal Decisions Impact Housing, Climate, and Peace

This month’s ELCA Advocacy update highlights urgent issues, including the impact of federal budget delays on housing programs, historic climate finance commitments from COP29, and efforts to block arms sales fueling conflict in Sudan. Learn how Lutheran values are shaping advocacy and how you can act for justice. Read the full update: ELCA Advocacy Blog.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 22, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Welcoming Carly Chamberlain: A New Voice for Justice on the LAMA Policy Council

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) welcomes Carly Chamberlain to its Policy Council. A ministry student at LSTC and longtime member of Faith-La Fe in Phoenix, Carly brings her passion for justice, ecofeminist perspective, and commitment to advocacy to this three-year role. Join us in praying for Carly as she begins this important work of activating faith in love in the public square. Read more on the LAMA website.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 16, 2025Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), 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 FlatgardJanuary 16, 2025Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment

Facing the Storms of Life: Isaiah’s Hope for a Changing Climate

When a bomb cyclone devastated parts of the Pacific Northwest, Isaiah 43:1-3 offered hope: God is with us through every storm. This promise guided young Lutheran advocates who met with federal leaders to address climate change. As we enter a new year, let us act boldly for the common good, rooted in faith and God’s abiding presence. Read more in the latest ELCA Advocacy Fellows Devotional.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 16, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Advocating for Justice in Agriculture: The Farm Bill and Our Faith

The American Relief Act, 2025, passed in December, narrowly avoided a government shutdown and extended key parts of the 2018 Farm Bill through March 14, 2024, while providing $110 billion in disaster relief, including $31 billion for agriculture producers. However, the deal also cut $177 million from USDA’s “orphan” programs, leaving communities and farmers who rely on these initiatives at risk. As Congress prepares to draft a new Farm Bill in 2025, the ELCA urges action to ensure policies reflect faith-based values of equity, sustainability, and care for creation. Learn how you can advocate for a just future in ELCA Advocacy’s Farm Bill blog post.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 16, 2025Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Church and Society, hungerComment

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.

Lutheran Advocacy Day 2025: Join Us at the Arizona Capitol for Justice and Faith

Join Lutherans and friends across Arizona for Lutheran Advocacy Day on February 10, 2025, at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix. From 8:30 am to 1:00 pm, engage in our call to justice as we meet legislators, pray for those who serve, and connect with Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Arizona leaders. Register today to be part of this impactful day of faith and advocacy.

Rev. Paul Larson Named Advocacy Director for LEAN Ahead of Legislative Session

Rev. Paul Larson, lead pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Family in Carson City, NV, has been appointed Advocacy Director for Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN). As the 83rd Nevada Legislative Session approaches, Rev. Larson will represent Lutheran voices on issues like immigration, food insecurity, and environmental care. His leadership promises to strengthen LEAN’s mission of justice and compassion. Learn more about his vision and upcoming initiatives, including February’s “Lobby Day” at the Capitol, at leanforjustice.org.

Step Up as a District Coordinator for Lutheran Day at the Legislature

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona is seeking district coordinators for Lutheran Day at the Legislature on February 10, 2025, at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix. Coordinators will play a critical role in organizing district efforts, securing legislative appointments, and leading conversations with representatives. Training and support are provided. Ready to make a difference? Learn more and register here or email director@lamaz.org.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardDecember 30, 2024Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment

A Year of Advocacy and Blessings: Reflecting on LAMA’s 2024 Impact

2024 was a year of remarkable advocacy through the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry of Arizona (LAMA), with record participation at Lutheran Day at the Legislature and impactful work in areas like hunger, housing, and international aid. As we celebrate Christmas, we reflect on the Nativity’s call to care for the vulnerable and recommit to advocacy in 2025. Read more for highlights from LAMA Director Solveig Muus and an inspiring message from Hunger Advocacy Fellow Autumn Byars.

Know Your Rights: A Resource Guide for Immigrant Accompaniment and Advocacy

In times of heightened uncertainty, our immigrant neighbors need support and accompaniment. The ELCA’s AMMPARO ministry offers critical tools to understand and assert rights during encounters with law enforcement or ICE. This guide includes Red Cards, family preparedness plans, and multilingual resources to help families stay informed and safe. Access the full list of tools and share them with your community as we walk together in faith and advocacy. Read more at ELCA.org.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardDecember 17, 2024AMMPARO, Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Immigration and Refugees, Church and SocietyComment

Advocate for Justice in 2025: Sign Up for Arizona’s Request to Speak System

The Request to Speak (RTS) program empowers Arizona residents to engage with legislative decisions from home. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona makes it easy to sign up by creating your account for you. Get involved in advocacy for justice in 2025 by registering your opinions and tracking bills online. Learn more and apply today at lamaz.org/request-to-speak.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardDecember 11, 2024Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment

Lifting Voices for Justice: ELCA Advocacy on Child Hunger, DACA, and More

From combating child hunger to advocating for climate action and justice for Dreamers, the ELCA continues to live out its call to serve neighbors and proclaim God’s peace. This month’s highlights include updates from COP29, work on U.S.-Israel humanitarian aid, and support for DACA protections. Learn how Lutherans are putting faith into action and how you can join the effort.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardNovember 26, 2024Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Fighting Hunger, Seeking Peace, and Elevating Indigenous Voices: ELCA Advocacy Highlights

From fighting child hunger to advocating for bold climate action at COP29, the ELCA continues to embody Christ’s call to justice. Explore updates on global partnerships, featured resources like Bishop Eaton’s post-election message, and dates to mark, including World AIDS Day. Read more to find ways your congregation can take action this season.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardNovember 22, 2024Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

November Advocacy Updates from UN and State Offices

Discover how Lutherans are putting faith into action this November with advocacy updates from the UN and state public policy offices. From amplifying human rights at the United Nations to championing civic engagement and justice in Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin, our church is making an impact globally and locally. Learn more about these efforts and how you can get involved.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardNovember 22, 2024Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

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