Who Is Christ for Us Today? Honoring Bonhoeffer’s Legacy of Courage and Faith

April 9 marks 80 years since the martyrdom of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German Lutheran pastor and theologian executed for resisting the Nazi regime. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) has curated a powerful set of resources—including a congregational curriculum, prayer liturgy, podcast, and event recordings—to help us reflect on Bonhoeffer’s enduring question: Who is Christ for us today? Explore how Bonhoeffer’s life and theology continue to shape Lutheran faith, civic responsibility, and resistance to Christian nationalism.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardApril 9, 2025Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Church and SocietyComment

Bishop Michael Hunn Responds to Department of Homeland Security: Defending Our Border Ministry

In this video, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande addresses recent letter from the Department of Homeland Security insinuating the diocese's involvement in illegal activities, including human trafficking.

Bishop Hunn outlines the diocese's longstanding ministry efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border, including the operation of a shelter for legal asylum seekers in partnership with Homeland Security's Border Patrol and ICE. He underscores the legality and moral grounding of their work, rooted in Christian teachings and constitutional rights. Despite the scrutiny and funding withdrawal from FEMA, he reaffirms their commitment to borderland ministry and invites support through prayers and donations.

Why Medicaid Matters: A Q&A with Mosaic’s Cheryl Wicks

Medicaid is the lifeline for thousands supported by Mosaic, a Lutheran-affiliated organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this inaugural Q&A of their “Medicaid Matters” series, Vice President Cheryl Wicks outlines why advocacy is urgent, what’s at stake, and how you can take action—starting with sharing your story and contacting legislators.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMarch 28, 2025Church and Society, Disability Ministries, MosaicComment

From Enemies to Peacemakers: Film Screening Explores Radical Reconciliation

Join Casa Peace Ministry Friday, April 4 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale for a screening of Disturbing the Peace, a powerful documentary about Israelis and Palestinians who chose nonviolence and reconciliation. The evening includes pizza, prayer, film, and conversation. Space is limited—register by April 2 at 7:00 pm.

Confronting Christian Nationalism through Relationship, Truth, and Love

On 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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardMarch 26, 2025Church and Society, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, ELCA AdvocacyComment

A Lutheran Response to Federal Cuts: Why These Budget Shifts Matter

The 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.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardMarch 24, 2025Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Church and SocietyComment

Could You Eat on $6 a Day? Take the SNAP Challenge and Raise Awareness

Millions of Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to put food on the table, yet the average benefit of just $6 per day is often not enough to maintain a healthy diet. The SNAP Challenge, happening March 18–20, invites participants to experience firsthand the difficult choices faced by those living on limited food budgets. This challenge raises awareness about hunger, highlights the need for increased SNAP benefits, and encourages congressional action. Learn how you and your congregation can get involved—click here.

Engaged, Not Exhausted: A Lutheran Guide to Advocacy and Service

Feeling overwhelmed by the many needs in our communities? Our partners at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) share practical ways to stay engaged without exhaustion. Whether you have five minutes to make a call, ten minutes to write a letter, or a few hours to host an event, there are simple, effective ways to take action. By setting boundaries, leaning on trusted sources, and building community, we can respond with focus and faith. Click here to read more.

Lutherans Speak Out: The Urgent Need to Defend Medicaid

Proposed Medicaid cuts could leave millions without essential healthcare, impacting our congregations, ministries, and the most vulnerable in our communities. A recent ELCA Advocacy and Lutheran Services in America webinar explores the implications of these changes and how Lutherans can take action. Watch the webinar recording and find key resources to help advocate for protecting Medicaid. Click here to learn more.

United Across Faiths: Lutheran, Jewish, Muslim, and Christian Leaders Stand for Refugees

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has convened an interfaith coalition to advocate for refugees and immigrants, urging the restoration of faith-based partnerships in resettlement. The statement, released during the overlapping holy days of Purim, Lent, and Ramadan, calls on elected officials to renew support for those forced to flee their homes. Read the full statement here.

ELCA Signs Ecumenical Declaration Defending Refuge—Now It’s Your Turn

The ELCA has joined faith leaders in signing The Ash Wednesday Ecumenical Declaration: Defending Refuge, reaffirming our commitment to welcoming immigrants and refugees. Rooted in Scripture and our call to love our neighbors, this declaration challenges harmful policies and advocates for justice. Now, individuals and congregations across the country are invited to add their voices by signing the declaration throughout Lent. Click here to read more and sign the declaration.

ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMarch 6, 2025Immigration and Refugees, 2025 Lent, Church and SocietyComment

Bishop Hutterer: Becoming Easter People

We are called not only to personal reflection but also to communal action—to live as people of grace, serving our neighbors and embodying Christ’s love. This Lent, let us consider how our thoughts, words, and deeds shape the world around us. In a time when political and social divisions run deep, may we be mindful of how we use our voices—not to cut each other down, but to build up, to witness to the hope we share in Christ.

Let us be bold and courageous in speaking for justice, compassionate in amplifying voices often unheard, and steadfast in proclaiming God’s grace through actions that heal and reconcile.

Bishop Eaton Responds to Jerusalem Patriarchs’ Call for Justice in Gaza

The ELCA joins church leaders in Jerusalem in a humanitarian plea for Gaza, standing against the proposed forced displacement of millions. Bishop Eaton calls on Lutherans to respond through prayer, advocacy, and learning, lifting up the voices of our Palestinian siblings in faith. Read more and take action: Click here.

Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 28, 2025Israel and Palestine, Church and Society, Bishop Eaton LettersComment

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!

Global Hunger & U.S. Policy: A Conversation with Rick Steves & Rev. Eugene Cho

Hunger affects 10% of the world, and as people of faith, we are called to respond. On Monday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. MT, Bread for the World President Rev. Eugene Cho joins travel writer and advocate Rick Steves for an online discussion about global hunger, the impact of U.S. foreign aid, and how we can advocate for change. Register now for this free event and learn how you can make a difference. Register here.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 26, 2025Church and Society, Hunger, Bread for the World, Rick Steves, Eugene ChoComment

Five Ways to Support Refugees and Immigrants in 2025

Thousands of refugees and immigrants are seeking safety and stability in our communities. As people of faith, we are called to welcome them with love and action. From sharing accurate information to volunteering, advocating, giving, and supporting employment, there are many ways to help. Read more about how you can make a difference in 2025 with tips from Global Refuge.

Bishop Eaton: Faith, fear, and the call to community

ELCA 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.”

ELCA, Bishop Eaton, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 24, 2025Church and Society, Bishop Eaton LettersComment

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

Bishop Eaton: “You Are a Superpower” in Defending the Vulnerable

ELCA 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.

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