Issue 92 of Administration Matters, the bimonthly e-newsletter for ELCA congregational and synodical leaders features: 2024 registration deadline for the 2024 Youth Gathering; Church Mutual Update; How to handle embezzlement; 2023 tax guides are available through Portico and the Tax Filing Information tab on EmployerLink; Writing minutes like a pro; and Tax guide for churches and religious organizations.
Read MoreFor peace in the world, especially Palestine and Israel, Syria, Myanmar, Russia and Ukraine, and Sudan…
For stability amidst political transition in Haiti…
For safe passage of aid ships as they travel to Gaza…
For safety for all who travel and for protection and provision for all migrants…
For blessings upon Muslim neighbors observing Ramadan, and for greater interreligious appreciation and collaboration around the world…
For all victims of gun violence, especially in Apple Valley, CA; Worcester, CA; Jonesboro, AK; Berkeley, MO; Punxsutawney, PA; Lakeland, FL; Laurel, MD; and Dallas, TX…
For those grieving friends and family members following a school bus crash in Rushville, IL and a van crash in Dewhurst, WI…
For fair wages and sustainable employment, especially for those who are marginalized, exploited, underpaid, and underemployed…
In the latest Faith Lens post, Kate Van Valkenburg shares a powerful story of an adventurous hike with a friend that turned into a lesson on trust, the unknown, and God's presence in difficult times. As they faced unexpected challenges, they encountered a group of women who provided the support they needed, reminding us that God shows up in surprising ways. The post also explores the Gospel of John, emphasizing the transformation and hope found in Jesus' teachings, and encourages us to be agents of change in the world.
Read MoreThe ELCA Association of White Lutherans for Racial Justice convened in Minneapolis from March 1-3, focusing on combating white supremacy within the church. The assembly, themed “Building Power Together,” led to a name change to better reflect the group’s mission and included workshops, worship, and strategic planning towards racial justice. Participants engaged with community members from George Floyd Square, emphasizing the importance of action in local communities and the necessity of hesed in justice work.
Read MoreYou're not late — everyone else is just early! From now until April 15, ELCA Youth Gathering registration is $475. It’s not too late to get your krewe together to attend the Gathering this summer.
Registration will close on April 15. Join us for a week of faith formation, worship, fun, jazz and great food. Please contact Pr. Jacqui JPagel@gcsynod.org if you have any YouthGathering 2024 questions.
Read MoreELCA Worship shines a spotlight on upcoming resources and events from Lutheran and ecumenical partners this March and April. Highlights include the ALCM's confectionary workshop, the Institute of Liturgical Studies' conference on liturgy in consumer culture, and Music That Makes Community's unique Soup Singing event. Additionally, the Lutheran Summer Music Academy offers a transformative experience for high school musicians, while Augsburg Fortress presents a wealth of resources and events to enrich congregational life.
Read MoreYour insights can help shape the future of the ELCA. Participate in the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church survey by March 15, 2024, and contribute to our church's mission of renewal and commitment to justice.
Don't miss your chance to contribute to this significant moment in the ELCA's history. The deadline for survey participation is March 15, 2024. For more details and to complete the survey, visit the official CRLC page: ELCA CRLC Survey. Questions and further inquiries can be directed to crlc@elca.org.
Read MoreJoin the ELCA's Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) for a critical listening session with the disability community on March 15th, 2024. Share your insights to help guide the ELCA's future, focusing on inclusivity and dismantling racism. Register now to contribute to a more equitable church, and read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreDiscover how ELCA's Global Links celebrates International Women’s Day by uplifting women like Roza Mavlonova in Kyrgyzstan and women leaders worldwide. From entrepreneurial projects in Kyrgyzstan to scholarships for emerging leaders from global companion churches, ELCA is empowering women to transform their communities.
Plus, learn about the historic consecration of Rev. Paulina Hławiczka-Trotman in the Lutheran Church in Great Britain and how you can get involved in ELCA initiatives, including the new Lenten series Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel. Read more in Global Links.
Read MoreDuring their recent meeting, the ELCA Conference of Bishops addressed critical international and domestic issues, showing support for a cease-fire in Gaza and solidarity with migrants in Texas. They discussed the role of faith in advocacy, updates on Holy Communion practices, and progress from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church. Other topics included synod diversity goals, tackling white supremacy and patriarchy, AMMPARO's expansion, and roster committee recommendations. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreDiscover the transformative journey of Lalistu's family in Ethiopia through the lens of the ELCA World Hunger Lent Study for Week 4. Explore themes of restoration, the impact of community support, and the fight against stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. Learn how ELCA World Hunger and its partners are investing in futures and changing perceptions to build a world where everyone belongs.
Read MoreFor peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Syria, Myanmar, Russia and Ukraine, and Sudan…
For the restoration of collaboration and compassion among political parties and leaders…
For hunger crises in Gaza, Sudan, and around the world…
For contentions in the South China Sea and the Red Sea…
For victims of the fatal plane crash in West Nashville, TN…
For storm and flood threats in the northeastern and southern United States…
For relief and recovery following wildfires in Texas and Minnesota…
For the continued doctor strike in South Korea…
For all victims of assault and abuse…
For Muslim communities preparing to enter the holy month of Ramadan…
In thanksgiving for the gifts and leadership of women across history and across disciplines…
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Living Lutheran is highlighting a few of the many programs and ministries that support women and promote gender justice. Visit these resources to explore how these programs bring awareness to, serve and equip women, and stay tuned throughout this month to learn more: Women of the ELCA, Justice for Women Resource Page, and 50 Years of Ordained Women.
Read MoreJoin the ELCA's Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) for a critical listening session with the disability community on March 15th, 2024. Share your insights to help guide the ELCA's future, focusing on inclusivity and dismantling racism. Register now to contribute to a more equitable church, and read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreIn this week's ELCA Faith Lens, Andrew Thompson shares a reflective piece on finding comfort and connection in assembling puzzles with family, drawing parallels to navigating the complex, interwoven stories of our world and scripture. The article, set against the backdrop of an increasingly digital and overwhelming news landscape, encourages taking a more focused and intimate approach to engaging with the vast "puzzle" of human stories and God’s unfolding narrative.
Read MoreThe ELCA Foundation's latest edition of "Insights" brings opportunities and tools for supporters to enhance their contributions to the church's vibrant ministries. Highlighting the rise in charitable gift annuity rates, the introduction of a new estate-planning resource, and inspiring stories of legacy, the newsletter underscores the impact of thoughtful giving.
Read MoreIn the latest ELCA Young Adult Ministry Updates newsletter, March is bustling with opportunities for young adults in the ELCA! Apply for the Horizon Apprenticeship, share your thoughts with the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church, dive into next year's YAGM cohort, and don't miss registering for the 2024 Young Adult Gathering. Plus, a unique internship at Grace House in Atlanta offers a year of discovery and ministry.
Read MoreSeize a transformative summer with the ELCA's Horizon Apprenticeship Program. Designed for young adults of color or those whose primary language is not English, this initiative offers an enriching blend of internships, mentorship, and online learning from June 2 to July 28, 2024. Apply by March 12 to embark on a journey of growth, leadership, and deepened faith engagement.
Read MoreThe ELCA Advocacy blog post by William Milner and Alex Parker explores the profound significance of election engagement from a faith-based perspective. Highlighting the enthusiasm for the democratic process and the sacred calling to steward democracy, the authors encourage active civic participation as an act of service to neighbors and a commitment to justice.
Read MoreWe are deeply troubled by the actions of the Texas attorney general's office against Annunciation House, a volunteer-run faith-based organization that has been a pillar of welcome and hospitality in El Paso for more than 40 years. Annunciation House has been singled out by the attorney general's office over potential legal violations for the social services it provides to immigrants in Texas. We recognize Annunciation House's exemplary way of faith—by way of humanitarian works in close partnership with the federal government and other nonprofits in the region—that ensures migrants are treated with dignity and respect.
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