The ELCA Church Council convened for their spring meeting at the Lutheran Center in Chicago from April 11-14, focusing on enhancing the ELCA's commitment as a welcoming, thriving, and sustainable church. Key highlights included the reappointment of Rev. M. Wyvetta Bullock, the adoption of new social messages, and updates on ongoing dialogues and initiatives. The council also celebrated the ecumenical efforts and internal governance advancements. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreEpiscopal Migration Ministries (EMM) and AMMPARO, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) migrant ministry, have partnered to enhance training and support for asylum-seeker sponsors through the Neighbor to Neighbor program. This partnership aims to bolster community sponsorship efforts by offering practical support and fostering connections for asylum-seekers in areas such as housing, education, and employment. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreIn the ELCA webinar "Go and Tell," held on April 13, 2024, Rev. Rodny Said provided a poignant update from Ramallah, highlighting the current situation in the West Bank. Rev. Dr. Meghan Aelabouni took center stage to discuss effective methods of advocating for justice in Palestine and Israel, addressing frequently asked questions and explaining the concept of Sumud—the ELCA's commitment to partnership, awareness, and advocacy in the region.
Read MoreFor peace among nations, especially Palestine and Israel, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, and South Sudan…
For victims of gun violence, especially in Minnetonka, MN; Washington D. C.; Chicago, IL; and West Philadelphia, PA…
For safety, protection, and compassion for all refugees, migrants, and those fleeing political violence…
For areas affected by storms and extreme weather, especially tornadoes and flooding along the Gulf Coast…
For Muslim communities celebrating Eid al-Fitr…
The Table in Nashville, led by Pastor Dawn Bennett, emerges as a pioneering ELCA congregation focused on the LGBTQ+ community's spiritual needs. Highlighting the creation of the first LGBTQ+ Women of the ELCA unit, this congregation’s journey underlines the importance of acceptance, love, and spiritual healing for marginalized individuals within the faith. Read the full article in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreIn a candid interview with Living Lutheran, Ále Suárez, a Master of Divinity graduate, talks about their unique journey to ministry as a queer Venezuelan American, the transformative role of expressive arts therapy, and the necessity for the church to embrace love and inclusivity for marginalized communities.
Read MoreThis month’s ELCA April 2024 Mission Support Memo inspires us to wonder how God might be calling us into ministry and explores how two neighboring synods are finding joy and strength in walking alongside folks in discernment cohorts. Plus, you do not want to miss the opportunity on May 13th to learn best practices in creating and empowering stewardship teams. This is a time of deep appreciation for all leaders across our church.
Read MoreTime is running out to join the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering! Secure your place before the April 15th deadline for a spiritually enriching week in New Orleans, complete with faith formation, worship, and community. Learn more here.
Read MoreApril brings a host of resources and events from ELCA's partners, perfect for those involved in church worship to refine their craft, connect deeply with their faith, and celebrate the joy of communal singing and planning. Read more in ELCA Worship’s monthly update.
Read More"Bikes of Faith" offers a refreshing perspective on doubt as an integral part of faith, likening Jesus' support in our spiritual journey to a parent's encouragement in learning to ride a bike.
Read MoreIn observance of Arab American Heritage Month, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries invited Rev. Dr. Niveen Ibrahim Sarras to share her thoughts on this topic.
Read MoreHave you heard of Sumud (formerly Peace Not Walls)? Learn more in this introductory video. Share about this new initiative from the ELCA for justice in Palestine and Israel. Stay connected by LIKING and FOLLOWING us on Facebook (ELCA Sumud) and Instagram (@ELCASumud).
Read MoreCelebrate Earth Day this April with Blessed Tomorrow. Dive into the joy and sacredness of spring as we recommit to creation care and climate justice. Discover three powerful ways to engage your congregation and community in meaningful climate action, from participating in the National Faith + Climate Forum to joining One Home One Future and becoming a Climate Ambassador. Let's honor Earth Day and ensure the beauty of our planet for future generations.
Read MoreMark your calendars and get ready to be part of a life-changing faith journey! The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, MYLE, the tAble, and Young Adult Gathering are your opportunities for growth, service, and worship. Ensure your congregation is part of this transformative experience by registering before the April 15 deadline.
Read MoreIn the April 2024 edition of "Go & Do News," Lauren Smith, Director at Building Resilient Communities Education and Networks, celebrates the 50th anniversary of ELCA World Hunger. This issue invites readers to reflect on the half-century milestone of tackling hunger and poverty through ELCA's dedicated ministry.
It highlights the release of 50th-anniversary resources, a special video, and inspiring stories of partnership and action across the globe, including domestic spotlight on the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches and international focus on FLD-COMIN-CAPA's work in Brazil.
Read MoreIn Living Lutheran’s "Beyond Evangelism: Sharing What Matters," Anthony Bateza explores a nuanced approach to sharing the gospel, focusing on the therapeutic aspects of Lutheran theology rather than conventional evangelism.
Dr. Bateza reflects on the discomfort with traditional evangelist roles and the fear associated with being perceived as coercive. He suggests a shift from a caricatured evangelism to sharing theological depth and substance, emphasizing love, justice, and humility in faith communities.
Read MoreStay informed and engaged with ELCA Disability Ministries in their latest update. Look forward to a new grant opportunity aimed at supporting and enhancing the work of disability ministries across our community. Additionally, consider joining their advisory team to play a pivotal role in guiding and expanding our ministry efforts.
Read MoreAs you make plans to celebrate the festivals of Pentecost and Holy Trinity and look ahead to summer worship, consider the following ways to explore All Creation Sings.
Read MoreDiscover the profound impact of biases and power dynamics in shaping our communities and relationships. Join ELCA Coaching for an enlightening one-hour session with anti-bias consultant Janelle Scales on Wednesday, 4/10/2024, 11 am MST/PDT. Login information on the ELCA Coaching website.
Delve into the intersectionality of power, the unique adult-child dynamic, and the path towards using radical compassion to foster deeper connections. Whether you're an educator, parent, or anyone committed to social justice, this session promises insights into practicing more inclusive community care.
Read MoreIn this week’s Faith Lens, Mariah Mills explores the post-Easter contemplation of "What now?" after celebrating Jesus’ resurrection. As followers grapple with witnessing ongoing injustice and evil in the world, the story of the disciples and Thomas post-resurrection provides a reminder of Jesus' peace amidst fear and doubt. Mills encourages us to recognize the "marks of the resurrection" around us as signs of hope and to live as Christ's body in the world, embracing our role in spreading this hope amidst challenges.
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