Bryan Penman sees the biggest challenge facing the ELCA as its greatest opportunity: offering a new, more resilient way of being church as congregations emerge from the post-pandemic era. “The older institutional structures of our church are hindering our mission,” he said. “The church that is emerging now will let our faith shine in everything we do.” Read the full article in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreThis July, over a dozen congregations from the Grand Canyon Synod are sending their youth and young adults to the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans. Joining 16,000 others, they will participate in a week of faith formation through interactive learning and fellowship. Events include MYLE and the tAble, focusing on youth of color and those with disabilities. Our community prays for their safe and enriching journey as they grow in faith and leadership.
Read More“Friends, it’s here. Our teams have started to arrive, and the city is ready for us. I can’t wait for each of you to experience all that the bayou has to offer while being affirmed that you were created to be — you. Safe travels, dear ones. Let’s have a Gathering!” — Deacon Tammy Jones West, Director of the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering
Read the latest email gNews from the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering here.
Read MoreFor justice and peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Iran, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and South Sudan…
For children, the elderly, the disabled, all the vulnerable who suffer most in the midst of violence and conflict…
For all communities impacted Hurricane Beryl, especially in Texas; for the families of those killed in the storm…
For prophets, preachers, advocates, and all who have the courage to speak difficult truths in the face of opposition…
For stability and healing of creation in the midst of climate crisis; for people and ecosystems whose safety is threatened by increasingly severe heatwaves…
For restoration and renewal for all who are enjoying recreation and vacation time; for just policies that ensure all people a rest from their labors…
This July, the ELCA Worship blog highlights a diverse lineup of events and resources aimed at enriching Lutheran worship practices. From the Lutheran Summer Music Academy’s 30+ livestream events to Augsburg Fortress’ free summer music clinics across the U.S., these offerings are designed to support worship leaders and musicians in deepening their practice and faith. Special features include educational resources and transformative music workshops. Dive into these opportunities to enhance your ministry and personal faith journey by visiting LSMacademy.org/2024 and registering for upcoming clinics and workshops.
Read MoreJoin Vance Blackfox, Justice Nichols, and Wanda Frenchman for a video update on ELCA Indigenous Ministries.
Read MoreClick here to read the summer edition of ELCA Advocacy Connections from the Washington office, featuring policy notes, action alerts, featured resources, and dates of note.
Read MoreJoin the ELCA’s online workshop series through October to delve into how our faith informs our actions and voting on critical social issues. Sessions include topics like corporate social responsibility, abortion, and climate crisis, led by knowledgeable speakers. View a PDF flyer and register now to engage deeply with our social teachings and lead community discussions.
Read MoreKristin Johnston Largen, president of Wartburg Theological Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa, shares about the impact of theologian Jürgen Moltmann on her own spiritual outlook. Moltmann, a professor of systematic theology at the University of Tübingen in Germany, died June 3.
Read MoreThe ELCA has recently updated its parental and family leave policies, endorsing up to twelve weeks of paid leave to support rostered ministers and church staff in their caregiving roles. This policy revision, part of the ELCA’s commitment to gender justice and equitable treatment, was approved with overwhelming support at the Churchwide Assembly.
The Quality of Call Initiative has assembled a report examining how synod compensation guidelines recommend parental and family leave policies and practices for rostered ministers providing care. View the report and synod maps.
Read MoreIn the latest Seeds Monthly, we find this summer is full of opportunities for growth and fellowship within the ELCA community. Join us in celebrating Pride Month through engaging stories from our LGBTQIA+ members, participate in the massive ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans from July 16-20, and learn about new initiatives in family leave policies for our ministers.
Read MoreFor justice and peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Iran, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and South Sudan…
For all in the path of hurricanes, especially in the Caribbean…
For areas impacted by ongoing floods, droughts, wildfires, and landslides…
For all who live with disabilities, especially those who struggle to access adequate healthcare, and those whose contributions to the world are continually undervalued
For the peaceful and respectful transition of power during a season of elections around the world, especially in Iran, France, the UK, Rwanda, and Syria…
For the family and friends of those killed in the stampede at a religious event in India, as well as all who were injured…
For inventors and innovators like Nikola Tesla and all the ways God invites us into the work of creation and discovery…
In the June and July 2024 updates from the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices, significant advocacy efforts were highlighted from the UN Civil Society Conference in Nairobi to state-level legislative actions in the U.S. Key issues include global reforms, electoral measures in Colorado, advocacy in Pennsylvania, and ongoing legislative concerns in Texas and Wisconsin. These updates showcase the Lutheran commitment to shaping public policies and advocating for justice both globally and locally.
Read MoreJoin the #ELCAElectionActivator network to support and equip ELCA members for nonpartisan participation in the electoral process through monthly virtual gatherings and regular updates. Participate in activities that foster civic engagement. Sign up now to join the next meeting on July 23, 2024 and contribute to a just and peaceful society. Sign up here.
Read MoreThe 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering leadership shares some updates for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, MYLE and the tAble this summer. To learn more about the Gathering, visit elca.org/Gathering.
Read MoreExplore transformative strategies for authentic discipleship in faith+lead’s latest Pivot podcast episode featuring Yolanda Solomon. Discover how to make discipleship relevant and delightful in today’s challenging cultural landscape. Solomon offers insights into creating genuine communities and reframing discipleship as an invitation to beauty. An essential listen for church leaders seeking practical guidance in fostering sincere faith amidst disillusionment. Listen to the full episode here.
Read MoreWhile in the Crescent City, attendees will have several opportunities to explore and experience the rich history and vibrancy of the city. To learn more about the ELCA Youth Gathering, visit: elca.org/Gathering. Click here to learn more about additional opportunities to see the city.
Read MoreThe 2024 Farm Bill is at a critical juncture, and the ELCA is calling for a fair legislation that aligns with our Lutheran values of feeding the hungry and caring for creation. As Congress debates significant issues like SNAP benefits and conservation funding, Lutheran leaders are actively engaging with lawmakers to promote justice and sustainability. Learn how you can join our advocacy efforts and make a difference in shaping a just Farm Bill that supports vulnerable communities and environmental stewardship.
Read MoreRev. Soliette Lopez, ELCA missionary and YAGM Mexico Country Coordinator, highlights her recent activities and the impactful stories from the Young Adults in Global Mission program in her latest newsletter for March-May 2024. She shares experiences from the Discernment Interview Placement event in Chicago, personal and community life in Mexico, and plans for her upcoming visits to the United States. To read more about her inspiring journey and how you can support their mission, visit her newsletter at Rev. Soliette Lopez’s Newsletter.
She will be visiting the United States this July 2024 and then March 2025 if any congregations are interested in an in-person visit and update.
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