Join the ELCA’s online workshop series through October to delve into how our faith informs our actions and voting on critical social issues. The final discussion is October 22: Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture with Dr. Richard Perry, emeritus faculty at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.. View a PDF flyer and register now to engage deeply with our social teachings and lead community discussions.
Read MoreThe ELCA’s Truth & Healing Movement calls for the church to confront its colonizing past and move toward healing. With support from the Association of American Indians and Alaska Natives of the ELCA, this movement focuses on advocacy, cultural learning, and spiritual reconciliation. Discover how you can get involved in this important journey of faith and justice at ELCA.org/indigenous.
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 10/22/2024 and contribute to a just and peaceful society. Sign up here.
Read MoreStand Against Christian Nationalism: Register for the Forgotten Luther IV Conference on October 25-26, 2024, in Silver Spring, MD. This event will feature key Lutheran leaders and thinkers addressing the threats to democracy. Register now at www.fliv.us. View a PDF ad and poster as well.
Read MoreOctober is National Estate Planning Awareness Month, a perfect time to reflect on your legacy and ensure your future wishes are clearly outlined. Estate planning is not just for the wealthy — it’s for everyone who wants to protect their loved ones, ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes, and avoid unnecessary stress down the road.
Please reach out to Lisa Higginbotham or your regional gift planner if you have any questions or would like to schedule a meeting. Together, we can create a charitable plan that gives you peace of mind, cares for loved ones, and ensures the continuation of God’s work in the world for years to come.
Read MoreCelebrate 50 years of ELCA World Hunger on World Food Day, Tuesday, Oct. 15, at 7 p.m. Central time. Hear firsthand stories of hope and transformation from ELCA World Hunger partners, including EPES in Chile and Tapestry Farms in the Midwest. Register by Friday, Oct. 11, and join the celebration via Zoom to hear from Presiding Bishop Eaton and learn how we can continue building a just world where all are fed. Learn more here.
Read MoreDiscover a wide range of worship resources and events available for leaders and congregations through the ELCA’s October update. Opportunities include the Lutheran Summer Music Academy for youth, conferences for church musicians and liturgists, and new publications from Augsburg Fortress. Explore more details and how to get involved on the ELCA Worship blog. Read the full update here.
Read MoreLutheran Disaster Response is on the ground following Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm that struck Florida, leaving millions without power. Partnering with the Florida-Bahamas Synod, LDR is focused on long-term recovery in underserved communities. Your support enables the ELCA to act quickly and stay for as long as it takes. Give now to help those affected by Milton and other disasters this season. Learn more at ELCA.org/hurricanes.
Read MoreThe October 2024 Mission Support Memo gives you the opportunity to learn about the Mara Evangelical Church in Indianapolis (MECI) faithfully becoming an organized congregation and how our Indiana-Kentucky Synod took such care to support Khai Cho in becoming their ordained Pastor, called and installed. Please also check out our ELCA Mission Support Resources, sign up for the ELCA quarterly stewardship newsletter, and know how deeply grateful we are for the generosity poured out by congregations, members, and friends to support our worldwide ministry. Find the memo from Living Lutheran here too!
Read MoreIn the latest episode of "CBS Mornings" "The State of Spirituality with Lisa Ling," Lutheran pastor Drew Stever shares his journey as a transgender man and how he's creating an inclusive community at his Hollywood church.
Read MoreBishop Michael Rinehart, with the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod, shares how we can respond to hunger both globally and in our own neighborhoods in this latest video from ELCA World Hunger.
Read MoreAs hurricanes continue to ravage vacation destinations, it’s easy to forget the year-round residents who make these places thrive. Many struggle with poverty and insecurity, and now face additional threats from the storms. In the latest Faith Lens, we explore how our faith calls us to stand with these vulnerable communities—not just in times of disaster, but every day. Learn how you can support through Lutheran Disaster Response and live out the Gospel call to uplift those left behind.
Read MoreFor peace in our world, especially in Gaza and Israel, Ukraine and Russia, Syria, Sudan, Myanmar, Lebanon, and all areas of conflict…
For those in the path of Hurricane Milton, and for continued recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene…
For first responders and essential personnel…
For all working to educate, research, and mitigate the effects of climate change…
In thanksgiving for the work of scientists and researchers, especially new Nobel Prize winners…
For those grieving political violence in southern Mexico…
For victims of gun violence, domestic violence, abuse, and bullying…
For Jewish communities preparing for Yom Kippur, and for all acts of repentance and forgiveness…
For Hindu communities celebrating Durga Puja and Dussehra…
This edition of Seeds Monthly invites you to celebrate World Food Day and 50 years of ELCA World Hunger with a special online event on October 15. Plus, explore the latest Living Lutheran feature on a unique Lutheran love story, read about the draft social statement on civic life and faith, and get involved in the Truth and Healing Movement. Don’t miss updates on upcoming events like the Addiction & Faith Conference and more resources to support your ministry and civic engagement!
Read MoreIn this month’s ELCA Worship update, explore a new blog post on the Feast of Creation, fall worship planning resources, and Living Lutheran’s latest “Hymn of the Month” feature. View the full details here.
Read MoreThe ELCA Disability Ministries team is reviewing applications for the 2024 grants, with decisions expected by October 25. These grants support inclusive ministry across our church. Plus, don’t miss National White Cane Safety Day on October 15 and reflect on National Disability Employment Awareness Month throughout October. Read the latest ELCA Disability updates for full details.
Read MoreJoin ELCA World Hunger in celebrating the 50th anniversary of ELCA World Hunger! On October 15th, the eve of World Food Day, the ELCA will host a special online event featuring stories from global and local partners working to end hunger. Explore new resources for Advent 2024 and Lent 2025, and learn how your congregation can deepen its engagement with hunger relief. Discover how ministries like Central Lutheran in Alaska are tackling the root causes of hunger with creative solutions. Be part of the movement — read more in the October Go and Do News from ELCA World Hunger.
Read MoreUnder the theme “Created to Be,” Gathering Remix is a digital resource with 10 lessons featuring Mass Gathering recordings, exclusive interviews, discussion guides, and more, to enrich discussions with your middle school and high school groups.
Designed to sustain the energy from events such as the Gathering, this dynamic tool helps middle and high school groups stay engaged and inspired. To learn more or to purchase for your group, visit gLearn.
Read MoreThe ELCA Conference of Bishops recently met to address church growth, ministry, and truth in a changing world. Presiding Bishop Eaton called for expanding ministry beyond traditional church buildings while reaffirming the importance of congregational life. The bishops also issued a statement condemning deceitful public discourse and committing to truth-telling in society.
Read MoreThis fall, Augsburg Fortress Publishers is reverting to its familiar name and introducing exciting new resources for Lutheran congregations. From updated worship tools and digital resources to new book series that address today’s pressing social issues, Augsburg Fortress continues to support ministry at every level. Discover the latest in worship renewal, Bible study, and more, as the publishing house deepens its commitment to serving congregations and leaders across the ELCA.
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