Posts in ELCA
Lutheran Culture Through Indigenous Eyes: A Call for Genuine Inclusion
Lutheran Culture Through Indigenous Eyes: A Call for Genuine Inclusion

In her compelling reflection in Women of the ELCA’s Café blog post, Wanda Frenchman shares her journey from a non-Christian Indigenous upbringing to embracing Lutheran faith. Raised in a Lakota household, she highlights the significance of community, food, and genuine welcome in her transition to Grace Lutheran Church.

As a leader in Native American Urban Ministry, Wanda emphasizes the need for authentic inclusion in the church, encouraging congregations to embrace newcomers’ diverse traditions and identities. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the love of Christ and the importance of welcoming all people into our faith communities.

Read More
ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardWanda Frenchman, Native American Urban Ministry Phoenix, American Indian and Alaska Native, Grace Phoenix, Capital Conference, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), CaféComment
From South Dakota to Mexico: Reflections on a Year of Service
From South Dakota to Mexico: Reflections on a Year of Service

This year, YAGM Mexico welcomes a new cohort of young adults, ready to serve and grow in their faith through diverse service opportunities. After a transformative year with the first cohort, we reflect on their impact while preparing these new volunteers for their mission. Learn how the YAGM program continues to make a difference through faith, service, and justice, and how you can support their work in Mexico in the latest newsletter (PDF) from Soliette Lopez, YAGM Mexico Country Coordinator.

Read More
ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardYoung Adults in Global Mission, Mexican Lutheran ChurchComment
Advocating for Justice: The New Faces of Hunger Advocacy in the ELCA
Advocating for Justice: The New Faces of Hunger Advocacy in the ELCA

Meet the six new ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows for 2024-2025, who will work tirelessly to address issues of hunger and poverty at both state and national levels. Their year-long fellowship combines professional development and faith formation, integrating Lutheran values with public advocacy. Learn more about these passionate advocates and their work to create a more just world at ELCA.org.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World HungerComment
Seeds Monthly: October, 2024
Seeds Monthly: October, 2024

The latest Seeds Monthly from ELCA features: ELCA Conference of Bishops emphasizes the need to speak the truth; Truth & Healing Movement; and Be a good steward of the planet — and your congregation’s bottom line.

You’ll also find a story on the Fort Wayne Food Truck, upcoming calendar events, bulletin blurbs, and featured resources of hurricane response, the full report of “Sexual Boundary Violations in the ELCA,” and ELCA Good Gifts.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardSeeds MonthlyComment
Lutherans at the Forefront of Global and Local Advocacy: October Updates from the ELCA
Lutherans at the Forefront of Global and Local Advocacy: October Updates from the ELCA

Lutherans are stepping up advocacy efforts across the globe and at home. From shaping discussions at the U.N. Summit of the Future to promoting voter engagement in Arizona and Colorado, the ELCA is making a profound impact. Learn more about the issues we’re tackling and how faith is driving our work for justice and peace. Read the full updates here.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Faith Lens: Justification by Grace through Faith
Faith Lens: Justification by Grace through Faith

Reformation Sunday on October 27 reminds us of the transformative power of justification by grace through faith. As we reflect on Martin Luther’s legacy in this week’s Faith Lens, we are invited to consider how God’s grace continues to reform and shape us today. Join us in worship as we renew our commitment to live by grace, trusting that God’s presence calls us to be lights in the world.

Read More
Worship Resources, ELCA, ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For peace in our world, especially in Gaza and Israel, Ukraine and Russia, Syria, Sudan, Myanmar, Lebanon, and all areas of conflict…

  • For renewal in the church and in the hearts of all Christians, as we follow Jesus in ways of healing, compassion, forgiveness, and concrete acts of love for our neighbors…

  • For victims of extremist attacks in Turkey…

  • For the safety of those targeted by politically-motivated violence in Arizona…

  • For all victims of gun violence, especially in Fall City, Washington…

  • For the United States in this divided political season, for all who are exercising their right to vote, and for safety for all election workers…

  • For the triumph of truth over falsehood, and for all working diligently to combat misinformation and manipulation in our politics, media, and public discourse…

  • For continued relief, recovery, and rebuilding efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton…

  • In gratitude for ELCA partner ministries, who accompany communities around the world in order to alleviate suffering, promote well-being, rebuild after destruction, and work tirelessly for the dignity and flourishing of all…

Read More
ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Watch the World Food Day celebration!
Watch the World Food Day celebration!

Thank you to those of you who attended the online World Food Day celebration on Tuesday. What an incredible time we had looking back on the impact of 50 years of ELCA World Hunger and reflecting on how God is calling all of us into the bold pursuit of ending hunger in our world.

If you missed the event or want to rewatch it, you can view it on demand. Share the video with friends and family, host a watch party with your congregation and use it to get inspired for the work ahead.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World HungerComment
Bishop Eaton: Casting Ballots as People of Faith
Bishop Eaton: Casting Ballots as People of Faith

During this election season and as we prepare to vote as part of our civic responsibility and commitment to the Gospel, Bishop Eaton reminds us, "We are not defined by our political affiliations but by our shared baptism and our commitment to the Gospel. As people of faith, we are called to engage in our communities and work for justice and to advocate for the dignity and well-being of all people. One way we do this is by voting, ensuring that our voices are heard, as we shape our society together." To read more, visit https://www.ELCA.org/CivicEngagement.

Read More
ELCA, Letters, News, Bishop EatonBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, Church and Society, Elections and Voting RightsComment
Filling in a history too long overlooked: An interview with author James R. Thomas
Filling in a history too long overlooked: An interview with author James R. Thomas

The important contributions of African American leaders to the story of Lutheranism in the United States has a regrettably under-documented history. James R. Thomas’ new book A Rumor of Black Lutherans: The Formation of Black Leadership in Early American Lutheranism (Fortress Press) aims to change that.

By tracing the stories of 10 leaders of African descent whose ministry and service shaped the Lutheran church, Thomas allows Lutherans and general students of U.S. religious history to have, in his words, “a more expansive understanding of Lutheran history.” Unfortunately, many of the painful experiences of the leaders Thomas profiles will feel familiar to African American Lutherans who continue to lead our predominantly white church at all levels today. Read the full story in Living Lutheran.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAfrican Descent Lutheran Association, Living LutheranComment
From Tanzania to Your Congregation: Faith in Action Against Global Warming
From Tanzania to Your Congregation: Faith in Action Against Global Warming

Hope for a warming world begins with us. In Tanzania, Beth Elness-Hanson’s work shows how the church can lead in creation care through a gospel-centered approach. By combining biblical teachings, traditional knowledge, and climate science, congregations can make small changes that, together, will transform our communities and care for God’s creation. Discover how faith in action can inspire hope in the face of climate change. Read more in Living Lutheran.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Climate ChangeComment
From Youth Groups to Ships: Eleanor Jerbi on Grace, Justice, and Inclusion
From Youth Groups to Ships: Eleanor Jerbi on Grace, Justice, and Inclusion

Girl Scouts Gold Award recipient Eleanor Jerbi is breaking barriers in disability justice and inclusion within the church. Through her project, she developed tools and trainings to make youth groups and congregations more accessible for neurodivergent individuals. Discover how this Seattle Maritime Academy student is using her Lutheran faith to create inclusive spaces, both on land and at sea in this article in Living Lutheran.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Disability MinistriesComment
Strengthening Faith at Home: The Lasting Impact of Lutheran Camps
Strengthening Faith at Home: The Lasting Impact of Lutheran Camps

Discover how Lutheran summer camps like Rainbow Trail foster leadership and lasting faith in campers, connecting them to family and congregational life. Research from the Rhythms of Faith Project shows that camps play a vital role in influencing spiritual practices at home, offering innovative strategies to help parents and churches continue faith development long after the camp week ends. Explore the impactful partnerships between camps, families, and congregations in shaping the next generation’s faith. Read more at Living Lutheran.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Outdoor Ministry, Lutheran Outdoor Ministries (LOM), Youth and Young AdultComment
Act Now for Climate Protection: OSHA Rule, Climate Training, and More
Act Now for Climate Protection: OSHA Rule, Climate Training, and More

Faith-based advocacy for climate justice is more important than ever. Join ELCA Advocacy’s Christine Moffett on October 29 for a conversation on Nationally Determined Contributions ahead of COP29. Consider becoming a Creation Care Ambassador by attending the virtual Christian Climate Training on November 16, or advocate for worker safety by supporting OSHA’s proposed heat protection rule. Find out more and register for these events here.

Read More
ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardClimate Change, Lutherans Restoring CreationComment
Fort Wayne Food Truck: “Our church has wheels”
Fort Wayne Food Truck: “Our church has wheels”

Living Lutheran features a video interview with Amy Beitelschees-Albers, pastor of come2goministries in Fort Wayne, Ind., discussing her food truck ministry with So Much More Ministries. Each week, Beitelschees-Albers and her team of volunteers make and distribute free meals for members of the Fort Wayne community, building relationships and offering hospitality and prayer.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, HungerComment
Faith Lens: Serving the Public Good
Faith Lens: Serving the Public Good

As election season nears, this week’s Faith Lens calls us to consider how Jesus’ model of servant leadership should influence the way we choose our leaders. Mark 10:45 reminds us that Christ came “not to be served, but to serve,” challenging us to prioritize the public good over personal gain. As we prepare to vote, let’s hold our leaders to this higher standard, asking why they lead and whom they serve.

Read More
Worship Resources, ELCA, ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For peace in our world, especially in Gaza and Israel, Ukraine and Russia, Syria, Sudan, Myanmar, Lebanon, and all areas of conflict…

  • For renewed commitments to de-escalation and diplomacy between nations…

  • For the work of the COP19 biodiversity summit and for increased global commitment to halt and reverse nature loss…

  • For Nobel Peace Prize awardee Nihon Hidankyo and for the organization’s activism against nuclear weapons, and for all survivors of the atomic bomb…

  • For continued relief, recovery, and rebuilding efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton…

  • For safe and easy access to early voting locations, and for safety for all election workers…

  • For all physicians, medical personnel, and health care professionals…

Read More
ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
“Inspired to Give” Webinar: Practical Tools for Growing Generosity
“Inspired to Give” Webinar: Practical Tools for Growing Generosity

Learn how to inspire generosity and simplify giving in your congregation with the “Inspired to Give” webinar, hosted by Vanco and the ELCA on October 24, 2024 at 10 am PDT/MST, 11 am MDT. You’ll gain insights into storytelling, best practices for giving, and exclusive tips on utilizing Vanco’s tools. Sign up today to join or receive the recording!

Read More
ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardStewardship, VancoComment