In this thought-provoking episode of the Pivot Podcast, Dr. Joel Lawrence, president of the Center for Pastor Theologians, offers a fresh perspective on political theology and how churches can navigate our politically polarized landscape. Introducing the concept of “Sabbath politics,” Dr. Lawrence challenges us to reimagine the church’s role in society, shifting from a posture of control to one of trust in God’s rule.
Read MoreFacing tighter budgets and attendance shifts? Join us for a free webinar, Funding Forward: Finding Hope and Sustainability Together, on November 12, 2024, 11am MST, 10am PST, with author Grace Pomroy. Discover faith-centered approaches to funding ministry that focus on hope and mission-driven sustainability. Grace will share real-life stories and practical steps that help churches reimagine finances through innovative models that build community. Register today to take part in this hopeful and transformative conversation.
Read MoreDiscover a groundbreaking approach to missional leadership with Dr. JR Woodward in this thought-provoking episode of the Pivot Podcast.
Read MoreIn this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the transformative power of contemplative practices with Westina Matthews, a former Wall Street executive turned spiritual director.
On September 11, 2001, Dr. Westina Matthews found herself running for her life down 34 flights of stairs in the World Financial Center, adjacent to the World Trade Center. This harrowing experience became a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey, leading her from the corporate world of Wall Street to a life dedicated to contemplative practices and spiritual direction.
Read MoreFeeling the stress of election week? Reconnect with God’s peace through Faith+Lead’s free course, God and Mental Health Challenges, available now. This self-paced course offers a faith-based approach to mental health, practical tips on supporting others, and ways to integrate God’s presence amid life’s stresses. Read a letter introducing the course from Dr. Alicia Granholm, Faith+Lead Senior Director.
Read MoreThis Reformation Day, join hosts Dwight Zscheile and Terri Elton in the Pivot Podcast for a transformative conversation with the Rev. Dr. Mark Tranvik, professor of Reformation history and theology at Luther Seminary. Explore how Martin Luther’s revolutionary insights from the Protestant Reformation can breathe new life into 21st-century ministry and address the challenges facing today’s church.
Read MoreNew resources from ELCA Worship include the NRSVue Bible now available on SundaysandSeasons.com, election-focused prayers and readings, and new devotions for the Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany seasons. Learn more about these updates and how they can enrich your worship experience this season!
Read MoreIn the latest Crucible newsletter from the Church Leadership Institute, you can find a collection of episodes from their Spiritual Life and Leadership podcast that dig deep into the challenges of faith and politics:
Political Power and American Evangelicalism, with Tim Alberta
Tackling Toxic Polarization in Your Church, with Allen Hilton and Andrew Hanauer
Leading Your Church Through Political Division, with Allen Hilton
How Your Church Can Respond to Immigration, with Karen Gonzalez
If you’re looking for some quicker insights, they also have shorter episodes from our “Quick Conversations for the Long Haul of Leadership” series with Tod Bolsinger:
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 MoreJoin the Thriving Leadership Formation series starting October 23, 2024. This weekly online workshop integrates the Enneagram with practical leadership skills to enhance self-awareness, communication, and conflict resolution. Each session is stand-alone, and registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow into a more effective and compassionate leader!
Read MoreHesitant to preach? Diakonia graduates are invited to a four-week Zoom course titled “Preaching Good News to a World in Shambles,” starting October 19. Led by Reverend Carl Zimmermann, this class will help participants craft and deliver heart-engaging sermons, drawing on resources from Dr. Tom Long and Pastor Barbara Brown Taylor. Register now on Diakonia’s website.
Read MoreThe 2025 Portico Compensation Guidelines highlight updated health benefits through Portico Benefit Services for rostered ministers and lay employees. Congregations are encouraged to review the available health plan options—Gold+, Value Copay, and Silver+—and engage in conversations with plan members to select the best fit for their needs during annual enrollment. Learn more about the shared responsibility between congregations and plan members and how to support the well-being of those serving in ministry.
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 MoreDiscover stories of faith and leadership in this month’s Thriving Leadership Formation update! From a reflective journey through Holden Village’s labyrinth to the reinstatement of the “Stories of Thriving” blog series, this newsletter is full of insights for life and ministry. Learn about upcoming cohort opportunities, leadership workshops, and spiritual practices that can support you this fall. Don’t miss out on the latest updates and events—click here to read more! Read the full newsletter.
Read MoreJoin the Thriving Leadership Formation series starting October 23, 2024. This weekly online workshop integrates the Enneagram with practical leadership skills to enhance self-awareness, communication, and conflict resolution. Each session is stand-alone, and registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow into a more effective and compassionate leader!
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 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 MoreAs we enter the season of change, it’s the perfect time for congregations to reimagine their approach to stewardship. Drawing from Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:21, we’re reminded that where our treasure is, our hearts follow. Are your current practices in generosity still sparking joy and connection? If not, this might be the moment to explore new strategies—narrative budgets, fresh offering moments, or seasonal shifts in appeals. Let this autumn be a time of transformation, as we align our stewardship efforts with God’s mission in our communities. Read more in this month's "Where Your Heart Is."
Read MoreThe ELCA Worship team is seeking feedback on ELW Pastoral Care and Occasional Services resources through a survey open until October 7, 2024. Your participation will help shape future worship materials. Click here to complete the survey today!
Read MoreThe Southeastern Iowa Synod Sumud working group and Pastor Peter Petit have developed a liturgy for congregations to use for a service of lamentation and remembrance to be used on or near Sunday, October 6, 2024. Bishop Current has provided a pre-recorded sermon to use as part of this service.
Additionally, the pre-recorded PowerPoint introduction to the Israel-Hamas war, including history of the area, the current conflict, and some ministry perspectives. These are great to use as an accompanying adult forum or study in your congregation. Download all the resources using links in our post.
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