Posts in News
Tribal Sovereignty Takes Center Stage at the Vine Deloria Jr. Theological Symposium

On November 13-15, 2023, the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) hosts its annual Vine Deloria Jr. Theological Symposium, a virtual event dedicated to the vital discourse on tribal sovereignty. Named in honor of Vine Deloria Jr., a pivotal figure in the American Indian Movement, the symposium is a testament to his enduring legacy in the fight for Indigenous rights. Read more at ELCA.org.

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Warmth on a Journey: AFN's Coat Drive for Asylum Seekers

Click here to readArizona Faith Network's latest newsletter for enriching events and vital community updates. Engage in serene Monday Meditation, become informed during the National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, and connect at the ASU Interfaith Social. Participate in crucial meetings and the unique Art Auction supporting incarcerated artists. Plus, learn about the AZ Nonprofit Security Grant Program and contribute to the winter coat drive for asylum seekers. Embrace religious diversity with Diwali celebrations and more.

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ELCA Worship's November 2023 Partner Organization Resources and Events

Discover a wealth of resources the latest roundup of ELCA Worship partner highlights. Engage with the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) at their upcoming conference, embrace free musical compositions from the Lutheran Summer Music Academy and Festival, explore the Institute of Liturgical Studies' focus on combating consumerism through liturgy, and navigate the path to discipleship with Journey to Baptismal Living's new website.

Plus, prepare for the seasons of gratitude and expectation with Music that Makes Community and delve into fresh perspectives on preaching, allyship, activism, and campus ministry with Augsburg Fortress. Join the Calvin Institute in their mission to rejuvenate worship with their grants program.

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Connecting Faith and Advocacy: Takeaways from LAMA's Annual Summit

The Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona community convened at the Love of Christ Lutheran Church for an engaging and spirited LAMA Summit. This year's assembly, themed "Advocacy as a Spiritual Practice," not only fortified the bond between advocacy and spirituality but also highlighted key policy focuses: addressing hunger and food insecurity, enhancing voting and civic engagement, and conserving water resources.

The summit, facilitated by Pastor Sarah Stadler, featured story-sharing sessions, strategic planning for advocacy as a daily spiritual routine, and a meaningful invitation writing campaign to legislators for the upcoming Lutheran Day at the Legislature. Read more about the summit on the LAMA site.

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“Sacred Places at the Heart of Communities” Photo Contest deadline is 11/19/2023

Seize the chance to celebrate and showcase the vibrancy and essence of community-serving sacred places across America! Partners for Sacred Places announces its “Sacred Places at the Heart of Communities” Photo Contest, open from October 1 to November 19, 2023, with exciting cash prizes up to $1000. Capture the profound spirituality, community events, open spaces, and services these places offer and share your vision with the world! For submission and more detailed information, please visit Sacred Photo Contest or email photocontest@sacredplaces.org.

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Spirited Examen continues on Thursday, 11/16/2023

Embark on a spiritual adventure with the Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center as Spirited Examen continues this fall. Dive deep into reflective practices focusing on strengthening your bonds with God, Creation, and fellow humans. Engage in meaningful online sessions every other Thursday through 2023. Discover more about this enlightening journey here.

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From Lamentation to Action: The Role of Faith in Climate Advocacy

In an inspiring reflection from the ELCA Fall Climate Summit, Savannah Jorgensen calls us to acknowledge our lament for the climate crisis while also recognizing God's enduring presence and the hopeful, unifying call to action in Isaiah 43. As we face the realities of environmental injustice and degradation, Jorgensen reminds us that through faith, community, and advocacy, we can spark meaningful change and become a part of the "new thing" God is creating in the world.

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Ashleigh’s Story: Finding a Forever Home with Mosaic at Home

Discover Ashleigh's moving journey towards independence and belonging, despite the challenges of cerebral palsy and personal loss. Thanks to the loving support of her mother, the guidance of her grandfather, and the nurturing environment provided by Mosaic at Home, Ashleigh has found her place to thrive. Her story is a powerful testament to the impact of personalized care and the enduring strength of community support.

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October 2023 ELCA Mission Support Memo

ELCA Mission Support’s most recent memo (download PDF) reflects on the enriching "Walking Together 2023" event in Grand Rapids, where over 85 participants from the Northeastern Minnesota Synod came together to share inspiring encounters with Christ. They also share a reminder to mark your calendars for the upcoming webinar on Nov. 27, where Rev. Tim Brown will demystify creating a narrative budget for your community.

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Discover Your Next Chapter at the Young Adult Transitions Retreat

Seeking clarity on life's next chapter? Check out the Young Adult Transitions Retreat from Nov 16-19, 2023. Find support, community, and direction in Wisconsin’s beautiful Lutherdale.

Don't miss this unique chance to discern your path and find your tribe. Dig deep into the event details here, and secure your spot here. If you're in need of financial assistance, simply fill out the form here.

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Uncorking Compassion: Lutheran Social Services of Nevada's Evening of Gratitude

Join Lutheran Social Services of Nevada for "An Evening of Gratitude" wine tasting and fundraiser on Nov 28, 2023, at 4:30 pm. Delight in fine wines, savory bites, and live music while supporting the vital services of LSSN. Get your tickets and details at www.lssnv.org/an-evening-of-gratitude.

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St. John's Lutheran in Glendale featured at Arizona Faith Network Gathering

At the 2023 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering held on 10/24/2023, Pastor Peter Perry and St. John's Lutheran in Glendale was one of the ministries highlighted by Arizona Faith Network in their Heat Respite campaign sharing the work they did this summer. We share the program spotlight video in this post.

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Inside Augusta Victoria Hospital: A Safe Haven in a War-Torn Region

In this article from The Lutheran World Federation, Dr. Fadi Atrash of Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem gives a heart-rending account of the dire impact the Israel-Palestine conflict is having on patients and staff. With access to care hindered and the threat of a looming catastrophe, AVH appeals for a ceasefire and urgent international support.

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ELCA Global Links: October/November 2023

Amidst the turmoil of the Israel-Hamas conflict, we stand with our global family in prayer and support. Read the latest Global Links newsletter for updates on the crisis, mission stories of hope, and ways to get involved. They also share mission personnel updates, new Advent resources and the ongoing Truth and Healing Movement.

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Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Alaska Natives in November

In the United States, November is Native American Heritage Month. Racial Justice Ministries would like to elevate the voices and work of our Indigenous siblings by bringing attention to the multitude of events by the ELCA’s Indigenous Ministries and Tribal Relations. A full list of offerings for this month can be found here, but there are two events that ELCA Racial Justice Ministries would especially like to highlight: the Vine Deloria Jr. Theological Symposium on 11/13/2023 and the 11/23/2023 Day of Mourning. Read more here.

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Reflections on the Israel-Hamas Conflict: Scarcity, Abundance, and Imagination

Confronting the heartbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ELCA urges a compassionate Christian response through the lenses of scarcity, abundance, and faith. Dr. Peter N. McLellan calls us to witness the suffering and respond with abundant life, extending beyond the political divides and into a realm of shared humanity. Discover ways to support, learn, and advocate for peace and justice in this time of crisis.

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Lutheran World Federation: Crisis in the Holy Land

Amid the devastating escalation of violence in Gaza, where hostilities have led to tragic loss of life and a deepening humanitarian crisis, the LWF calls for urgent action. The situation demands immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access to aid the afflicted, as homes and vital infrastructures are in ruins. The LWF reaffirms its longstanding commitment to the Palestinian people, advocating for peace, support, and healing in these dire times.

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