This month the May 2024 ELCA Mission Support Memo follows the journey of Parkside Lutheran Church, nestled in North Buffalo, NY, where over the last six years they have been experimenting, risking, and building connections to show "God's doors are open for all" and all are invited to come early and stay late! Plus join us Monday, May 20th for a fabulous webinar on "STORY MATTERS" from Rev. Heather Roth-Johnson, a storyteller, a public speaker, a workshop leader, a writer and in general just a creative soul. We also share our gratitude for all the staff and volunteers who work so hard to plan and execute synod assemblies. Read the memo here!
Read MoreIn May, we celebrate National AAPI Heritage Month. The Asian and Pacific Islander Ministries of the ELCA, in conjunction with the Minneapolis Area Synod, the St. Paul Area Synod, and their API leaders will be hosting a 4-person panel on Thursday, May 23 at 7pm to discuss the joys and challenges of being API. The panel will be live streamed on zoom and you can log on by clicking here.
For more information on ELCA API Ministries, visit: Asian and Pacific Islander – Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (elca.org)and Association of Asians and Pacific Islanders of the ELCA
Read MoreRev. Susan J. Briner was reelected as bishop of the ELCA Southwestern Texas Synod during the synod assembly in Corpus Christi, securing another six-year term. With a strong background in both pastoral leadership and academia, Bishop Briner continues to guide the synod with a commitment to service and theological education. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreThe ELCA is actively advocating for the 2024 Farm Bill, urging Congress to pass legislation that provides food security, supports sustainable farming, and promotes inclusivity and environmental stewardship. With the current bill expiring in September 2024, now is a crucial time for action. Engage through the ELCA Action Center, participate in upcoming advocacy webinars, and help shape a Farm Bill that reflects our Lutheran values of care and compassion. Join us in making a difference in our communities and beyond. Read more and learn how @ elca.org.
Read MoreExplore creative ways to use your church's space that align with your church’s mission and your community’s needs in this faith+lead workshop on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, 10 am - 11:30 am PDT/MST.
See how can your church property become a catalyst for mission, a bustling hub for community engagement, and a beacon of hope.
Read MoreThis is a part-time position (approximately 15 hours per week). Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references to Tanya Elias, Music and Arts Minister to Adults, at tanyavelias@gmail.com.
Read MoreExplore the depth of human experience with Kate Bowler's Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day!, a devotional that challenges the norm of forced positivity. Join The Spirited Book Club on May 16th for a discussion that promises to enrich your spiritual journey with honesty and resilience.
Read MoreSupport the Grand Canyon Synod Youth Gathering by donating snacks or gift cards to fuel 165 attendees as they join 26,000 peers in worship and learning. Drop off contributions at the Synod office or donate online or via Amazon.
Read MoreLiving Lutheran shares a brief article about each of the following Ministries of Diverse Cultures and Communities, their mission strategies, and related associations:
African descent (African American, Afro Caribbean, African National)
Don't miss the May 17 deadline to share your story with the Grand Canyon Synod! Whether it’s through writing, photos, or video, let your voice be heard and contribute to our rich tapestry of mission and ministry experiences.
Read MoreSecure your spot for an unforgettable faith-filled adventure at Campformation 2024 in Prescott, AZ. With the registration deadline on May 31, 2024, don’t miss out on this opportunity for spiritual growth and fun in nature. Ideal for 6th to 9th graders, with programs for older GAP campers and counselors too. For more details, view this PDF or visit Lutheran Campformation.
Read MoreThe Spring 2024 edition of the Ambassador-Gram from Lutheran Men in Mission highlights key developments including the nearing completion of the current three-year strategic plan, innovative rebranding efforts, and the launch of an exciting new discipleship training program. Additionally, details for the LMM 2024 Annual Meeting scheduled for June 11 are provided, along with upcoming retreat dates and ongoing weekly Bible and book studies.
Read MoreThe May/June 2024 issue of Gather magazine spotlights the topic of mental health and wellness through articles, reflections and a free, downloadable devotional called, “Compassionate companions.” Share this resource with members of your congregation or use it in your home or Bible study group in May to observe Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn how to subscribe to Gather here.
Read MoreMindy Makant shares a poignant narrative in Living Lutheran about her son's traumatic car accident and the transformative power of remembering through a theology of the cross. She illustrates how a simple act of kindness—a firefighter giving her son a teddy bear—helped shift his memory of the event from trauma to gratitude, embodying the Lutheran belief that Christ is present in suffering, offering hope and transformation.
Read MoreLutheran Social Services of the Southwest shares their webinar on the importance of voting. LAMA also shares one of the testimonies from an LSS staff member, and you can read it here.
Read MoreWhile registration for in-person participation has now closed, you still have time to join online for this year's Festival of Homiletics! Get ready to lean into learning, restoration, and community on May 13-16, 2024, digitally from anywhere. Learn More & Register for the Digital Festival. On the fence? There is a free livestream option. Check it out here.
Read MoreIn their May/June 2024 Global Links update, ELCA Global Mission highlights its enduring commitment to addressing global hunger and poverty through initiatives like AMMPARO, which supports migrants and refugees worldwide. The program, alongside other ELCA efforts such as advocacy for a ceasefire in Gaza and the deployment of missionaries globally, reflects the church's proactive engagement in fostering justice and peace across nations.
Read MoreAfter overcoming many challenges, Cassie found belonging and love with the Rodriguez family. The post Cassie’s Future Is Full of Possibilities appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreExplore the impact of bias and ableism in our communities with Janelle Scales during an ELCA Coaching Zoom session on May 8, 11 am. This discussion will delve into the role of intersectionality and systemic power in shaping access and accommodations, central to our collective liberation and care.
Read More