While in the Crescent City, attendees will have several opportunities to explore and experience the rich history and vibrancy of the city. To learn more about the ELCA Youth Gathering, visit: elca.org/Gathering. Click here to learn more about additional opportunities to see the city.
Read MoreThe 2024 Farm Bill is at a critical juncture, and the ELCA is calling for a fair legislation that aligns with our Lutheran values of feeding the hungry and caring for creation. As Congress debates significant issues like SNAP benefits and conservation funding, Lutheran leaders are actively engaging with lawmakers to promote justice and sustainability. Learn how you can join our advocacy efforts and make a difference in shaping a just Farm Bill that supports vulnerable communities and environmental stewardship.
Read MoreRev. Soliette Lopez, ELCA missionary and YAGM Mexico Country Coordinator, highlights her recent activities and the impactful stories from the Young Adults in Global Mission program in her latest newsletter for March-May 2024. She shares experiences from the Discernment Interview Placement event in Chicago, personal and community life in Mexico, and plans for her upcoming visits to the United States. To read more about her inspiring journey and how you can support their mission, visit her newsletter at Rev. Soliette Lopez’s Newsletter.
She will be visiting the United States this July 2024 and then March 2025 if any congregations are interested in an in-person visit and update.
Read MoreGiovana Oaxaca shares a blog on ELCA.org observing World Refugee Day, as we celebrate the Lutheran heritage of hospitality and advocacy for refugees. The ELCA continues to lead with its AMMPARO strategy, welcoming congregations nationwide and advocating for fair and generous immigration policies. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Johnson-Reed Act, reminding us of the enduring importance of solidarity.
Read MoreThe ELCA Advocacy Network was active across various platforms in the last few months, from the UN in New York to state legislatures, focusing on crucial issues like sustainable development, justice, and climate change. Highlights include the ECOSOC Youth Forum’s focus on poverty and climate action, successful advocacy days in California and Pennsylvania, and legislative achievements in Colorado. These efforts reflect the ELCA’s commitment to embodying faith through active engagement and advocacy in critical societal issues.
Read MoreCivic engagement is happening this election year in many diverse communities and contexts—and being activated and led by congregations, rostered leaders, ELCA-affiliated state public policy offices and members. Read the latest updates from ELCA Advocacy.
Read MoreAs you make plans for worship in the autumn months, ELCA Worship offers many ways to explore All Creation Sings.
Read MoreIn her letter responding to recent Grants Pass Supreme Court decision, Bishop Eating encourages us as a church to:
Learn and Engage: Let us educate ourselves about housing insecurity and about justice for the homeless. Visit the ELCA Homeless and Justice Network for more information.
Pray: Let us use the ELCA's Homeless and Justice Ministries dedicated devotional guide to pray for those affected by this decision and for our ministries that work to secure shelter for those in need.
Speak Out: Let us review the ELCA World Hunger resource on housing and engage in activities to support effective policies, such as writing a letter to a local news outlet or speaking out at a town hall.
“Criminalizing homelessness is an injustice we must reject. We remain committed to advocating for our unhoused neighbors.”
Read MoreSubscribe to our weekly newsletter to stay connected with your faith community, keep up with synod activities, and celebrate the impactful work being done locally and globally. For leaders looking to streamline communication, we offer to import your existing email list, ensuring your whole community stays informed with ease.
Read MoreExplore your spiritual gifts at our online retreat led by Rev. Stewart McDonald. Held on the first three Saturdays in August, this $35 Zoom retreat will help you discern your gifts and understand how to serve God. Register now at the Diakonia website.
Read MoreBethany Lutheran Church in Scottsdale is looking for a part-time Administrative Assistant. This role requires strong computer, organizational, and communication skills, along with a solid background in administration. Ideal candidates should have a passion for service and effective church office management. Interested? Call us at 480-947-5525 to apply and become a part of our church family’s mission.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop travels for meetings, the youth gathering and vacations. We also attend our synod assembly wrap-up meeting and complete that work in preparation for next year. And we share a photo of the Bishop’s visit to Campformation.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Craig Corbin, Mount Olive, Lake Havasu City, who celebrates 37 years on June 28.
Rev. Gayle Bintliff, who celebrates 23 years on June 29.
Rev. Randy Winsand, Ascension, Paradise Valley, who celebrates 11 years on June 30.
Rev. Myron Nysether, who celebrates 50 years on June 30.
Rev. William Dowling, who celebrates 64 years on June 30.
Rev. John Williams, who celebrates 51 years on June 30.
Rev. Glenn Zorb, who celebrates 45 years on July 1.
Rev. Jan Flaaten, who celebrates 51 years on July 1.
Deacon Brenda J. Laukonis, who celebrates 43 years on July 1.
Rev. Robert Hutson Jr., who celebrates 51 years on July 1.
Rev. Robert Rod, who celebrates 51 years on July 1.
Rev. James Dew, who celebrates 34 years on July 1.
On Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, congregations of the ELCA will join together for our annual day of service, “God’s work. Our hands.” This day continues to be an opportunity to celebrate who we are as the ELCA — one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. As you explore opportunities to participate in your community, explore these resources to plan and promote your day
Read MoreLutheran Summer Music announces its 42nd season, offering over 30 free and open-to-the-public concerts and recitals. All events take place this July at Valparaiso University, and most will be livestreamed. Performances and services are shared by over 250 students, faculty, fellows, worship staff, and guest artists who come together to create a vibrant community of music-makers. The LSM 2024 season will culminate during Festival Week (July 21-28), featuring the LSM Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra, a Festival of Hymns, and closing each day with sung Evening Prayer.
Of special note, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) will join this year’s LSM community and offer an intergenerational performance of J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion. Visit LSMacademy.org/2024 for a complete listing of events and to access the livestream.
Read MoreKing of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe is seeking dedicated individuals for three key positions within their Music Department: Director of Music Ministries, Youth Music Leader, and Organist/Accompanist. These roles are integral to their vibrant worship and community engagement. Start dates for all positions are August 4, 2024. For more details and application procedures, visit our website or contact Vicki Hegebush at vickih@kogaz.org.
Read MoreSpirit in the Desert Retreat Center is seeking a Director of Advancement to lead and manage its fundraising activities. This role involves developing fundraising goals, managing events, and utilizing CRM systems like Bloomerang for strategic decision-making. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in philanthropy, marketing, and event execution. View the job description as a PDF here. For further details or to apply, contact Executive Director Eric Simonson.
Read MoreIn honor of Juneteenth, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries invited Dr. Dianne R. Browne, Ph.D., CFLE, CSE, Chair of the ELCA New Jersey Synod’s Anti-Racism Team to share some thoughts about this federal holiday that many mark as the official end of legalized human enslavement in the United States. For more information on Juneteenth, visit What Is Juneteenth? | HISTORY.
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