Join ELCA Coaching’s third-Wednesday gatherings through 2025 to cultivate connection, courage, and care in faith. Facilitated by Jen Kunka and Rev. Carlton Rodgers, these unrecorded sessions provide a sacred space for healing and reflection. Whether you see yourself as a leader or simply seek community, all are welcome. Lean into the risk of belonging—nobody journeys alone. For more details and additional weekly sessions, visit ELCA Coaching.
Read MoreDawn and Maggie were matched one year ago through Living Innovations for the shared living service. One year later, they call themselves the Valentine’s Day match. Learn why. The post A Valentine’s Day Match Leads to Full Life for Maggie appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreThe 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly is coming to Phoenix, and volunteers are needed to help make it happen! From July 28 to August 2, up to 100 volunteers are needed to assist with registration, worship support, hospitality, and more. This is a unique opportunity to serve the church and witness how the ELCA’s key decisions are made.
Sign up today at gcsynod.org/cwa and help us welcome the ELCA to Phoenix!
Read MoreFaith leaders and immigration attorneys gathered last week for a critical Know Your Rights and Congregational Safety training to address urgent challenges posed by new federal policies. The event emphasized legal protections for houses of worship, emergency response planning, and resources for congregations. We’ve attached key materials, including an Emergency Phone Tree for Houses of Worship and training slides, to help congregations prepare. A second training is being planned—stay tuned for details.
Líderes religiosos y abogados de inmigración se reunieron la semana pasada en la capacitación Conozca sus Derechos y Seguridad Congregacional, abordando desafíos urgentes ante nuevas políticas federales. El evento destacó protecciones legales para iglesias, planificación de respuesta de emergencia y recursos para congregaciones. Hemos adjuntado materiales clave, incluido un Árbol de Teléfonos de Emergencia para Lugares de Culto y diapositivas de capacitación. Se está planificando una segunda capacitación—manténgase informado para más detalles.
Read MoreFaith calls us to action, and the Arizona Faith Network is offering meaningful opportunities to engage this February. From advocating for voting rights to gathering in prayer and celebrating creation care, there are events for all who seek to connect faith with justice. Plus, if you missed last week’s Know Your Rights and Congregational Safety training, slides and resources are now available. See upcoming events and ways to participate in Black History Month, interfaith gatherings, and more. Read the full AFN newsletter and get involved here.
Read MoreOur February 2025 Mission Support Memo takes us to a place in the ELCA where you can build community, deepen faith, expand minds, and inspire service with over 11,000 young adults. Learn about our amazing 176 local campus ministry agencies and cooperating congregations, where the lives of college students and campus communities are transformed through God's abundant grace.
Our memo also encourages congregations to begin planning for a Narrative Spending plan in 2025. All the tips and tricks are found in this video you can use anytime, anywhere, with anyone. As well we ask for your feedback about the memo through a short survey seeking to improve this work we do together.
Read MoreLutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) is facing a severe funding crisis following President Trump’s executive order halting refugee resettlement aid. The abrupt loss of federal funds has forced LSS-SW to lay off staff and scale back critical services for newly arrived refugees in Arizona. Despite the challenges, LSS-SW remains committed to supporting displaced families through private donations and community support. Read more about the impact and how you can help at lamaz.org.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop Staff prepares for the synod assembly in June, the Churchwide Assembly in late July, and attends the Ordination and Installation of Wendi Van Beek at Our Saviour's Lutheran in Tucson, Feb 19, 2025, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
Read MoreLutherans from across Nevada gathered in Carson City for Lutheran Lobby Day, a day of worship, learning, and advocacy. Participants engaged with state leaders on Voter Engagement, Creation Care, and Affordable Housing, living out their faith through action. Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada is committed to continuing this work—and you can be part of it. Join the movement and raise your voice for justice!
Read MoreOn February 10, 200 Lutherans from 29 districts gathered at the Arizona State Capitol for a day of advocacy, meeting with over 40 lawmakers and speaking out on key issues. Guided by faith, participants attended legislative meetings, engaged in training, and shared in prayer and fellowship. Read the full recap on the LAMA site and see photos from this inspiring day of action.
Read MorePastor Kristin Engstrom has completed her first year serving as an ELCA Global Missionary in Madagascar, working alongside the Malagasy Lutheran Church, one of the fastest-growing Lutheran churches in the world. Read about her ministry, the challenges facing Madagascar’s faith communities, and how the ELCA continues to support vital programs, including healthcare and education. Check out her February 2025 Newsletter for stories and photos.
Read MoreCommunity of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria, Arizona, is seeking a part-time Director for Youth Ministries to guide middle and high school students on their faith journey. Help create a grace-based, inclusive community while leading activities, mission trips, and faith-building programs. View the job description as a PDF and contact the church through boldrecklessgrace.org to apply and learn more!
Read MoreFaith and advocacy go hand in hand. As Rev. Kelly Bayer Derrick of the ELCA Virginia Synod reminds us in this ELCA blog post, engaging in civic life is a way to live out our faith and seek abundant life for all. Across the country, ELCA-affiliated public policy offices are hosting advocacy days to help Lutherans and faith-based advocates voice their concerns on issues like housing, hunger, migration, and environmental justice. Want to get involved? Find an upcoming event near you or contact your local synod office to learn how you can participate in shaping just policies in your community.
Read MoreWhen life’s challenges feel like an uphill climb, how do we press on in faith? Drawing inspiration from children joyfully tackling a snowy obstacle, Living Lutheran reminds us that perseverance, prayer, and community help us move forward even when life feels stuck. This reflection from Philippians 3:14 encourages us to trust God’s presence, embrace the work of faith, and find joy in both the struggles and the triumphs. Read more at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreJohn Christensen, a young-adult and disability advocate, is shaping the future of Lutheran leadership through global advocacy and intergenerational dialogue. After serving in Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM), he joined the ELCA’s Young Adult Vocational Fellowship and now works with the World Council of Churches on disability and mental health advocacy. His journey highlights how young leaders can stay engaged in ministry and address crucial issues within the church. Read more about his inspiring work at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreFebruary brings a wealth of opportunities for worship leaders, musicians, and faith communities. From Music That Makes Community’s singing workshops to the Institute of Liturgical Studies’ conference on rites of passage, these events offer learning and inspiration. The Lutheran Summer Music Academy seeks young musicians, while the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians provides training and networking for church musicians. Looking ahead to Lent, Augsburg Fortress has released Life Renewed: Devotions for Lent 2025. Discover more about these events and resources in this month’s ELCA Worship update: Read more here.
Read MoreLutheran Social Services of Nevada is expanding its impact with a new Senior Meals to You (SMTY) program, bringing hot meals to homebound seniors—made possible by donations, including vehicle contributions. Chef Dominic has already won the hearts of seniors with his gourmet, home-style cooking. Meanwhile, LSSN’s pantry served a record-breaking 2,200 individuals in January, and BINGO is back, offering seniors joy and connection. Finally, we celebrate Dre Green, Employee of the Month, for his outstanding service. Learn more about how you can help at LSSNV.org.
Read MoreDiscover the story of the ELCA’s founding and its quest for Christian unity in A Dream Eclipsed by former Bishop Lowell G. Almen. From his unique vantage point as the church’s first secretary, Almen reflects on the ELCA’s formative years, the triumphs and challenges of its early days, and its ongoing mission to embody faith, fellowship, and service. Order your copy today through Augsburg Fortress or major booksellers.
Read MoreFor 85 years, Lutherans have been at the forefront of refugee resettlement, welcoming those fleeing war, persecution, and hardship. What began in 1939 as a small initiative has grown into Global Refuge, continuing the church’s mission of providing safety, empowerment, and new beginnings. From World War II to today, this work embodies our faith in action. Learn more about how you can be part of this ongoing mission at globalrefuge.org/get-involved.
Read MoreWant to make the most of your generosity this year? The ELCA Foundation offers smart, tax-advantaged giving strategies to maximize your impact while providing financial benefits. From stock donations to charitable trusts, there are creative ways to give that align with your financial goals. Learn more and connect with Lisa Higginbotham for personalized guidance.
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