For our 2024 assembly, we are reposting a great symposium on Parliamentary Procedure and Robert’s Rules of Order by David Swartling. View the PDF handout here, and the presentation is available for viewing here with passcode: TQgC5E!7
Special thanks to our amazing guest, David Swartling, for providing this valuable information.
Read MoreAs Pentecost approaches, our community is called to reflect on the Holy Spirit's lessons of unity and inclusion. Inspired by scriptural insights and recent ministry experiences at the US-Mexico border, we are encouraged to view every human being as part of God’s diverse family. Join us in embracing the Spirit's power to transcend all barriers, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate community. Let's celebrate this Pentecost by welcoming all, just as the Spirit does.
Read MoreAs part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share a PDF of an article by the Grand Canyon Synod’s very own Rev. Matthew Metevelis, “Where the Kingdoms Are Held Together”: Free Institutions and the American Church’s Political Vocation, an issue of Word and World, Luther Seminary’s journal of theology.
Read MoreThe United States, as any other nation, is considered a political entity that God uses as a means of providing life and happiness for all. The distinct nature of the American national system is heavily reliant on the virtue of its citizens, and Christians are called to engage in this work both as citizens of the nation and as members of God’s church. —Rev. Matthew Metevelis
This summer offers a vibrant array of musical and worship events lined up for our community. Highlights include the Lutheran Summer Music Academy and Festival for aspiring young musicians, the ALCM’s "Ponder Anew" conference at Valparaiso University, and the Calvin Institute's worship grants. Additionally, Music that Makes Community offers several workshops and community sings, and Augsburg Fortress presents resources for graduates and college students. Read the full article from ELCA Worship at ELCA.org.
Read MoreIf you have a preschool aged child in your household, then it’s likely you’ve watched the recently-released episode of Bluey called “The Sign.” In the first week of its release, it was viewed 10.4 million times! Without giving too much away, the episode begins with all of the children in Bluey’s class hearing their teacher, Calypso, read a Taoist parable called “The Farmer.”
Read MoreIn this week's Faith Lens, Kris Litman-Koon discusses the importance of teaching independence and conflict resolution to children, drawing parallels with spiritual growth in the Christian faith. The reflection emphasizes how, like children learning to resolve their disputes, Christians are called to love and support each other based on the teachings of Jesus. The passage from John 15:9-17 serves as a reminder that love and community are central to our faith, urging us to bear fruit by abiding in Christ's love and extending it to others within and beyond the church.
Read MoreAs part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share this video from the ELCA’s "Study Curriculum on Civic Life and Faith." Watch the video as a standalone resource, or explore the full set of the curriculum, including leader’s guides.
Read MoreIn this week's Faith Lens, we explore how, like toddlers trying to read before they fully understand, we often emulate spiritual practices without full comprehension. The article reflects on Acts 8:26-40, emphasizing that God appreciates our earnest attempts to live faithfully, even when we falter. Through discussion questions and activities, we are encouraged to embrace our spiritual journey with humility and trust, much like a child learning to navigate the world, and to draw nearer to Jesus to bear fruit in our lives.
Read MoreIn the latest Faith Lens, Rita Argus shares a reflection on the importance of connecting with nature and the teachings of Good Shepherd Sunday. By drawing parallels between personal experiences in nature and the biblical imagery of shepherding, Rita explores how these serene moments help ground us spiritually, mentally, and physically.
Read MoreAs part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share a PDF of an article by Isak Tranvik, Uncivil Religion, from A Chosen Nation?, an issue of Word and World, Luther Seminary’s journal of theology.
Read MoreMartin Luther King Jr. has entered the pantheon of American heroes, to be sure. But his legacy is contested, especially in his relation to the assumptions of American civil religion, the common ideals of the nation. Perhaps King pushed beyond these assumptions and challenged them to the core with his concerns for the poor and the radical nature of love. —Isak Tranvik
April brings a host of resources and events from ELCA's partners, perfect for those involved in church worship to refine their craft, connect deeply with their faith, and celebrate the joy of communal singing and planning. Read more in ELCA Worship’s monthly update.
Read More"Bikes of Faith" offers a refreshing perspective on doubt as an integral part of faith, likening Jesus' support in our spiritual journey to a parent's encouragement in learning to ride a bike.
Read MoreIn this week’s Faith Lens, Mariah Mills explores the post-Easter contemplation of "What now?" after celebrating Jesus’ resurrection. As followers grapple with witnessing ongoing injustice and evil in the world, the story of the disciples and Thomas post-resurrection provides a reminder of Jesus' peace amidst fear and doubt. Mills encourages us to recognize the "marks of the resurrection" around us as signs of hope and to live as Christ's body in the world, embracing our role in spreading this hope amidst challenges.
Read MoreAs part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share this video from the ELCA’s "Study Curriculum on Civic Life and Faith." Watch the video as a standalone resource, or explore the full set of the curriculum, including leader’s guides.
Read MoreIn this week's Faith Lens, Kelsey Green from Baltimore, MD, offers reflections for Easter Sunday amidst the tiredness and worry of the world's current state. She explores the assurance that nothing is too big for God, drawing from Paul's words to the Corinthians about the cross's power. The discussion centers around personal powerlessness, the need for reminders that death does not win, and the joy of resurrection as seen through the women at the tomb in Mark's Gospel. This post encourages readers to find joy, share the good news, and support those in grief with the message that death does not have the last word.
Read MoreELCA Worship’s monthly highlights include resources for navigating the worship through national elections, integrating "All Creation Sings" into Lent and Easter services, and spotlighting partner organizations' events that further worship education. Additionally, explore "Love Astounding: Hymns of Jeannette M. Lindholm," a collection inviting deeper reflection on God's mystery and our expression of faith.
Read MoreExplore the unexpected journey of faith with Sarah Fryman as she reflects on the anticipation and reality of life's events through a spiritual lens. This week's Faith Lens delves into the surprises that come with following Jesus, highlighting the transformative Palm Sunday procession and inviting readers to consider their own expectations of God.
Read MoreAs part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share a PDF of an article by Darrell Jodock, The United States, a Chosen Nation?, from A Chosen Nation?, an issue of Word and World, Luther Seminary’s journal of theology.
Read MoreThere are at least two ways to think about the United States as a “chosen nation”: aspirational and exclusivistic. The danger of the latter, which has gained some currency, is that it assumes that America is (or was) already a divinely chosen nation whose actions are blessed by God, rather than a nation that has decided to hold itself to a higher (yet unrealized) standard. —Darrell Jodock
In the latest Faith Lens post, Kate Van Valkenburg shares a powerful story of an adventurous hike with a friend that turned into a lesson on trust, the unknown, and God's presence in difficult times. As they faced unexpected challenges, they encountered a group of women who provided the support they needed, reminding us that God shows up in surprising ways. The post also explores the Gospel of John, emphasizing the transformation and hope found in Jesus' teachings, and encourages us to be agents of change in the world.
Read MoreIn this week's ELCA Faith Lens, Andrew Thompson shares a reflective piece on finding comfort and connection in assembling puzzles with family, drawing parallels to navigating the complex, interwoven stories of our world and scripture. The article, set against the backdrop of an increasingly digital and overwhelming news landscape, encourages taking a more focused and intimate approach to engaging with the vast "puzzle" of human stories and God’s unfolding narrative.
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