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

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPartners for Sacred SpacesComment
Spirited Examen continues on Thursday, 11/16/2023
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.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
From Lamentation to Action: The Role of Faith in Climate Advocacy
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.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardClimate Change, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
For What Shall We Pray? 11/7/2023
For What Shall We Pray? 11/7/2023

  • For peace in our world…

  • For access to humanitarian aid amidst conflicts in Israel and Palestine, Russia and Ukraine, and all places of war and violence…

  • For all refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers…

  • For clean air and for the health of those living under pollution, especially in India…

  • For relief efforts following earthquakes in Nepal…

  • For areas affected by wildfires in West Virginia…

  • For peaceful elections and transitions in government, and for the repair of community relationship…

  • For all who are tasked with serving nations as members of the military, and for those who support and love them…

  • For the spiritual and emotional impact of changing seasons…

Read More
ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Faith Lens: Listening for Hope
Faith Lens: Listening for Hope

In the wake of recent harrowing events in the world, the latest ELCA Faith Lens explores the complexities of coping with distressing news, seeking understanding, and finding hope amidst despair. Read this week’s Faith Lens for a profound discussion on the importance of empathy, justice, and maintaining faith when confronted with the world's stark realities, and discover ways to find solace and strength through community, prayer, and action.

Read More
Worship Resources, ELCA, ResourcesBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, Faith LensComment
Ashleigh’s Story: Finding a Forever Home with Mosaic at Home
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.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMosaic, Disability MinistriesComment
October 2023 ELCA Mission Support Memo
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.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Mission Support TeamComment
All Creation Sings Resources for Advent, Christmas, and Time after Epiphany
All Creation Sings Resources for Advent, Christmas, and Time after Epiphany

This month we celebrate the third anniversary of All Creation Sings, the worship and song supplement to Evangelical Lutheran Worship. As you look ahead to the incarnation cycle of the church year (Advent, Christmas, Time after Epiphany), consider these resources to support your new or continued exploration of All Creation Sings.

Read More
ELCA, Resources, Worship ResourcesBrian FlatgardAll Creation Sings, ELCA WorshipComment
Discover Your Next Chapter at the Young Adult Transitions Retreat
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.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young AdultComment
Uncorking Compassion: Lutheran Social Services of Nevada's Evening of Gratitude
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.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Social Services of Nevada, Colorado River Conference Comment
St. John's Lutheran in Glendale featured at Arizona Faith Network Gathering
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.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSt. John's Glendale, Cactus Conference, Arizona Faith Network, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Heat ReliefComment
Inside Augusta Victoria Hospital: A Safe Haven in a War-Torn Region
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.

Read More
ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, August Victoria Hospital Comment
ELCA Global Links: October/November 2023
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.

Read More
ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardGlobal Links, Global Mission, Young Adults in Global Mission, Israel and PalestineComment
Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Alaska Natives in November
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.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAmerican Indian and Alaska Native, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries, Racial JusticeComment
Reflections on the Israel-Hamas Conflict: Scarcity, Abundance, and Imagination
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.

Read More
ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, ELCA World HungerComment
Lutheran World Federation: Crisis in the Holy Land
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.

Read More
Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran World Federation, Israel and PalestineComment
Bishop Azar: Keeping hope alive in the Holy Land
Bishop Azar: Keeping hope alive in the Holy Land

In the midst of escalating tensions in the Holy Land, Bishop Sani Ibrahim Azar of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land speaks on the challenges facing the local community during the ongoing conflict. Despite fear and uncertainty, Reformation Day was observed in Jerusalem's Church of the Redeemer, a beacon of hope and ecumenism in troubled times. Bishop Azar calls for prayers and a renewed commitment to peace and reconciliation.

Read More
Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Azar, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, Israel and Palestine, Lutheran World FederationComment