The ELCA commemorates 50 years of dedicated service through ELCA World Hunger, introduces a new initiative for justice in Palestine and Israel named Sumud, celebrates the recognition of Lutheran Eagle Scout Samuel L. Jones after 60 years, and highlights important updates including calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, registration reminders for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, and insights into Lutheran-Catholic dialogues in "Seeds Monthly" March 2024.
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April marks a milestone for West Valley Young Adults, with 11 diverse events planned across new areas of the valley. This expansion aims to attract members from near the ASU West Campus, Surprise, and Arrowhead, fostering a larger, more vibrant community. Join us in this exciting venture to connect and grow together.
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Reflect on the insights shared by Rev. Aimée Appell on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, as she discusses the vital work of the European Descent Lutheran Association for Racial Justice. Appell highlights the transformative power of action-love observed at the George Floyd Global Square and emphasizes the importance of standing in solidarity with marginalized communities. Through personal experiences and scriptural wisdom, she inspires us to embody God's active love in our efforts to dismantle racism and white supremacy.
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Explore the ELCA Advocacy's March 2024 updates on pressing legislative matters, including the Federal Budget's impact on hunger and housing, the progress of the Yes In God's Back Yard Act for affordable housing, and the efforts towards wildlife conservation and Uyghur human rights. Discover the ELCA's call for ceasefire and support for UNRWA funding, along with its solidarity with Annunciation House, reflecting its commitment to peace, human rights, and support for the vulnerable.
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The Office of the Bishop travels to Christ Lutheran in Sedona for the High Country Conference Spring Gathering, Mar 23, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM. We also share photos from the Installation of Rev. Amy Janssen at Tanque Verde Lutheran in Tucson, our in-person staff meeting and more.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Heriberto Prudencio, who celebrates 34 years on March 25.
The Rev. Kerry Neuhardt, Church of Our Saviour, Lakeside, who celebrates 41 years on March 25.
Read Blessed Tomorrow's April 2024 newsletter for a comprehensive look at engaging climate action events and initiatives. From celebrating the American Climate Leadership Awards to participating in the National Faith + Climate Forum, this newsletter invites you to contribute to meaningful climate advocacy and resilience efforts. Learn from leaders, join impactful webinars, and take action during Earth Month with Blessed Tomorrow.
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Stay connected with the Arizona Faith Network through their latest newsletter. From meditations and educational webinars on American Christian Nationalism to initiatives for hunger and housing advocacy, as well as a significant focus on faith in elections and environmental care, there's a diverse range of opportunities to deepen your faith and contribute to the community. Strengthen your civic infrastructure, support IRC Phoenix Welcome Center, and participate in creating a just and compassionate world.
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From faith+lead, "The Book of Acts: The Ever-Expanding Church" online course rediscovers the early church's vitality and its relevance to our lives today. Through engaging discussions and creative illustrations, participants will explore the Holy Spirit's power, learn to embody Scripture in daily life, and envision a church that continuously expands and embraces diversity, just like the early Christians did.
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This month our ELCA Mission Support Memo for March 2024 explores how the Central States Synod is equipping leaders through their Ministry Lab ~ an active place to ask questions, learn new ideas, work with different “tools” or resources, and experiment to see what works. They welcome anyone from anywhere to engage in the lab. Also learn about how congregations can join in a Cultivating Generous Congregations Cohort starting in April. We also share our gratitude for congregations submitting Annual Congregational Reports. Read the memo here!
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ELCA 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.
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Dive into Week 5 of the ELCA World Hunger Lent Study, exploring the theme of "Resurrection" through biblical reflections on encountering God amidst grief and hope. This session delves into the tension between crucifixion and resurrection, urging us to embrace ministry that acknowledges the world's pain while testifying to the hope of new life.
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For peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially lifting up Palestine and Israel, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, and South Sudan…
For all who recovering, rebuilding, and grieving after severe storms and tornadoes in Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, and Illinois…
For those who are starving and injured waiting for aid in Gaza…
For our Muslim neighbors as they observe Ramadan…
For this Lenten season as we move into Holy Week…
For those who have suffered from gun violence especially in Chicago, District of Columbia, Ohio, California, Indiana, Alabama, Tennessee and Florida…
For our policy makers as they make important decisions about healthcare, education, safety, and justice…
For all those participating in the global Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage….
Explore 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.
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As 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
Get ready for the 2024 Synod Assembly by learning how your congregation can determine its number of voting members. Be sure to include new opportunities to include youth, people of color, or non-English speakers. Join us in Mesa this June for a powerful gathering of faith and fellowship.
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Thank you to everyone participating in the 2024 Lenten Challenge! Your commitment enriches our community and supports ELCA World Hunger. Remember, it's never too late to join or donate. Let's continue making a difference together during this Lenten season.
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Join us in Sedona for our final Spring Gathering of 2024 at Christ Lutheran Church, an experience of spiritual growth, community connection, and reflection amidst the beauty of Sedona. Let's explore together what it means to live out God's Word in our lives and communities. Watch the livestream on Vimeo.
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Have you ever considered seminary? Have you ever felt like God might be calling you into ministry, but you’re not sure how or where to start? Join others in discernment at Signs Along the Way, a visit weekend at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, April 5th-7th, 2024. Learn more and register at plts.edu/signs.
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