This month’s ELCA April 2024 Mission Support Memo inspires us to wonder how God might be calling us into ministry and explores how two neighboring synods are finding joy and strength in walking alongside folks in discernment cohorts. Plus, you do not want to miss the opportunity on May 13th to learn best practices in creating and empowering stewardship teams. This is a time of deep appreciation for all leaders across our church.
Read MoreAt University Lutheran Church and Lutheran Campus Ministry, a commitment to advocacy led to the annual Offering of Letters event, supporting Bread for the World's mission to tackle hunger through federal assistance programs. This year's focus was the pivotal Farm Bill, impacting SNAP funding and food access nationwide. The congregation's letter-writing party fostered community involvement, educated members on policy, and encouraged direct action. Read more on the LAMA website.
Read MoreTime is running out to join the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering! Secure your place before the April 15th deadline for a spiritually enriching week in New Orleans, complete with faith formation, worship, and community. Learn more here.
Read MoreApril 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 observance of Arab American Heritage Month, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries invited Rev. Dr. Niveen Ibrahim Sarras to share her thoughts on this topic.
Read MoreApril's Good Green News from Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) offers a slew of engaging opportunities for congregations to become proactive in creation care, from formulating action plans to participating in national climate discussions. Dive into this month's offerings and see how your faith community can contribute to a greener, more sustainable world.
Read MoreHave you heard of Sumud (formerly Peace Not Walls)? Learn more in this introductory video. Share about this new initiative from the ELCA for justice in Palestine and Israel. Stay connected by LIKING and FOLLOWING us on Facebook (ELCA Sumud) and Instagram (@ELCASumud).
Read MoreOn the most recent episode of Respecting Religion, the podcast from BJC (the parent organization of Christians Against Christian Nationalism), co-hosts Amanda Tyler and Holly Hollman explain why the Bible doesn’t need anyone’s endorsement. You can listen to it wherever you get your podcasts or on BJC's website.
Read MoreLutherans Restoring Creation is grateful for the bounty of amazing people who are part of our Creation Care Ministry circles. We encourage you to invite others to hear Good Green News and help us make more if it. Please explore the work that we have accomplished together in our Annual Report.
Read MoreCelebrate Earth Day this April with Blessed Tomorrow. Dive into the joy and sacredness of spring as we recommit to creation care and climate justice. Discover three powerful ways to engage your congregation and community in meaningful climate action, from participating in the National Faith + Climate Forum to joining One Home One Future and becoming a Climate Ambassador. Let's honor Earth Day and ensure the beauty of our planet for future generations.
Read MoreWhen others said “no” to Alexis, we said “yes!” It’s been life-changing for her.
The post The Right People, Supports and Environment Are Life-Changing can be found on Mosaic.
Read MoreTake advantage of early bird registration for the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly and secure your place at a discounted rate. Join us from June 13-15 for a gathering full of worship, fellowship, and decision-making. Act now—early bird rates end April 15, 2024.
Read MoreMark your calendars and get ready to be part of a life-changing faith journey! The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, MYLE, the tAble, and Young Adult Gathering are your opportunities for growth, service, and worship. Ensure your congregation is part of this transformative experience by registering before the April 15 deadline.
Read MoreIn the April 2024 edition of "Go & Do News," Lauren Smith, Director at Building Resilient Communities Education and Networks, celebrates the 50th anniversary of ELCA World Hunger. This issue invites readers to reflect on the half-century milestone of tackling hunger and poverty through ELCA's dedicated ministry.
It highlights the release of 50th-anniversary resources, a special video, and inspiring stories of partnership and action across the globe, including domestic spotlight on the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches and international focus on FLD-COMIN-CAPA's work in Brazil.
Read MoreIn Living Lutheran’s "Beyond Evangelism: Sharing What Matters," Anthony Bateza explores a nuanced approach to sharing the gospel, focusing on the therapeutic aspects of Lutheran theology rather than conventional evangelism.
Dr. Bateza reflects on the discomfort with traditional evangelist roles and the fear associated with being perceived as coercive. He suggests a shift from a caricatured evangelism to sharing theological depth and substance, emphasizing love, justice, and humility in faith communities.
Read MoreThe 2024 Synod Assembly is honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Toni Hawkins as a special guest and speaker. With her extensive experience in ministry, education, and reconciliation, Dr. Toni's participation promises to inspire and challenge us to embrace a future filled with hope and transformation.
Read MoreCreating a welcoming church environment for autistic children and their families involves understanding, adjustments, and compassion. In this blog post from faithlead.org, Kristin Thomas Sancken shares her personal journey with her daughter Lucy, revealing the significance of individualized care and accommodations. From recognizing sensory sensitivities to explaining church rituals, her congregation’s inclusive approach highlights the power of empathy and acceptance.
Read MoreStay informed and engaged with ELCA Disability Ministries in their latest update. Look forward to a new grant opportunity aimed at supporting and enhancing the work of disability ministries across our community. Additionally, consider joining their advisory team to play a pivotal role in guiding and expanding our ministry efforts.
Read MoreAs you make plans to celebrate the festivals of Pentecost and Holy Trinity and look ahead to summer worship, consider the following ways to explore All Creation Sings.
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