The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans has transformed participants through deep conversations, community engagement, and inspiring worship. Highlighted by Bishop Eaton’s powerful closing message and a living Good Samaritan story, the week exemplified discipleship and the call to see Jesus in every neighbor. As we return home, we embrace the Spirit of courage and authenticity, ready to serve and love as disciples of Christ.
Read MoreOn July 18, over 5,000 participants at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans took part in “Accompaniment Day,” engaging in community service and building meaningful relationships. Despite torrential rain, the day concluded with an inspiring Mass Gathering. Highlights included powerful speeches on justice and freedom, emphasizing the theme “Created to Be Free.”
Read MoreThe latest Seeds Monthly lifts up: New resources for “God’s work. Our hands.”; I’m a Lutheran: Carolyn Swenson; ELCA Youth Gathering; Bishop Eaton’s “Christian Nationalism and who is a 'real’ American”; featured calendar events and resources; and bulletin blurbs.
Read MoreJoin us at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans to support ELCA World Hunger in a significant way. Dive into an immersive role-playing experience in the Interactive Learning Space and learn about the daily challenges of those living in poverty. Take part in a special offering where your donation will be matched up to $250,000, doubling your impact. Donate via ELCA.org/GiveGZH or bring your contributions to the Gathering, and share your journey on social media with #GenZeroHunger. Together, we can strive for a world without hunger.
Read MoreWe are here at ELCA's Youth Gathering 2024 where we're learning, lamenting, listening, and loving along with 16,000 young people from across the country! Lutherans Restoring Creation was asked to help support ELCA's World Hunger's area in the Interactive Center as we make the connections between climate, natural disaster, hunger and migration.
Read MoreDuring the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans on July 17, 2024, participants explored the city’s rich culture through a scavenger hunt, engaging in activities that highlighted local history and embraced the theme “Created to Be Authentic.” Highlights included Bishop Eaton’s interactions with youth, powerful worship led by Bishop Regina Hassanally, and vibrant discussions on identity and faith. The day ended with an uplifting Mass Gathering, reinforcing the call to authenticity and inclusion within the church.
Read MoreThe 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans brings together over 16,000 Lutheran youth and leaders, transforming the city into a vibrant scene of worship, play, and community. As the Gathering kicked off for the first time this week, the event featured engaging activities, powerful Mass Gatherings, and inspirational speeches from church leaders and speakers.
Read MoreSome members of the Office of the Bishop are in New Orleans for the ELCA Youth Gathering & Young Adult Gathering, while others maintain office operations, all with the goal of connecting people.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Deacon Lana Neighbors, Honor Health, Scottsdale, who celebrates 27 years on July 20.
Rev. Joaquin Garcia, Vida Nueva, Glendale, who celebrates 41 years on July 20.
Rev. Dennis D. Nelson, who celebrates 50 years on July 21.
Rev. Harold Kriesel, who celebrates 56 years on July 21.
Rev. Richard Miller, who celebrates 56 years on July 21.
Rev. Doug Heskin, who celebrates 56 years on July 21.
Rev. Janice Brosen, who celebrates 40 years on July 22.
Rev. Paul Scheitlin, who celebrates 45 years on July 22.
Rev. Robert Jones, Santa Cruz, Tucson, who celebrates 41 years on July 24.
Rev. Colin Melby, who celebrates 41 years on July 24.
Rev. Craig Larson, Desert Hills, Green Valley, who celebrates 36 years on July 24.
Rev. Jeffery Gallen, Christ Evangelical, Goodyear, who celebrates 42 years on July 25.
Rev. Matthew Metevelis, Nathan Adelson Hospice, Las Vegas, who celebrates 14 years on July 25.
Rev. David Tiede, who celebrates 53 years on July 25.
This summer, the Arizona Faith Network is spearheading critical initiatives to combat the devastating effects of extreme heat and foster interfaith dialogue. Participate in our relief efforts by donating essential supplies, and engage in our educational webinars to learn about issues like Christian Nationalism and interfaith leadership. Your involvement is crucial in supporting our vulnerable neighbors and enriching our community dialogue. Join us to make a significant impact! Click here to learn more and participate.
Read MoreJ.W. Pepper is celebrating its 150th anniversary by launching a nationwide scholarship program, awarding 52 scholarships to future music educators. With $3,000 for each state’s recipient and an additional $10,000 for the top scholar, this initiative supports students entering college as music education majors in fall 2025. Applications open in October 2024—learn more and sign up for updates on this extraordinary educational opportunity.
Read MoreFor justice and peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Iran, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and South Sudan…
For all affected by political violence, and for healing for our divided nation…
For all impacted by gun violence, especially the families of those killed in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Mississippi, Alabama, and Oman…
For relief and recovery efforts following severe storms and tornadoes in the midwestern United States…
For those living in areas of extreme heat, especially those who lack adequate shelter…For children and youth who are being detained as part of mass arrests in El Salvador…
For student protests in Bangladesh…
For Muslims as they observe Ashura…
For youth, adult leaders, staff, volunteers, and all who have traveled to New Orleans for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering…
Just a few weeks ago in my June column for Living Lutheran I wrote, "I can't think of an election cycle more fraught and divisive than this one. People all across the political spectrum claim that life as we know it is on the line. It's not possible to agree to disagree—one must decide and put a stake in the ground. There is the potential for violence." That potential is now a reality after last weekend's shooting at a Trump campaign rally that killed Corey D. Comperatore and injured other attendees. I am thankful that former President Trump's injury was minor and pray for his recovery alongside those affected.
Read MoreThe 2024 MYLE and the tAble events concluded on a high note in New Orleans, marking an impactful four days of spiritual growth and community building. Bishop Felix Malpica inspired the youth with messages of inclusion and God’s miraculous disruptions. Participants explored diversity and acceptance, with activities like building Lego figures reflecting their unique identities. As these events wrapped up, the connections formed promise to inspire further gatherings and continued faith journeys. Let’s carry the spirit of these moments forward as we step into the broader 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering. Be sure to watch the MYLE 2024 Recap Video the tAble 2024 Recap Video.
Read MoreIn light of the many stories shared during our recent Synod Assembly, the Office of the Bishop invites all Grand Canyon Synod members to share their stories. Visit www.gcsynod.org/share to submit contribute to our community’s ongoing story of faith and ministry.
Read MoreThe bimonthly e-newsletter for ELCA congregational and synodical leaders addresses common, practical issues including finance, governance, risk management, tax, legal concerns and topics of interest about day to day operations and management in church settings. The July, 2024 issue highlights:
How to Create a Mission Endowment Fund: A Guide for Congregations
Information needed when filing an insurance claim for embezzlement
File claims quickly to better protect your people and property
On Sunday, Sept. 8, 2024, congregations of the ELCA will join together for our annual day of service, “God’s work. Our hands.” This day continues to be an opportunity to celebrate who we are as the ELCA — one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. As you explore opportunities to participate in your community, explore these resources to plan and promote your day
Read MoreELCA Disability Ministries reminds us that the application window for grants is now open, and will close on July 31, or earlier if they have received 30 completed applications. Read clarifications on the process and goals for the grants here.
Read MoreThe final day of MYLE and the tAble at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans was a celebration of diversity, creativity, and community. Highlights included Dr. Moses Penumaka’s inspiring sermon on freedom in Christ, a variety of creative and cultural showcases, and a field trip to the Smoothie King Center to prepare for the Mass Gathering. As the events concluded, the community’s spirit of inclusivity and support was evident, with participants and volunteers alike sharing moments of joy and gratitude.
Read More
