Wildfires have devastated Los Angeles County, California, leaving tens of thousands displaced. Lutheran Disaster Response is actively working with synods and local partners to address immediate needs and plan long-term recovery efforts. Learn how you can pray, give, and share to support those affected. Visit ELCA.org/wildfires to donate and find resources.
Read MoreThe devastating California wildfires have displaced thousands and destroyed homes, businesses, and places of worship. Bishop Brenda Bos of the Southwest California Synod is among those personally impacted. Presiding Bishop Eaton calls for prayers, accompaniment, and action as Lutheran Disaster Response mobilizes to bring aid and hope to affected communities. Learn more about how you can help: Lutheran Disaster Response.
Read MoreThailand: Building trust and respect in interfaith relations
Asian churches join LWF’s theology, gender justice and leadership training
Central and Western Africa: Churches in LWF sub-region set for a fresh start
Peru: Strengthening leadership for a sustainable church and community
Statement: LWF condemns attacks against medical facilities in Gaza
In the latest Pivot podcast, discover a transformative approach to how to write a sermon with the Rev. Dr. Lisa Cressman, founder of Backstory Preaching.
Read MoreBliss Tungnung, a former ELCA scholar, returned to her conflict-stricken home in Manipur, India, to offer psychosocial care and education to children. She founded Bliss International School in 2023 to foster emotional and academic growth. This month’s ELCA Global Mission newsletter also celebrates the ordination of women in the Lutheran Church of Australia and the 25th anniversary of the ELCA Wittenberg Center. Discover global service opportunities and Lenten resources, and read more inspiring stories at ELCA Global Mission.
Read MoreAcross the country, thousands of churches face closure every year, but the Rev. Dr. Katrina D. Foster has made it her mission to turn despair into renewal. Known for revitalizing struggling congregations, Pastor Foster blends faith-driven community organizing with innovative fundraising, inspiring both churchgoers and neighbors to support her efforts. From restoring crumbling buildings to creating vibrant community spaces, her work demonstrates how faith and action can breathe life back into churches.
Learn how Pastor Foster’s bold leadership and unwavering dedication have transformed St. John’s Lutheran Church in Brooklyn and discover her proven strategies for revitalizing congregations and fostering community. Read the full NY Times Article for free here.
Read MoreJoin Arizona Faith Network’s events this month, including guided meditation, justice-focused webinars, and powerful lessons in peacemaking from Rev. Dr. Gary Mason. With topics like food security, creation care, and the Doctrine of Discovery, these events provide meaningful ways to live your faith. Read More.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Scott Hove, Rev. Don Lorfing, Rev. Jason Adams and the people of Good Samaritan Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, part of the Colorado River Conference.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Casey Goslin and the people of West Valley Young Adult Ministry in Glendale, part of the Cactus Conference.
Read MoreThe Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025 invites churches worldwide to pray together for unity, inspired by John 11:17-27 and the theme, “Do you believe this?” Marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, this year’s reflections highlight shared faith through the Nicene Creed. Download the resources, prepared by the Bose monastic community, at oikoumene.org and join this global movement for Christian unity.
Read MoreEric Ridenour was sentenced to 36.5 years in prison for the arson that destroyed St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church in Douglas, Arizona. Bishop Jennifer Reddall expresses gratitude for the justice served and highlights the resilience of these congregations as they continue to rebuild and minister. Her statement reaffirms the church’s commitment to inclusivity, inspired by Jesus’ love for those on the margins, and trust in the healing power of God’s grace. The Grand Canyon Synod stands in prayerful solidarity with them during this season of healing.
Read MoreDiscover new ways to connect with your neighbors in a free webinar on Tuesday, February 25th, led by Dave Male, Director of Evangelism and Discipleship for the Church of England. Explore practical tools and spiritual practices to build genuine relationships and foster discipleship in today’s changing world. Learn more and register: faithlead.org/workshop/beyond-the-walls
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop Staff attends and prepares for a flurry of events and meetings in January.
Read MoreOn Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, the ELCA will host a free online event from 9am-1pm MST, 8am-noon PST, featuring worship, workshops, music, and guided reflection. Centering the voices of ELCA leaders of color, the event seeks to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and inspire collective action toward justice and equity. Open to all ELCA members and partners, this event aligns with the work of Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation. Visit ELCA.org/NDORH to learn more and register today!
Read MoreWe pray for the family and friends of Donald R. Thompson, who died December 9, 2024
The Celebration of Life for Love of Christ Lutheran Church Founding Pastor, Donald R. Thompson, will be Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 10AM in the Center of Compassion (1525 N. Power Road Mesa, AZ 85205).
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war and conflict: Gaza, Syria, Ukraine…
For evacuees and all threatened by the Pacific Palisades fire in California…
For earthquake victims in Tibet…
For political transitions and the advancement of peace across the world…
For severe winter weather affecting areas of the United States…
For refugees, migrants, and all who journey for safety…
For daily affirmation of our baptismal calling: to live among God’s faithful people; to hear the word of God and share in the holy supper; to share the good news of God in Christ through word and deed; to serve all people, following the example of Jesus; and to strive for justice and peace in all the world…
As we welcome 2025, Living Lutheran shares journal prompts to guide your self-reflection and help you set your faith intentions for the new year.
Read MoreLove Anyway Feasts offer a fresh way to bring neighbors together in divided times. Learn how ELCA members in Pennsylvania used shared meals to build bridges and model Christ’s teaching to love our neighbors. With resources from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania, you too can join this movement of connection and hope. Read more in this article from Living Lutheran.
Read MoreAs Living Lutheran wrapped up 2024, they took a look at some of our top stories from the year. Below are Living Lutheran‘s five most-read articles from the last 12 months.
Read MoreDiscover four practical ways to support family caregivers and break barriers to caregiving ministry in this two-hour workshop hosted by the Lutheran Faith Community Nurse Association on January 23, 2025. This session offers 2.0 Nursing Contact Hours and equips participants with the tools to reconnect caregivers with their faith communities. Register here.
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