For What Shall We Pray?
  • For an end to war, violence, and genocide across the world, especially in Ukraine, Gaza, Iran, Israel, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Yemen, India, and Pakistan…

  • For the ongoing work of first responders and relief organizations, including Lutheran Disaster Response in Kerr County, Texas, and in all places affected by natural disasters…

  • For those experiencing or anticipating storms and floods in the Northeast US and in the Gulf region…

  • For the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada who has elected the Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer to serve as its fifth National Bishop and in thanksgiving for the ministry of outgoing National Bishop Susan Johnson…

  • For our own church and the discernment of voting members who will soon elect a new Presiding Bishop and Secretary of the ELCA…

  • For those affected by recent ICE raids in Camarillo, California, including those injured and killed…

  • For all victims of sexual abuse and assault…

  • For those killed and injured in a recent fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts…

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Feeding Neighbors, Fighting Waste: C.A.M.P. Partners with Sun City Lutherans

Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church in Sun City partners with Community Action Market & Produce (C.A.M.P.) to bring fresh, rescued produce to neighbors across the Northwest Phoenix Valley. This nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers, distributes nutritious food through its Saturday Shop & Select markets, prepacked produce boxes, and delivery programs for the elderly and disabled—all with no income qualifications required. To learn more about this inspiring ministry or how you can support it, click here.

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“Grounded in Faith, Committed to Service”: Lutheran Services Responds to Budget Cuts

Lutheran Services in America has released a strong public statement following the passage of H.R. 1, a budget reconciliation bill that includes nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts projected to leave 17 million fewer people insured over the next decade. While some harmful provisions were successfully removed, the bill poses real challenges for caregivers, providers, and vulnerable communities. The Lutheran network continues to stand firm—grounded in faith, committed to service, and urging leaders to work with nonprofits on practical, people-centered solutions. To read and share the full statement from Lutheran Services in America, click here.

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From Energy Savings to Moral Economy: LRC’s July Opportunities for Action

Explore the July update from Lutherans Restoring Creation featuring new webinars, book discussions, climate trainings, and a 2026 in-person retreat. From a July 22 energy-saving session to a September Christian Climate Training and an ongoing Book Club on Building a Moral Economy, there are many ways to get involved. Plus, help shape LRC’s future through a strategic planning survey. Read the full LRC newsletter.

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From Relief Bags to Sacred Dialogues: Upcoming Interfaith Opportunities

This week’s AFN newsletter is full of hands-on ways to live your faith. Join the Interfaith Bag Packing event, sign up for Monday meditations, attend Bahá’í 101, or join the book study on The Tears of Things. You’ll also find volunteer opportunities, interfaith connections, and a special Prayer Circle for Oak Flat. Read the full newsletter and RSVP today: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter

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Meet Bishop-Elect Benjamin Quanbeck: A Vision for Gospel-Rooted Leadership

Bishop-elect Benjamin Quanbeck, chosen to lead the Montana Synod beginning September 1, brings a leadership vision grounded in trust, collaboration, and gospel-centered hope. In an interview with Living Lutheran, Quanbeck emphasized supporting congregations and leaders with the tools they need to thrive—and letting the Spirit lead from there. His mantra, “people over programs,” shapes his pastoral and adaptive approach to ministry. Get to know his vision, values, and hopes for the synod by reading the full interview in Living Lutheranclick here.

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Called to Renew: Church Reform for the Sake of the Gospel

The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) has released its final report ahead of the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, offering a bold roadmap for structural reform grounded in equity, inclusion, and the gospel. Key recommendations include constitutional amendments, support for lay leadership, and commitments to dismantling racism. As our synod prepares to send voting members to Phoenix, this is a critical moment to reflect on who we are—and who we are called to become. Click here to read the full article in Living Lutheran.

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Ritu Rishidev: A Young Lutheran Partner Lifting Up Human Rights in Nepal

Meet Ritu Rishidev, an 18-year-old student from Nepal’s marginalized Musahar community, who is rising as a powerful advocate for women’s rights and social justice. Supported through a Lutheran-led training in human rights and advocacy—organized by the Lutheran Community Welfare Society and funded by the ELCA—Ritu is now a bold voice speaking out against gender-based violence and discrimination. To read more about Ritu’s inspiring journey and the Lutheran support behind her work, click here.

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The Elephant in the Sanctuary: Facing Addiction Together in Faith

Join a free, one-hour webinar on Wednesday, July 30 at noon Central hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith. This interactive forum is a chance to share your congregation’s experiences with addiction and mental health ministry, hear from others, and discover what’s working across the church. Let’s build a stronger, more compassionate network for healing. Register here to receive the Zoom link.

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What Church Leaders Need to Know: July’s Administration Matters Highlights

In this month’s Administration Matters: Key updates for ELCA congregations include online hearings ahead of the 2025 Churchwide Assembly, a new fall youth retreat series called Gathering Expedition, and Microsoft license changes that may impact your church’s tech tools. Read about Portico’s community impact, parish register tips, and free risk sensors from Church Mutual. Explore the full issue here.

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Engage Before the Assembly: 2025 Churchwide Pre-Events Open Now

Get ready for the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly by participating in key pre-events, including online Bible studies (July 9, 16, and 23), guide orientation webinars (June 26), and five official virtual hearings (July 15–24). These sessions explore major issues such as climate and gender justice, Palestine and Israel, and the proposed social statement on Faith & Civic Life. Learn, reflect, and prepare alongside others across the ELCA.

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