We share the latest updates from the teams at the ELCA Youth Gathering. First up is a newsletter full of details now that registration is closed, and they also share a what to expect webinar video.
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We pray for the Rocky Mountain Synod and the Alaska Synod of the ELCA, as they meet in assembly and elect their new bishops. We give thanks for the good and faithful work of Bishop Jim Gonia and Bishop Shelley Wickstrom.
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Join ELCA World Hunger’s Generation Zero-Hunger initiative and contribute to ending global hunger. This youth-led fundraising challenge, which will see contributions matched dollar for dollar up to $250,000, invites congregations and individuals to support vital hunger relief efforts. Participants can bring their offerings to the upcoming ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans or engage through various fundraising activities, amplifying their impact on this global crisis. Read more on the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona blog.
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For justice and peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Iran, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, and South Sudan…
For safety, understanding, and productive resolution to student war protests at Columbia, Yale, and other institutions…
For evacuees and all who are affected by the eruption of Mount Ruang in Indonesia…
For a fair judicial system in our nation, and for all people serving in the court system…
For people to be provided for, for animals and plants to endure, and for rain to come amidst the drought in southern Africa…
For all who grieve and work for recovery after flooding in UAE and Oman…
For those who seek justice in the workplace…
For all who take risks and incur costs when taking a stand for the sake of their conscience…
In this week's Faith Lens, we explore how, like toddlers trying to read before they fully understand, we often emulate spiritual practices without full comprehension. The article reflects on Acts 8:26-40, emphasizing that God appreciates our earnest attempts to live faithfully, even when we falter. Through discussion questions and activities, we are encouraged to embrace our spiritual journey with humility and trust, much like a child learning to navigate the world, and to draw nearer to Jesus to bear fruit in our lives.
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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Decorah, Iowa, has transformed its 1958 building into a model of sustainability. Through a comprehensive upgrade that includes solar panels and geothermal heat pumps, the church significantly lowered its carbon footprint and energy costs. This initiative not only garnered the church the 2024 Energy Saver award from Interfaith Power and Light but also sets a replicable example for other communities aiming to enhance their environmental stewardship. Learn more in this Living Lutheran article.
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In this Living Lutheran article, we meet Cora Rose, an ELCA deacon and legal ministry attorney based in southern Oregon, wo serves as a vital community advocate providing legal aid and supporting local initiatives for those facing housing insecurity and other challenges. In her unique role, she integrates her legal expertise with her spiritual calling, making significant impacts on both individual and systemic levels, embodying a profound commitment to justice and community service.
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The ELCA Worship News for April 2024 features an array of resources to enhance worship experiences throughout the church calendar. Highlights include new blog posts on utilizing "All Creation Sings" for post-Pentecost services, commemorative resources for the Emanuel Nine, and insights into Lutheran hymns. Additionally, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians is hosting a conference at Valparaiso University to delve deeper into church music leadership. Resources from Augsburg Fortress also offer vital support for congregations welcoming leaders of color. Read more here.
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This month's edition of ELCA Seeds Monthly offers a diverse range of educational and spiritual resources. Highlighting the new study guide "Our Kairos Moment" for Earth Day, Anthony Bateza's exploration of evangelical discomfort in "Beyond Evangelism," and the story of Hannah Wolfe-MacPike’s journey with Lutheran faith in "I'm a Lutheran." Additionally, discover various events and resources that support creation care, civic engagement, and global advocacy efforts within the ELCA community.
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The ELCA's AMMPARO strategy, originally focused on the Americas, is expanding globally to address the increased needs of migrants worldwide. AMMPARO Global aims to enhance collaboration with international partners to provide comprehensive support for migrants. Recent visits to Serbian and Bosnian partners highlight the strategy's commitment to articulation and network building, crucial for addressing global migration challenges effectively. Read more at Living Lutheran.
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Mark your calendar for Sunday, Sept. 8, when congregations of the ELCA will join together for our annual day of service, “God’s work. Our hands.”
Participating in service projects is one way to celebrate who we are as the ELCA — one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor.
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The ELCA is encouraging congregations and individuals to learn more about the issue of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women (MMIW). Visit ELCA.org/MMIW for a full list of resources to educate yourself and your community and plan a recognition of May 5, MMIW day.
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You are invited to Servant Leader: Present, Equipped, Here—this year’s churchwide-sponsored leadership online event—Saturday, May 4 from 11am – 3:30pm PST/MDT. It’s open to all, whether involved in Women of the ELCA or not.
Including worship, Bible study, speakers and breakout sessions, this year’s leadership event will reintroduce the servant leader concept and its connection to relationships and community while acknowledging the many challenges facing organizations like ours in our current context.
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Linda Post Bushkofsky, executive director of Women of the ELCA, announces her retirement effective June 30, 2024, after 22 years of transformative leadership. During her tenure, she spearheaded major initiatives such as the Katie’s Fund capital campaign and maintained organizational stability through the pandemic, leaving a lasting legacy of growth and service within the church. Read more at the Women of the ELCA site.
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Join the ELCA Coaching network for a crucial session on "Responding to Polarization" with Dr. Matt Cook, exploring strategies for handling political and cultural divides within congregations. We share this as another resource that can be used as part of our "Creating Space for Conversation" series, aimed at fostering understanding and unity.
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In the latest Faith Lens, Rita Argus shares a reflection on the importance of connecting with nature and the teachings of Good Shepherd Sunday. By drawing parallels between personal experiences in nature and the biblical imagery of shepherding, Rita explores how these serene moments help ground us spiritually, mentally, and physically.
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For justice and peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Iran, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, and South Sudan…
For people in Central and South America affected by the dengue fever outbreak…
For farmers and farm laborers as spring arrives…
For peaceful and fair elections in India beginning this week…
For corals that will die and ecosystems that will suffer as ocean temperatures rise…
For communities grieving gun violence, especially New Orleans, Louisiana; Salisbury, North Carolina; and Chicago, Illinois…
For areas of the nation experiencing storms and severe weather…
For safety, understanding, and earnest dialogue amidst protests in Illinois, California, New York, and Oregon…
The ELCA Church Council convened for their spring meeting at the Lutheran Center in Chicago from April 11-14, focusing on enhancing the ELCA's commitment as a welcoming, thriving, and sustainable church. Key highlights included the reappointment of Rev. M. Wyvetta Bullock, the adoption of new social messages, and updates on ongoing dialogues and initiatives. The council also celebrated the ecumenical efforts and internal governance advancements. Read more at ELCA.org.
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Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) and AMMPARO, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) migrant ministry, have partnered to enhance training and support for asylum-seeker sponsors through the Neighbor to Neighbor program. This partnership aims to bolster community sponsorship efforts by offering practical support and fostering connections for asylum-seekers in areas such as housing, education, and employment. Read more at ELCA.org.
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In the ELCA webinar "Go and Tell," held on April 13, 2024, Rev. Rodny Said provided a poignant update from Ramallah, highlighting the current situation in the West Bank. Rev. Dr. Meghan Aelabouni took center stage to discuss effective methods of advocating for justice in Palestine and Israel, addressing frequently asked questions and explaining the concept of Sumud—the ELCA's commitment to partnership, awareness, and advocacy in the region.
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