Posts in ELCA
Faith Lens: The Knowledge of Good: God’s Answer to Shame
Faith Lens: The Knowledge of Good: God’s Answer to Shame

This week’s ELCA Faith Lens reflection on Genesis 2:15–17; 3:1–7 invites us to look beyond blame and consider the deeper reality of shame, guilt, and reconciliation. Rather than focusing solely on “the fall,” Pastor Adrianne Meier highlights how shame isolates—but God moves toward humanity, clothing Adam and Eve and beginning the long work of restoration.

For youth and adult leaders alike, this resource offers discussion questions, activities, and a Gospel-centered reminder that from the very beginning, God’s response to our tangled lives has been reconciliation.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know
Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know

The Annual Congregation Report is due March 1 for all ELCA congregations, new starts, and synod-authorized worshiping communities. This report provides essential data about people, finances, and resources and ensures your congregation is included in synod and churchwide planning and reporting.

Congregations should submit the report online at elca.org/congregationreport using the ID and password mailed in mid-January. Instructions, Form A, and support resources are available at elca.org/reportinstructions. If you are not receiving ELCA emails, be sure to update your contact information to stay informed.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry to Join February Hunger Leaders Call
Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry to Join February Hunger Leaders Call

Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry will join the Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders Network for their next monthly call on Tuesday, February 24, from 6:00–7:00 pm (AZ time). The virtual gathering will include a short devotion, an update from Bishop Curry, a local hunger ministry spotlight, and shared resources and grant updates from across the synod.

If you’ve been meaning to connect with others working to address hunger and food insecurity, this is a great time to jump in. No registration is required—just bring your curiosity and commitment. Read more on the LAMA web site, and click this link to join the Zoom call.

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Bishop Curry, ELCA, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardArizona Hunger Policy Workgroup, Hunger, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
State Advocacy Update: ELCA Partners Mobilize for Justice in 2026
State Advocacy Update: ELCA Partners Mobilize for Justice in 2026

ELCA-affiliated state public policy offices in Kansas, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin are actively engaging 2026 legislative sessions with bold, faith-rooted advocacy. From defending immigrant neighbors and LGBTQ+ communities to advancing hunger relief, maternal health reform, voting rights, and anti-trafficking legislation, Lutheran leaders are mobilizing congregations and communities for public witness grounded in the belief that every person is made in the image of God.

These winter updates highlight rallies, lobby days, youth engagement, new advocacy resources (including a Lent curriculum on Faith and Civic Life), and growing interfaith coalitions. Read the full state-by-state update and explore how Lutheran advocacy continues to seek the well-being of all. Read the full update at ELCA.org.

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ELCABrian FlatgardELCA Advocacy, AdvocacyComment
Presiding Bishop Curry Urges Humane Immigration Policies Ahead of DHS Vote
Presiding Bishop Curry Urges Humane Immigration Policies Ahead of DHS Vote

With a February 13 deadline looming for DHS funding, ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry joined eight other Christian leaders in urging Congress to enact just and humane immigration policies. The February 9 letter calls for due process, accountability for violence, protections for houses of worship, limits on excessive enforcement funding, and an end to the detention of children.

Grounded in Isaiah 58 and Leviticus 19, the letter affirms that immigrants are “beloved children of God” and encourages reforms that reflect human dignity and the common good. Read the full letter here. Read the original post at ELCA.org here.

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Bishop Curry, ELCA, LettersBrian FlatgardBishop Curry Letters, Church and SocietyComment
Showing Up as Light: A Devotional for Faithful Public Witness
Showing Up as Light: A Devotional for Faithful Public Witness

In this week’s ELCA Advocacy devotional, Zachary Olson reflects on Lutherans who gathered in Washington, D.C., during a federal shutdown to advocate for disaster response reform — embodying Jesus’ call to be “salt and light.” Grounded in Matthew 5, this reflection invites us across the Grand Canyon Synod to consider how our faith shapes our public witness, compassion, and advocacy today.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, HungerComment
Faith Lens: It is Good to Be Here
Faith Lens: It is Good to Be Here

The Transfiguration may be one of the strangest stories in the Gospels—mountaintop glory, Moses and Elijah, and a voice from heaven. Yet at its heart is a simple truth: when the journey is hard, “it is good for us to be here.” In a world marked by war, discouragement, and disconnection, Christ gathers us into community and kindles hope like a small flame that refuses to go out.

This week’s Faith Lens reflection invites us to consider where we experience renewed hope, how church becomes a mountaintop moment, and how God sustains us together—even as we descend back into a world that still needs healing.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For an end to war, conflict, and uncertainty, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Ukraine, Iran, and Venezuela…

  • For protection, compassion, and dignity for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…

  • For strained diplomatic relations between nations in the United States, Canada, and Cuba…

  • For those grieving the death of Hallie Tobler, daughter of Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Jeff Johnson…

  • For all victims of domestic violence and abuse, and all victims of sexual abuse and exploitation…

  • For those affected by severe cold weather, especially those without access to adequate heat and other resources…

  • For the continued safety of athletes, reporters, and others participating in the Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy…

  • For the conclusion of the Buddhist monks’ Walk for Peace, ending in Washington DC this Tuesday…

  • For affirmation, dignity, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities…

  • For pastors, deacons, church administrators, and musicians preparing for Lent…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Sing, Create, Renew: 2026 Worship Conferences and Opportunities Across the Church
Sing, Create, Renew: 2026 Worship Conferences and Opportunities Across the Church

ELCA Worship has highlighted several upcoming 2026 opportunities from trusted Lutheran and ecumenical partners, including The Hymn Society Annual Conference (July 19–22, Princeton, NJ), the Lutheran Summer Music Academy (application deadline March 1), the Institute of Liturgical Studies (April 13–15, Valparaiso, IN), and the ALCM Conference (Early Bird deadline March 17). Student awards in liturgical art and church music composition are also open, with $1,000 prizes and spring deadlines.

These gatherings and resources nurture congregational song, liturgical renewal, and theological depth in worship. Read more and access registration details at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA WorshipComment
Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry to Join February Hunger Leaders Call
Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry to Join February Hunger Leaders Call

Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry will join the Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders Network for their next monthly call on Tuesday, February 24, from 6:00–7:00 pm (AZ time). The virtual gathering will include a short devotion, an update from Bishop Curry, a local hunger ministry spotlight, and shared resources and grant updates from across the synod.

If you’ve been meaning to connect with others working to address hunger and food insecurity, this is a great time to jump in. No registration is required—just bring your curiosity and commitment. Read more on the LAMA web site, and click this link to join the Zoom call.

Read More
Bishop Curry, ELCA, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardArizona Hunger Policy Workgroup, Hunger, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know
Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know

The Annual Congregation Report is due March 1 for all ELCA congregations, new starts, and synod-authorized worshiping communities. This report provides essential data about people, finances, and resources and ensures your congregation is included in synod and churchwide planning and reporting.

Congregations should submit the report online at elca.org/congregationreport using the ID and password mailed in mid-January. Instructions, Form A, and support resources are available at elca.org/reportinstructions. If you are not receiving ELCA emails, be sure to update your contact information to stay informed.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Registration Open: Western States Youth Gathering 2026 Returns to Southern California
Registration Open: Western States Youth Gathering 2026 Returns to Southern California

Registration is now open for the 2026 Western States Youth Gathering, happening June 28–July 1, 2026, at California Lutheran University in Southern California. Youth graduating 8th–12th grade and their adult leaders are invited to gather for worship, service, learning, and connection in this faith-forming regional event.

Held the summer before the ELCA Youth Gathering, WSYG 2026 offers a meaningful opportunity for congregations to invest in youth ministry and prepare young people for a larger churchwide experience. Registration includes housing, meals, and programming. Learn more and register at westernstatesyg.org.

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ELCA, Region 2, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, California Lutheran UniversityComment
Here Comes the Sun: A February Roundup of Faithful Climate Action
Here Comes the Sun: A February Roundup of Faithful Climate Action

February’s Good Green News from Lutherans Restoring Creation highlights upcoming opportunities for faithful climate action, including a February 24 Q&A with Bill McKibben on his new book Here Comes the Sun, newly announced dates for the Multiply! gathering (April 10–12, 2026), advocacy conversations like Coffee with Christine on March 4, and a practical climate action webinar on March 17.

Read the full newsletter for registration links, recordings, and ways to share these events with your congregation as we continue, together, the work of caring for God’s creation.

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ELCABrian FlatgardClimate Change, Lutherans Restoring CreationComment
Faith Lens: Salt, Light, and the Life of Discipleship
Faith Lens: Salt, Light, and the Life of Discipleship

Jesus calls his followers “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world”—an identity rooted not in personal piety alone, but in lives shaped by justice, mercy, and love of neighbor. Drawing on Matthew 5 and Isaiah 58, this week’s Faith Lens reflection explores how discipleship is lived out through concrete acts that loosen injustice, feed the hungry, and shine God’s light in the world.

Salt does not lose its saltiness, and light does not cease to shine—but both can be rendered ineffective. This reflection invites us to consider what gets in the way of living our baptismal calling and reminds us that even when we fall short, we remain beloved children of God, still called—and empowered—to be salt and light for the sake of the world.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
“You Are Worthy”: Apply for a Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship to the 2026 Triennial
“You Are Worthy”: Apply for a Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship to the 2026 Triennial

The Grand Canyon Women of the ELCA are offering four scholarships to attend the Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering, July 16–19, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa. Each scholarship covers registration plus $500 toward travel and lodging.

Applications are due April 1, 2026, with notifications sent by April 15. Congregations are encouraged to share this opportunity widely. Learn more about the Gathering and how to apply today.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA), Grand Canyon WomenComment
Imagine More: First Look at the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering in Minneapolis
Imagine More: First Look at the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering in Minneapolis

The ELCA has released the first three videos introducing the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering, offering an early look at this churchwide experience for youth, young adults, and leaders. The Gathering will be held June 28–July 2, 2027, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, under the theme “Imagine More.”

The videos highlight the Gathering as a movement of faith and introduce key pre-events, including the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event (MYLE) and the tAble, which affirm leadership, belonging, and inclusion. Learn more at elca.org/Gathering, and watch for future updates as we begin preparing across the Grand Canyon Synod.

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ELCABrian Flatgard2027 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
New Worship Resources from Augsburg Fortress Support Leaders, Learners, and Young Disciples
New Worship Resources from Augsburg Fortress Support Leaders, Learners, and Young Disciples

Each month, ELCA Worship highlights resources from Augsburg Fortress, the publishing ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, to support worship leaders, planners, musicians, and congregations. The February update features new and updated tools for deepening worship, engaging Scripture, nurturing young faith, and strengthening commitments to racial justice.

Highlights include See Me, Believe Me, an updated guide by Yolanda Denson-Byers that explores allyship with leaders of color in the ELCA and reflects on the leadership of Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry; the Lutheran Study Bible, Second Edition (NRSVue); new Lent and Easter resources for children; and fresh organ music for the season of Lent. These resources offer practical, theological, and creative support for congregations across the synod. Read more from ELCA Worship to explore the full list and details.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardWorship ResourcesComment
Cheer, Give, Repeat: Turning Game Day Into a Win Against Hunger
Cheer, Give, Repeat: Turning Game Day Into a Win Against Hunger

From now through February 8, two ELCA synods — Team Northwest Washington and Team New England — are going head-to-head in a friendly fundraising challenge to support ELCA World Hunger. The team that raises the most by midnight Central time on February 8 will be crowned ELCA World Hunger Champion, no matter the outcome on the field.

Every gift helps address hunger’s root causes and puts faith into action. Choose a team, give what you can, and help make sure hunger loses — every time.

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ELCABrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World HungerComment
Faith Lens: Blessed by Presence, Not Circumstance
Faith Lens: Blessed by Presence, Not Circumstance

For February 1, 2026, the lectionary invites us to reconsider what it truly means to be “blessed.” Drawing from Micah 6:8, Psalm 15, 1 Corinthians 1, and Matthew 5:1–12, this week’s Faith Lens reflection reminds us that blessedness is not earned through success or circumstance, but promised through God’s steadfast presence—especially among those who mourn, hunger for justice, and are pushed to the margins.

In Jesus’ Beatitudes, God’s promise is clear: God is with those the world overlooks, calling us not inward toward self-interest, but outward toward justice, kindness, humility, and solidarity. Grounded in grace, we are freed and transformed to live as God’s people—bearing witness to a kin-dom where abundant life is for all.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment