The Lenten and Easter seasons show us that we will survive the brokenness of this world. Listen to the podcast written by the Rev. Dr. Ralen M. Robinson on the Women of the ELCA podcast. Listen now.
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In this Boldcafe reflection, Saint Browder explores how cultural signals—including beauty standards—can reinforce political power and exclusion, even within religious spaces. Drawing on scripture, the article calls Christians back to a deeper truth: our bodies are not projects to perfect, but sacred vessels created by God.
Especially in this Lenten season, the reflection challenges us to practice discernment, resist harmful narratives, and live out a Gospel rooted in love, justice, and courage. Read more from Boldcafe.
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In this ELCA Advocacy devotional, Abigail Raghunath reflects on the Lutheran connection to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the church’s ongoing role in advocating for justice. Drawing from her experience at the 2026 UN Commission on the Status of Women, she highlights both the challenges and renewed commitments to dignity and equity for women and girls worldwide.
Grounded in scripture and Lutheran tradition, this piece invites us to see advocacy not as optional, but as part of our shared calling to love our neighbor and protect human dignity. Read more from ELCA Advocacy.
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The ELCA has released a new video, Heart of the Community, featuring the ministry of Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission (NELM). The video highlights NELM’s deep relationships, community presence, and faithful witness on the Navajo Nation.
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Insurance remains one of the most significant challenges facing congregations today. On April 29 at 2:00 p.m. CST (12:00 p.m. Arizona / Pacific Time), the Church Property Resource Hub will host a free Zoom webinar featuring Church Mutual Insurance to help leaders better understand the current landscape and available support.
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This month’s ELCA World Hunger spotlight shares the story of Floricel Liborio, a community leader in California, and the faithful response of Iglesia Luterana Santa María Peregrina. Amid fear surrounding immigration enforcement and real hunger among farmworker families, the congregation—supported by an ELCA World Hunger grant—is providing grocery assistance and standing in visible solidarity.
Grounded in relationships, advocacy, and Christ-centered love, this story lifts up what it looks like to accompany neighbors in vulnerable moments. It is a powerful reminder of how the church participates in God’s work of abundant life. Read more.
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As Holy Week begins, this Faith Lens reflection on Matthew 21:1–11 invites us to reconsider what we mean when we cry “Hosanna—save us.” Jesus enters Jerusalem not with power or force, but in humility, challenging expectations about leadership, salvation, and how God works in the world.
This reflection offers a timely invitation for congregations and leaders: Where might we be expecting God to act in familiar ways—and missing the deeper work already unfolding? Explore the reflection, discussion prompts, and prayer for use in your ministry. Read more.
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For peace and reconciliation among the nations, especially in Iran, Lebanon, Gaza, South Sudan, Ukraine, and Venezuela…
For Dame Sarah Mullally and her installation as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury…
For the families of those killed in hospital attack in Sudan…
For safe working conditions for all workers, especially in wake of car parts factory fire in South Korea…
For victims of the Air Canada runway crash at LaGuardia Airport…
For all who know the trauma and pain of sexual assault, abuse, or exploitation…
For elections and political transitions, local and global…
For those affected by flooding in Hawaii, and all impacted by natural disasters…
For travelers, especially those facing airport delays and uncertainties, and for TSA workers…
For all immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…
For ongoing energy crises and rising fuel costs…
For pastors, church musicians, and congregational leaders preparing for Holy Week…
In a March 24 pastoral message, Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry addresses the reality of sexual and gender-based violence, offering a word of care to survivors and reaffirming the church’s commitment to dignity, justice, and healing. Grounded in the truth that all people are created in God’s image (Psalm 139), the message names violence as a misuse of power and calls the church to stand with those who have experienced harm.
The ELCA continues to provide resources, training, and advocacy to prevent abuse and support survivors. Read the full pastoral message and access key resources for ministry and care.
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In a recent Living Lutheran interview, author Thomas Maltman reflects on his new novel Ashes to Ashes, a story set within a rural Lutheran congregation where Ash Wednesday crosses mysteriously won’t wash away. Drawing on his own experience in congregational life, Maltman explores themes of mortality, belief, suffering, and grace—inviting readers to consider how faith shapes the way we live with one another in uncertain times.
Blending Lutheran practice, storytelling, and spiritual questions, Maltman describes his work as a “marvelous mystery” rooted in Lent’s call to reflection and renewal. Read more to explore how this uniquely Lutheran narrative invites deeper engagement with faith, doubt, and the enduring marks we carry.
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In the face of climate crisis and widespread discouragement, this devotional reflects on how faith calls us not to despair, but to become “the light of the world.” Drawing from experiences at the global COP30 climate conference, it names both the weight of inaction and the hope found in collective advocacy.
As Lutherans, we are reminded that advocacy is part of discipleship—equipping others, illuminating pathways forward, and working toward justice together. Read more for reflection questions and encouragement for faithful action.
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At the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), ELCA advocacy leaders joined global partners to advance justice for women and girls. Through panels, worship, and conversation, participants reflected on how faith communities can help build systems rooted in dignity, equity, and care.
This reflection reminds us that justice is not only policy—it is lived reality. As Lutherans called into public witness, we are invited to participate in this ongoing work locally and globally. Read more about this experience and how it connects to our shared calling.
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ELCA World Hunger has released a wide range of 2026 resources to support congregations, synods, and ministry leaders—from feeding ministry guides and backpack programs to bilingual VBS curriculum and interactive youth experiences. These tools are designed to help communities better understand and address hunger at its roots.
Whether you’re planning for synod assembly, expanding an existing ministry, or engaging new leaders, these materials offer practical, faith-grounded support for the work of justice. Explore the full list of resources and learn how to access and share them.
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At the recent Youth Ministry Extravaganza, ELCA Disability Ministries leaders gathered with ministry partners from across the church to share stories, challenges, and hope. Through conversations, workshops, and resource-sharing, a central question emerged: how do we move from simple inclusion to true belonging in our congregations?
Grounded in our call to care for one another as the body of Christ, this reflection invites us to consider how accessibility, community, and relationships shape faithful ministry for all. Read more about these insights and practical resources for your congregation.
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ELCA Coaching invites you to Wayfinding in the Commons, a monthly online gathering beginning April 1 (first Wednesdays around noon). In just 45 minutes, participants experience community grounding, leadership insight, small group conversation, and one actionable step—designed to move from isolation toward clarity and shared purpose. More information and details here.
Open to anyone seeking connection, direction, or encouragement in ministry or life, this gathering reflects a simple truth: hope grows in community, and no one journeys alone.
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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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New opportunities for climate action are unfolding across the ELCA—from the launch of a global Decade of Climate Justice to hosting the 2026 National Faith + Climate Forum and preparing for Earth Day. This month’s Good Green Newshighlights upcoming events, funding opportunities, and practical resources for congregations ready to lead in creation care.
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The ELCA has adopted a groundbreaking social message on “Child Protection,” offering both theological grounding and practical guidance for congregations responding to abuse and neglect. The message emphasizes that protecting children is central to the church’s calling—rooted in Jesus’ care for the vulnerable—and establishes clear expectations, including mandatory reporting of suspected abuse by all church leaders, regardless of state law.
Alongside its theological framework, the message provides concrete policy recommendations, training resources, and tools to help congregations create safer environments. It marks a historic step for the church, equipping leaders to move from uncertainty to faithful action. Read more from Living Lutheran.
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This Lent, individuals and congregations across ELCA Region 2, including the Grand Canyon Synod, are invited to participate in the “Lord, When Did We See You?” Lenten Challenge, a set of simple daily practices rooted in Matthew 25. The toolkit offers intergenerational activities that connect prayer, worship, advocacy, and daily acts of compassion.
Participants are also encouraged to support ELCA World Hunger using Appeal Code R2LENT2026, or donate to ELCA World Hunger here. Explore the toolkit and join the challenge: lentenchallenge.org/toolkit.
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