Posts in ELCA
“Lord, When Did We See You?” Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge This Season
“Lord, When Did We See You?” Join the Region 2 Lenten Challenge This Season

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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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2Brian Flatgard2026 Lenten Challenge, 2026 Lent and Easter, Hunger, ELCA World HungerComment
March Into Ministry: Resources, Lutheran Schools Week, and Opportunities from ELCA Schools
March Into Ministry: Resources, Lutheran Schools Week, and Opportunities from ELCA Schools

ELCA Schools and Learning Centers has released its latest newsletter highlighting Lutheran Schools Week (March 1–7), ministry resources like Coins for Lent, leadership opportunities on the ELEA board, and a new School Spotlightcelebrating Lutheran early childhood ministry. The update also includes member resources, discounts, and upcoming events supporting Lutheran educators nationwide. Explore the resources and learn more about Lutheran education ministries at elcaschools.org.

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ELCABrian FlatgardEvangelical Lutheran Education Association (ELEA), Youth and Young AdultComment
In a Time of War, the Church Prays: ELCA Worship Resources for Congregations
In a Time of War, the Church Prays: ELCA Worship Resources for Congregations

As the United States has begun military combat operations in Iran, the church is called to pray for peace and for all who suffer in times of war. The ELCA Worship team has shared prayers, hymns, and liturgical resources to support congregations in worship and personal devotion during this moment of global conflict.

These resources include prayers from the Prayer Book for the Armed Services, hymn suggestions for lament and peace, and references in Evangelical Lutheran Worship and All Creation Sings. Congregations are invited to use these materials as they gather in prayer for peace in the world, compassion for those affected by war, and wisdom for leaders. Read the full resource at elca.org and access the prayers.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardWorship Resources, ELCA WorshipComment
Making Room for Rest: A Lenten Invitation to Pause
Making Room for Rest: A Lenten Invitation to Pause

Living Lutheran begins a new Lenten series inviting readers to shift the focus of the season—not simply giving something up, but making room for what nourishes faith and life. The first week centers on rest, encouraging a simple daily practice: a 30-second “holy pause” to breathe deeply, clear the mind, and remember God’s sustaining grace.

Grounded in Psalm 121 and reflections on grace, this practice invites us to notice where rest already exists in our lives and where we might create more space for it during Lent. Explore the Lenten practice and reflection at Living Lutheran.

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ELCABrian Flatgard2026 Lent and Easter, Living LutheranComment
A New Look at the Devil: Lent, Temptation, and Choosing Love Over Revenge
A New Look at the Devil: Lent, Temptation, and Choosing Love Over Revenge

In a reflective essay for Living Lutheran, retired ELCA pastor Kristin D. Anderson revisits Martin Luther’s understanding of the devil and explores how evil can appear in everyday behaviors—accusing, gossiping, vengeance-seeking and more. Through Scripture, pastoral experience, and a Lenten lens of self-examination, Anderson reminds readers that while the devil seeks to corrupt and divide, Christ’s victory on the cross frees us to respond with forgiveness and love.

This thoughtful Lenten reflection invites readers to examine their own responses to harm and temptation and to rediscover the grace that leads us away from revenge and toward reconciliation. Read the full reflection at Living Lutheran.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, 2026 Lent and EasterComment
New ELCA Church Property Resource Hub: Join an Upcoming Town Hall to Learn More
New ELCA Church Property Resource Hub: Join an Upcoming Town Hall to Learn More

The ELCA is launching the Church Property Resource Hub, a new initiative designed to help congregations steward buildings and land faithfully while exploring new opportunities for ministry. Leaders are invited to learn more at one of three upcoming online town halls on March 17, March 19, or March 24.

The hub will offer practical tools, guidance, and peer connections to support congregations navigating property decisions and reimagining how church spaces can serve their communities and mission. Congregational leaders and anyone involved in property management are encouraged to attend.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
New ELCA.org Platform Goes Live: What Church Leaders Should Know
New ELCA.org Platform Goes Live: What Church Leaders Should Know

The ELCA is launching a redesigned ELCA.org this week as its new flagship communications platform. During the transition, the site may experience brief outages, and the IT Help Desk will pause requests for webpage updates for two weeks while teams focus on the rollout.

Users who encounter issues are encouraged to wait 30 minutes and try again, and to clear their browser cache to access the latest updates. Instructions for reporting errors or broken links will be shared soon.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Proposed Lectionary Updates Aim to Address Anti-Judaism in Worship
Proposed Lectionary Updates Aim to Address Anti-Judaism in Worship

The Consultation on Common Texts has approved a provisional update to the Revised Common Lectionary to address passages historically misused to justify anti-Jewish harm. The three-year trial period began in Advent 2025 (Year A) and includes guidance for proclaiming the Passion, revised Easter season readings that restore Hebrew Scripture texts, and updated preaching and hymn resources (newly corrected February 27, 2026).

As a member church, the ELCA encourages congregations to use and test these materials and provide feedback during the trial period. Resources are available through ELCA Worship and SundaysandSeasons.com. Read the full ELCA article for background, resources, and feedback details.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA worshipComment
New Worship Resources from Augsburg Fortress to Support Your Ministry
New Worship Resources from Augsburg Fortress to Support Your Ministry

ELCA Worship’s March update highlights new and timely resources from Augsburg Fortress to support worship leaders, musicians, and planners. Featured titles include That Divine and Most Excellent Gift: Martin Luther, Music, and the Arts, a posthumous collection of Mark P. Bangert’s work on Luther’s theology of music; the expanded All Creation Sings Leaders Edition; new piano settings by John Helgen; and extensive Sundays and Seasons resources for times of crisis.

Whether you are planning Holy Week, strengthening congregational song, or seeking liturgical grounding in uncertain times, these tools are designed to support faithful, theologically rich worship across our synod. Read the full ELCA Worship post for details and ordering information.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA worshipComment
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 escalating tensions in Iran and Lebanon and the safety of civilians and military personnel…

  • For partisan cooperation across divisions and elected leaders to seek the welfare and dignity of all…

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

  • For those living with uncertainty and grieving loss of life in Jalisco, Mexico, and neighboring states in the wake of recent gang-related violence…

  • For those without adequate shelter during recent snowstorms in the northeast US…

  • For the recent shootings in Macon, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; Virginia Beach, Virginia; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Kansas City, Missouri; and for an end to gun violence…

  • For those experiencing heavy rains and flooding in southern Peru…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Faith Lens: Born from Above, Already Loved
Faith Lens: Born from Above, Already Loved

In this week’s Faith Lens, we revisit John 3:1–17 and Jesus’ late-night conversation with Nicodemus. What does it mean to be “born from above”? Not a moral restart or spiritual achievement—but an identity rooted in God’s Spirit and grounded in grace. Before we believe, before we prove anything, God already loves the whole world—and sends Christ not to condemn, but to save.

This reflection invites us to release the pressure to prove ourselves and instead live from an identity already claimed in love. With reflection questions, a breath prayer practice, and a closing prayer, this resource offers a timely word of freedom and courage for our congregations and ministries.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
Who Is My Neighbor? Bearing Faithful Witness in Divided Times
Who Is My Neighbor? Bearing Faithful Witness in Divided Times

In the February 2026 “Deeper Understandings” series, theologian Wanda Deifelt reflects on what it means to bear faithful witness in a time of social fracture, immigration enforcement actions, and public fear. Rooted in Luke 10 and Martin Luther’s teaching on Christian freedom, she reminds us that the neighbor is anyone in need—and that we are freed by the gospel not for self-protection, but for service.

Highlighting the Minnesota bishops’ statement and examples of solidarity from congregations like Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, the article calls Lutherans to build “webs of solidarity” and show up for vulnerable neighbors with dignity, courage, and hope. Read the full article from Living Lutheran.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Wayfinding in the Commons: A Monthly Space for Courageous Community
Wayfinding in the Commons: A Monthly Space for Courageous Community

On Wednesday, March 4, ELCA Coaching invites faith leaders to join “Wayfinding in the Commons,” a monthly 45-minute online gathering (11am PT | 12pm MT | 1pm CT | 2pm ET) focused on community, leadership clarity, and one actionable next step. Rooted in the idea that “hope is a group project,” these sessions offer Scripture grounding, bite-size learning, small-group coaching, and reflection for leaders navigating real ministry challenges.

If you’re feeling stuck, isolated, or simply seeking connection, this space is for you. Join leaders from across the church as we rediscover how shared wisdom and faithful presence create agency in uncertain times. Learn more and join the March 4 gathering.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment
Light on the Hill: Why Advocacy Is a Gospel Calling
Light on the Hill: Why Advocacy Is a Gospel Calling

In “Light on the Hill,” Jeffrey M. Jordan II of the ELCA Witness in Society office reflects on advocating for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) on Capitol Hill alongside members of the National TPS Alliance. Rooted in Matthew 5:14–15, the devotional reminds us that advocacy is not merely political strategy—it is Christian witness. When human stories are reduced to policy categories, followers of Christ are called to place the light of dignity, justice, and mercy where it can be seen.

As congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod continue to engage issues of immigration and public policy, this reflection offers theological grounding for faithful presence in the public square. We invite you to read and reflect on how God is calling you to place your light on the lampstand. Read the full devotional from ELCA Advocacy.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
February Mission Support Memo: The World Goes On
February Mission Support Memo: The World Goes On

Our February 2026 Mission Support memo persuades us to realize how closing a congregation can develop a new ministry, just as Memorial Lutheran let go to become Riverside Commons in Nashville, TN. Explore how Riverside Commons will be a “neighborhood space for the sake of the world,” aiming to serve as a spiritual, artistic and social hub for East Nashville. Also learn how to join an important ELCA Town Hall: "Introducing The Church Property Resource Hub" with three days and times in March. Remember here is a pdf version of the memo too!

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ELCABrian FlatgardMission Support, ELCA Mission Support Team, StewardshipComment
The Timbre of Black Joy: A Sacred Breath That Heals and Sustains
The Timbre of Black Joy: A Sacred Breath That Heals and Sustains

As we observe Black History Month, we invite you to read “The Timbre of Black Joy” by the Rev. Ralen M. Robinson, pastor of Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kan. In this powerful Voices of Faith reflection, Robinson names Black joy as sacred, transformative, and healing—“a balm of Gilead” that refuses to let pain have the final word.

In a world marked by struggle and injustice, Black joy is not denial but defiance—an embodied, communal witness to hope, resilience, and God’s sustaining love. We encourage you to read and reflect on this timely essay and consider how joy strengthens, protects, and renews our shared life in Christ.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, 2026 Black History Month, Racial JusticeComment
Federal Court Blocks ICE Raids at Houses of Worship, Affirming Religious Freedom
Federal Court Blocks ICE Raids at Houses of Worship, Affirming Religious Freedom

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking ICE from conducting enforcement actions at or around houses of worship for five ELCA synods and their ecumenical partners. Region 2 synods — Sierra Pacific and Southwest California — were among the plaintiffs. The ruling restores long-standing protections for sensitive locations and affirms religious freedom under the Constitution. Read more about this significant step forward for sacred spaces and immigrant communities.

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ELCA, Region 2Brian FlatgardImmigration and Refugees, Church and SocietyComment
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
Taking Flight with DISC: A Leadership Masterclass for ELCA Leaders
Taking Flight with DISC: A Leadership Masterclass for ELCA Leaders

ELCA Coaching is offering Taking Flight with DISC, a four-hour online leadership training designed to strengthen self-awareness, social awareness, and style flexibility. Led by Nathan Swenson-Reinhold, MCC, this practical masterclass equips church leaders to communicate effectively, navigate change, and lead teams with greater insight. Cost is $350 (includes DISC assessment and materials). Space is limited; email guide@summitcbc.com to register.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment