Find encouragement and a practical next step with ELCA Coaching’s Wayfinding in the Commons on Wednesday, November 4, at noon Arizona/Mountain time or 11 a.m. Pacific. This approximately 45-minute gathering welcomes rostered ministers, lay leaders and anyone seeking community, shared discernment and support. Join on Zoom.
Read MoreAs we remember loved ones on All Saints Sunday, November 1, ELCA’s Faith Lens reminds us that we belong to the community of saints here and now. Drawing on the Beatitudes and 1 John, Bishop Becca Middeke-Conlin explores our identity as children of God and our calling to support one another in faith. Discussion questions, a blessing activity and a closing blessing offer resources for youth groups and congregational conversations. Read “Blessed Are You, Saint.”
Read MorePrepare for Advent with four ELCA Sumud and Young Adults devotions available November 22. The latest Sumud newsletter also features the five-part “Stolen Stories” video series, Ambassador network updates, Bishop Imad’s visit and a Chicago-based program director opening. Read the full newsletter and explore ways to learn, pray and participate.
Read MoreAs Election Day approaches, ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry invites Lutherans to practice healthy patriotism through prayer, civic participation and service to the common good. Drawing on Fannie Lou Hamer’s voting rights witness and Martin Luther’s reflections on Mary’s Magnificat, he calls us to hold leaders accountable and help every voice be heard—with our hope grounded in God’s steadfast love.
Read Bishop Curry’s full message on faithful citizenship and healthy patriotism.
Read MoreWhat hymn brings you comfort, recalls someone you love, or inspires you to serve? As Reformation Day approaches, Living Lutheran shares readers’ reflections on beloved hymns and the ways singing together nurtures faith, expresses God’s grace, and connects generations. Read their stories and reflect on your own favorite hymn.
Read MoreWhat holds the church together amid deep disagreement? This 23-minute Learn and Discern episode explores the roots of differing convictions and our shared grounding in Christ’s Gospel, offering encouragement for honest conversation about the ELCA’s sexuality social statement.
Read MoreHow can an investment support ministry beyond your congregation? Watch and share MIF’s “Together, We Build More” video to see how investments help fund loans for worship spaces, schools, camps, affordable housing and more.
Read MoreSix ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows have begun their 2026–2027 placements, advancing state and national public policy and promoting peace and human rights at the United Nations. Their year of service puts love of neighbor into action through advocacy. Meet the fellows and read about their work.
Read MoreHow is God calling the church to keep reforming? ELCA’s Faith Lens for October 25, Reformation Sunday, invites us to remember our history honestly while discerning where the Holy Spirit is leading. Grounded in Jeremiah 31:31–34 and John 8:31–36, the resource offers discussion questions, an interactive activity, and prayer for youth groups and congregational learning. Read “Looking Back and Looking Forward.”
Read MoreHear Palestinian Christians tell their own stories in Stolen Stories, a five-part educational video series from ELCA Sumud. Pastors, bishops and scholars explore Palestinian history from before 1948 to today, offering lived experience and theological context for congregational learning. The series invites us to listen to our siblings in Christ and pray for justice, reconciliation and peace for all in the Holy Land. Watch on YouTube or download the series.
Read MoreWhat does “bound conscience” mean, and why does it matter to the ELCA’s reconsideration of its sexuality statement? In this 31-minute episode, Professor Tim Wengert explores its Lutheran roots and pastoral significance, inviting careful listening across deeply held convictions.
Read MoreWhat do charitable giving trends mean for your ministry? Join the ELCA Foundation’s November 11 webinar, 11 a.m.–noon Arizona/Utah time or 10–11 a.m. Nevada time, for insights from Giving USA 2026 and practical fundraising guidance. Pastors, stewardship teams, and ministry leaders are encouraged to register.
Read MorePresiding Bishop Yehiel Curry reaffirms the ELCA’s opposition to the death penalty, calling for healing, reconciliation, and dignity for every person. His October 16 statement invites congregations to pray, study, and advocate for abolition while accompanying all affected by violent crime. Read Bishop Curry’s full statement.
Read MoreFor all those affected by war and armed conflict around the world, especially in Iran, Gaza, Ethiopia, Syria, South Sudan, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ukraine, and Myanmar…
For midterm elections and for democratic elections around the world…
For ongoing student protests in France, Albania, and India…
For Christa Pike and all those impacted by the death penalty…
For victims of a school roof collapse in Pakistan…
For Pope Leo XIV and his cancer diagnosis…
For those in the path of Hurricane Simon and all those affected by natural disasters…
For all those affected by gun violence, sexual violence, and race-based violence…
For the ongoing courage and renewal of the church, led by the Holy Spirit…
Support your congregation’s song with fall choir webinars beginning October 23, Lutheran Summer Music 2027 enrollment—with a $100 discount through December 1—and church music gatherings and shared-singing resources. Read ELCA Worship’s full October partner roundup and share these opportunities with worship leaders, musicians, and families.
Read MoreGod’s grace is freely given—and calls us to generous love. In “Costly Love,” ELCA’s Faith Lens explores Matthew 22:15–22, inviting us to share our time, possessions, and energy through love, justice, and mercy. Reflection questions and simple activities help youth groups and congregations connect faith with daily life. Explore the reflection.
Read MoreHow do grace, faith, and love of neighbor shape difficult decisions? Week two of Learn and Discern offers a 21-minute introduction to Lutheran ethics with the Rev. Dr. Kathryn “Kit” Kleinhans, providing context for conversations about the ELCA’s sexuality social statement.
Read MoreObserve Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Oct. 12 by honoring Indigenous cultures, resilience and sovereignty. Explore ELCA Indigenous ministries and Truth and Healing resources, learn about the peoples whose homelands include your community, and take a concrete step to support Indigenous voices.
Read MoreBuild practical ministry skills and make space for renewal at Executive Skills for Church Leaders, January 3–8, 2027, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree. Open to pastors, deacons, and lay leaders, the retreat explores grace-centered leadership, finances, staff support, and the Enneagram. Residential and commuter options are available; programming begins January 4. Learn more and register.
Read MoreWho might be waiting for an invitation? Reflecting on Matthew 22:1–14, ELCA’s Faith Lens explores God’s abundant grace and our calling to welcome others—especially those on the margins. Discover discussion questions and a simple activity to help turn welcome into friendship and belonging.
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