Posts in Global Church
35 Years of Lutheran Missions: Empowering Central America
35 Years of Lutheran Missions: Empowering Central America

We share this Living Lutheran article, which spotlights the ELCA's 35-year mission alongside Central American Lutheran churches, addressing social and environmental issues. It highlights the Salvadoran Lutheran Synod's educational and advocacy efforts against climate change, the Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras' focus on education, the Augustinian Lutheran Church of Guatemala's women's education program, and the Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith and Hope's work on gender issues and community development.

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ELCA, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Japan: An opportunity for new beginnings
Japan: An opportunity for new beginnings

The Japan Lutheran Church (JLC) has been an associate member church of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) since 1999. In 2021, JLC decided to ordain women as pastors.

Rev. Heeme Yang, one of its first two ordained women pastors, shares her journey from fashion design to studying theology, what it means to be church in an ageing society, and ecumenical opportunities in a Christian minority context. From her Korean Buddhist origins, Anglican college life, to becoming a Lutheran church Vice-President, it’s been 20 years since Rev. Heeme Yang “knocked on the seminary door.” Read more at lutheranworld.org.

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News, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardLutheran World Federation, Japan Lutheran ChurchComment
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is becoming Global Refuge
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is becoming Global Refuge

Global Refuge emerges from the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, embodying a renewed commitment to global compassion and support for displaced individuals. Maintaining its core mission and Lutheran heritage, Global Refuge stands as a beacon of hope and sanctuary, embracing all regardless of origin or faith. Learn more at globalrefuge.org.

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Global Church, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), Immigration and RefugeesComment
Lutheran World Federation newsletter: 12/1/2023
Lutheran World Federation newsletter: 12/1/2023
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News, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardLutheran World Federation, 2023 Advent and ChristmasComment
Statement on the Celebration of Advent and Christmas in the Midst of the War from the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem
Statement on the Celebration of Advent and Christmas in the Midst of the War from the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem have issued a statement for the upcoming Advent and Christmas season amidst the ongoing war. They urge congregations to focus on the spiritual essence of these holy seasons, calling for a shift away from grand festive activities to a more contemplative and prayerful observance. The statement emphasizes solidarity with those affected by the war, advocating for prayer, support, and generous contributions to aid war victims. Read the full statement here.

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Global Church, Letters, NewsBrian Flatgard2023 Advent and Christmas, Israel and Palestine, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy LandComment
Embrace Global Mission: The ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission Program Awaits You
Embrace Global Mission: The ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission Program Awaits You

Discover how the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission program offers young adults a transformative journey of faith, service, and global understanding. Applications are open for an August 2024 start with priority given to those applying by January 15, 2024. Learn more about this incredible opportunity at ELCA.org/YAGM.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardYoung Adults in Global Mission, Youth and Young AdultComment
Inside Augusta Victoria Hospital: A Safe Haven in a War-Torn Region
Inside Augusta Victoria Hospital: A Safe Haven in a War-Torn Region

In this article from The Lutheran World Federation, Dr. Fadi Atrash of Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem gives a heart-rending account of the dire impact the Israel-Palestine conflict is having on patients and staff. With access to care hindered and the threat of a looming catastrophe, AVH appeals for a ceasefire and urgent international support.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, August Victoria Hospital Comment
ELCA Global Links: October/November 2023
ELCA Global Links: October/November 2023

Amidst the turmoil of the Israel-Hamas conflict, we stand with our global family in prayer and support. Read the latest Global Links newsletter for updates on the crisis, mission stories of hope, and ways to get involved. They also share mission personnel updates, new Advent resources and the ongoing Truth and Healing Movement.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardGlobal Links, Global Mission, Young Adults in Global Mission, Israel and PalestineComment
Lutheran World Federation: Crisis in the Holy Land
Lutheran World Federation: Crisis in the Holy Land

Amid the devastating escalation of violence in Gaza, where hostilities have led to tragic loss of life and a deepening humanitarian crisis, the LWF calls for urgent action. The situation demands immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access to aid the afflicted, as homes and vital infrastructures are in ruins. The LWF reaffirms its longstanding commitment to the Palestinian people, advocating for peace, support, and healing in these dire times.

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Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran World Federation, Israel and PalestineComment
Bishop Azar: Keeping hope alive in the Holy Land
Bishop Azar: Keeping hope alive in the Holy Land

In the midst of escalating tensions in the Holy Land, Bishop Sani Ibrahim Azar of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land speaks on the challenges facing the local community during the ongoing conflict. Despite fear and uncertainty, Reformation Day was observed in Jerusalem's Church of the Redeemer, a beacon of hope and ecumenism in troubled times. Bishop Azar calls for prayers and a renewed commitment to peace and reconciliation.

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Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Azar, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, Israel and Palestine, Lutheran World FederationComment