Explore stories of climate hope on September 29, renewable energy planning for congregations on October 20, and free creation care resources in Lutherans Restoring Creation’s September Good Green News. The issue also includes film screenings, nature-based spiritual leadership training, civic engagement tools, and a new retirement-investment explainer. Read the full newsletter for details and registration links.

Everyone deserves health care that recognizes the person, not the disability. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other diverse needs may find themselves in situations where medical professionals dismiss, question, or downplay their health concerns, attributing symptoms to their disability. Mosaic’s Health Services Coordinator shares how to keep the lines of communication open and advocate for yourself or a person you support.

The post Medical Advocacy for IDD: How to Handle Dismissed Health Concerns appeared first on Mosaic.

In the latest Pivot podcast, what we learned looking back on season 7.

• Young Lutherans launch prayer book on peacemaking

• Grounded in global witness

• A visit to the heart of the Lutheran Church of Australia

• Reclaiming solidarity, dignity, justice and peace

• Blessed are the Peacemakers: an ecumenical initiative

• Strengthening advocacy for climate financing to protect communities

• International Day of Peace: a commitment to invest in dignity and justice

Drawing on his experience growing up with cerebral palsy, the Rev. Brian Krause reflects on how everyday words and church language can deepen exclusion. He calls congregations to examine their language as an expression of Jesus’ welcome and the worth of people with disabilities. Read his reflection on why language matters.

Volunteer with Gather Valley of the Sun and Pitchfork Pantry on October 3 to help distribute food and essentials to ASU students. Arrive at 8 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Tempe for an 8:15–10:15 a.m. shift, with optional brunch and a devotional afterward. RSVP by messaging Gather on Instagram.

• For peace and reconciliation among the nations, especially in Iran, Gaza, Ethiopia, Yemen, South Sudan, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ukraine, and Myanmar…

• For an end to genocide across the world…

• For flooding in southwestern Ohio and all those affected by natural disasters…

• For Luther Seminary and all seminaries navigating reimagination or relocation…

• For the United Nations General Assembly and for all agencies working for peace…

• For victims of gun violence, especially in Ontario, Canada and Durban, South Africa…

• For immigrants and all marginalized populations who live in fear of violence…

• For those in the path of Tropical Storm Nolo…

• For all in need of access to affordable healthcare…

This week, the Office of the Bishop will support candidates for ministry, connect with congregations and youth leaders, and participate in church leadership, advocacy, and generosity gatherings. Staff will also lead a pastoral retirement service, coordinate grants and upcoming events, strengthen synod communications and website access, and complete monthly financial reporting. We also share photos from the Synod Council gathering.

Arizona Faith Network’s newsletter highlights election protection training September 28 and October 15, the October 20 Annual Gathering, and nonpartisan voter education events. Discover opportunities for interfaith learning, prayer, and service—including community celebrations in Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff. Read the full newsletter for details and registration links.

What makes someone trustworthy? ELCA’s Faith Lens explores Matthew 21:23–32, connecting Jesus’ parable of two sons with the trustworthiness God reveals in Christ. Reflection questions, group activities, and prayer help youth consider how their actions reflect their words. Smaller-church leaders will also find an invitation to share their experiences through a listening project survey. Explore this week’s Faith Lens.

Enjoy a Senegal-style dinner and drum circle with Pape Diouf and Dr. Sonja Branch at Holy Trinity in Chandler on November 21. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. with a freewill offering; drumming begins at 7 p.m. Beginners, experienced drummers, and children are welcome—$10 to play with an RSVP, free to listen. Learn more and RSVP.

Thank you for supporting Books for Fatick! The 2026 drive raised $6,100 for student schoolbooks and much-needed teaching supplies at Martin Luther School in Fatick, Senegal. The Global Engagement Team celebrates this generosity, with photos of students and their books coming soon.