Prepare for Advent With Sumud: Devotions, Stories and Solidarity
ELCA Sumud’s latest newsletter offers resources for Advent, opportunities to learn about Palestine and Israel, and updates on the church’s work of accompaniment and advocacy. Four written Advent devotions will be available beginning November 22, 2026, through a collaboration with ELCA Young Adults.
Centered on the theme “We wait for Christ, We work for Justice, We hope for Peace,” the devotions follow this year’s Advent lectionary and feature young adult voices connected to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, the Sumud Ambassador network, the ALAMEH community and Young Adults in Global Mission. Congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod can use them for Bible studies, youth groups and small groups. Resources will be posted on the ELCA Sumud webpage and distributed through the Sumud email list.
The newsletter also highlights:
“Stolen Stories” videos: All five episodes are available, exploring historical, political and theological contexts affecting people in Palestine and Israel. A discussion guide is forthcoming. Watch the series.
A growing Ambassador network: Sumud Ambassadors now represent 26 synods. An October gathering in Chicago brought together 25 ambassadors from 21 synods for worship, learning and preparation for local ministry.
Bishop Imad’s ELCA visit: The ELCJHL bishop met with synod leaders, U.S. government representatives and Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, sharing concerns about Gaza and the West Bank.
A leadership opportunity: The newsletter announces a Chicago-based opening for Sumud program director, seeking experience in faith-based work for justice in Palestine and Israel.
Rooted in Christ’s call to love our neighbors, these resources invite us to connect Advent prayer with learning, accompaniment and action.
Read the full ELCA Sumud newsletter for resources, ministry updates and application information.
