News

Can we pick and choose when it comes to belief? ELCA pastors Emmy Kegler and Natalia Terfa think we can—and must. Through their podcast Cafeteria Christian, the two rostered ministers explore how faith can be lived authentically even amid doubt, rejection of harmful traditions, or questions about organized religion. They speak candidly about their experiences, theological roots in Lutheranism, and the deep desire for a more sincere, inclusive, and justice-centered faith practice.

Whether you’re a longtime listener or just discovering their work, their story offers insight into what it means to “do faith better” while staying rooted in grace and love. Click here to read the full article in Living Lutheran.

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In a post-election world still marked by anxiety and division, Pastor Aaron Fuller challenges us to move beyond sky-gazing and step into action. Drawing on the story of Jesus’ ascension, he reminds us that living faithfully means participating in Christ’s work here and now. It’s not about waiting—it’s about witnessing. Click here to read the full reflection from Living Lutheran.

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Jillian Russell blends two callings—outdoor ministry and emergency response—into a life of deep service and faith. From summer camp counselor to firefighter/EMT, Jillian shares how her congregation’s radical hospitality shaped her leadership and how she continues to live out her faith in diverse ways. She reminds us that grace isn’t confined to church walls and that intentional relationships are at the heart of Lutheran identity. Click here to read her story on Living Lutheran.

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In this inspiring profile from Living Lutheran, Brenna Holmes shares how her life of faith is rooted in community, service, and empowering the next generation. From leading children’s choirs at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Ohio to guiding high school students toward bright futures through her work with I Know I Can, Brenna embodies Lutheran values in every sphere of life. Her story reminds us how vocation and faith come together to form safe, welcoming spaces where others can grow.

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A new Pew Research Center study shows that Christianity in the U.S. has remained relatively stable between 2019 and 2024, prompting a mix of cautious hope and honest reflection among ELCA leaders. Lutheran scholar Christian Scharen and ELCA researcher Adam DeHoek unpack what the numbers mean for congregations navigating post-pandemic realities, generational shifts, and a spiritually curious—but often institution-wary—public. Click here to read the full article at Living Lutheran.

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Author and wellness coach Heidi Barr’s new poetry collection, Church of Shadow and Light, explores themes of personal and collective healing, spiritual connection, and the holy found in life’s everyday tensions. In this Living Lutheran interview, Barr reflects on how shadow and light shape her writing, her understanding of church, and the faithful path toward peace in uncertain times. Click here to read the full interview at Living Lutheran.

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What happens when a faithful few decide they’ve had enough of throwing away plastic foam? At University Lutheran Church in Norman, Oklahoma, an environmental ministry sparked by Sunday morning trash bags has grown into a unique and impactful recycling operation—complete with a “densifier” machine, student volunteers, and community partnerships. This one-of-a-kind program has now sold over 20,000 pounds of compressed foam logs for reuse, showing what’s possible when a congregation puts their faith into earth-friendly action. Click here to read the full story in Living Lutheran.

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A small Lutheran congregation in Indiana transformed an abandoned church into the Apple Tree Center, a vibrant ministry offering affordable childcare, community meals, and hope for families like Rachel Gallo’s. Guided by prayer and partnerships, this ministry lives out Christ’s call to serve. Click here to read more at Living Lutheran.

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For nearly a century, St. Philip Evangelical Lutheran Church has served as a spiritual and community anchor in the Ville, a historically Black neighborhood in St. Louis. Through vibrant partnerships, public prayer, and outreach programs like Grill to Glory and Trunks Up, the congregation meets both the practical and spiritual needs of its neighbors—offering food, clothing, hygiene kits, and connection. Pastor Richard E. Ashley describes their ministry as grounded in community heritage and shaped by a commitment to meet people where they are. Click here to read the full story at Living Lutheran.

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Hannah Limbong, a public health major and lifelong Lutheran, shares how her faith journey—from youth leadership in the ELCA to climate advocacy and nonprofit mentorship—shapes every aspect of her life. A member of Christ Lutheran in Jeffersontown, KY, Hannah lives out her call through music, policymaking, and care for creation.

Read how this emerging leader combines service, justice, and joy in her walk with Christ—click here for the full article in Living Lutheran.

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This year marks the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, a historic gathering that shaped Christian theology and gave us the Nicene Creed. As Lutherans, this is an opportunity to reflect on the creed’s lasting significance in our faith and worship. What does it mean to confess the Nicene Creed today? How does it continue to unite (and sometimes divide) Christians across denominations? Join the conversation as we explore the history, theology, and impact of this pivotal moment in the life of the church. Read more in Living Lutheran.

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