Wayfinding in the Commons: A Monthly Space for Courageous Community

Wayfinding in the Commons: Join the March 4 Online Gathering

On Wednesday, March 4, leaders across the ELCA are invited to gather online for “Wayfinding in the Commons,” a monthly 45-minute space for community, leadership development, and actionable next steps in ministry.

🗓 First Wednesday of each month

⏰ 11am Pacific | 12noon Mountain | 1pm Central | 2pm Eastern

Join us via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85394476190?pwd=VUh1UElEbXZoMnpheXc4S0llaG91dz09
Meeting ID: 853 9447 6190
Passcode: 466634

Hosted by the ELCA Coaching team, these gatherings are designed to move participants from isolation to agency—grounded in faith and shaped by shared wisdom.

As Jemar Tisby writes, “Hope is a group project.” In seasons when ministry can feel lonely or overwhelming, Wayfinding in the Commons offers a different rhythm: community, clarity, and one concrete step forward.

What Is “Wayfinding in the Commons”?

Wayfinding is the process of orienting ourselves in unfamiliar territory—discerning where we are and how to move forward faithfully.

The Commons is “what we share”—a way of understanding life together that centers collaboration, stewardship, and mutual care. In Lutheran terms, this reflects our theology of vocation and the priesthood of all believers: we do not navigate alone. Christ gathers us into community, and the Spirit equips us for shared leadership.

Together, participants will experience:

  • 5 minutes of grounding in Scripture, prayer, music, or reflection

  • 5 minutes of leadership learning

  • 25 minutes of coach-facilitated small groups addressing real-life ministry challenges

  • 5 minutes of reflection and next steps

Each session is built around four anchors: Community, Learning, Clarity (which creates Agency), and at least one Actionable Step.

Who Is This For?

If you are leading in any way—rostered or lay—this space is for you.

  • If you feel stuck.

  • If you feel alone.

  • If you’re curious.

  • If you’re seeking.

  • If you want to have an impact.

  • If you’re open to beloved community.

You are invited.

As Cole Arthur Riley reminds us, “Don’t become too familiar with loneliness. Community is a risk, but liberation depends on the collective.”

Why This Matters for Our Synod

Across Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, and the Navajo Nation, leaders are navigating rapid change. Congregations are discerning new forms of ministry. Communities are facing uncertainty. The inner voice of powerlessness can grow louder when we feel isolated.

But Jesus sends disciples two by two. The early church gathered to discern together. Our Lutheran witness insists that God works through community.

Wayfinding in the Commons is one small but meaningful way to embody that truth.

You can join for one session or return monthly. No special preparation is required—only curiosity and openness to where the Spirit is moving.

👉 Join the March 4 Zoom gathering and learn more here →

Recordings of previous sessions are also available for those who want to explore further.

Let’s trust God enough to place our shared light on the lampstand—together.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment