Posts in ELCA
For What Shall We Pray? 7/25/2023
For What Shall We Pray? 7/25/2023

  • For the memory of Emmett Till and for all victims of race-based hate crimes…

  • For those fighting wildfires in Greece, southern Italy, Tunisia, and Algeria; and in the states of New Mexico, Oregon, and California…

  • For all in the pathway of Typhoon Doksuri…

  • For just and peaceful resolution to strikes and protests in Israel…

  • For students killed in a gymnasium roof collapse in China…

  • For victims of violent conflicts in Ecuador…

  • For victims of a migrant ship capsize off the coast of Senegal…

  • For refugees, asylum seekers, and all migrants…

  • For any who are targeted and persecuted for their religious beliefs…

  • For those in military service, and especially those serving against will or conscience…

  • For peace in Palestine, Ukraine, Sudan, Syria, and Haiti…

  • For the healing of the earth and for swift and purposeful action against climate change…

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ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Class: “Indian 101”
Class: “Indian 101”

The general population knows very little about the Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island. Even the most basic topics are often grand mysteries. “Indian 101” explains some of these basics to build a foundation for students to stand in solidarity with Indian people across the United States as we work together to dismantle longstanding systems of oppression.

No pre-registration is required to participate in this workshop, presented by Vance Blackfox on Wednesday, 7/26/2023, 5-7pm PDT/MST, 6-8pm MDT. Just click "join the class" to attend.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardTruth and Healing Movement, American Indian and Alaska Native, American Indian Alaska Native Lutheran AssociationComment
Class: “Introduction to the Truth and Healing Movement”
Class: “Introduction to the Truth and Healing Movement”

This workshop, presented by Vance Blackfox on Monday, 7/24/2023, 5-6pm PDT/MST, 6-7pm MDT, will explore the truths we seek to learn and the healing we hope to experience, as well as how the movement began, among Indigenous people and within the ELCA. No pre-registration is required to participate. Just click "join the class" to attend.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardTruth and Healing Movement, American Indian and Alaska Native, American Indian Alaska Native Lutheran AssociationComment
Orphaned in Vietnam, Ordained in America: The Journey of Pastor Glasoe
Orphaned in Vietnam, Ordained in America: The Journey of Pastor Glasoe

In this article from Living Lutheran, we delve into the awe-inspiring journey of Pastor Thomas M. Glasoe, from the turbulent orphanages of post-war Vietnam to the pulpit of a Lutheran Church in Pennsylvania. Uncover how his indomitable faith guided him through childhood trials and led him to a life of ministry. This story is a beautiful testament to the power of faith and resilience in the face of adversity.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Advocacy Connections: June/July 2023
Advocacy Connections: June/July 2023

Discover key policy developments in the most recent Advocacy Connections post. From advancements in the Farm Bill to the Afghan Adjustment Act's reintroduction and WHO's new health network, these months have seen great strides. Yet, the Clean Water Act's reduced reach and changes in SNAP food assistance following the new debt ceiling bill remain concerning. Learn more and join the cause.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
For What Shall We Pray? 7/18/2023
For What Shall We Pray? 7/18/2023

  • For natural lands and communities affected by wildfires in Canada and Greece, and for regions facing compromised air quality…

  • For all people, ecosystems, and creatures struggling under extreme temperatures…

  • For people experiencing homelessness, especially queer youth, those fleeing abuse, and those formerly incarcerated…

  • For those in the path of Tropical Storm Calvin…

  • For areas of the United States suffering after storms and flooding, especially on the east coast…

  • For all evacuated due to heavy rains and flooding in South Korea, and for those grieving deaths of family or friends…

  • For victims of mudslides in Colombia, especially those grieving the loss of children…

  • For peace in areas of war and conflict, especially Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Sudan, Syria, and Haiti…

  • For clergy and all who serve the church…

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ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Global Links: July/August, 2023
Global Links: July/August, 2023

ELCA Global Mission shares their Global Links newsletter for July/August, 2023. Meet the new YAGM volunteers preparing for service in global communities and celebrate the centennial ministry of Lutheran churches in Cameroon and Central African Republic. Discover how you can get involved and deepen your understanding of global fellowship in their latest ELCA Global Links update.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardGlobal Links, Global MissionComment
June/July ELCA Advocacy Updates: U.N. and State Edition
June/July ELCA Advocacy Updates: U.N. and State Edition

The ELCA Advocacy Network provides a comprehensive update on Lutheran offices for world community and state public policy offices. Some highlights include:

  • The Lutheran Office for World Community participated in the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent.

  • California held its 4th annual Lutheran Lobby Day, focusing on legislative priorities.

  • The Rocky Mountain Synod Assembly in Texas is planning advocacy actions.

  • In Colorado, Juneteenth awareness was raised by the End Slavery Coalition.

  • Minnesota made legislative advances in clean energy and affordable housing.

  • Pennsylvania's Lutheran Advocacy Ministry is prioritizing hunger, housing, and climate policy.

  • In Washington, the Faith Action Network engaged in Pride Month and Juneteenth activities.

  • Wisconsin's Lutheran Office for Public Policy is addressing age regulations in the justice system and PFAS pollution.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
For What Shall We Pray? 7/11/2023
For What Shall We Pray? 7/11/2023

  • For rescue, recovery, and rebuilding following flooding in Vermont and other parts of New England…

  • For all evacuated due to landslides in southern California…

  • For cleanup and recovery efforts following flooding in Japan, India, and Pakistan…

  • For wonder and joy to fill all who may view the Northern Lights this week…

  • For renewed compassion, humility, and collaboration among political leaders, nationally and globally…

  • For all victims of gun violence, especially in Forth Worth, TX; Portland, OR; Cincinnati, OH; Chicago, IL; and Montgomery; AL…

  • For victims of the Mount Everest helicopter crash in Nepal…

  • For earthquakes and volcanoes in Iceland…

  • For peace in areas of war and conflict, especially Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Syria, and Haiti…

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ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
David Ellingson: Lingering with the lotus
David Ellingson: Lingering with the lotus

Embark on a vivid journey with the "Paddle Pilgrim" as he navigates the Mekong River, winding through Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. In this article from Living Lutheran, David Ellingson recounts the team's adventures on the Mekong. Despite the physical challenges, the river serves as a profound teacher urging them to slow down, observe, and learn from the surroundings. Dive into the full article to experience this adventure for yourself.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment