Resourceful Servants launched a unique program to elevate the financial stability of rostered ministers and their congregations or organizations. With a combination of individual savings support and congregational financial assessment, the Emergency Savings/Congregational Financial Assessment program promises to make a positive impact on personal financial situations and communal financial practices. Find out if you qualify and how to apply by 9/20/2023.
Read MoreELCA's transformative Coaching Ministry has been guiding individuals in their spiritual journey for 20 years. Discover how it's empowering rostered ministers and lay leaders alike in this article in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreJoin us remotely via Zoom on Wednesday, September 6, as we celebrate our 150th gathering, hear from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, reflect on BEING CHURCH (March 2020 - April 2021) and COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP (July 2021 - June 2023), and dream together how this space and community can continue to affirm, challenge, encourage, teach, shift, and collaborate with leaders across and beyond the church! The login information can be found below and on the ELCA Coaching website.
Read MoreNavigating the Just Love Gathering? Here's a detailed insider's guide to make the most of your experience, from sessions to attend, networking, and some essential tips for a smooth journey. Read more from Women of the ELCA about their triennial gathering.
Read MoreMembers of Kihei Lutheran Church are providing much-needed relief to Maui wildfire victims, collecting essential supplies and extending emotional support. With a message of hope and resilience, they, along with the Lutheran Disaster Response, are calling for nationwide help to rebuild the affected community. Read more in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreFor all in the pathway of Hurricane Idalia…
For victims of gun violence, especially in Chapel Hill, NC; Jacksonville, FL…
For areas threatened by wildfires in Louisiana, and for wildfires that continue to burn in Greece…
For renewed civility and collaboration among political leaders…
For all facing persecution and violence due to sexual orientation and gender identity, especially in Nigeria and Uganda…
For families of those injured or killed in automobile, helicopter, and other transportation accidents…
For peace in areas of war or conflict, especially in Ukraine, Mali, Libya, Syria, and Palestine…
For fair wages, safe working conditions, and equal access to opportunity for all who are employed…
For financial stability for those who are unemployed, underemployed, or on fixed incomes…
In gratitude for the many and various vocations by which all people can serve God in daily life…
Mark Raabe, a long-standing member of First Trinity Lutheran, shares a firsthand account on ELCA.org of the pivotal March on Washington in 1963. Experience the powerful serenity of that day through Raabe's memories, emphasizing the undeniable impact of peaceful protest and the unparalleled influence of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
Read MoreWe share previous blog posts as resources for the upcoming Sunday of service:
10 service projects for 10 years of “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday
'God’s Work. Our Hands.' Sunday: Join the Movement for Disaster Response
Daniel Mambu shares his enriching journey as a volunteer at previous Gatherings, recalling the impact it had on him as a youth. With various volunteer roles available for the upcoming Gathering, he reflects on his excitement to return to New Orleans and the significance of being a part of this transformative experience. Read why Daniel loves volunteering on the ELCA Youth Gathering blog.
Read MoreReflecting on the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington, the ELCA Racial Justice blog emphasizes the lasting impact and current relevance of the fight for racial and economic justice. The post highlights the ongoing challenges of systemic racism, such as redlining and voting rights restrictions, and calls for continued advocacy in line with ELCA’s commitment to racial justice.
Read MoreRaed AbuJries delves deep into his immigration experience, emphasizing the transformative power of kindness. As he navigated the complexities of American society, the diverse responses from individuals shaped his perspective on acceptance, prejudice, and the real-world implications of Matthew 25:35. Through his journey, Raed underscores the value of "inviting in" strangers and the profound ripple effect it can have on both individuals and communities. Read about his immigration experience on the AMMPARO blog.
Read MoreThe Lutheran Sudan Mission celebrated its Centennial in June at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. From its humble beginnings in 1923 with the first missionaries to the region, the mission has evolved, leading to the establishment of two churches with Indigenous leadership in Cameroon and the Central African Republic (CAR). Marking 100 years of partnership, the celebration focused on the past, present, and future of missionary work in the region, emphasizing relationship building and mutual fellowship in sharing the Gospel. Learn more at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreThe ELCA Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program ensures that investments align with Lutheran teachings through socially responsible practices, focusing on environmental, social, and governance issues (ESG). By working closely with Portico Benefit Services, they provide investment screens and issue papers to guide individual investors and organizations towards ethical investments, reflecting their commitment to integrity and sustainable long-term growth. Learn more at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreMembers of ADLA (African Descent Lutheran Association) gathered July 7-9, 2023 in Atlanta under the theme “This Is Us”. Members engaged in worship, attended educational workshops and conducted official business including elected a new governing board. In this video, we hear from some of the assembly attendees about the weekend and the importance of ADLA.
Read MoreFor areas experiencing excessive heat and for access to cooling stations for vulnerable individuals…
For relief and recovery in areas experiencing wildfires, including the northeastern Greece; Maui, Hawaii; the Canadian Province of British Columbia, and the city of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories…
For communities in Southern California as they recover from both an earthquake and Tropical Storm Hilary…
For all in the path of Tropical Storms Franklin and Harold…
For feeding ministries in congregations that provide meals and food to their local communities…
For those who feel lonely or alone…
For victims of gun violence and their families…
For those experiencing strained marital relationships and couples going through separation and divorce….
For migrants and refugees seeking better employment opportunities, for safe travel and a warm welcome…
For peace in areas of war or conflict, especially in Ukraine, Libya, Syria, and Palestine…
Join the Interim Ministry Association on Sep 18, 2023, 10am PDT/MST, 11am MDT, for a free webinar on Transition Consulting provided by the Interim Ministry Association. Learn how these specially trained facilitators help congregations navigate the interim period between pastors and the training required to become one.
Read MoreThe August/September update from ELCA's advocacy office covers urgent matters such as FEMA's funding crisis, clean energy tax credits for churches, efforts in the Farm Bill reauthorization, growing support for the Afghan Adjustment Act, and international funding decisions. These updates underline the pressing issues that call for advocacy, reflection, and action in our society.
Read MoreIn an ELCA blog post, ELCA Hunger shares how Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham, Minnesota, has been honored with the Northwestern Minnesota Synod's "Holy Cow Award" for the third time. Recognized for their unwavering support for missions, the church recently donated $12,500 to ELCA World Hunger. While proud of the award, the church's focus remains on its proactive giving spirit, viewing the award as a reflection of their core values rather than a goal in itself.
Read MoreAddressing Christian Nationalism in this video message, Bishop Eaton says this dangerous ideology “is a perversion of the gospel and a threat to our democracy. It’s precisely because I love my country that I warn against it.”
Read MoreStay up-to-date with the August 2023 Worship News from the ELCA Worship, including resources for "God's work. Our hands." Sunday, a new addition to teach kids about worship through "All Creation Sings," and opportunities for spiritual growth and musical inspiration with Music that Makes Community.
Whether you are a congregation leader or a choir director, explore these resources and upcoming events that can enhance your spiritual practices and communal connections.
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