ELCA Mission Support’s most recent memo (download PDF) reflects on the enriching "Walking Together 2023" event in Grand Rapids, where over 85 participants from the Northeastern Minnesota Synod came together to share inspiring encounters with Christ. They also share a reminder to mark your calendars for the upcoming webinar on Nov. 27, where Rev. Tim Brown will demystify creating a narrative budget for your community.
Read MoreThis month we celebrate the third anniversary of All Creation Sings, the worship and song supplement to Evangelical Lutheran Worship. As you look ahead to the incarnation cycle of the church year (Advent, Christmas, Time after Epiphany), consider these resources to support your new or continued exploration of All Creation Sings.
Read MoreIn this article from The Lutheran World Federation, Dr. Fadi Atrash of Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem gives a heart-rending account of the dire impact the Israel-Palestine conflict is having on patients and staff. With access to care hindered and the threat of a looming catastrophe, AVH appeals for a ceasefire and urgent international support.
Read MoreAmidst the turmoil of the Israel-Hamas conflict, we stand with our global family in prayer and support. Read the latest Global Links newsletter for updates on the crisis, mission stories of hope, and ways to get involved. They also share mission personnel updates, new Advent resources and the ongoing Truth and Healing Movement.
Read MoreIn the United States, November is Native American Heritage Month. Racial Justice Ministries would like to elevate the voices and work of our Indigenous siblings by bringing attention to the multitude of events by the ELCA’s Indigenous Ministries and Tribal Relations. A full list of offerings for this month can be found here, but there are two events that ELCA Racial Justice Ministries would especially like to highlight: the Vine Deloria Jr. Theological Symposium on 11/13/2023 and the 11/23/2023 Day of Mourning. Read more here.
Read MoreConfronting the heartbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, the ELCA urges a compassionate Christian response through the lenses of scarcity, abundance, and faith. Dr. Peter N. McLellan calls us to witness the suffering and respond with abundant life, extending beyond the political divides and into a realm of shared humanity. Discover ways to support, learn, and advocate for peace and justice in this time of crisis.
Read MoreBishop Eaton addresses the hatred and violence toward Arab, Muslim, and Jewish people in the U.S., acknowledges the grief and trauma of Jews and Palestinians, and offers ways that we can support our Palestinian members and our neighbors.
Read MoreThe ELCA is taking a significant step in re-examining sections of the "Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust" statement. Learn about the process, engage in the conversation, and discover how you can be a part of this journey at the newly launched website at elca.org/reconsiderations.
Read MoreDavey and Goliath have delighted millions of people through the years and this Halloween special is no different. First aired in 1960, the “Halloween Who-Dun-It” special takes Davey, Goliath and Sally on a Halloween adventure that results in mistaken identities, hurt feelings, and the importance of admitting when we’ve caused an accident.
Read MoreLutheran Disaster Response is providing support to Augusta Victoria Hospital to procure medical supplies and accommodations for patients and staff who are unable to return to their homes in Gaza between treatments.
Read MoreAs Maine is added to the list of places that have experienced a mass shooting, we in the New England Synod raise our voices with the psalmist to cry out, “How long, O Lord? How long?” How much longer will gun violence ravage lives and rip apart communities?
We also lift up prayers for those affected by this tragedy in Lewiston. Those who have lost loved ones, are injured or in pain, as well as those who are tasked with the difficult work of helping to heal: first responders, medical personnel, chaplains, clergy, funeral directors, crime scene investigators, law enforcement officers, trauma counselors and more. We pray for them and all those affected.
Read MoreThe ELCA's commitments call on us to denounce unequivocally any attacks — past, present or future — by any party that lead to civilians becoming victims. Our hearts are with all those who have been killed or injured, and with their families and friends. Read the full statement here.
Here are worship resources and ways that you can be involved in advocacy. Join a prayer vigil hosted by Churches for Middle East Peace.
Read MoreIn his insightful piece in Living Lutheran, Ryan Panzer delves into the intersection of AI and the church, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges posed by AI's rise in ministry and its implications for communal faith. As AI tools like ChatGPT gain traction, the church must navigate the balance between technological advancement and the core values of community and liturgy.
Read MoreIn October's ELCA Advocacy updates, global Lutherans convened in Krakow, Poland, for the LWF Assembly, with U.N. discussions focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals. Arizona's LAMA hosted an influential retreat, welcomed a new advocacy fellow, and continued their efforts in addressing hunger. Meanwhile, states like California and Colorado witnessed legislative shifts and advocacy initiatives on various topics. Stay updated with these important developments across the ELCA network.
Read MoreFor peace in our world…
For all casualties of the conflict in Israel and Palestine and for all in dire need of humanitarian aid…
For victims of gun violence, especially in Birmingham, AL; Fairland, MD; Charlotte, NC; Germantown, WI; Louisville, KY; and Gardner, MA…
For areas of the United States facing first winter storms of the season…
For victims of Louisiana’s I-55 interstate crash…
For all in the pathway of landfalling tropical cyclones moving toward Bangladesh, Yemen, Vanuatu, Nicaragua, and Mexico…
For ongoing drought in Brazil, and all areas suffering extreme weather…
For safe working conditions and fair wages for workers across the world…
For renewed hope and comfort for those who grieve…
In gratitude for the leadership of pastors, bishops, deacons, and ecumenical partners…
For gifts of renewal and reformation in our churches and in our lives of faith…
In this week’s Faith Lens, explore the intriguing realm of perception, from the color of a dress that once divided the internet to deeper questions about truth and freedom in the context of Reformation Sunday. Explore discussions about personal beliefs, discerning the real truth in an era of "truthiness", and the significance of Martin Luther's 95 theses in shaping our understanding of faith.
Read MoreIn this challenging time, we're relieved to share that Meghan and Gabi Aelabouni are safe in Jerusalem amidst the ongoing crisis. Their poignant update offers a glimpse into the harsh realities on the ground, underscoring the urgent need for peace and the critical role of the local church and the ELCA. For deeper insights and personal narratives from the Aelabounis, access the full story in this PDF. Their courage and resolve shine a light of hope through the darkness of conflict.
Read MoreDiscover ELCA Worship's latest resources in their October, 2023 newsletter. Explore inclusive worship materials, engage with transformative allyship, and prepare for a soulful Advent with communal song workshops.
Read MoreIn the midst of global unrest, ELCA Advocacy's October update from the ELCA advocacy office in Washington, D.C. delves into critical issues from the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict to vital reforms in Native American housing, the U.S. anti-corruption strategy, empowering young adult voices in migration advocacy, and an active presence in Climate Week NYC. Explore these pivotal developments and learn how ELCA is actively responding to worldwide challenges.
Read MoreLearn how Lutheran Disaster Response is bringing hope and essential aid to communities in Maui affected by the recent devastating wildfires. Join in the mission of support and recovery.
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