Posts in ELCA
From Florida to Wisconsin: ELCA Public Policy Offices at Work
From Florida to Wisconsin: ELCA Public Policy Offices at Work

From Florida to Wisconsin, ELCA-affiliated state public policy offices are lifting a strong faith voice in the public square. Highlights include Florida Faith Advocacy Days in Tallahassee, Kansas Interfaith Action’s voter engagement and immigration advocacy, new interfaith coalitions in New Jersey, bold public witness in Pennsylvania, gun violence prevention and hunger work through Texas Impact, and renewed advocacy in Wisconsin around hunger, clean water, and care for homeless youth. Read the full article on the ELCA Advocacy blog: Fall Updates: State Edition.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For an end to war and conflict, and for places of political unrest or contention, especially Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, and Pakistan/Afghanistan…

  • For all in the path of Typhoon Fung-wong…

  • For UN climate talks and for safety amidst protests…

  • For national tragedies around the world including a Turkish military plane crash, a bridge collapse in south-west China, a bus crash in Peru, and a car explosion attack in India…

  • For feeding ministries and all hunger relief organizations…

  • For all federal employees…

  • For care and safety for immigrants…

  • For all loving marriages and partnerships…

  • For the beauty of God’s creation, especially sightings of the Northern Lights this week…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Faith Lens: My Greatest Fear… Realized
Faith Lens: My Greatest Fear… Realized

This week’s Faith Lens reflection, “My Greatest Fear… Realized” by Pastor Bob Chell, explores Luke 21:5–19—Jesus’ teaching that speaks directly to our fears, doubts, and insecurities. As the disciples marvel at the temple’s beauty, Jesus warns of destruction, betrayal, and suffering—but also offers an astonishing promise: “Not a hair of your head will perish.”

In the face of life’s uncertainty, Jesus calls us not to over-prepare or defend ourselves, but to trust that he will give us the words and wisdom we need. This devotion invites readers to release their fears into Christ’s care and remember that God’s promise of presence endures, even when all else seems to fall apart.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
Seeing Our Neighbors: A Lesson in Compassion and Connection
Seeing Our Neighbors: A Lesson in Compassion and Connection

In this month’s Living Lutheran reflection, pastor and writer Kimberly Knowle-Zeller reminds us of the quiet holiness of being seen. When her son’s rough morning led to a classmate’s simple empathy—“I have mornings like that”—it became a lesson in bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Families are invited to notice and pray for neighbors in need, send caring notes, and practice intercessory prayer as ways to live out God’s love in daily life. Read more at Living Lutheran.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
“God’s Work. Our Hands.” Sunday 2025: Faith in Action Across the ELCA
“God’s Work. Our Hands.” Sunday 2025: Faith in Action Across the ELCA

From Maine to Texas, congregations across the ELCA joined in acts of compassion during this year’s “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday on September 7. Volunteers packed food kits, cleaned parks, visited seniors, and supported those in need—embodying service as worship. Some gathered in solidarity with immigrants and social service agencies facing budget cuts. “Being baptized into Christ’s life,” one volunteer reflected, “creates a whole new world of relationships … characterized by loving, liberated service.” Read more at Living Lutheran.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, God's Work Our Hands SundayComment
Crossing Borders, Sharing Faith: Trinity Community Lutheran Welcomes All
Crossing Borders, Sharing Faith: Trinity Community Lutheran Welcomes All

In Point Roberts, Washington—a U.S. enclave accessible only through Canada—Trinity Community Lutheran Church embodies faith without borders. Founded in 1913 by Icelandic immigrants, the congregation now includes U.S. and Canadian members who gather for music, potlucks, and interfaith worship. Through Jazz Vespers, shared holidays, and rotating clergy, Trinity continues to live out the message that “all are welcome,” even amid changing politics and border challenges. Read more at Living Lutheran.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Immigration and RefugeesComment
Women of the ELCA Host Annual Blue Christmas Service on the Winter Solstice
Women of the ELCA Host Annual Blue Christmas Service on the Winter Solstice

Join the Women of the ELCA for the annual Blue Christmas Service on Sunday, December 21, 2025, the Winter Solstice—the longest night of the year. This virtual Zoom service at 6 PM (Arizona/Utah) / 5 PM (Nevada) offers a peaceful space with music, readings, and prayer for all who seek comfort and hope during the holiday season. Register to attend here.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA), 2025 Advent and ChristmasComment
Explore New Worship & Music Resources from Our ELCA Partners
Explore New Worship & Music Resources from Our ELCA Partners

Each month, ELCA Worship highlights resources and upcoming events from Lutheran and ecumenical partners supporting worship leaders, musicians, and congregations. This month’s roundup includes the Lutheran Summer Music Musical Advent Calendar (Nov. 30–Dec. 24); registration for the Institute of Liturgical Studies (Apr. 13–15, 2026); the ALCM 2026 Conference at St. Olaf College; training opportunities from Music That Makes Community; and a newly redesigned site from Journey to Baptismal Living.

Learn more and explore registrations, resources, and nomination opportunities by reading the full post from ELCA Worship.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For an end to war and conflict, and for places of political unrest or contention, especially Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, Pakistan/Afghanistan, and Tanzania…

  • For relief, recovery, and grief work following Tropical Storm Melissa, Typhoon Kalmaegi, and the Afghan earthquake…

  • For victims of political and police violence in Tanzania and Brazil…

  • For victims of the UPS plane crash in Louisville, KY…

  • For all who face food insecurity and hunger…
    For farmers and for food production…

  • For elections, political transitions, and all government employees and leaders…

  • For protection, justice, and human rights for all migrants…

  • In gratitude for all veterans and their service to the common good…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
A Stable Lamp Is Lighted: Advent 2025 Resources from ELCA World Hunger
A Stable Lamp Is Lighted: Advent 2025 Resources from ELCA World Hunger

This Advent, ELCA World Hunger invites you to “light your own stable lamp” with free 2025 Advent resources, including a study guide, calendar, and congregational action guide. Centered on the theme A Stable Lamp Is Lighted, these materials encourage reflection, generosity, and hospitality while exploring justice and hope through the church’s work to end hunger and poverty. Download or order resources for your household or congregation at ELCA.org/our-work/relief-and-development/elca-world-hunger/wh-advent.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World Hunger, 2025 Advent and ChristmasComment
Faith Lens: How Jesus Handles Loaded Questions
Faith Lens: How Jesus Handles Loaded Questions

In this week’s Faith Lens reflection, Pastor Heather Hansen explores how Jesus responds to the Sadducees’ attempt to trap him with a question about the resurrection (Luke 20:27–38). Instead of arguing over details, Jesus redirects the conversation toward what truly matters: that God is God of the living, and that love and life—not power or status—define God’s kingdom.

In a world full of “gotcha” questions, we’re reminded to pause, breathe, and answer from a place of faith and love—trusting that God’s truth and grace endure beyond every debate.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
Constitution 101: New ELCA Webinar Simplifies Congregation Updates
Constitution 101: New ELCA Webinar Simplifies Congregation Updates

The ELCA Office of the Secretary has released a new “Congregation Constitution 101” webinar and PowerPoint designed for congregation leaders. The hour-long training explains how constitutions function, how the Model Constitution is organized, and how to amend and update your congregation’s document. Watch the recording at vimeo.com/1129666826 or access materials at ELCA.org/Office-of-the-Secretary/Constitutions.

For additional help, see our related post: Update Made Easy: New 2025 Constitution Guidance for Your Congregation.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Honoring Native American Heritage Month: Events from ELCA Indigenous Ministries
Honoring Native American Heritage Month: Events from ELCA Indigenous Ministries

November is Native American Heritage Month. The ELCA invites our communities to honor Indigenous voices through two highlighted events: the 15th Annual Vine Deloria Jr. Symposium (online, Oct. 11–15, 2025) and the National Day of Mourning (Nov. 27, 12pm in Patuxet, MA). These gatherings offer meaningful opportunities for learning, remembrance, and solidarity. Learn more at elca.org/indigenous.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAmerican Indian and Alaska Native, ELCA Indigenous Ministries and Tribal RelationsComment
Here I Pod: Lutheran disaster responders speak to FEMA legislation
Here I Pod: Lutheran disaster responders speak to FEMA legislation

In a new episode of Here I Pod, Lutheran Disaster Response staff and partners share their recent conversations with legislators in Washington, D.C., urging stronger FEMA reform to support disaster-affected communities. Listeners also hear practical ways to take action and strengthen congregational preparedness. Listen and read more on Living Lutheran: Here I Pod: Lutheran disaster responders speak to FEMA legislation.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLutheran Disaster Response, Here I Pod, Church and SocietyComment
ELCA Colleges Confront Food Insecurity Through Campus Pantries
ELCA Colleges Confront Food Insecurity Through Campus Pantries

Food insecurity affects nearly one in four college students nationwide. In response, campus ministries across the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU) operate pantries offering food, essentials, and compassionate support. These ministries reflect Christ’s call to feed the hungry and ensure all can flourish. Read the full article on Living Lutheran: That all may flourish — NECU pantries address food insecurity.

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ELCABrian FlatgardHunger, Living LutheranComment
Reformation: More Than a Day—A Call to Live Our Faith Boldly
Reformation: More Than a Day—A Call to Live Our Faith Boldly

Reformation is more than an annual celebration—it is a living tradition calling us to embody grace, justice, and courageous discipleship in daily life. In this reflection, Pastor Ralen M. Robinson invites us to remember that the Spirit continues to stir reform in our communities as we advocate for change, love our neighbors, and allow faith alone, Scripture alone, and grace alone to guide us year-round. Read the full reflection on Living Lutheran: My take: A living tradition — The Reformation was meant to be continued.

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ELCABrian FlatgardReformation Sunday, Living LutheranComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For an end to war and conflict, and for places of political unrest or contention, especially Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, Pakistan/Afghanistan, and Tanzania…

  • For all in the path of Tropical Storm Melissa…

  • For victims of police raids in Brazil…

  • For cease-fire in Gaza, and for opportunities for relief agencies to accomplish their work…

  • For all who face hunger and food insecurity, especially those those who rely on SNAP benefits…

  • For food pantries, community meals, and all feeding ministries and programs…

  • For federal employees…

  • For safety for immigrants, refugees, and all migrants…

  • For the communion of saints and for witnesses to faith in this and all generations…

  • For gifts of time, daylight, nighttime, and the cycle of the seasons…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Faith Lens: A Simple Act, a Lasting Change
Faith Lens: A Simple Act, a Lasting Change

A simple act of kindness can change a life. When Jesus called Zacchaeus down from the tree, it wasn’t with judgment but with compassion—and that moment transformed Zacchaeus’s heart, leading him to generosity and repentance. This week’s Faith Lens reflection invites us to see how love and inclusion, rather than shame or exclusion, open the way for true change. In the words of Isaiah, “Learn to do good; seek justice, rescue the oppressed.”

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment