Making Room for Rest: A Lenten Invitation to Pause

Living Lutheran begins a new Lenten series inviting readers to shift the focus of the season—not simply giving something up, but making room for what nourishes faith and life. The first week centers on rest, encouraging a simple daily practice: a 30-second “holy pause” to breathe deeply, clear the mind, and remember God’s sustaining grace.

Grounded in Psalm 121 and reflections on grace, this practice invites us to notice where rest already exists in our lives and where we might create more space for it during Lent. Explore the Lenten practice and reflection at Living Lutheran.

ELCABrian FlatgardMarch 3, 20262026 Lent and Easter, Living LutheranComment

A New Look at the Devil: Lent, Temptation, and Choosing Love Over Revenge

In a reflective essay for Living Lutheran, retired ELCA pastor Kristin D. Anderson revisits Martin Luther’s understanding of the devil and explores how evil can appear in everyday behaviors—accusing, gossiping, vengeance-seeking and more. Through Scripture, pastoral experience, and a Lenten lens of self-examination, Anderson reminds readers that while the devil seeks to corrupt and divide, Christ’s victory on the cross frees us to respond with forgiveness and love.

This thoughtful Lenten reflection invites readers to examine their own responses to harm and temptation and to rediscover the grace that leads us away from revenge and toward reconciliation. Read the full reflection at Living Lutheran.

ELCABrian FlatgardMarch 3, 2026Living Lutheran, 2026 Lent and EasterComment

New ELCA Church Property Resource Hub: Join an Upcoming Town Hall to Learn More

The ELCA is launching the Church Property Resource Hub, a new initiative designed to help congregations steward buildings and land faithfully while exploring new opportunities for ministry. Leaders are invited to learn more at one of three upcoming online town halls on March 17, March 19, or March 24.

The hub will offer practical tools, guidance, and peer connections to support congregations navigating property decisions and reimagining how church spaces can serve their communities and mission. Congregational leaders and anyone involved in property management are encouraged to attend.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardMarch 3, 2026Comment

New ELCA.org Platform Goes Live: What Church Leaders Should Know

The ELCA is launching a redesigned ELCA.org this week as its new flagship communications platform. During the transition, the site may experience brief outages, and the IT Help Desk will pause requests for webpage updates for two weeks while teams focus on the rollout.

Users who encounter issues are encouraged to wait 30 minutes and try again, and to clear their browser cache to access the latest updates. Instructions for reporting errors or broken links will be shared soon.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardMarch 3, 2026Comment

Proposed Lectionary Updates Aim to Address Anti-Judaism in Worship

The Consultation on Common Texts has approved a provisional update to the Revised Common Lectionary to address passages historically misused to justify anti-Jewish harm. The three-year trial period began in Advent 2025 (Year A) and includes guidance for proclaiming the Passion, revised Easter season readings that restore Hebrew Scripture texts, and updated preaching and hymn resources (newly corrected February 27, 2026).

As a member church, the ELCA encourages congregations to use and test these materials and provide feedback during the trial period. Resources are available through ELCA Worship and SundaysandSeasons.com. Read the full ELCA article for background, resources, and feedback details.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardMarch 2, 2026ELCA worshipComment

New Worship Resources from Augsburg Fortress to Support Your Ministry

ELCA Worship’s March update highlights new and timely resources from Augsburg Fortress to support worship leaders, musicians, and planners. Featured titles include That Divine and Most Excellent Gift: Martin Luther, Music, and the Arts, a posthumous collection of Mark P. Bangert’s work on Luther’s theology of music; the expanded All Creation Sings Leaders Edition; new piano settings by John Helgen; and extensive Sundays and Seasons resources for times of crisis.

Whether you are planning Holy Week, strengthening congregational song, or seeking liturgical grounding in uncertain times, these tools are designed to support faithful, theologically rich worship across our synod. Read the full ELCA Worship post for details and ordering information.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardMarch 2, 2026ELCA worshipComment

For What Shall We Pray?

For an end to war, conflict, and uncertainty, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Ukraine, Iran, and Venezuela…
For escalating tensions in Iran and Lebanon and the safety of civilians and military personnel…
For partisan cooperation across divisions and elected leaders to seek the welfare and dignity of all…
For protection, compassion, and dignity for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…
For those living with uncertainty and grieving loss of life in Jalisco, Mexico, and neighboring states in the wake of recent gang-related violence…
For those without adequate shelter during recent snowstorms in the northeast US…
For the recent shootings in Macon, Georgia; Jacksonville, Florida; Virginia Beach, Virginia; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Kansas City, Missouri; and for an end to gun violence…
For those experiencing heavy rains and flooding in southern Peru…

ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardFebruary 26, 2026ELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment

Faith Lens: Born from Above, Already Loved

In this week’s Faith Lens, we revisit John 3:1–17 and Jesus’ late-night conversation with Nicodemus. What does it mean to be “born from above”? Not a moral restart or spiritual achievement—but an identity rooted in God’s Spirit and grounded in grace. Before we believe, before we prove anything, God already loves the whole world—and sends Christ not to condemn, but to save.

This reflection invites us to release the pressure to prove ourselves and instead live from an identity already claimed in love. With reflection questions, a breath prayer practice, and a closing prayer, this resource offers a timely word of freedom and courage for our congregations and ministries.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 26, 2026Faith LensComment

Who Is My Neighbor? Bearing Faithful Witness in Divided Times

In the February 2026 “Deeper Understandings” series, theologian Wanda Deifelt reflects on what it means to bear faithful witness in a time of social fracture, immigration enforcement actions, and public fear. Rooted in Luke 10 and Martin Luther’s teaching on Christian freedom, she reminds us that the neighbor is anyone in need—and that we are freed by the gospel not for self-protection, but for service.

Highlighting the Minnesota bishops’ statement and examples of solidarity from congregations like Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, the article calls Lutherans to build “webs of solidarity” and show up for vulnerable neighbors with dignity, courage, and hope. Read the full article from Living Lutheran.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Living LutheranComment

Art As A Conduit Of Collective Liberation: Part Two

Living Lutheran spoke with Joe Davis about the ways art can inspire communities and motivate action toward the liberation and well-being of others. This video is Part 2 of that conversation; to view Part 1, click here.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Living Lutheran, Racial Justice, 2026 Black History MonthComment

Wayfinding in the Commons: A Monthly Space for Courageous Community

On Wednesday, March 4, ELCA Coaching invites faith leaders to join “Wayfinding in the Commons,” a monthly 45-minute online gathering (11am PT | 12pm MT | 1pm CT | 2pm ET) focused on community, leadership clarity, and one actionable next step. Rooted in the idea that “hope is a group project,” these sessions offer Scripture grounding, bite-size learning, small-group coaching, and reflection for leaders navigating real ministry challenges.

If you’re feeling stuck, isolated, or simply seeking connection, this space is for you. Join leaders from across the church as we rediscover how shared wisdom and faithful presence create agency in uncertain times. Learn more and join the March 4 gathering.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Coaching, ELCA CoachingComment

Light on the Hill: Why Advocacy Is a Gospel Calling

In “Light on the Hill,” Jeffrey M. Jordan II of the ELCA Witness in Society office reflects on advocating for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) on Capitol Hill alongside members of the National TPS Alliance. Rooted in Matthew 5:14–15, the devotional reminds us that advocacy is not merely political strategy—it is Christian witness. When human stories are reduced to policy categories, followers of Christ are called to place the light of dignity, justice, and mercy where it can be seen.

As congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod continue to engage issues of immigration and public policy, this reflection offers theological grounding for faithful presence in the public square. We invite you to read and reflect on how God is calling you to place your light on the lampstand. Read the full devotional from ELCA Advocacy.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

February Mission Support Memo: The World Goes On

Our February 2026 Mission Support memo persuades us to realize how closing a congregation can develop a new ministry, just as Memorial Lutheran let go to become Riverside Commons in Nashville, TN. Explore how Riverside Commons will be a “neighborhood space for the sake of the world,” aiming to serve as a spiritual, artistic and social hub for East Nashville. Also learn how to join an important ELCA Town Hall: "Introducing The Church Property Resource Hub" with three days and times in March. Remember here is a pdf version of the memo too!

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Mission Support, ELCA Mission Support Team, StewardshipComment

The Timbre of Black Joy: A Sacred Breath That Heals and Sustains

As we observe Black History Month, we invite you to read “The Timbre of Black Joy” by the Rev. Ralen M. Robinson, pastor of Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kan. In this powerful Voices of Faith reflection, Robinson names Black joy as sacred, transformative, and healing—“a balm of Gilead” that refuses to let pain have the final word.

In a world marked by struggle and injustice, Black joy is not denial but defiance—an embodied, communal witness to hope, resilience, and God’s sustaining love. We encourage you to read and reflect on this timely essay and consider how joy strengthens, protects, and renews our shared life in Christ.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Living Lutheran, 2026 Black History Month, Racial JusticeComment

Federal Court Blocks ICE Raids at Houses of Worship, Affirming Religious Freedom

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking ICE from conducting enforcement actions at or around houses of worship for five ELCA synods and their ecumenical partners. Region 2 synods — Sierra Pacific and Southwest California — were among the plaintiffs. The ruling restores long-standing protections for sensitive locations and affirms religious freedom under the Constitution. Read more about this significant step forward for sacred spaces and immigrant communities.

ELCA, Region 2Brian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Immigration and Refugees, Church and SocietyComment

Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know

The Annual Congregation Report is due March 1 for all ELCA congregations, new starts, and synod-authorized worshiping communities. This report provides essential data about people, finances, and resources and ensures your congregation is included in synod and churchwide planning and reporting.

Congregations should submit the report online at elca.org/congregationreport using the ID and password mailed in mid-January. Instructions, Form A, and support resources are available at elca.org/reportinstructions. If you are not receiving ELCA emails, be sure to update your contact information to stay informed.

ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Comment

Taking Flight with DISC: A Leadership Masterclass for ELCA Leaders

ELCA Coaching is offering Taking Flight with DISC, a four-hour online leadership training designed to strengthen self-awareness, social awareness, and style flexibility. Led by Nathan Swenson-Reinhold, MCC, this practical masterclass equips church leaders to communicate effectively, navigate change, and lead teams with greater insight. Cost is $350 (includes DISC assessment and materials). Space is limited; email guide@summitcbc.com to register.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Coaching, ELCA CoachingComment

A Fast Way to Show Up in Public Life: ELCA Sign-On Letters (Updated)

The ELCA’s Witness in Society team has shared an updated overview (Feb. 18, 2026) of sign-on letters—a timely advocacy tool that functions like a petition to members of Congress or other decision makers, often tied to an immediate issue or impending vote. These letters help educate leaders, name shared faith-rooted values, and urge specific action—often alongside ecumenical and interfaith partners.

The update also explains how the ELCA decides to sign on: careful analysis rooted in ELCA social teaching and policy priorities, attention to accuracy and tone (avoiding hyper-partisan language), and discernment about impact. The post includes a running list of recent ELCA-supported sign-on letters (last updated Feb. 12, 2026) with links to read each statement in full. Read more on the ELCA Advocacy blog.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Webinar | Why the Gathering? | 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering

Gathering Webinars are designed to provide timely, relevant information as you prepare for the Gathering. Each session is led by Gathering leadership and includes a presentation followed by a live Q&A. Webinars begin at 7:00 p.m. CST and run approximately 45 minutes. For those unable to attend live, recordings will be available online several days following the webinar. To learn more about upcoming webinars, visit the Gathering site. View the first webinar here.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 20262027 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment

A Historic Day in Jerusalem: Imad Haddad Consecrated Bishop of the ELCJHL

On a bright January day in Jerusalem’s Old City, the Rev. Imad Haddad was consecrated as the fifth bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL), succeeding Bishop Sani Ibrahim Azar. Surrounded by global Lutheran leaders—including ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry—and ecumenical partners, Haddad called the church to steadfast witness, peace and reconciliation amid ongoing tensions and hardship.

Rooted in the Palestinian Christian community, Bishop Haddad spoke of sumud—steadfast endurance—and of the church’s baptismal calling to proclaim salvation and reconciliation in a land marked by suffering. Read the full story from Living Lutheran to learn more about this historic moment and its significance for our global Lutheran communion.

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