Posts in ELCA
Leadership in the Wider Church: Bishop Hutterer Elected Chair of Conference of Bishops
Leadership in the Wider Church: Bishop Hutterer Elected Chair of Conference of Bishops

At its March meeting in Itasca, Illinois, the ELCA Conference of Bishops elected the Rev. Deborah Hutterer, bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod, as chair, with the Rev. Greg Busboom elected vice chair. Their terms begin July 1, 2026, and will serve the conference of 65 synod bishops along with the presiding bishop and secretary.

During the meeting, bishops also discussed the future of theological education, updates to the ELCA candidacy process, and financial challenges facing the churchwide organization. Bishop Hutterer reflected on the gathering as a reminder that the ministry of bishops is deeply relational, strengthened through worship, prayer, and shared listening. Read the full ELCA news release.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Bishop HuttererBrian FlatgardConference of BishopsComment
Administration Matters: March 2026 Issue Highlights Rostered Ministers Gathering, Tax Resources, and Church Administration Guidance
Administration Matters: March 2026 Issue Highlights Rostered Ministers Gathering, Tax Resources, and Church Administration Guidance

The March 2026 issue of Administration Matters includes key resources for ELCA congregations and leaders, including registration information for the 2026 Rostered Ministers Gathering (July 6–9 in Indianapolis) and updated clergy tax guides available through Portico Benefit Services. The issue also highlights guidance for navigating church staff transitions, recognizing nonprofit financial scams, and responding when fraud occurs in congregational settings.

These practical resources are designed to help congregations faithfully steward their ministries and administrative responsibilities. Read the full issue and explore the articles.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardAdministration MattersComment
Faith Lens: Seeing God’s Light Beyond Appearances
Faith Lens: Seeing God’s Light Beyond Appearances

This week’s Faith Lens reflection for Lent explores how Scripture challenges our assumptions about what we think we see. Drawing on 1 Samuel 16 and John 9, the study reminds us that while people often judge by outward appearances, God looks at the heart. Through discussion questions, activities, and reflection, participants are invited to consider where spiritual blindness may shape our views of others and how Christ can reshape our vision.

The reflection also invites readers to think about how we remember public figures—such as the late Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.—and how easily complex lives are reduced to headlines or quick judgments. Faith Lens encourages individuals and groups to seek deeper understanding, seeing others and themselves through the grace and mercy of God.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
Making Room for Imperfection: A Lenten Invitation to Release Unrealistic Expectations
Making Room for Imperfection: A Lenten Invitation to Release Unrealistic Expectations

The “Making Room” Lenten series invites Christians to rethink the traditional focus on giving something up for Lent. For the week of March 8, the focus is making room for imperfection—releasing unrealistic expectations and remembering that God’s grace, not perfection, is what sustains us.

Grounded in 2 Corinthians 12:9, this week’s practice encourages journaling about one expectation you can release and reflecting on how God’s grace allows space for growth and compassion toward ourselves. Read the full reflection and explore the prayer and practice in the Living Lutheran article.

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ELCABrian Flatgard2026 Lent and Easter, Living LutheranComment
International Women’s Day: A Lutheran Reflection on Supporting Girls’ Dreams
International Women’s Day: A Lutheran Reflection on Supporting Girls’ Dreams

In a reflection marking International Women’s Day (March 8), ELCA advocacy intern Ashley Chepkorir shares her journey from Kenya to global policy studies and advocacy work in Washington, D.C. Her story highlights the power of education, mentorship, and faith communities in helping girls imagine futures that once seemed impossible.

Drawing on the ELCA’s teaching that every person is created with dignity and gifted to contribute to society, Chepkorir invites faith communities to consider how they can encourage and support girls and young women today. Read the full reflection on the ELCA Advocacy Blog.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Upcoming Conferences, Music Programs, and Resources for Lutheran Worship Leaders
Upcoming Conferences, Music Programs, and Resources for Lutheran Worship Leaders

Each month, ELCA Worship highlights resources and events from Lutheran and ecumenical partner organizations that support worship leaders, musicians, and planners across the church. The latest update includes upcoming conferences, training opportunities, and awards related to church music, liturgy, and worship leadership.

Featured opportunities include the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians Conference (June 2026 at St. Olaf College), the Institute of Liturgical Studies at Valparaiso University (April 13–15), the Hymn Society Annual Conference (July 19–22), and programs supporting young musicians and student composers. Explore the full list of resources and events on the ELCA Worship Blog.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Discover the New ELCA.org: Improved Search, Resources, and a Fresh Digital Experience
Discover the New ELCA.org: Improved Search, Resources, and a Fresh Digital Experience

The ELCA has launched a newly redesigned ELCA.org, created after more than a year of collaboration among Churchwide communications, IT, and innovation teams. The updated site features modern design, improved accessibility, and a new enhanced search tool that integrates resources from across the ELCA, including the resource library, congregation profiles, and Living Lutheran articles.

The new platform aims to help members, congregations, and those exploring faith more easily connect with the ELCA’s ministries and resources. Leaders and members across the Grand Canyon Synod are encouraged to explore the updated site and its new features.

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ELCABrian FlatgardComment
ELCA Urges Faithful Advocacy as Congress Debates the 2026 Farm Bill
ELCA Urges Faithful Advocacy as Congress Debates the 2026 Farm Bill

Congress is currently debating the 2026 Farm Bill, one of the most significant pieces of legislation affecting agriculture, hunger programs, rural communities, and conservation in the United States and around the world. In a recent update, ELCA Advocacy outlines both encouraging provisions and ongoing concerns, urging lawmakers to adopt policies that reflect our shared faith commitments to feed hungry neighbors, support farmers and rural communities, and care for God’s creation.

The ELCA continues to call for stronger protections for programs like SNAP, international food aid, and conservation initiatives that promote soil health and sustainable agriculture. Learn more about the current status of the Farm Bill and how Lutherans can engage in advocacy by reading the full update. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
ELCA AMMPARO: The Heart of Accompaniment: Casa Tochan
ELCA AMMPARO: The Heart of Accompaniment: Casa Tochan

As part of the AMMPARO global migration strategy, the Iglesia Luterana Mexicana (ILM) provides a critical lifeline to those forced to flee their homes. This video highlights the ministry’s essential work in Mexico City's largest shelter, Casa Tochan, and showcases the amazing resilience of migrants seeking safety, dignity, and a better future. Download at bit.ly/4kWQ7RQ or view on YouTube.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAMMPARO, Immigration and Refugees, Mexican Lutheran ChurchComment
What is an AMMPARO Welcoming Congregation?
What is an AMMPARO Welcoming Congregation?

In this video, leaders from across the AMMPARO network share their experiences moving into ministry with migrants toward building deep, life-changing relationships with refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented neighbors. Through stories of uncertainty into transformation, we see how congregations are being re-energized by seeing the face of Christ in everyone they accompany. Download at bit.ly/4rwuCcV and view on YouTube.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAMMPARO, Immigration and RefugeesComment
Presiding Bishop Curry Calls Lutherans to Prayer and Advocacy as Iran War Intensifies
Presiding Bishop Curry Calls Lutherans to Prayer and Advocacy as Iran War Intensifies

In a March 4 pastoral statement, ELCA Presiding Bishop Rev. Yehiel Curry calls the church to prayer, advocacy, and renewed commitment to peace as war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran intensifies. Grounded in Scripture and Lutheran social teaching, Curry laments the loss of life—including Iranian schoolchildren and U.S. service members—and raises concern about the lack of congressional authorization prior to U.S. military engagement.

The bishop urges Lutherans to pray for peace, support diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, and stand in solidarity with companions in the Middle East, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. Read the full statement from the ELCA Presiding Bishop.

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ELCA, Bishop Curry, LettersBrian FlatgardBishop Curry Letters, Church and SocietyComment
A City on a Hill: Staying Steady and Unhidden in Faithful Advocacy
A City on a Hill: Staying Steady and Unhidden in Faithful Advocacy

In a new ELCA Advocacy devotional, Daniella Garber reflects on Jesus’ image of a “city on a hill that cannot be hidden” and what it means for Christians to remain steady and visible in their advocacy for neighbors and God’s creation. Drawing on childhood memories of mountains that never move, Garber reminds readers that faithful advocacy is often slow and unseen—but our calling is to remain present, hopeful, and unhidden in the world.

This reflection invites us to consider where we find steady presence in our lives and how the church can remain a visible witness to God’s justice and compassion. Read the full devotional.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Faith Lens: Belonging
Faith Lens: Belonging

In this week’s Faith Lens reflection, Liz Dinkins explores John 4:5–42, where Jesus crosses deep social and cultural barriers to speak with the Samaritan woman at the well. Their conversation moves from physical thirst to spiritual belonging, revealing a powerful truth: in Christ, we are fully known and still welcomed. Rather than condemning the woman’s complicated story, Jesus offers “living water” and invites her into deeper relationship.

The encounter transforms her from someone arriving alone at the well into the first person in John’s Gospel to share the good news with her community. This reflection invites readers to consider how Christ’s grace creates space for honesty, belonging, and witness—and how we might make room at the well in our own lives for others who are seeking belonging.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
March Into Ministry: Resources, Lutheran Schools Week, and Opportunities from ELCA Schools
March Into Ministry: Resources, Lutheran Schools Week, and Opportunities from ELCA Schools

ELCA Schools and Learning Centers has released its latest newsletter highlighting Lutheran Schools Week (March 1–7), ministry resources like Coins for Lent, leadership opportunities on the ELEA board, and a new School Spotlightcelebrating Lutheran early childhood ministry. The update also includes member resources, discounts, and upcoming events supporting Lutheran educators nationwide. Explore the resources and learn more about Lutheran education ministries at elcaschools.org.

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ELCABrian FlatgardEvangelical Lutheran Education Association (ELEA), Youth and Young AdultComment
In a Time of War, the Church Prays: ELCA Worship Resources for Congregations
In a Time of War, the Church Prays: ELCA Worship Resources for Congregations

As the United States has begun military combat operations in Iran, the church is called to pray for peace and for all who suffer in times of war. The ELCA Worship team has shared prayers, hymns, and liturgical resources to support congregations in worship and personal devotion during this moment of global conflict.

These resources include prayers from the Prayer Book for the Armed Services, hymn suggestions for lament and peace, and references in Evangelical Lutheran Worship and All Creation Sings. Congregations are invited to use these materials as they gather in prayer for peace in the world, compassion for those affected by war, and wisdom for leaders. Read the full resource at elca.org and access the prayers.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardWorship Resources, ELCA WorshipComment
Making Room for Rest: A Lenten Invitation to Pause
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.

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ELCABrian Flatgard2026 Lent and Easter, Living LutheranComment
A New Look at the Devil: Lent, Temptation, and Choosing Love Over Revenge
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.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, 2026 Lent and EasterComment
New ELCA Church Property Resource Hub: Join an Upcoming Town Hall to Learn More
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.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
New ELCA.org Platform Goes Live: What Church Leaders Should Know
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.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Proposed Lectionary Updates Aim to Address Anti-Judaism in Worship
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.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA worshipComment