How is God calling the church to keep reforming? ELCA’s Faith Lens for October 25, Reformation Sunday, invites us to remember our history honestly while discerning where the Holy Spirit is leading. Grounded in Jeremiah 31:31–34 and John 8:31–36, the resource offers discussion questions, an interactive activity, and prayer for youth groups and congregational learning. Read “Looking Back and Looking Forward.”
Read MoreBegin 2027 with time to rest, connect, and grow in ministry. Leading Well meets January 5–8 at Scottsdale’s Franciscan Renewal Center to explore “The Patient Way of Jesus,” with practical sessions, daily worship, complimentary coaching, and Sabbath rest. Learn more about the retreat.
Read MoreMake Your Mark! Students in grades 8–12 are invited to the CRC Fall Retreat November 13–15, 2026, at New Promise Lutheran Church in St. George, Utah. Explore faith through the stories of Esther, Moses, and David and Goliath, with games, service, worship, and friendship. Cost: $50 plus transportation. Register and pay by October 26.
Read MoreJoin SYAT Collective on Zoom this fall: November 19 at 10 a.m. for Navigating Political Conversations, and December 10 at 6:30 p.m. for Advent renewal for children’s, youth, and young adult leaders. Register separately through each event link, and explore SYAT and youth ministry resources.
Read MoreThe November 14 Christian Nationalism Symposium in Sun City and online has been postponed due to low enrollment. Growing in Faith organizers are reworking the event for spring 2027; a new date is forthcoming. Please update your calendars and remove previous event advertisements.
Read MoreWhat does “bound conscience” mean, and why does it matter to the ELCA’s reconsideration of its sexuality statement? In this 31-minute episode, Professor Tim Wengert explores its Lutheran roots and pastoral significance, inviting careful listening across deeply held convictions.
Read MoreWhat do charitable giving trends mean for your ministry? Join the ELCA Foundation’s November 11 webinar, 11 a.m.–noon Arizona/Utah time or 10–11 a.m. Nevada time, for insights from Giving USA 2026 and practical fundraising guidance. Pastors, stewardship teams, and ministry leaders are encouraged to register.
Read MoreYou’re invited to nominate a student for LSM 2027! Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) is a faith-based residential music academy for high school students in grades 8-12. Students come together from across the country to pursue musical excellence and build an intentional, supportive, and fun community.
LSM 2027 takes place at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, from June 27-July 25. Priority Enrollment is open through December 1, offering a $100 tuition discount and first access to financial aid. Nominate students at LSMacademy.org/nominate, and watch and share the LSM Experience Video to learn more!
Read MoreIn Pivot’s first bilingual episode, Dwight Zscheile talks with Pastor Henry Burbano and Anna Schaberg of Juntos, a bilingual ministry of Emmanuel Covenant Church in Shoreview, Minnesota.
Read MoreFacing a ministry crossroads? Reflective Leadership Grants offer up to $20,000 to support structured reflection for established lay and clergy leaders serving eligible Christian organizations. Apply by December 7, 2026; applicant Q&A sessions are October 21 and November 18. Explore eligibility and application details.
Read MoreSupport your congregation’s song with fall choir webinars beginning October 23, Lutheran Summer Music 2027 enrollment—with a $100 discount through December 1—and church music gatherings and shared-singing resources. Read ELCA Worship’s full October partner roundup and share these opportunities with worship leaders, musicians, and families.
Read MoreGod’s grace is freely given—and calls us to generous love. In “Costly Love,” ELCA’s Faith Lens explores Matthew 22:15–22, inviting us to share our time, possessions, and energy through love, justice, and mercy. Reflection questions and simple activities help youth groups and congregations connect faith with daily life. Explore the reflection.
Read MoreHow do grace, faith, and love of neighbor shape difficult decisions? Week two of Learn and Discern offers a 21-minute introduction to Lutheran ethics with the Rev. Dr. Kathryn “Kit” Kleinhans, providing context for conversations about the ELCA’s sexuality social statement.
Read MoreCreating or updating your will can begin with a few manageable steps. Reflect on what matters most, review your assets and beneficiaries, and explore how your plans can care for loved ones while carrying your faith and generosity forward.
Read MoreHelp every generation grow in faith together. ReFocus Ministry’s Generations Together online conference on October 22, 2026, offers keynote speakers, practical breakouts, and live ministry conversations for pastors, lay leaders, and volunteers. Registration is $35, or $50 for VIP access with recordings, resources, and Q&A opportunities. Learn more and register.
Read MoreCelebrate being beloved children of God at “We Are Worthy,” November 14, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., at Love of Christ Lutheran’s Compassion Center in Mesa. Enjoy Bible study, music, a keynote, painting, and worship with Communion. All women are welcome. Complimentary registration is available for synod rostered women, with scholarships for lay women of color. Register and bring a friend.
Read MoreBuild practical ministry skills and make space for renewal at Executive Skills for Church Leaders, January 3–8, 2027, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree. Open to pastors, deacons, and lay leaders, the retreat explores grace-centered leadership, finances, staff support, and the Enneagram. Residential and commuter options are available; programming begins January 4. Learn more and register.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, the primary challenge facing the church in North America is a crisis of discipleship.
Read MoreA new Rostered Minister Profile portal is scheduled to launch January 11. Pastors and deacons should download their existing RMPs by January 10; profiles will not transfer to the new system. Training is planned for November, with recordings and supporting resources to follow.
Read MoreWho might be waiting for an invitation? Reflecting on Matthew 22:1–14, ELCA’s Faith Lens explores God’s abundant grace and our calling to welcome others—especially those on the margins. Discover discussion questions and a simple activity to help turn welcome into friendship and belonging.
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