New resources for observing Migrant and Refugee Sunday are now available. The all-new resources for Migrant and Refugee Sunday include commentaries written by former refugees for preaching on the lessons for Pentecost, a Pentecost/World Refugee Day Litany, Prayer Petitions for June, and other worship and education materials that will be updated each month. Check out the website www.lirs.org/migrant-refugee-sunday
Read MoreThese petitions are offered as guides to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA, as well as for the needs and circumstances of our neighbors, communities and world. Thank you for your continued prayers for the life and mission of this church. Download a Word doc, or PDF for letter size printout or legal size printout, or view the ELCA resource page.
Read MoreI was officiating at the wedding of two of our Clemson University alumni. Their friends stood up to make remarks – all of which were glowing and emotional. Some of these had gone to Clemson, so they included a “Go Tigers!” in their comments. Then there was the admission from one that she attended a college in the SEC Conference rather than the ACC. (College football rivalries are important in the South.) These exchanges were good natured and humorous; some such exchanges are not. Our country seems to be in a phase were name-calling and belittling have ceased to be taboo.
Read MoreMost people have heard of Joni Eareckson Tada, the woman who’s arms and legs entered paralysis at 17 after breaking her neck in a diving accident. It is hard to imagine how a young athlete could deal with the fact that she was not going to be healed, but famously, Joni did. Rather than being physically healed, she learned to paint by holding the brush in her mouth. She founded “Joni and Friends,” a ministry that helps persons with disabilities and their families reach independence, physically, financially, and spiritually.
Read MoreThe May issue of Administration Matters contains information on ELCA Churchwide Assembly observers and volunteers, contingency planning for congregations, background checks, reducing legal liabilities, painting and working with chemicals, and the inherent risk of guest Wi-Fi access at your church.
Read MoreIn this episode of the Three Sides podcast we speak with Dawn Rundman, author of “Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child’s Faith.”
Rundman discusses the science behind children’s brain development in the first five years of life and how to use this scientific insight in faith formation with daily practices for parents. She also provides insight into how congregations can create an inviting environment for children to experience God.
Rundman’s book is available from Beaming Books.
Read MoreWhat event has shaped and changed your life more than any other?
Transforming Moments: Yet again the nation is dealing with a school shooting, this time on the campus of UNC-Charlotte. On May 1, a young man entered a classroom and began shooting. Two were killed and four were wounded. Police were unclear as to the possible motives of the shooter. Read more»
Faith Lens features weekly bible studies that engage youth and young adults in connecting world events with the Bible, faith, and everyday life.
Read MoreThe Rev. Robert C. Blezard continues to provide a “Stewardship Toolkit” for congregations. This month’s theme: Develop a heart of generosity..
It consists of an original newsletter article and RCL-based “stewardship snippets” that they can cut and paste into their publications. It also has resources to explore the theme set out in the newsletter article.
Read MoreThis vacation Bible school curriculum explores the theme of "Who is My Neighbor?" Participants will learn about people around the world who are our neighbors in the kingdom of God and the work of ELCA World Hunger. Includes skits, schedules, snack and craft ideas, and more.
Read MoreWe are called by God to "keep the earth" (Genesis 2:15). On this ELCA page, https://www.elca.org/Resources/Caring-for-Creation, find resources and educational materials to help you and your congregation grow in your own faith journey to appreciate fully and cherish creation and find different ways to engage in earth-keeping activities.
Read MoreWhen you hear someone’s testimony, do you tend to believe it or question it? Why? Read more»
Faith Lens features weekly bible studies that engage youth and young adults in connecting world events with the Bible, faith, and everyday life.
Read MoreAs members of the ELCA, we believe that God is calling us into the world – together. And with generous, loving hands, we can make a difference. ELCA Good Gifts is your opportunity to provide critical support to the ministries and programs that mean the most to you and the people you love.
Read MoreThis issue of Risk Reporter provides insight on reducing legal liabilities. We cover a variety of topics from ADA implications and sanctuary congregations to attractive nuisances and more to help you navigate potentially litigious situations. Learn more about the new Church Mutual Now™ app and how it can help you stay in front of risks and liabilities. View PDF full issue
Read MoreA familiar Easter hymn calls Jesus the “risen conqu’ring Son.” In Romans 8 Paul says we are “more than conquerors” through Christ. In a world which has much tragedy and suffering, what does Paul mean? Are we really more than conquerors? How? Read more»
Faith Lens features weekly bible studies that engage youth and young adults in connecting world events with the Bible, faith, and everyday life.
Read MoreThese petitions are offered as guides to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA, as well as for the needs and circumstances of our neighbors, communities and world. Thank you for your continued prayers for the life and mission of this church. Download a Word doc, or PDF for letter size printout or legal size printout, or read on the GCS news blog.
Read MoreToday’s post is by Linda Witte Henke, an artist specializing in liturgically purposed art for congregation, synod, and churchwide settings (See three new collections of print-on-demand banner fabrics at www.lindahenke.com). This is Linda’s third post offering designs and templates for using visuals to enrich worship.
Read MoreThe Rev. Robert C. Blezard continues to provide a “Stewardship Toolkit” for congregations. This month’s theme: Stewardship of community.
It consists of an original newsletter article and RCL-based “stewardship snippets” that they can cut and paste into their publications. It also has resources to explore the theme set out in the newsletter article.
Read MoreAs these words are written, the fire in Notre Dame, the historic cathedral in the heart of Paris, has finally been brought under control. Memorable scenes of the day include the silhouette of the church against the towering flames, the tall spire collapsing, and mourners praying as they watched in horror. Read more»
Faith Lens features weekly bible studies that engage youth and young adults in connecting world events with the Bible, faith, and everyday life.
Read MoreRick Warren writes about how to break through the 200 – 300 attendance barrier.
“It is a barrier, a real barrier. We had a harder time getting through that barrier — getting above 300 — than going from 1000 to 3000. It’s a definite, distinct barrier.”
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