Dr. Dee Stokes and Rev. Dr. Adam White share groundbreaking insights from their research on what makes preaching truly compelling in the latest Pivot podcast, also featuring our synod’s Pastor Katie Langston.
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In the latest news from ELCA Congregational Stewardship, Rev. Tim Brown shares a letter, as well as upcoming events, stewardship resources, and stewardship in the text.
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What does it mean to steward the Christian faith in the 21st century? Terri Martinson Elton’s article, “The Future of Congregations: Cruciform Communities of Hope,” invites congregations to embrace their calling as living communities of faith, hope, and love. Explore how shifting from programs to practices can transform congregational life, foster relationships, and create a vibrant Christian witness. Read more on our blog.
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Simeon and Anna saw something extraordinary in an ordinary moment at the temple: God’s presence in Jesus. Their story reminds us that God is still near, revealing the sacred through everyday things—clean water, fresh air, the beauty of creation. As we care for the world around us, we honor God’s gifts and ensure future generations can experience them. This week, take time to notice where God’s fingerprints appear in your daily life. Where do you see the extraordinary within the ordinary?
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How can the church lead in a time of “gracious uncertainty”? In his latest Ministry in a Digital Age newsletter, Ryan Panzer explores how faith communities can navigate a year of radical change and emerging technology. Drawing from Oswald Chambers’ words, Panzer emphasizes the church’s role in fostering hope and connection amid uncertainty, with digital ministry as a key opportunity. Read more for practical insights and inspiring examples of faith in action.
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In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, we ask, “Is innovation a helpful category for churches seeking to thrive in changing times?”
Are conventional church growth strategies falling short in today’s changing religious landscape? In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of “innovation” in church contexts, exploring whether it’s a helpful framework for ministry or a potential distraction from our core mission.
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Join the January 29 Beloved Community Gathering hosted by ELCA Coaching to reflect, discern, and take faithful action. This virtual event invites all faith leaders—rostered or not—to move from head to heart to hands in living out their faith. Inspired by Scripture, Martin Luther King Jr., and bell hooks, we’ll explore what it means to build trust and communion in our communities. Details and recordings at ELCA Coaching’s website.
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This month’s ELCA Worship newsletter highlights new Arabic-language worship resources, updated guidance on navigating musical decisions amid abuse allegations, and the availability of the NRSVue Bible on SundaysandSeasons.com. Register now for the 2025 Institute of Liturgical Studies conference to explore how the church engages with occasional practitioners. Plus, discover essential Lent music resources and the latest Living Lutheran hymn feature. Discover more on the ELCA Worship blog.
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As trends and traditions from the past reemerge in today’s world, this week’s Gospel reading from Luke 4 reminds us of the eternal renewal found in Jesus. Unlike fleeting trends, Christ’s fulfillment of ancient promises brings lasting transformation, making all things new. Where do we place our ultimate allegiance?
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Starting January 1, 2025, the IRS standard mileage rate for business travel increases to 70 cents per mile, up 3 cents from 2024. Churches should adjust their reimbursement processes accordingly. Rates for charitable use remain at 14 cents per mile. Learn more about the updates and their implications in this post.
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As people of faith, we are called to courageously address the challenges of our time—from the climate crisis to the rise of authoritarianism. Rev. Dr. Jim Antal invites congregations to embrace their unique vocation as centers of hope and action. In this article from Blessed Tomorrow, learn how your church can integrate testimonies, education, and advocacy into its ministry to transform grief into hope and hope into collective action.
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Discover how congregations can save money while caring for creation! Learn from First Christian Church in Tucson and access free tools like the Go Green, Save Green checklist from One Home One Future. Start your journey to sustainability and stewardship today.
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The National Fund for Sacred Places is offering grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 for preservation projects. Join an informational webinar on February 6, 2025, at 3 PM EST to learn about eligibility and application details. Register now and discover how this program supports sacred spaces across communities.
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Rev. Dr. Willis Johnson's practical wisdom helps church leaders explore hope, justice, and spiritual formation amid division. Listen to the latest Pivot podcast for more.
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Congregations can now receive reimbursements for clean-energy projects like solar panels through the Inflation Reduction Act, with financing available via the Mission Investment Fund. Learn actionable tips for sustainability, updates on Portico’s new president, and IRS mileage rates for 2025 in the latest Administration Matters blog post.
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As wildfires devastate Los Angeles, we are reminded of our call to step in during times of need, just as Jesus did at the wedding in Cana. Whether through prayer, financial support for Lutheran Disaster Response, or opening our homes to those displaced, our actions embody God’s abundant love. In this week’s Faith Lens, explore how this week’s Gospel inspires us to act with grace and compassion in the face of crisis.
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How healthy is your congregation? As you prepare for Annual Meetings and submit your reports to Churchwide, take time to reflect on your congregation’s vitality. The Grand Canyon Synod offers tools, including a 36-question survey, to help evaluate congregational health and guide future planning. Visit gcsynod.org/vitality to learn more, or contact Pr. David Pavesic at David.Pavesic@elca.org for support.
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Join other leaders at the Festival of Homiletics, May 12-15, 2025, in Atlanta, GA, or online for this year’s theme: Preaching to Heal the Divide. Experience renewal, insightful teaching, and rich fellowship. Don’t miss Atlanta’s historic sites and a life-giving week of inspiration. Learn more and register at festivalofhomiletics.com.
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Join ELCA AMMPARO and Episcopal Migration Ministries on January 17, 2025, for an essential webinar equipping ministry leaders to support migrants and undocumented individuals. Featuring expert immigration lawyers, the session covers “Know Your Rights” guidance, navigating immigration steps, and preparing for ICE interactions. Register today for this free online event and learn how your ministry can make a difference.
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The School for Lay Ministry equips lay leaders with the tools and confidence to serve their congregations faithfully. With live instruction, self-paced learning, and innovative digital ministry training, the year-long program begins January 18, 2025. Scholarships are available. Learn more and register today at faithlead.org.
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