How can our concern for creation become shared action at church? Lutherans Restoring Creation’s 2026 strategic plan identifies three priorities: strengthening relationships, equipping congregations for action and holding the church accountable to its commitments. Rooted in our call to love our neighbors and care for God’s creation, the plan invites us to consider our part. Read the plan and imagine your congregation’s next step.
Read MoreOur October 2026 Mission Support Memo explores the story of Living Stones Prison Ministry in our Southwestern Washington Synod. A ministry where every Thursday as they gather for planning, band practice and worship, all are reminded to “have grace with one another,” to know we are the kingdom of God, no matter where we are.
Make sure to find out more about the new free stewardship webinar coming November 16th “Making a Helpful Ask for Sustainability”.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Reformation historian Mark Tranvik joins Terri Elton and Dwight Zscheile to talk about what Luther’s Small Catechism was meant to do.
Read MoreFind encouragement and a practical next step with ELCA Coaching’s Wayfinding in the Commons on Wednesday, November 4, at noon Arizona/Mountain time or 11 a.m. Pacific. This approximately 45-minute gathering welcomes rostered ministers, lay leaders and anyone seeking community, shared discernment and support. Join on Zoom.
Read MoreAs we remember loved ones on All Saints Sunday, November 1, ELCA’s Faith Lens reminds us that we belong to the community of saints here and now. Drawing on the Beatitudes and 1 John, Bishop Becca Middeke-Conlin explores our identity as children of God and our calling to support one another in faith. Discussion questions, a blessing activity and a closing blessing offer resources for youth groups and congregational conversations. Read “Blessed Are You, Saint.”
Read MoreSave the date! The 2027 Bishop’s Fall Gathering is October 18–20 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, with First Call gathering continuing October 21. Set aside time for worship, learning and connection with synod colleagues. Registration and program details will follow.
Read MoreWhat holds the church together amid deep disagreement? This 23-minute Learn and Discern episode explores the roots of differing convictions and our shared grounding in Christ’s Gospel, offering encouragement for honest conversation about the ELCA’s sexuality social statement.
Read MoreAs we remember the saints who shaped our lives, consider a gift that honors their influence. Explore ways to celebrate a loved one or mentor while supporting your congregation, the Grand Canyon Synod, or another cherished ELCA ministry.
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 MoreLilly Endowment’s Serving Neighbors initiative offers planning grants up to $50,000 and, by invitation, implementation grants up to $5 million to strengthen congregation–community partnerships. Concept papers are due January 19, 2027, with virtual information sessions November 2 and 3. Eligible organizations supporting groups of congregations may apply; individual congregations seeking funds for their own programs are not eligible. Explore the opportunity and registration details.
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 MoreHow can an investment support ministry beyond your congregation? Watch and share MIF’s “Together, We Build More” video to see how investments help fund loans for worship spaces, schools, camps, affordable housing and more.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Pastor Edrin Williams on discipleship in a black-led, multi-ethnic church in North Minneapolis, and the people still forming him as a pastor.
Read MoreHow 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 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 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.
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