ELCA Advocacy harnesses the power of faith to influence public policy, working on behalf of biblical values like peacemaking, care for creation, and justice for the poor.
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We pray for the friends and family of Pastor Colin H. Melby, who died on August 28, 2024 in the Philippines. We especially lift up and pray for his wife Connie Melby.
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For José David Rodríguez, what began as a doctoral dissertation is now the first academic history of the Lutheran church by a Puerto Rican.
Rodríguez’s new book, Caribbean Lutherans: The History of the Church in Puerto Rico (Fortress Press, 2024), first took shape through a Ph.D. program in the Department of History at the University of the West Indies in Mona, Jamaica. An ELCA pastor and professor, Rodríguez had long hoped to put together a history of how the Lutheran mission in Puerto Rico began and evolved. But when he visited the Archivo General de Puerto Rico (General Archive of Puerto Rico) to begin his research, he found no information. Read the full story in Living Lutheran.
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Explore how Jesus’ encounter with the Syrophoenician woman reveals His human struggles and divine grace. Discover lessons on faith, persistence, and the power of change in this week’s Faith Lens.
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In honor of International Day for People of African Descent, which is observed internationally on August 31 each year, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries invited ELCA Director for Innovation and Ideas Rahel Mwitula Williams to share some thoughts about being a person of African descent. For more information on International Day for People of African Descent, visit International Day for People of African Descent – EN | United Nations. Read the full post on the ELCA blog.
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The Grand Canyon Synod Grant application opens in September! With $175,000 in funding available, we encourage collaborative, innovative projects that align with our Strategic Plan. Attend our Grants Webinar on September 17, 2024, to learn more. Applications are due by midnight on October 18, 2024. Start planning now to support your ministry and bring new ideas to life! For more details, visit our website.
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Join California Lutheran University’s Thriving Leadership Formation team, January 6-10, 2025, for the Executive Skills for Church Leaders retreat at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center. This transformative event, designed for pastors, deacons, and church leaders, offers expert-led sessions on Conflict Management, Human Resources, Contemporary Leadership, and Congregations in the Digital Age. Register now to enhance your ministry leadership skills and connect with fellow church leaders in a serene Arizona desert setting. Learn more and sign up at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s website or call 480-488-5218. View PDF poster here.
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Join the ELCA’s online workshop series through October to delve into how our faith informs our actions and voting on critical social issues. September's focus is Abortion with Dr. Caryn Riswold, Professor of Religion/McCoy Family Distinguished Chair in Lutheran Heritage and Mission at Wartburg College.View a PDF flyer and register now to engage deeply with our social teachings and lead community discussions. Click here to join this Sunday’s webinar.
September 10 New Date! Sun, Sep 8, 2024 at 7:00pm.: Abortion with Dr. Caryn Riswold, Professor of Religion/McCoy Family Distinguished Chair in Lutheran Heritage and Mission at Wartburg College.
The ELCA invites members to engage with a draft social statement on civic life and faith, reflecting our relationship with government as individuals and a church body. This statement, currently under review, offers guidance on church teaching and policies, serving as a vital tool for discernment on civic issues. Members can contribute feedback through an online survey or synod hearings until September 30, 2024. Post-feedback, the statement will be considered for official adoption at the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, potentially shaping the church's stance on civic engagement.
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The Sierra Pacific Synod of the ELCA, encompassing nearly 180 congregations across Northern California and Northern Nevada, is a dynamic community dedicated to faith, service, and justice under the leadership of Bishop Jeff R. Johnson. The synod focuses on fostering connections, addressing social issues, and empowering congregations to make a difference in their communities.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Barbara Duhlstine-Robarge, who celebrates 33 years on September 6.
Rev. William Phillips, Christ, Las Vegas, who celebrates 39 years on September 8.
Rev. Corazon Aguilar, Pan-Asian Ministry, Phoenix, who celebrates 29 years on September 9.
Deacon Connie Rose-Kamprath, Esperanza, Phoenix, who celebrates 32 years on September 10.
Rev. Bill Voris, who celebrates 64 years on September 11.
Deacon Ardie Senft, who celebrates 27 years on September 12.
Join ecumenical prayer vigils across Arizona as Christian leaders from various denominations unite to pray for peace and unity during the 2024 election season. The vigils will be held on September 9th at Our Lady of the Angels Conventual Church in Paradise Valley, October 14th at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Tucson, and November 4th at Sun City Christian Church. All are welcome to come together in faith to seek God’s guidance and peace for our nation. View a PDF flyer here.
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Explore the Grand Canyon Synod’s “Church and Society” page for essential resources tailored to help our congregations navigate the complexities of an election year. Featuring guides on political discussions, reflections on Christian nationalism, and updates on elections and voting rights, this page is your go-to source for fostering safe, informed, and united church communities. Visit now to access our comprehensive collection of articles and our “Creating Space for Conversations” series, ensuring our church remains a sanctuary of dialogue during these polarizing times.
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We uplift and pray for Rev. Diane Drach-Meinel and the people of Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Henderson, part of the Colorado River Conference. Visit their site at cslconline.org.
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We uplift and pray for Vicar Jarrod Iversen and the people of Central Lutheran Church in Arizona City, part of the Fiesta Conference. Visit their site at centrallutheranaz.org.
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The ELCA has released a comprehensive set of worship resources for the upcoming national elections, including scripture readings, prayers, and assembly song suggestions. These materials are designed to support congregations during prayer vigils, weekly worship, or personal devotions. Download the free resource to help guide your community through this important time.
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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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In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, Dave Male discusses blending traditional and emerging church forms.
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Clear your calendar on January 6-12, 2025, for a transformative retreat in Turks & Caicos, specifically designed for women in ministry leadership. Led by Deacon Michelle Walka, this journey offers a unique blend of rest, learning, and spiritual growth in a beautiful location. Register by October 1, 2024, to secure your spot!
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Last chance to register for the Bishop’s Fall Gathering! Join us from October 21-23, 2024, at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center for a time of worship, fellowship, and renewal. Register by September 13 to secure your spot.
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