Bishop Eaton Responds to Jerusalem Patriarchs’ Call for Justice in Gaza

The ELCA joins church leaders in Jerusalem in a humanitarian plea for Gaza, standing against the proposed forced displacement of millions. Bishop Eaton calls on Lutherans to respond through prayer, advocacy, and learning, lifting up the voices of our Palestinian siblings in faith. Read more and take action: Click here.

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Inside Out Network: Empowering Second Chances in Arizona and Beyond

The Winter 2025 Inside Out Network Newsletter is here, packed with inspiring stories of transformation, reentry partnerships, and ways congregations can support returning citizens. Highlights include the Men in Orange program, the Color Me Yellow fundraising campaign, and exciting reentry ministry models for churches. Read more and explore how you can be part of this work: Read the full newsletter or download the PDF.

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For What Shall We Pray?
  • For areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, and violence, especially Ukraine, Palestine, Myanmar, and South Sudan…

  • For refugees, migrants, and detained peoples around the world, including the deportation of Uyghurs out of Thailand…

  • For Muslim neighbors preparing to begin observance of the holy month of Ramadan…

  • For access to healthcare and for all who rely on government programs to maintain that access…

  • For medical research and advances in public health…

  • For Pope Francis, during his continued hospitalization…

  • For congregations and their leaders, as they prepare for Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent…

  • For the body of Christ in all of its diversity…

  • For Jesus’s Transfiguration and for all who seek to be seen and loved for who they truly are…

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Deepen Your Lenten Journey with the 2025 ELCA Sumud Lenten Series

Looking for a meaningful way to engage in Lent this year? The 2025 ELCA Sumud Lenten Series Resource Guide offers six weeks of devotions, prayers, and theological reflections from ELCJHL pastors, Bethlehem Bible College students, and an ELCA bishop. This collaborative resource invites you to journey through Lent with voices from the Holy Land, reflecting on themes of faith, justice, and steadfast hope. Download the guide today and share it with your congregation or study group. Read more.

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Faith Lens: A God We Can’t Control

This week, a rare planetary alignment offers a striking reminder of a truth found in Luke 9:28-36—we cannot control Jesus, just as we cannot control the heavens. The Transfiguration reveals that Christ is beyond human containment, yet he shines for all. As you reflect on this celestial wonder, consider: How might it be a gift that God is beyond our control? Read more about this connection between the cosmos and Christ in the latest Faith Lens.

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Installation of Luis Ochoa at First Evangelical Lutheran in Mesa

Rev. Luis Ochoa will be installed at First Evangelical Lutheran (142 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201) on Saturday, 3/15/2025 at 2pm. Pastor Chris Stoxen will preach, with Bishop Hutterer presiding. Rostered ministers are invited to attend; no robes. Color of the day is purple. Livestream on YouTube here.

After the service, we will celebrate! To assist us in planning food, please RSVP by calling (480-969-7221) or emailing the office: felc@firstevlutheran.com with the number of people in your group.

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Protecting Rights, Strengthening Communities: AFN’s Weekly Updates

This week, Arizona Faith Network highlights key events and advocacy actions to engage our interfaith community. Stand up for voting rights at the Crossover Week 2025 Press Conference, participate in a Know Your Rights training on immigration, and reflect with AFN’s Monday Meditation. Plus, get updates from AFN’s solidarity work at Oak Flatand stay engaged with the Arizona Faith Forum for real-time legislative tracking. Read the full newsletter and take action today: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.

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Celebrate Bold Women’s Day and Women’s History Month with Women of the ELCA

Celebrate Bold Women’s Day on Sunday, March 2 and Women’s History Month with special events, worship, and reflections! Attend the Bold Women’s Day service on February 28 at Augsburg University (in-person or via Zoom), follow the Women of Faith blog series, and join the Boldcafe Monthly Dinner on March 6 to explore the theme of worthiness. Lent also begins March 5—check out Lenten resources, stewardship devotions, and Daily Grace reflections to guide your spiritual journey.

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Join the 2025 Lenten Challenge: Be a Watered Garden This Lent

Ash Wednesday is March 5! Join the Region 2 synods for the 2025 Lenten Challenge, focusing on hunger and water justice through daily devotions, water conservation, community engagement, and donations to support the Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission (NELM). Sign up your family and congregation today at lentenchallenge.org!

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Standing for Justice: Pastor Christine Stoxen Advocates for YIGBY Bill

Pastor Christine Stoxen of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chandler, testified before the Arizona House Appropriations Committee in support of HB2191, the “Yes In God’s Back Yard” (YIGBY) bill. Representing Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) and Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), she spoke on the critical role faith communities play in addressing Arizona’s housing crisis. While the bill advances, significant challenges remain, and continued advocacy is essential. Click here to read the full story on the LAMA site and see how you can help keep up the momentum!

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Global Hunger & U.S. Policy: A Conversation with Rick Steves & Rev. Eugene Cho

Hunger affects 10% of the world, and as people of faith, we are called to respond. On Monday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. MT, Bread for the World President Rev. Eugene Cho joins travel writer and advocate Rick Steves for an online discussion about global hunger, the impact of U.S. foreign aid, and how we can advocate for change. Register now for this free event and learn how you can make a difference. Register here.

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Installation of Rev. Mari Larson at St. Andrew Lutheran in Las Vegas

Rev. Mari Larson will be installed Sunday, 3/9/2025, at 3 pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (8901 Del Webb Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89134). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.

Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is purple. A light reception will follow. Livestream will be available on the church’s YouTube channel.

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Five Ways to Support Refugees and Immigrants in 2025

Thousands of refugees and immigrants are seeking safety and stability in our communities. As people of faith, we are called to welcome them with love and action. From sharing accurate information to volunteering, advocating, giving, and supporting employment, there are many ways to help. Read more about how you can make a difference in 2025 with tips from Global Refuge. 

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POSITION FILLED: Full-Time Parish Administrator Position Open at All Saints Lutheran in Phoenix

All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix is hiring a full-time Parish Administrator to oversee administration, communications, and church property. This leadership role supports the congregation’s mission, ensuring a well-organized and welcoming environment. Applicants should have administrative experience, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to faith-driven service. For more details or to apply, visit allsaintsphoenix.org or contact Pastor Dan Hoeger at 602-866-9191.

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Three Years of War: How ELCA Support is Bringing Refugees Hope and Stability

Three years into the Russia-Ukraine war, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) continues to walk alongside refugees and those impacted by the conflict. From helping families find safety in Romania and Hungary to equipping Roma children in Ukraine with coding skills for a brighter future, LDR’s presence is making a difference. Read about the resilience of those receiving support and how ELCA congregations are part of this ongoing mission. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.

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Advocacy as an Act of Hope: ELCA Leaders Share Wisdom

Faith-based advocacy is a powerful way ELCA members live out their calling to love God and neighbor. Former state public policy office (SPPO) directors share their insights, emphasizing the persistence, faith, and courage it takes to work for justice. Whether advocating for climate action, hunger relief, or racial equity, Lutherans across the country are making a difference—one conversation, prayer vigil, and legislative meeting at a time. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.

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Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care

ELCA state public policy offices nationwide are actively advocating for justice, equity, and compassion. Recent highlights include Arizona's Lutheran Day at the Legislature, Minnesota's housing and environmental initiatives, New Mexico's broad social justice agenda, Pennsylvania's defense of vulnerable communities, Texas's robust advocacy teams, and Virginia's focus on healthcare and criminal justice reform. Explore how Lutherans across the U.S. continue to make a difference. Read the full update here.

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