Experience the Spirit of Music at LSM 2025—Live or Online

Lutheran Summer Music returns June 22–July 20, 2025, at Valparaiso University, featuring over 30 free concerts, worship services, and recitals. From the beloved Bach Cantata Eucharist to the Festival Choir finale, all events are open to visitors and streamable via Live from LSM. Explore the full season brochure and plan your visit at LSMacademy.org/2025.

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Hope, Justice, and Heat Relief: This Week in Faith-Based Action

This week’s AFN newsletter highlights interfaith action and justice: welcome Pope Leo XIV, support heat relief efforts, celebrate a legal win protecting sacred Apache land, and join powerful upcoming events on climate, immigration, and Indigenous justice. See it all and subscribe: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter

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For What Shall We Pray?
  • For justice and peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Ukraine and Russia, Palestine and Israel, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Yemen, India and Pakistan…

  • For de-escalation of hostilities and a lasting peace between India and Pakistan…

  • For all affected by wildfires in Minnesota and Arizona, and flooding in Maryland…

  • For all in need of affordable and accessible healthcare…

  • For the financial well-being and sustainability of social service agencies, feeding programs, and anti-poverty initiatives…

  • For the vocation of colleges and universities, and for all faculty, staff, and students…

  • For Pope Leo XIV and the global Roman Catholic church…

  • For synods of the ELCA as they gather in their assemblies…

  • For graduating students in this season of transition…

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Rev. Dr. Katrina Foster Elected Bishop of Metropolitan New York Synod

The Rev. Dr. Katrina Foster has been elected bishop of the ELCA’s Metropolitan New York Synod, following the conclusion of their synod assembly on May 3. Foster, who currently serves as pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in NYC, was elected on the fifth ballot and will begin a six-year term. She succeeds the Rev. Paul Egensteiner, who is returning to parish ministry.

Foster brings over three decades of pastoral leadership in New York and holds degrees from ELCA-affiliated institutions including Newberry College and United Lutheran Seminary. Her election marks a new chapter for the Metropolitan New York Synod. Click here for more.

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Faith Lens: The Good News Commandment

Graduation season reminds us that some things we’re required to do—like learning—can become sources of joy and transformation. In John 13, Jesus offers a new commandment: to love one another. This law isn’t a burden but a gift that draws us closer to the heart of God’s good news. Explore how gospel and law intertwine in our everyday lives, and reflect on the ways love shows up in both what we’re told to do—and what we choose to do.

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Free Webinar: Faith Communities Responding to the Addiction Crisis – May 28

Join the Center of Addiction & Faith on May 28 from 10–11 a.m. (AZ/NV) for “Breaking Chains, Building Hope,” a free webinar with Jeff Horowitz, CEO of SAFE Project, on how faith communities can respond to America’s addiction crisis. Learn practical strategies to support those struggling with addiction and move beyond judgment to life-saving compassion. Register now.

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Now Hiring: Director for 5-Star Preschool at Esperanza Lutheran

Children of Hope Preschool, a ministry of Esperanza Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee, is hiring a full-time Preschool Director. This 5-star Quality First program seeks a leader with experience in early childhood education and a passion for Christian formation. Salary starts at $42,000. Learn more in this PDF and apply by sending a resume and cover letter to esperanza@myesperanza.org.

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Big Month for Lutheran Men in Mission: Ordination, Bold Gathering, and What’s Next

From ordinations to online gatherings, Lutheran Men in Mission is on the move this spring. Celebrate Kevin Burke’s ordination, preview their refreshed website, catch up on the Bold Gathering, and discover ways to get involved—from retreats and Bible studies to sharing your own story in their quarterly Foundations newsletter. Read the full newsletter »

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Step Boldly Into Leadership: School for Lay Ministry Launches May 17

The 2025 School for Lay Ministry launches May 17! This 12-month program equips lay leaders with theological grounding, spiritual depth, and practical skills—from preaching and pastoral care to worship planning and administration. Download the info sheet and learn how to enroll or seek support from your congregation. Tuition is $600 with scholarships available. Learn more at faithlead.org/school-for-lay.

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From “I” to “We”: A New Vision for Church Leadership and Community

How can we lead the church when old models no longer fit? Join Rev. Dr. Dwight Zscheile and Rev. Blair Pogue on June 2 for a free Faith+Lead webinar exploring how congregations can blend tradition and innovation in partnership with their neighbors. Learn practical ways to reimagine leadership, find encouragement, and embrace the mixed ecology of church today. Replay available for all registrants.

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I’m a Lutheran: Brenna Holmes

In this inspiring profile from Living Lutheran, Brenna Holmes shares how her life of faith is rooted in community, service, and empowering the next generation. From leading children’s choirs at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Ohio to guiding high school students toward bright futures through her work with I Know I Can, Brenna embodies Lutheran values in every sphere of life. Her story reminds us how vocation and faith come together to form safe, welcoming spaces where others can grow.

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