The second season of Here I Pod from ELCA Advocacy launches with a compelling episode on faith, advocacy, and community in the face of political violence. Host Regina Q. Banks speaks with Lutheran leaders in Minnesota and across the church, including the Rev. Amy Reumann and the Rev. Angela Denker, about how we can respond theologically and practically to violence in our public life. To explore how our faith informs action in this moment, click here.
Read MoreJoin a free, one-hour webinar on Wednesday, July 30 at noon Central hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith. This interactive forum is a chance to share your congregation’s experiences with addiction and mental health ministry, hear from others, and discover what’s working across the church. Let’s build a stronger, more compassionate network for healing. Register here to receive the Zoom link.
Read MoreELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a video message in response to a recent IRS ruling that may reinterpret the Johnson Amendment to permit partisan activity by religious organizations. Emphasizing the church’s theological commitment to remain nonpartisan, Eaton urges vigilance while affirming our gospel call to advocate for justice. Watch the video and read the ELCA’s full statement online.
Read MoreIn response to a recent IRS court filing, the ELCA reaffirms its support of the Johnson Amendment, which prohibits churches from endorsing political candidates. The church warns that loosening these protections could compromise gospel clarity and introduce partisanship into congregational life. The ELCA encourages faithful, nonpartisan civic engagement rooted in Lutheran theology.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop welcomes the ELCA to Phoenix for the 2025 Churchwide Assembly. Join us as a volunteer!
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Robert Jones, Santa Cruz, Tucson, who celebrates 42 years on July 24.
Rev. Craig Larson, Desert Hills, Green Valley, who celebrates 37 years on July 24.
For an end to war, violence, and genocide across the world, especially in Ukraine, Gaza, Iran, Israel, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Yemen, India, and Pakistan…
For the ongoing work of first responders and relief organizations, including Lutheran Disaster Response in Kerr County, Texas, and in all places affected by natural disasters…
For those experiencing or anticipating storms and floods in the Northeast US and in the Gulf region…
For the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada who has elected the Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer to serve as its fifth National Bishop and in thanksgiving for the ministry of outgoing National Bishop Susan Johnson…
For our own church and the discernment of voting members who will soon elect a new Presiding Bishop and Secretary of the ELCA…
For those affected by recent ICE raids in Camarillo, California, including those injured and killed…
For all victims of sexual abuse and assault…
For those killed and injured in a recent fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts…
Explore how ELCA chaplains serve in places beyond church walls—offering God’s love to people of all backgrounds through specialized and federal ministries. This month’s Mission Support Memo also highlights a fresh way to use The Generosity Project and gives thanks for the storytellers who share grace across our church.
Read MoreDiscover how congregations are stepping up for climate justice in the August Blessed Tomorrow newsletter. From Earth Care booths and cooling centers to new climate research, plastic-free living tips, and a powerful podcast on ecological lament, this month’s update offers resources and reflections for every faith leader. Read the full newsletter.
Read MoreExplore this week’s AFN newsletter for interfaith events, service opportunities, and community news—including Bags of Hope updates, faith-based learning events, advocacy opportunities, and a call for urgent donations. Read the full update or subscribe at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Read MoreWhat if your joy is part of your spiritual practice? In this faith reflection originally published by Boldcafé, Sarah Carson invites us to honor the Spirit’s presence in the things we love—doodling, reading poetry, wandering a thrift store. Inspired by Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way, Carson lifts up the “artist’s date” as a sacred invitation to play, explore, and reconnect with our God-given uniqueness. Read more in “A Spiritual Endeavor” on Boldcafé—click here.
Read MoreKamila Gutierrez, a communications intern with WELCA and student at UW-Milwaukee, shares her personal journey from childhood faith to discovering Process Theology—a theological framework that embraces change, justice, and becoming. Raised in a conservative tradition, Kamila sought a God who welcomes, includes, and acts. In this reflection, she explores how Process Theology affirms God’s dynamic love and the church’s role in shaping a more just world. Click here to read her full essay on Boldcafe.org.
Read MorePresiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton’s daughter, Beckah Selnick, offers a heartfelt reflection on a life and ministry rooted in the sacred intersection of the ordinary and extraordinary. From late nights in the sacristy to leadership on the global stage, Bishop Eaton has modeled a ministry of presence, resilience, and grace. Click here to read the full article on Living Lutheran: Ordinary and extraordinary.
Read MoreAt Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska, the Office of Campus Ministry and Spiritual Wellness is responding to the crisis of loneliness among young adults with intentional, Spirit-led programs. From guided meditation to family-style community meals and service opportunities, students are finding a place where they are “noticed, named, and known.” Their experience reflects the heart of ELCA campus ministry—cultivating love, building community, and offering a sense of home. Click here to read more on Living Lutheran.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Janice Brosen, who celebrates 41 years on July 22.
Rev. Paul Scheitlin, who celebrates 46 years on July 22.
In response to an Israeli military strike that killed three people and injured several others at Holy Family Church in Gaza, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a powerful statement mourning the lives lost and condemning the repeated targeting of sacred spaces. She calls for an immediate ceasefire, international adherence to humanitarian laws, and renewed dialogue toward peace in the Holy Land.
Read MorePaul Sterling has been appointed Chief Operating Officer of Portico Benefit Services, effective July 14. Sterling brings significant experience in health care operations, strategy, and innovation, most recently serving as COO at Employer Health Innovation Roundtable. His appointment comes as Portico continues to expand, now serving over 52,000 plan members and 5,100 employers across the ELCA. Click here for more.
Read MoreNow accepting applications: The 2025 Manna Grant offers up to $20,000 in total funding to Grand Canyon Synod ministries that address hunger and its root causes. Projects must demonstrate a commitment to inclusive leadership. Apply by July 31. Made possible through a legacy gift from Orpha Hoganson of Ascension Lutheran, this grant continues her mission to combat hunger with love and equity.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Dennis D. Nelson, who celebrates 51 years on July 21.
Rev. Harold Kriesel, who celebrates 57 years on July 21.
Rev. Richard Miller, who celebrates 57 years on July 21.
Rev. Doug Heskin, who celebrates 57 years on July 21.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Joaquin Garcia, Vida Nueva, Glendale, Pan de Vida, El Mirage, who celebrates 42 years on July 20.
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