Rev. Sara Olson-Smith reflects on why truth-telling by survivors remains essential for healing, justice, and Christian community. Drawing on Scripture and the #MeToo movement, she reminds us of the simple, powerful response Christians are called to offer: “I believe you. It’s not your fault. You are not alone.” Read more on Boldcafé.
Read MoreOn a spring-break service trip to New Orleans, Augsburg University students of many faiths (and none) discovered a deep sense of joy and belonging as they danced together in Jackson Square—until a fundamentalist campus ministry group turned the moment into an aggressive proselytizing effort. The experience opened rich conversations among the Augsburg group about faith sharing, respect, and what it really means to serve in Christ’s name.
University pastor John Rohde Schwehn reflects on this story through a Lutheran lens, drawing on theologian Samuel Wells to shift the focus from doing things for others to being with others, especially in a time of loneliness and isolation. Campus ministry, he writes, is called to form beloved community where Christ is present in shared life, not just in doctrinal correctness. Read the full reflection on Living Lutheran ›
Read MoreIn this powerful first-person reflection, Khader Khalilia, a Palestinian Christian and ELCA leader, names how life under occupation and the ongoing devastation in Gaza are inseparable from the silence and complicity of much of the Western church. He argues that “peace” without justice merely covers injustice, and that Christian Zionism—confusing the gospel with empire and military power—is a theological distortion that must be rejected.
Khalilia frames Gaza’s suffering as a spiritual and moral crisis for the global church, calling Lutherans to repentance, courage, and a public witness rooted in the Jesus who lived and died as a colonized, brown-skinned Palestinian. This is a challenging and deeply faithful word for our time. Read the full reflection on Living Lutheran ›
Read MoreA small but resolute group of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) Lutheran leaders and community members gathered outside the Adelanto ICE Processing Center to pray for the release of Evi Sarlita Sihomping, a longtime ELCA member detained since June 7. Led by Pacifica Synod Bishop David Nagler and organized alongside the API Leaders Migration Justice Training, the vigil lifted up Evi’s humanity, rejected the “model minority” myth, and insisted that immigration policy must be shaped by empathy, not punishment.
The article from Living Lutheran highlights the broader advocacy of API ministries, AMMPARO, and ELCA leaders who refuse to stay silent as families are separated. It also shares practical ways to support Evi—including sending cards and contacting elected officials. Read the full story on Living Lutheran ›
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Wes Granberg-Michaelson shares insights from five decades of church leadership about why tending your inner life is essential for sustainable ministry.
Read MoreLutherans in Southern Africa join action to end gender-based violence
16 Days: Communities must be part of the solution in combatting digital violence
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence 2025
Resources and daily updates
Augsburg 2030: LWF launches preparations for Fourteenth Assembly
Our theme for 2026 is Rooted in God’s Story. This theme will guide our Spring Gatherings, the 2026 Synod Assembly, and the 2026 Bishop’s Fall Gathering, inviting us to tell and live the story of God’s love with clarity and hope.
Read MorePresiding Bishop Yehiel Curry shares a Christmas children’s sermon inviting us to listen for God’s gentle whispers of love, hope, and peace. The video is available for congregational use, along with downloadable English and Spanish PDFs. This Christmas, Bishop Curry reminds us that “the heavens are still whispering: Jesus is here. God loves you. Share that love with the world.”
El Obispo Presidente Yehiel Curry comparte un sermón infantil navideño que nos invita a escuchar los susurros de amor, esperanza y paz de Dios. El video está disponible para uso en congregaciones, junto con los PDFs en inglés y español. Este mensaje nos recuerda que “los cielos todavía susurran: Jesús está aquí. Dios te ama. Comparte ese amor con el mundo.”
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod will gather for the 2026 Synod Assembly from June 11–13 at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Congregations are encouraged to begin identifying their voting members now, especially as annual meetings approach. Our churchwide representative will be Rev. Tim Brown, Director for Congregational Stewardship. Additional details and registration information will be shared in early 2026.
Read MoreCentral Lutheran Church in Arizona City is offering parament banners, two wooden lecterns, and a Yamaha Clavinova digital piano to congregations across the synod. Interested ministries should contact Jill Lui (jillonahike@gmail.com)with “GCS classified” in the subject line. Pickup or delivery can be arranged. Full item list and details are available in this post.
Read MoreLAMA’s latest newsletter highlights urgent #GivingTuesday news—after surpassing its $5,000 goal, LAMA is aiming for $10,000. It also includes key December advocacy events, volunteer opportunities, ELCA Action Alerts, and updates on issues impacting Arizona communities. Plus: Christmas service opportunities, a save-the-date for Lutheran Day at the Legislature 2026, and the launch of LAMA’s new T-shirt Design Contest. Read the full newsletter here.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod continues to cooperate fully in the ongoing federal investigation involving former synod leader Casey Goslin. As of December 4, there are still no known victims within our synod, and all allegations involve online activity. Acting Bishop Pastor Mike Girlinghouse and the Office of the Bishop remain committed to transparency, pastoral care, and timely communication as we monitor the situation. Pastors and deacons are encouraged to reach out with any pastoral care needs or questions.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop starts the 2026 assembly planning process with our first meeting, prepares for Bishop Hutterer’s brief break in her sabbatical, visits congregations in Mesa and Flagstaff, and works on year-end projects.
Read MoreFor an end to war and conflict, and for places of political unrest or contention, especially Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, and Pakistan/Afghanistan…
For victims and families of the Hong Kong apartment fire…
For all affected by flooding in Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka…
For protection, provision, and justice for immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and advocates…
For all victims of violence, exploitation, and abuse…
For access to affordable and reliable healthcare…
For those who live with seasonal affective disorder…
For just governance and equitable distribution of God’s abundance…
For those who cannot find peace or joy in this season…
Please keep Pastor Charles Newman in your prayers following a serious fall at home on November 29. He has undergone an initial surgery on his right leg and faces additional procedures and a long recovery ahead. Pastor Charles and his wife, Jenifer, welcome prayers as they adjust to the early weeks of healing.
Read MoreMark your calendars for the Grand Canyon Synod Spring Gatherings 2026, where we come together under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Gatherings will be held in Tempe, Sun City, Phoenix, Flagstaff, Tucson, and Las Vegas from February through April. These events offer opportunities for connection, reflection, and renewal across our synod.
Read MoreExplore this month’s worship resources from Augsburg Fortress, including 2026 planning calendars, new Together by Grace Bible studies, a hymnary by Robert Buckley Farlee, and year-end discounts on Splash! faith formation tools for families with young children. Read the full roundup and find links to all resources at blogs.elca.org/worship/9365/.
Read MoreJoin the synodwide choir for our 2026 MLK Celebration at King of Glory, Tempe. Rehearsals: Jan 3, 10, 15, 17; Service: Sun, Jan 18 at 3:00pm (call 2:00pm). Concert black attire; practice recordings and full service details coming soon. View all the info for our synod’s MLK events at gcsynod.org/mlk.
Read MoreIn a season that can feel heavy, Living Lutheran gathers a set of recent stories where hope and generosity are powerfully visible in ELCA ministries. From campus communities cultivating belonging, to congregations giving sacrificially to feed neighbors, to student-led pantries, prison ministry, and “God’s work. Our hands.” service projects, each story reveals ordinary Lutherans sharing Christ’s love in concrete ways.
This “good news roundup” is designed as a reminder that the Holy Spirit is at work in and through our church—on campuses, in rural communities, in correctional centers, and beyond. It’s a quick way to be encouraged and to spark ideas for ministry in your own context. Read the full good news roundup on Living Lutheran ›
Read MoreAs families and friends gather to share a meal, Living Lutheran offers five simple, faith-rooted activities to help all ages name blessings and practice gratitude together. Ideas include a “build-a-prayer” litany using everyone’s thanksgivings and hopes, kid-drawn illustrations of favorite family stories, a Scripture “gratitude hunt,” “compliment cookies” delivered to neighbors, and serving together through local ministries.
Each activity is designed to be low-cost, creative, and adaptable for home or congregation, helping us direct our thanks toward God and express love for one another and our communities. Find all five gratitude ideas on Living Lutheran ›
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