ELCA Advocacy Updates for May 2026
ELCA Advocacy Updates for May 2026

The ELCA Advocacy office’s May update highlights several major national developments, including voting rights, Farm Bill negotiations, endangered species protections, immigration policy, Cuba, and Middle East peace advocacy. The update also explores why these issues matter through the lens of Lutheran faith and public witness.

For congregational leaders and members seeking to connect faith with civic engagement, this month’s Advocacy Connections offers helpful context and opportunities for action. Read the Update.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Hope Rising in Myanmar: Lutheran Disaster Response Shares Stories of Renewal
Hope Rising in Myanmar: Lutheran Disaster Response Shares Stories of Renewal

More than a year after a devastating earthquake struck Myanmar, communities are rebuilding through clean water access, repaired homes, renewed livelihoods, and safe spaces for children. A new story from Lutheran Disaster Response highlights how local communities, supported by trusted partners, are finding hope amid hardship.

These stories offer a powerful reminder of resilience, dignity, and the church’s shared calling to accompany neighbors in crisis. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLutheran Disaster ResponseComment
Why the Farm Bill Matters: An ELCA Advocacy Update
Why the Farm Bill Matters: An ELCA Advocacy Update

Congress is debating the 2026 Farm Bill, legislation that shapes food assistance, agriculture, conservation, and rural life. ELCA Advocacy is urging lawmakers to support policies that care for hungry neighbors, strengthen rural communities, and protect creation for future generations.

With Senate action expected soon, the ELCA is encouraging Lutherans to stay informed and engaged through advocacy and action alerts. Read the Farm Bill Update.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
A New Ecumenical Feast Day: “Creation in Christ” Comes to the Church Year
A New Ecumenical Feast Day: “Creation in Christ” Comes to the Church Year

ELCA congregations are being encouraged to observe “Creation in Christ” (or “Feast of Creation”) beginning September 1 or the Sunday following. Rooted in ecumenical collaboration and ancient Christian tradition, the observance celebrates Christ’s role in creation while inviting deeper care for the world God has made.

Worship resources, lectionary texts, and planning guidance are beginning to emerge as congregations discern how this observance may fit in their local context. Read More About “Creation in Christ.”

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ELCABrian FlatgardClimate Change, ELCA WorshipComment
Is MYLE or the tAble Right for Your Group? Watch the 2027 Gathering Webinar
Is MYLE or the tAble Right for Your Group? Watch the 2027 Gathering Webinar

Planning for the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering is already underway. A recent webinar from Gathering leadership helps congregations discern whether MYLE (Multicultural Youth Leadership Event) or the tAble may be the right fit for young people in their group, offering guidance, context, and practical next steps.

Whether you missed the live webinar or want to revisit the conversation, the recording offers helpful insight for leaders preparing youth for a meaningful and welcoming Gathering experience. Watch the webinar.

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Grand Canyon Synod, ELCABrian Flatgard2027 ELCA Youth Gathering, MYLE, the tAble, Youth and Young Adult, Disability MinistriesComment
Security, Democracy, Creation Care, and Healing: What’s Happening at AFN
Security, Democracy, Creation Care, and Healing: What’s Happening at AFN

The latest Arizona Faith Network newsletter features security and preparedness training, interfaith dialogue, justice and voting initiatives, creation care opportunities, Sacred Peaks advocacy, heat relief volunteering, and family food assistance resources. Read the full newsletter for events, registration links, and ways to get involved.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith Network, Church and SocietyComment
Faith, Hunger, Immigration, and Public Witness: This Week from LAMA
Faith, Hunger, Immigration, and Public Witness: This Week from LAMA

The latest LAMA newsletter includes advocacy opportunities, immigration and racial justice events, hunger action alerts, election-year guidance for congregations, heat relief resources, and upcoming grant opportunities. Read the full update to discover practical ways to put faith into action across Arizona.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), Advocacy, Church and SocietyComment
Hope Is a Group Project: Join Wayfinding in the Commons
Hope Is a Group Project: Join Wayfinding in the Commons

Looking for hope, clarity, or connection in uncertain times? Wayfinding in the Commons begins Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. (Arizona/Pacific Time) on Zoom, offering monthly gatherings for community, leadership learning, reflection, and practical next steps.

Open to anyone seeking encouragement, connection, or companionship in ministry and life, this online space invites participants to discover together why “hope is a group project.” Learn more and register.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment
Reference and Counsel Report Now Available for Synod Assembly Review
Reference and Counsel Report Now Available for Synod Assembly Review

The 2026 Synod Assembly Reference and Counsel Committee report is now available for review, including Resolution 26.01 related to a possible year of discernment regarding Reconciling in Christ (RIC). If adopted, the resolution would begin a year of listening and education—not an immediate decision—with congregational autonomy remaining intact. Learn more and participate at gcsynod.org/ric.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Synod Assembly, Reconciling in Christ (RIC)Comment
Forming Leaders, Strengthening Communities: A Year in Candidacy and Faith Formation
Forming Leaders, Strengthening Communities: A Year in Candidacy and Faith Formation

From candidacy and first-call accompaniment to youth leadership, campus ministry, and Synodical Authorized Ministry, Rev. Jacqui Pagel’s annual report highlights a year of equipping leaders and strengthening ministry across the Grand Canyon Synod. Five new pastors were ordained, youth initiatives expanded, and congregations continued to be supported in faithful leadership development.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Assembly Stories, CandidacyComment
Childcare Available at 2026 Synod Assembly Thanks to PLTS and Cal Lutheran
Childcare Available at 2026 Synod Assembly Thanks to PLTS and Cal Lutheran

Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary and California Lutheran University are sponsoring childcare for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, helping make participation more accessible for families across the synod. Their support reflects a shared Lutheran commitment to hospitality, leadership development, and strengthening the church across generations.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, California Lutheran University, ELCA Seminaries, 2026 Synod AssemblyComment