“Is This Not the Fast I Chose?” (Isaiah 58:6) inspires the 2025 Lenten Series from Sumud and Bethlehem Bible College. Centered on the theme, “Our Christian Call to Disrupt Injustice,” this series invites reflection and action rooted in our faith. Lenten resources will be available mid-February at Sumud’s webpage: elca.org/sumud.
Read MoreJamil Zoughbi and Claudine Faltas’ journey from the West Bank to Wartburg Theological Seminary in Iowa is a testament to faith and resilience. Trusting in God’s plan, the couple overcame challenges, including visa hurdles and the pain of leaving family behind, to pursue rostered ministry in the ELCA. Their story highlights the power of community, the support of the church, and the transformative call to serve. In this article from Living Lutheran, read how their faith continues to inspire their mission to serve marginalized communities and empower others to lead.
Read MoreHow do we stay grounded in grace when life’s challenges seem unending? In this reflection in Living Lutheran, Mindy Holland shares how the promises of Scripture, the love of a faith community, and the songs of worship have anchored her through life’s storms. With Philippians 4:6-7 as her guiding verse, she invites us to embrace God’s peace and remember that Jesus is always with us. Read more about how grace sustains us and how we can share this grounding truth with others.
Read MoreCurious about chaplaincy in the ELCA? Join the Seminaries of the ELCA and the ELCA Chaplain Corps for a virtual Fireside Chat on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Explore what it means to serve as a chaplain and discover pathways to this vital ministry. The Zoom event begins at 7 pm CST. Register now to secure your spot.
Read MoreThis month’s ELCA Seeds Monthly newsletter highlights opportunities for engagement, including the National Day of Racial Healing (Jan. 21), Living Lutheran’s return to print, and vital support for wildfire victims through Lutheran Disaster Response. Learn more about how you can participate, reflect, and serve. Read the full Seeds Monthly here.
Read MoreWhen a bomb cyclone devastated parts of the Pacific Northwest, Isaiah 43:1-3 offered hope: God is with us through every storm. This promise guided young Lutheran advocates who met with federal leaders to address climate change. As we enter a new year, let us act boldly for the common good, rooted in faith and God’s abiding presence. Read more in the latest ELCA Advocacy Fellows Devotional.
Read MoreCongregations can now receive reimbursements for clean-energy projects like solar panels through the Inflation Reduction Act, with financing available via the Mission Investment Fund. Learn actionable tips for sustainability, updates on Portico’s new president, and IRS mileage rates for 2025 in the latest Administration Matters blog post.
Read MoreThe American Relief Act, 2025, passed in December, narrowly avoided a government shutdown and extended key parts of the 2018 Farm Bill through March 14, 2024, while providing $110 billion in disaster relief, including $31 billion for agriculture producers. However, the deal also cut $177 million from USDA’s “orphan” programs, leaving communities and farmers who rely on these initiatives at risk. As Congress prepares to draft a new Farm Bill in 2025, the ELCA urges action to ensure policies reflect faith-based values of equity, sustainability, and care for creation. Learn how you can advocate for a just future in ELCA Advocacy’s Farm Bill blog post.
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war and conflict: Ukraine, Syria, South Sudan…
For ceasefire in Gaza…
For victims, evacuees, and firefighters facing wildfires in California…
For victims, survivors, and rescue workers involved with the mine disaster in South Africa…
For immigrants and all who travel for stability, opportunity, and safety…
For peaceful political transitions in the United States and around the world…
For the continued work of antiracism…
As wildfires devastate Los Angeles, we are reminded of our call to step in during times of need, just as Jesus did at the wedding in Cana. Whether through prayer, financial support for Lutheran Disaster Response, or opening our homes to those displaced, our actions embody God’s abundant love. In this week’s Faith Lens, explore how this week’s Gospel inspires us to act with grace and compassion in the face of crisis.
Read MoreJoin ELCA AMMPARO and Episcopal Migration Ministries on January 17, 2025, for an essential webinar equipping ministry leaders to support migrants and undocumented individuals. Featuring expert immigration lawyers, the session covers “Know Your Rights” guidance, navigating immigration steps, and preparing for ICE interactions. Register today for this free online event and learn how your ministry can make a difference.
Read MoreThe ELCA has discontinued recommending hymns by David Haas and Cesáreo Gabaráin following allegations of misconduct. Rooted in theological commitments to love and justice, this survivor-centered approach prioritizes the well-being of those harmed by gender-based violence. Learn how these decisions impact worship and explore resources to support survivor-centered practices in your congregation in the latest ELCA Worship blog post.
Read MoreOn Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, the ELCA will host a free online event from 9am-1pm MST, 8am-noon PST, featuring worship, workshops, music, and guided reflection. Centering the voices of ELCA leaders of color, the event seeks to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and inspire collective action toward justice and equity. Open to all ELCA members and partners, this event aligns with the work of Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation. Visit ELCA.org/NDORH to learn more and register today!
Read MoreAmid heightened uncertainty, knowing your rights is vital for immigrants and their advocates. ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative and the Archdiocese of Dubuque offer multilingual tools like Red Cards, family safety plans, and legal support directories to help communities stay prepared. View these pages for a comprehensive list of resources and how to share them in your congregation.
Read MoreWildfires have devastated Los Angeles County, California, leaving tens of thousands displaced. Lutheran Disaster Response is actively working with synods and local partners to address immediate needs and plan long-term recovery efforts. Learn how you can pray, give, and share to support those affected. Visit ELCA.org/wildfires to donate and find resources.
Read MoreThe devastating California wildfires have displaced thousands and destroyed homes, businesses, and places of worship. Bishop Brenda Bos of the Southwest California Synod is among those personally impacted. Presiding Bishop Eaton calls for prayers, accompaniment, and action as Lutheran Disaster Response mobilizes to bring aid and hope to affected communities. Learn more about how you can help: Lutheran Disaster Response.
Read MoreBliss Tungnung, a former ELCA scholar, returned to her conflict-stricken home in Manipur, India, to offer psychosocial care and education to children. She founded Bliss International School in 2023 to foster emotional and academic growth. This month’s ELCA Global Mission newsletter also celebrates the ordination of women in the Lutheran Church of Australia and the 25th anniversary of the ELCA Wittenberg Center. Discover global service opportunities and Lenten resources, and read more inspiring stories at ELCA Global Mission.
Read MoreOn Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, the ELCA will host a free online event from 9am-1pm MST, 8am-noon PST, featuring worship, workshops, music, and guided reflection. Centering the voices of ELCA leaders of color, the event seeks to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and inspire collective action toward justice and equity. Open to all ELCA members and partners, this event aligns with the work of Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation. Visit ELCA.org/NDORH to learn more and register today!
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war and conflict: Gaza, Syria, Ukraine…
For evacuees and all threatened by the Pacific Palisades fire in California…
For earthquake victims in Tibet…
For political transitions and the advancement of peace across the world…
For severe winter weather affecting areas of the United States…
For refugees, migrants, and all who journey for safety…
For daily affirmation of our baptismal calling: to live among God’s faithful people; to hear the word of God and share in the holy supper; to share the good news of God in Christ through word and deed; to serve all people, following the example of Jesus; and to strive for justice and peace in all the world…
As we welcome 2025, Living Lutheran shares journal prompts to guide your self-reflection and help you set your faith intentions for the new year.
Read More
