Seeds Monthly: Lent Resources to Deepen Your Faith and Fight Hunger

New ELCA World Hunger resources for Lent offer ways to deepen faith and take action against hunger through study, prayer, and service. Living Lutheran returns to print with a quarterly edition, and Nuestro Casa para Todos in Puerto Rico opens its doors as a ministry of welcome. Bishop Eaton responds to misinformation, reaffirming the ELCA’s mission. In honor of Black History Month, we highlight the contributions of Black Lutherans in shaping our church. Read more about these stories and more in the latest Seeds Monthly.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2025Seeds MonthlyComment

Faith Lens: Mercy Meant for Today

Mercy is more than a word—it’s a call to action. This Sunday’s Gospel reading (Luke 6:27-38) challenges us to love our enemies, give freely, and embody God’s mercy in a divided world. As Lutheran social ministries face funding challenges, we are reminded that mercy is at the core of our faith, not an optional extra. How will we answer Jesus’ call to mercy today?

Worship Resources, ELCA, ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2025Faith Lens, Youth and Young Adult, 2024 Advent and ChristmasComment

New Worship Resources for Wildfires, Hurricanes, and Arabic-Language Liturgies

New ELCA Worship resources are now available, including liturgies for wildfires and hurricanes, newly released Arabic-language worship resources, and guidance on ethical music choices. Plus, explore upcoming Music That Makes Community events, new Lenten devotionals, and a worship planning handbook. Stay informed with the latest worship updates and resources—read the full newsletter here.

Leadership Resources, Worship Resources, ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2025Worship Resources, ELCA WorshipComment

More Questions than Answers: Finding Hope in Advocacy and Faith

In a world where the “common good” feels more elusive than ever, how do we navigate the tension between legality and morality, division and unity? Courtney Hall of the Lutheran Office of Public Policy – California reflects on faith as a guiding light in the midst of uncertainty, especially for those working in advocacy. Instead of placing blame in times of struggle, she encourages us to lean on each other and keep our eyes on the shared values of love, grace, and compassion. Click here to read more in this devotional from the New Year Devotional Series.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

For What Shall We Pray?

For areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, or political instability, especially Ukraine, Gaza, and Bangladesh…
For safety for all travelers, especially air travel…
For health care workers, researchers, environmental workers, educators, and all professions affected by political changes…
For those who rely on medication for health and well-being…
For Pope Francis, during his hospitalization and treatment…
For flooding in Kansas and West Virginia…
For winter weather and those who live without home or shelter…

ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2025ELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment

Act Now: Lift the Freeze on Lifesaving U.S. Foreign Assistance

A recent funding freeze has halted U.S. foreign aid programs critical to global health, refugee resettlement, and disaster relief—programs already approved by Congress. As Lutherans, we are called to serve our neighbors in need. Contact your congressional representatives today to urge them to restore this lifesaving aid. Take action now: Click here.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 19, 2025Advocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Church and SocietyComment

God’s Work, Our Hands: Join the ELCA’s Day of Service on Sept. 7, 2025

On Sunday, Sept. 7, ELCA congregations will come together for “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday, an annual day of service celebrating our call to love and serve our neighbors. Whether through food drives, community clean-ups, or acts of care, this is an opportunity to put faith into action. If your congregation can’t participate on Sept. 7, choose another date—service is ongoing! Visit ELCA.org/DayOfService for resources and inspiration. Mark your calendar and join us in serving our communities!

ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 18, 2025God's Work Our Hands SundayComment

“Is This Not the Fast I Chose?”: A 2025 Lenten Call to Disrupt Injustice

“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 in March at Sumud’s webpage: elca.org/sumud.

ELCA, News, Worship ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 18, 2025Sumud, 2025 LentComment

Defending Care: Why Lutherans Must Speak Out for Medicaid

Proposed Medicaid cuts in Congress could significantly impact low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—many of whom are served by Lutheran ministries. As people of faith, we are called to protect healthcare access for the most vulnerable. The ELCA is mobilizing action through advocacy alerts, a webinar on March 6, and direct outreach to legislators. Now is the time to act—contact your representatives, sign coalition letters, and learn how your congregation can engage. Click here to read more and take action.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 18, 2025Church and Society, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Bishop Eaton: “You Are a Superpower” in Defending the Vulnerable

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton calls on Lutherans to take action following an executive order rolling back immigration protections in places of worship, schools, and hospitals. In a video message, she urges congregations to raise their voices and stand with the most vulnerable. While the ELCA cannot be a plaintiff in lawsuits challenging this policy, affected congregations may have legal standing. Watch the full message here and learn how we can respond as church together.

Bishop Eaton, ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 17, 2025Bishop Eaton Letters, Church and Society, Immigration and RefugeesComment

Finding Worth Beyond Self-Love: The Mystery of Being God’s Beloved

We often struggle with the idea of self-love, yet Scripture reminds us of a deeper truth: we are already God’s beloved. Bishop Kristen Kuempel reflects on the mystery of this love—one that doesn’t rely on our perfection but instead finds joy in who we truly are. In baptism, we are claimed as God’s children, and no flaw, failure, or self-doubt can change that. Read more in her powerful reflection on the Women of the ELCA’s Café blog. Click here to read.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 14, 2025Café, Women of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment

“Love is a Verb”: Jesus’ Call to Act with Compassion

Jesus calls us to love—our friends, our neighbors, and even our enemies. But what does that look like in practice? In Faith Reflections: The Labor of Love, Rev. Meghan Johnston Aelabouni explores love as a verb, a call to action rather than mere emotion. Reflecting on the parable of the Good Samaritan, she reminds us that loving others doesn’t always mean feeling affection—it means working for their well-being, even through prayer. Click here to read the full reflection on Boldcafe.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 14, 2025Café, Women of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment

Lutherans, Let’s Respond: Advocate for Refugees in Crisis

The U.S. refugee resettlement program is at a standstill, leaving thousands stranded and vital services in limbo. As Lutherans, we are called to act. The ELCA, in partnership with the Interfaith Immigration Coalition, has drafted a faith-based letter urging the administration to reinstate refugee resettlement. Faith leaders and organizations can sign on today to stand in solidarity with those seeking safety. Read the letter and add your name today.

ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 14, 2025Immigration and Refugees, Global Refuge, societyComment

Defending Medicaid: A Call to Action for Lutherans

Proposed Medicaid cuts in Congress threaten millions of low-income children, seniors, and people with disabilities—including many served by Lutheran ministries. As Lutherans, our faith calls us to protect the vulnerable and advocate for just policies. Learn about the proposed changes, why they matter, and how you can take action through advocacy alerts, upcoming webinars, and direct engagement with lawmakers. Read more and find ways to get involved at ELCA.org.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 14, 2025Church and Society, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Called to the Table: Embracing Differences in Christian Life

In a time of division, how do we live out our faith together? Drawing from Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, this ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows devotional reminds us that our differences—political, ideological, or personal—are not barriers but strengths. Through advocacy and listening, we can build a society that reflects God’s love for all.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 14, 2025ELCA AdvocacyComment

When Worship Is Disrupted: How Congregations Can Respond and Prepare

Is your congregation prepared for a crisis? A Seattle church recently experienced a disruption during worship, underscoring the importance of having a crisis communications plan in place before it’s needed. The ELCA Strategic Communications team has released best practices and planning guides to help congregations prepare for emergencies, ensure clear communication, and work with local partners. Read more and download the full crisis planning resources to protect your congregation.

ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 13, 2025Church and SocietyComment

Nobody Journeys Alone: Join ELCA Coaching for Beloved Community Gatherings

Join ELCA Coaching’s third-Wednesday gatherings through 2025 to cultivate connection, courage, and care in faith. Facilitated by Jen Kunka and Rev. Carlton Rodgers, these unrecorded sessions provide a sacred space for healing and reflection. Whether you see yourself as a leader or simply seek community, all are welcome. Lean into the risk of belonging—nobody journeys alone. For more details and additional weekly sessions, visit ELCA Coaching.

ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 13, 2025Coaching, ELCA CoachingComment

February 2025 Mission Support Memo: LuMin Belonging

Our February 2025 Mission Support Memo takes us to a place in the ELCA where you can build community, deepen faith, expand minds, and inspire service with over 11,000 young adults. Learn about our amazing 176 local campus ministry agencies and cooperating congregations, where the lives of college students and campus communities are transformed through God's abundant grace.

Our memo also encourages congregations to begin planning for a Narrative Spending plan in 2025. All the tips and tricks are found in this video you can use anytime, anywhere, with anyone. As well we ask for your feedback about the memo through a short survey seeking to improve this work we do together.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 13, 2025Mission Support, ELCA Mission Support Team, StewardshipComment

“An Abrupt Stop”: Refugee Services in Arizona Struggle After Funding Freeze

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW) is facing a severe funding crisis following President Trump’s executive order halting refugee resettlement aid. The abrupt loss of federal funds has forced LSS-SW to lay off staff and scale back critical services for newly arrived refugees in Arizona. Despite the challenges, LSS-SW remains committed to supporting displaced families through private donations and community support. Read more about the impact and how you can help at lamaz.org.

From Zambia to Madagascar: ELCA Global Missionary Pastor Kristin’s New Call

Pastor Kristin Engstrom has completed her first year serving as an ELCA Global Missionary in Madagascar, working alongside the Malagasy Lutheran Church, one of the fastest-growing Lutheran churches in the world. Read about her ministry, the challenges facing Madagascar’s faith communities, and how the ELCA continues to support vital programs, including healthcare and education. Check out her February 2025 Newsletter for stories and photos.

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