Posts in Region 2
Discerning a Call? Explore Seminary Through PLTS’s “Signs Along the Way” Weekend
Discerning a Call? Explore Seminary Through PLTS’s “Signs Along the Way” Weekend

Are you discerning whether seminary might be right for you? Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary invites you to Signs Along the Way, a visit and discernment weekend March 13–15 in Berkeley, California, designed for those exploring online seminary education.

Participants will meet PLTS faculty, connect with others in discernment, and learn more about the MDiv, MA in Spirituality and Social Change, and Lutheran Year programs. Lodging and meals are provided, with travel assistance available. Learn more and sign up at plts.edu/signs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Registration Open: Western States Youth Gathering 2026 Returns to Southern California
Registration Open: Western States Youth Gathering 2026 Returns to Southern California

Registration is now open for the 2026 Western States Youth Gathering, happening June 28–July 1, 2026, at California Lutheran University in Southern California. Youth graduating 8th–12th grade and their adult leaders are invited to gather for worship, service, learning, and connection in this faith-forming regional event.

Held the summer before the ELCA Youth Gathering, WSYG 2026 offers a meaningful opportunity for congregations to invest in youth ministry and prepare young people for a larger churchwide experience. Registration includes housing, meals, and programming. Learn more and register at westernstatesyg.org.

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ELCA, Region 2, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, California Lutheran UniversityComment
New in 2026: PLTS Launches Online Racial Justice & Faith Certificate Program
New in 2026: PLTS Launches Online Racial Justice & Faith Certificate Program

Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) is offering a new Racial Justice and Faith Certificate Program in 2026, featuring 6-week, online, asynchronous courses open to clergy and lay leaders alike. The first course, Womanism and Social Justice, begins February 9, with enrollment requested by January 25.

Courses cost $250, with discounts for PLTS alumni and congregational groups, and four completed courses lead to a certificate. Designed to connect faith with action, this program supports participants in confronting racial injustice and dismantling white supremacy through liberative theological reflection and practice.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Racial JusticeComment
New in 2026: PLTS Launches Online Racial Justice & Faith Certificate Program
New in 2026: PLTS Launches Online Racial Justice & Faith Certificate Program

Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) is offering a new Racial Justice and Faith Certificate Program in 2026, featuring 6-week, online, asynchronous courses open to clergy and lay leaders alike. The first course, Womanism and Social Justice, begins February 9, with enrollment requested by January 25.

Courses cost $250, with discounts for PLTS alumni and congregational groups, and four completed courses lead to a certificate. Designed to connect faith with action, this program supports participants in confronting racial injustice and dismantling white supremacy through liberative theological reflection and practice.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Racial JusticeComment
Wondering If Seminary Is Right for You? Join PLTS in Berkeley, March 13–15
Wondering If Seminary Is Right for You? Join PLTS in Berkeley, March 13–15

Is seminary part of God’s call in your life? Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary invites you to Signs Along the Way, a discernment weekend March 13–15 2026 in Berkeley, CA, designed for those exploring online seminary education. Participants will experience a PLTS class, connect with faculty and students, and reflect on vocation in community.

Lodging and most meals are covered, with travel assistance available. Learn more and register at plts.edu/signs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
PLTS Invites Applications for Climate Justice Certificate Programs | PLTS abre inscripciones para programas de certificación en justicia climática
PLTS Invites Applications for Climate Justice Certificate Programs | PLTS abre inscripciones para programas de certificación en justicia climática

The Center for Climate Justice and Faith at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) is accepting applications for two online certificate programs—one in Faith-rooted Community Organizing for Climate Justice (due Dec. 15, 2025) and one Spanish-language Climate Justice and Faith program (due Nov. 28, 2025). These nine-month courses equip faith-based teams and Spanish-speaking leaders to develop projects addressing the climate crisis through faith and justice. Learn more and apply at centerforclimatejusticeandfaith.org.

El Centro para la Justicia Climática y la Fe del Seminario Teológico Luterano del Pacífico (PLTS) acepta solicitudes para dos programas en línea: el Certificado en Organización Comunitaria Basada en la Fe para la Justicia Climática(plazo 15 de diciembre de 2025) y el Certificado en Justicia Climática y Fe (en español) (plazo 28 de noviembre de 2025). Ambos cursos de nueve meses forman líderes y comunidades de fe comprometidas con proyectos que abordan la crisis climática desde la fe y la justicia. Más información en centerforclimatejusticeandfaith.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardEspañol, Climate Change, Pacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Faith Over Fear: Lutherans Pray for Evi and All Detained Neighbors
Faith Over Fear: Lutherans Pray for Evi and All Detained Neighbors

A 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 ›

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ELCA, Region 2Brian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Pacifica Synod, Immigration and Refugees, Church and SocietyComment
Thriving Leadership Formation Enters a New Regional Chapter in 2026
Thriving Leadership Formation Enters a New Regional Chapter in 2026

Thriving Leadership Formation (TLF) is entering a new chapter in January 2026 as a fully regional ministry led by all five ELCA Region 2 synods, supported by a new five-year sustainability grant from the Lilly Endowment. With Pacifica Synod serving as fiscal agent and Desta Goehner continuing as Director, TLF will remain focused on spiritual and leadership formation for pastors, deacons, and church leaders. This transition strengthens connections with First Call Accompaniment and Synodically Authorized Ministry programs, ensuring continued support for leaders across our region. For questions, contact Desta Goehner at Desta@PLTS.edu.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2Brian FlatgardThriving Leadership Formation ProgramComment
PLTS Invites Applications for Climate Justice Certificate Programs | PLTS abre inscripciones para programas de certificación en justicia climática
PLTS Invites Applications for Climate Justice Certificate Programs | PLTS abre inscripciones para programas de certificación en justicia climática

The Center for Climate Justice and Faith at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) is accepting applications for two online certificate programs—one in Faith-rooted Community Organizing for Climate Justice (due Dec. 15, 2025) and one Spanish-language Climate Justice and Faith program (due Nov. 28, 2025). These nine-month courses equip faith-based teams and Spanish-speaking leaders to develop projects addressing the climate crisis through faith and justice. Learn more and apply at centerforclimatejusticeandfaith.org.

El Centro para la Justicia Climática y la Fe del Seminario Teológico Luterano del Pacífico (PLTS) acepta solicitudes para dos programas en línea: el Certificado en Organización Comunitaria Basada en la Fe para la Justicia Climática(plazo 15 de diciembre de 2025) y el Certificado en Justicia Climática y Fe (en español) (plazo 28 de noviembre de 2025). Ambos cursos de nueve meses forman líderes y comunidades de fe comprometidas con proyectos que abordan la crisis climática desde la fe y la justicia. Más información en centerforclimatejusticeandfaith.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardEspañol, Climate Change, Pacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Help Shape Joyful, Blended Worship at Good Shepherd–Reno
Help Shape Joyful, Blended Worship at Good Shepherd–Reno

Region 2 partner Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd (Reno, NV) seeks a full-time Director of Worship & Faith Formation ($65–80k + benefits). Role is 80% worship design/implementation and 20% faith formation; ELCA familiarity preferred; Good Shepherd is open and affirming (RIC). Apply by Nov. 1 (interviews early November); start Jan–Aug 2026. Details and application at goodshepherdreno.org; send materials to jobs@goodshepherdreno.org.   

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Region 2, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp WantedComment
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) Discernment Weekend is 10/31 – 11/2/2025
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) Discernment Weekend is 10/31 – 11/2/2025

Are you wondering if seminary might be right for you? Consider joining Signs Along the Way at PLTS in Berkeley, California to connect with others in discernment, get to know PLTS faculty, and explore what it’s like to be an online student in the MDiv, MA in Spirituality and Social Change, or Lutheran Year programs.

PLTS is transitioning to only offer online study with in-person intensives, so this weekend is designed for those interested in online learning. PLTS covers lodging and meals during the event and can offer travel assistance for those who need it. Visit plts.edu/signs to learn more and sign up.

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Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Youth and Young AdultComment
Find Renewal and Connection with Thriving Leadership Formation This Fall and Winter
Find Renewal and Connection with Thriving Leadership Formation This Fall and Winter

Thriving Leadership Formation invites church leaders to pause and grow through a series of opportunities this fall and winter—including weekly Lectio Divina, Enneagram in Ministry panels, monthly Spiritual Practice in Community gatherings, and the 2026 Executive Skills Retreat (Jan. 5–9 in Carefree, AZ). Each event offers space for renewal, connection, and leadership development.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardThriving Leadership Formation ProgramComment
Pathways Toward a Moral Economy: New Book Series Inspires Action
Pathways Toward a Moral Economy: New Book Series Inspires Action

Dr. Cynthia Moe-Lobeda and others invite readers into a vision of an ecological, equitable, and democratic economy. The Building a Moral Economy series offers tools and inspiration for those seeking to live faithfully in ways that resist exploitative systems and embrace justice, joy, and life-giving relationships. Explore the series and resources here.

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Region 2Brian FlatgardCynthia Moe-Lobeda, Climate Change, Pacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) Discernment Weekend is 10/31 – 11/2/2025
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) Discernment Weekend is 10/31 – 11/2/2025

Are you wondering if seminary might be right for you? Consider joining Signs Along the Way at PLTS in Berkeley, California to connect with others in discernment, get to know PLTS faculty, and explore what it’s like to be an online student in the MDiv, MA in Spirituality and Social Change, or Lutheran Year programs.

PLTS is transitioning to only offer online study with in-person intensives, so this weekend is designed for those interested in online learning. PLTS covers lodging and meals during the event and can offer travel assistance for those who need it. Visit plts.edu/signs to learn more and sign up.

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Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Youth and Young AdultComment
Help Shape Joyful, Blended Worship at Good Shepherd–Reno
Help Shape Joyful, Blended Worship at Good Shepherd–Reno

Region 2 partner Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd (Reno, NV) seeks a full-time Director of Worship & Faith Formation ($65–80k + benefits). Role is 80% worship design/implementation and 20% faith formation; ELCA familiarity preferred; Good Shepherd is open and affirming (RIC). Apply by Nov. 1 (interviews early November); start Jan–Aug 2026. Details and application at goodshepherdreno.org; send materials to jobs@goodshepherdreno.org.   

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Region 2, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp WantedComment
Eucharist Across a Wall: Border Church’s Ministry of Presence
Eucharist Across a Wall: Border Church’s Ministry of Presence

At the U.S.-Mexico border, the Border Church brings people together for worship on both sides of the wall. Rooted in prayer, accompaniment, and a ministry of presence, the congregation serves migrants and asylum-seekers while witnessing to Christ’s call for peace and justice. Despite barriers and fear, this community testifies to unity in Christ and hope for a world without walls. Click here to read the full story at Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, News, Region 2Brian FlatgardImmigration and Refugees, Living LutheranComment
Rocky Mountain Synod Responds to School Shootings with Prayer and Action
Rocky Mountain Synod Responds to School Shootings with Prayer and Action

The Rocky Mountain Synod has released a special pastoral message in response to two recent school shootings in Evergreen, Colorado, and Orem, Utah. Bishop Meghan Johnston Aelabouni, along with local pastors, offers prayers, words of comfort, and a call to faithful action against the ongoing reality of gun and political violence. Worship resources, prayers, and litanies are also available to support congregations in lament and healing. To read the full message and resources from the Rocky Mountain Synod, click here.

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Region 2, LettersBrian FlatgardRocky Mountain Synod, Church and SocietyComment
Remembering Hiroshima and Nagasaki: 80 Years of Witness and Peace
Remembering Hiroshima and Nagasaki: 80 Years of Witness and Peace

On August 6, faith leaders, survivors, and advocates gathered at San Francisco’s Japanese Tea Garden to mark the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings. The Blessing Service for Peace, co-hosted with interfaith partners and the Consulate General of Japan, included music, reflections from Hibakusha (survivors), and a call to live peace daily as “a behavior.” Attendees honored the resilience of survivors, the legacy of Japanese internment, and the hope embodied by ginkgo saplings descended from trees that withstood the bombings. To read Pastor Courtney Geibert’s full reflection on this service and its call to action for peace, click here.

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Region 2, NewsBrian FlatgardSierra Pacific SynodComment
Grow in Faith and Leadership This Fall with Thriving Leadership Formation
Grow in Faith and Leadership This Fall with Thriving Leadership Formation

New fall programming from Thriving Leadership Formation invites you into deeper connection and growth—with free and low-cost online offerings for church leaders, ministry teams, and spiritual seekers. From weekly Lectio Divina and monthly spiritual practice gatherings to a new Enneagram panel series and team-building workshops, there’s something for everyone this season. Read the full newsletter →

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Region 2, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardThriving Leadership Formation ProgramComment
Lutheran Synods Join Lawsuit Defending Sacred Spaces from Immigration Raids
Lutheran Synods Join Lawsuit Defending Sacred Spaces from Immigration Raids

Several ELCA synods, including our siblings in the New England, Greater Milwaukee, Southwest California, Southwestern Texas, and Sierra Pacific Synods, have joined other faith organizations in a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security. The case challenges a Trump-Vance administration policy that permits ICE raids at or near houses of worship—practices that plaintiffs argue violate religious freedom and harm congregational life.

The lawsuit, filed by Democracy Forward and partner organizations, highlights disturbing incidents of ICE activity during worship, preschool pickup, and pastoral preaching. The plaintiffs seek immediate relief to halt these actions nationwide. Click here to read the full story and view the complaint.

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Region 2Brian FlatgardChurch and Society, Immigration and RefugeesComment