The ELCA Conference of Bishops recently met to address church growth, ministry, and truth in a changing world. Presiding Bishop Eaton called for expanding ministry beyond traditional church buildings while reaffirming the importance of congregational life. The bishops also issued a statement condemning deceitful public discourse and committing to truth-telling in society.
Read MoreWe, the members of the Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, speak with one voice to condemn the hateful, deceptive, violent speech that has too readily found a place in our national discourse. We lament the ways this language has led to hate-fueled action.
We refuse to accept the ongoing normalization of lies and deceit.
Read MoreDuring their recent meeting, the ELCA Conference of Bishops addressed critical international and domestic issues, showing support for a cease-fire in Gaza and solidarity with migrants in Texas. They discussed the role of faith in advocacy, updates on Holy Communion practices, and progress from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church. Other topics included synod diversity goals, tackling white supremacy and patriarchy, AMMPARO's expansion, and roster committee recommendations. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreWe are deeply troubled by the actions of the Texas attorney general's office against Annunciation House, a volunteer-run faith-based organization that has been a pillar of welcome and hospitality in El Paso for more than 40 years. Annunciation House has been singled out by the attorney general's office over potential legal violations for the social services it provides to immigrants in Texas. We recognize Annunciation House's exemplary way of faith—by way of humanitarian works in close partnership with the federal government and other nonprofits in the region—that ensures migrants are treated with dignity and respect.
Read MoreThe Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is adding its voice to the growing group of faith leaders urgently calling for a permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza. We urge President Joe Biden, our legislators, and all who lead and make decisions on behalf of the United States to do everything in their power to bring an end to the current suffering and lay the foundation for lasting peace with justice.
Read MoreThe ELCA Conference of Bishops convened in Chicago, electing Bishop Yehiel Curry as conference chair and Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer as vice chair. The meeting addressed several key topics, including the Future Church vision, racial justice, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Read MoreThe Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) met Feb. 28–March 4, 2023, at the Eaglewood Resort in Itasca, Ill. The conference, an advisory body of the ELCA, comprises 65 synod bishops, the presiding bishop and the secretary.
Read MoreThe Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) met Sept. 29–Oct. 1 at the Eaglewood Resort in Itasca, Ill. The conference, an advisory body of the ELCA, comprises 65 synod bishops, the presiding bishop and the secretary.
"We come together as the Conference of Bishops to give and receive encouragement as we serve in our respective synods," said the Rev. Tracie Bartholomew, bishop of the ELCA New Jersey Synod and conference chair. "We are at our best when we work collegially and celebrate all that God is doing throughout this church."
Read MoreThe Conference of Bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) held its online meeting March 4-5, 2021. The conference, an advisory body of the ELCA, comprises 65 synod bishops, the presiding bishop and the secretary. Bishop Hutterer serves on the executive committee.
Read MoreIn her weekly message, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton shares what she finds extraordinary about the ELCA Conference of Bishops.
Read MoreWe have watched with horror recent news reports of attacks on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders – fueled by racist rhetoric which has attempted to lay blame for the cause of the Coronavirus on Asian Peoples. The Conference of Bishops, meeting on March 4th, voted to affirm the “Statement on Anti-Asian Racism,” and to encourage the congregations and leaders of our synods to take action. A Day of Lament has been set for Sunday, March 21, 2021.
Please consider the points of encouragement in the statement as ways your congregation or ministry can stand in solidarity with our Asian and Pacific Islander brothers and sisters.
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