When life’s challenges feel like an uphill climb, how do we press on in faith? Drawing inspiration from children joyfully tackling a snowy obstacle, Living Lutheran reminds us that perseverance, prayer, and community help us move forward even when life feels stuck. This reflection from Philippians 3:14 encourages us to trust God’s presence, embrace the work of faith, and find joy in both the struggles and the triumphs. Read more at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreJohn Christensen, a young-adult and disability advocate, is shaping the future of Lutheran leadership through global advocacy and intergenerational dialogue. After serving in Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM), he joined the ELCA’s Young Adult Vocational Fellowship and now works with the World Council of Churches on disability and mental health advocacy. His journey highlights how young leaders can stay engaged in ministry and address crucial issues within the church. Read more about his inspiring work at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreWe live in challenging times—division, climate crisis, conflict—but what if, like Esther, we were born for this moment? In her latest reflection, Elise Seyfried reminds us that meeting the moment with courage is not a solitary act. Just as God strengthened Esther, David, and Moses, we too are equipped to bring hope and change. Read more on how faith empowers us to stand firm in times of uncertainty. Read more in Living Lutheran.
Read MorePastor Andrew Tengwall isn’t just an interim pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindstrom, Minnesota—he’s also “Reverend Killjoy,” an announcer for the Minnesota Roller Derby. For Tengwall, the connection between leading worship and calling roller derby matches is clear: both involve storytelling, presence, and pointing people toward something greater than himself. His journey from seminary to the derby track is a unique example of how faith and passion can intertwine in unexpected ways. Read more in Living Lutheran about how he balances pastoral ministry and the fast-paced world of roller derby.
Read MoreWhat does it mean to be Lutheran? J. Paul Rajashekar’s new book, On Being Lutheran, explores this question by examining Lutheran theology, history, worship, and governance. Written for emerging leaders in the ELCA, the book offers a concise introduction to Lutheran identity while emphasizing the global impact of the Lutheran tradition. Learn more about this vital resource and how it’s shaping ministries across cultures and continents. Read the full article at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreIn his new book Ministry Matters: Pastors, Their Life and Work Today, author and scholar Michael Plekon explores the evolving role of pastors in shifting congregational landscapes. Drawing on over 40 years of ministry and contributions from renowned leaders like Pope Francis, Nadia Bolz-Weber, and Rowan Williams, Plekon highlights the call to prayer, discernment, and reconciliation in ministry. Read more about Plekon’s insights in Living Lutheran: What is the role of the pastor today?
Read MoreNuestro Casa para Todos, a ministry near the University of Puerto Rico in Río Piedras, has transformed an empty church into a vibrant faith community for students and neighbors. Led by Pastor Ignacio Estrada, the ministry offers fellowship, meals, and worship while addressing the unique needs of the university population. With a focus on inclusion and service, Nuestro Casa provides a safe space where students can connect, learn, and grow in faith. Read more in Living Lutheran.
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 MoreAs 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 MoreLove Anyway Feasts offer a fresh way to bring neighbors together in divided times. Learn how ELCA members in Pennsylvania used shared meals to build bridges and model Christ’s teaching to love our neighbors. With resources from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania, you too can join this movement of connection and hope. Read more in this article from Living Lutheran.
Read MoreAs Living Lutheran wrapped up 2024, they took a look at some of our top stories from the year. Below are Living Lutheran‘s five most-read articles from the last 12 months.
Read MoreMeet Glory Godwin Lekashu, a medical laboratory technician, student, and Lutheran whose journey spans continents and calls to service. From her youth ministry roots in Tanzania to her studies in biology and public health, Glory integrates faith and science to heal body, soul, and world. In this Living Lutheran article, learn how this International Women Leaders scholar is living her Lutheran values by fostering health care justice, inspiring youth, and shining Christ’s light in her community.
Read MoreIn a post-Dobbs world, the ELCA’s 1991 social statement on abortion offers a compassionate, theologically grounded response to the complexities of reproductive rights. Rooted in trust, understanding, and a commitment to relationships, the statement calls Lutherans to discernment, advocacy, and accompaniment. Explore how this powerful framework equips us for faithful action today in this Living Lutheran article.
Read MoreLiving Lutheran is returning to print! After hearing from many of you, the ELCA is relaunching the beloved magazine with four print issues per year beginning in 2025. Individual subscriptions are $19.95 annually, with group plans available for congregations. Sign up today at livinglutheran.org/subscribe to stay connected to our shared stories of faith. Read the article in Living Lutheran here.
Read MoreCelebrating 50 years of ELCA World Hunger, this milestone highlights the ministry’s global and local impact in fighting hunger and poverty through sustainable solutions, advocacy, and partnerships. Discover inspiring stories and learn how you can join in this life-changing mission in this year-end Living Lutheran article.
Read MoreRediscover the courage to dream this Advent! Through childlike imagination and God’s promises, we are reminded that nothing is impossible. In her latest Living Lutheran article, join Kimberly Knowle-Zeller in reflecting on Advent practices, prayer, and bold hope for ourselves and the world.
Read MoreZion Lutheran Church’s Thanksgiving meal tradition served nearly 1,000 people last year, uniting the Trinidad community in generosity and service. Rooted in the congregation’s monthly 5 Loaves ministry, this annual effort combines faith, food, and fellowship to embody Jesus’ call to feed the hungry. Read more about how this small congregation makes a big impact in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreNurse practitioner Caroline Bonnema shares her journey of faith and vocation, from raising her children in a welcoming church community to serving oncology patients with compassion and care. Her story reflects the breadth of God’s grace and the call to live out faith in daily life. Learn how Caroline’s Lutheran values shape her family, career, and connection to God.
Read MoreAs wars in the Holy Land and Ukraine continue, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is providing vital aid to refugees and vulnerable communities through partnerships with local and global organizations. From creating safe spaces for people with intellectual disabilities in the West Bank to converting bomb shelters into schools in Ukraine, LDR is bringing hope and healing in the midst of conflict. Read more in Living Lutheran and learn how your support can make a difference at elca.org/ldr.
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