Posts in ELCA
See Me, Believe Me: A New Call to Authentic Allyship in Our Congregations
See Me, Believe Me: A New Call to Authentic Allyship in Our Congregations

In See Me, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship With Congregational Leaders of Color, Pastor Yolanda Denson-Byers calls the ELCA community to step into true allyship. Through powerful stories and practical steps, this new book addresses the unique challenges BIPOC leaders face in predominantly white congregations and invites white allies to engage in courageous, anti-racist action. Denson-Byers’s reflections challenge us to go beyond performative support and commit to the “soul work” of allyship. Discover how See Me, Believe Me can be a transformative resource for congregations in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Racial JusticeComment
Argula von Grumbach and the Women Who Shaped the Reformation
Argula von Grumbach and the Women Who Shaped the Reformation

When we think of the Reformation, we often picture Luther and his 95 Theses. But behind this movement were everyday people—like Argula von Grumbach, a Bavarian noblewoman who boldly defended the Reformation—and lesser-known reformers who shaped our faith tradition in profound ways. This Living Lutheran exploration of “a people’s history” of the Reformation reveals the courage of ordinary believers, the impact on laywomen and laborers, and the rich diversity that remains central to our Lutheran heritage.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Martin LutherComment
Facing Our Past: Churches Take Responsibility for Indian Boarding School Harm
Facing Our Past: Churches Take Responsibility for Indian Boarding School Harm

November is Native American Heritage Month—a time for learning, honoring, and reflecting on the rich contributions of Indigenous communities. This month, ELCA’s Racial Justice Ministries is spotlighting events that call us toward truth and healing. Join online discussions on church accountability for Indian boarding schools, reflect on Vine Deloria Jr.’s work at the Theological Symposium, and, for those able, participate in the National Day of Mourning in Plymouth, Mass., to stand with Indigenous communities. Learn more about how we can walk together toward justice and understanding.

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News, ELCABrian FlatgardRacial Justice, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries, American Indian and Alaska Native, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Truth, Healing, and Reflection: Indigenous Heritage Month in the ELCA
Truth, Healing, and Reflection: Indigenous Heritage Month in the ELCA

November is Native American Heritage Month—a time for learning, honoring, and reflecting on the rich contributions of Indigenous communities. This month, ELCA’s Racial Justice Ministries is spotlighting events that call us toward truth and healing. Join online discussions on church accountability for Indian boarding schools, reflect on Vine Deloria Jr.’s work at the Theological Symposium, and, for those able, participate in the National Day of Mourning in Plymouth, Mass., to stand with Indigenous communities. Learn more about how we can walk together toward justice and understanding.

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News, ELCABrian FlatgardRacial Justice, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries, American Indian and Alaska NativeComment
Raising Children as Sacred Work: Addressing Parental Stress Through Faith
Raising Children as Sacred Work: Addressing Parental Stress Through Faith

The U.S. Surgeon General’s recent advisory calls attention to a growing crisis in parental mental health. Parents and caregivers face unprecedented stress, with nearly 75% expressing concerns about their children’s mental well-being. This is a profound opportunity for faith communities to step up, offering open dialogue and supportive networks to ease the burden. The latest ELCA Innovation Blog post explores actionable ways the church can stand in solidarity with families, rooted in faith’s call to care for one another.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Innovation LabComment
25 Years of Unity: Celebrating the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification
25 Years of Unity: Celebrating the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification

Marking the 25th anniversary of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification, we celebrate a milestone of unity between Lutherans and Catholics. This historic agreement, signed on October 31, 1999, resolved centuries-old theological differences on justification by faith, laying a foundation for ongoing dialogue and cooperation. Today, as we reflect on the fruits of this partnership, we give thanks for God’s grace and look forward to the journey ahead, with the 60th anniversary of U.S. Lutheran-Catholic dialogue on the horizon.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Reimagining Kids in Worship: ELCA Launches New Initiative with Lilly Endowment Grant
Reimagining Kids in Worship: ELCA Launches New Initiative with Lilly Endowment Grant

The ELCA has been awarded a $1.25 million grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. to launch Curious Christian Children: Reimagining Kids in Worship. This new initiative will equip congregations with resources to foster inclusive worship spaces for all children, focusing especially on those with disabilities, families of color, and LGBTQIA+ families. Through resource sharing and leader support, the program aims to help our youngest members grow in faith and belonging.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLilly Endowment, Youth and Young AdultComment
Celebrating Growth: Lutheran Men in Mission Reaches More, Reaches Wide, Reaches Boldly
Celebrating Growth: Lutheran Men in Mission Reaches More, Reaches Wide, Reaches Boldly

Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM) recently met in Reno to set bold plans in motion for 2025, focusing on rebranding, expanding discipleship coaching, and bringing over 100 new congregations into their network. With new initiatives and the support of men across the country, LMM is inspiring deeper spiritual connections.

Upcoming retreats, including November’s One Year to Live in Iowa, as well as weekly virtual Bible and book studies, offer rich opportunities for growth and fellowship. Don’t miss the full update in LMM’s 2024 Fall Ambasador-Gram.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Men in MissionComment
From Sole to Soul: Finding Grace in Unexpected Places
From Sole to Soul: Finding Grace in Unexpected Places

When Maria K. Miller’s shoes began falling apart one Sunday morning at church, she faced the embarrassment of leaving a trail of black rubber behind her.

But a fellow volunteer’s selfless offer of her own shoes turned a small moment into a profound experience of community and grace. This act of kindness reminded Maria—and all of us—of the strength we find in each other through faith, and how even the smallest gestures can reveal God’s love and compassion. Read the story of soles and souls in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
How the 2024 Youth Gathering Inspired Lifelong Service and Connection
How the 2024 Youth Gathering Inspired Lifelong Service and Connection

The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans inspired young Lutherans like Hayden Gruenberg to consider careers dedicated to service. Through partnerships with organizations like Let’s Be BIGGER and Roots of Music, attendees formed lasting connections that transcend geography, enriching their faith and deepening their commitment to social justice.

These stories show how the Gathering continues to shape lives, building community and fostering a sense of shared purpose across the ELCA. Read the full story in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
I’m a Lutheran: Nate Engle
I’m a Lutheran: Nate Engle

Nate Engle’s journey with faith is woven into his family life, work, and commitment to service at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lansing, Michigan. As he lives out Lutheran values through both his career and personal life, Nate embodies the transformative power of grace, finding God’s presence in small moments and tough decisions alike. Reflecting Martin Luther’s teachings, he shares that “God’s got this,” a simple yet powerful reminder of faith’s assurance in every step. Read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For peace between nations, especially Ukraine, Russia, Palestine, Israel, and Lebanon…

  • For an end to violence and violent rhetoric in our nation and in our world…

  • For areas of hailstorms and flooding in Spain…

  • For crews battling brush fires in Massachusetts…

  • For free, fair, safe, and accessible election access for all United States citizens, and for safety for election workers…

  • For all victims of gun violence, especially in Atlanta, GA…

  • For the memory of all the saints in glory…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
ELCA Advocacy Inspires Faithful Civic Action for the 2024 Election
ELCA Advocacy Inspires Faithful Civic Action for the 2024 Election

As we approach Election Day, the ELCA offers resources for thoughtful, faith-based civic engagement, such as nonpartisan guides on immigration, tools for peacebuilding, and worship resources. Our Lutheran commitment to justice and compassion remains steadfast. Join us in taking part through ELCA.org/votes and help support a positive, respectful dialogue in our communities. Read the latest Election Engagement Updates from ELCA Advocacy here.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Church and Society, Elections and Voting RightsComment
From Addiction to Advocacy: Women Find New Beginnings with Lutheran Support
From Addiction to Advocacy: Women Find New Beginnings with Lutheran Support

Starr Edwards’ path from addiction and incarceration to healing and hope has been supported by Friends of Guest House (FoGH) and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. As Edwards prepares to graduate from the reentry program on October 26, this partnership celebrates the ELCA’s commitment to restorative justice. Congregants at Good Shepherd provide ongoing support, embodying the Lutheran call to serve. Read the full story in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
ELCA Grants Empower Congregations to Transform Children's Ministries
ELCA Grants Empower Congregations to Transform Children's Ministries

The ELCA Ministry with Children Grants program is helping congregations revitalize their children’s ministries and outreach efforts. Grants awarded in 2023 have transformed spaces and expanded programs, from repurposing a school in Wisconsin to supporting foster youth in Colorado. Learn how these congregations are using their grants to reach children with God’s love at Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, Living LutheranComment
From Catholic Roots to Lutheran Grace: A Spiritual Journey Unboxed
From Catholic Roots to Lutheran Grace: A Spiritual Journey Unboxed

In a blog post for Women of the ELCA’s Café, Becca Ehrlich shares her journey from an interfaith upbringing to discovering the Lutheran emphasis on salvation by grace through faith. Her story explores the challenges of not fitting into traditional boxes of what being Lutheran is "supposed to look like," and invites us to reflect on how our own expectations may limit the work of the Holy Spirit.

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ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardCafé, Women of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
Lutheran Culture Through Indigenous Eyes: A Call for Genuine Inclusion
Lutheran Culture Through Indigenous Eyes: A Call for Genuine Inclusion

In her compelling reflection in Women of the ELCA’s Café blog post, Wanda Frenchman shares her journey from a non-Christian Indigenous upbringing to embracing Lutheran faith. Raised in a Lakota household, she highlights the significance of community, food, and genuine welcome in her transition to Grace Lutheran Church.

As a leader in Native American Urban Ministry, Wanda emphasizes the need for authentic inclusion in the church, encouraging congregations to embrace newcomers’ diverse traditions and identities. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the love of Christ and the importance of welcoming all people into our faith communities.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardWanda Frenchman, Native American Urban Ministry Phoenix, American Indian and Alaska Native, Grace Phoenix, Capital Conference, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), CaféComment
From South Dakota to Mexico: Reflections on a Year of Service
From South Dakota to Mexico: Reflections on a Year of Service

This year, YAGM Mexico welcomes a new cohort of young adults, ready to serve and grow in their faith through diverse service opportunities. After a transformative year with the first cohort, we reflect on their impact while preparing these new volunteers for their mission. Learn how the YAGM program continues to make a difference through faith, service, and justice, and how you can support their work in Mexico in the latest newsletter (PDF) from Soliette Lopez, YAGM Mexico Country Coordinator.

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ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardYoung Adults in Global Mission, Mexican Lutheran ChurchComment
Advocating for Justice: The New Faces of Hunger Advocacy in the ELCA
Advocating for Justice: The New Faces of Hunger Advocacy in the ELCA

Meet the six new ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows for 2024-2025, who will work tirelessly to address issues of hunger and poverty at both state and national levels. Their year-long fellowship combines professional development and faith formation, integrating Lutheran values with public advocacy. Learn more about these passionate advocates and their work to create a more just world at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World HungerComment