Pastor 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.
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Join us as we celebrate Black History Month this February and Bold Women’s Day during Women’s History Month in March.
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ELCA bishops gathered in Puerto Rico to discuss hunger, advocacy, and disaster response, engaging with local leaders and exploring the island’s rich history. New ELCA World Hunger Lenten resources are available, and the 2025 ELCA World Hunger Leadership Gathering is set for Sept. 18-21 in Columbus, Ohio. AMMPARO continues to accompany migrants amid shifting policies, while Lutheran Disaster Response offers free winter-spring trainings. Read about these initiatives and more in the latest Go and Do News newsletter. Read more here.
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Join ELCA Coaching’s yearlong journey through Custer Died for Your Sins: An Indian Manifesto by Vine Deloria Jr. Engage in monthly discussions on the second Wednesday of each month in 2025, exploring Indigenous wisdom, truth, and healing. Facilitated by Rev. Solveig Nilsen-Goodin and Jason O’Neill, these gatherings are open to all. Visit ELCA Coaching for details and past recordings.
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Have you ever felt like your efforts were wasted? In Luke 5, the disciples had a fruitless day of fishing—until Jesus stepped in, transforming their empty nets into abundance. The same principle applies beyond the sea: even waste, like discarded food or manure, can become something life-giving. In God’s economy, nothing is useless. How can we invite God to bring renewal in places that feel like failure? In this week’s Faith Lens, read more on how faith, science, and trust in God’s abundance can reshape how we see the world.
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Lutherans are raising their prophetic voices for justice at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) this March, where the global church will review progress on the Beijing Declaration’s gender justice commitments. Deacon Erin Brown of the Lutheran Office for World Community reflects on the diverse ways Lutherans advocate for the common good, ensuring that God’s love, compassion, and justice are proclaimed. From pastors to students to international leaders, the Lutheran delegation amplifies stories and solutions that work toward a world free from violence and oppression. Read more about how faith informs advocacy and how you can support this vital mission.
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In honor of Black History Month, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries is amplifying the voices of African Descent Lutherans, highlighting the ongoing challenges Black women face in ministry and leadership. In Still Black. Still Lutheran, Nicolette Peñaranda reflects on the systemic barriers that Black women encounter within the ELCA and broader professional spaces. As we celebrate Black history, Peñaranda calls on congregations to move beyond conversation into action—watching Talks at the Desk, engaging with discussion guides, and committing financial support to Black-led ministries. Read more to explore the realities and ways to create lasting change.
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For areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, or political transition: Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria…
For shooting victims in Örebro, Sweden…
For those experiencing earthquakes on the Greek island of Santorini…
For the victims of plane crashes in Washington D.C. and Philadelphia…
For the work of Lutheran Services in America, Global Refuge, and other Lutheran ministries…
For the the African Descent Lutheran Association and for ELCA staff at the Ministries of Diverse Cultures and Communities desk…
For all who are unemployed, underemployed, and unjustly removed from employment…
For migrants and all who travel, especially those seeking refuge from violence, injustice, and abuse…
For threats to human rights across the world…
For all who struggle with the challenges of winter, especially those without stable housing or heat and those who experience seasonal affective disorder…
For all who experience discrimination, violence, or injustice due to race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, or other identity…
For the United States in this time of political tension and transition…
Prepare your congregation for Lent with free resources from ELCA World Hunger! From an action guide to a Lent devotional calendar and a five-session study, these tools will inspire reflection and action as we journey together to end hunger. Download or order resources today at ELCA.org/hunger/resources and learn how your congregation can make a difference this season.
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Curious about chaplaincy in the ELCA? Join the Seminaries of the ELCA and the ELCA Chaplain Corps for a virtual Fireside Chat on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Explore what it means to serve as a chaplain and discover pathways to this vital ministry. The Zoom event begins at 7 pm CST. Register now to secure your spot.
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False claims about Lutheran organizations and federal funding circulated on X on February 1, prompting a strong response from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. In a video statement, Bishop Eaton reaffirmed the ELCA’s commitment to truth and its long-standing mission of serving the vulnerable. Lutheran organizations have responsibly used federal grants for 85 years, and the ELCA calls on political leaders to reject misinformation and uphold integrity. Watch Bishop Eaton’s full response in our blog post.
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What’s love got to do with it? Everything. Join Creating Beloved Community: Healing Together on Wednesday, February 5, at 12:00 PM Mountain / 1:00 PM Central, hosted by ELCA Coaching. This monthly gathering welcomes all—rostered ministers, lay leaders, and those seeking deeper spiritual connection. Together, we will explore love, faith, and healing in community. Learn more and join us on Zoom: ELCA Coaching Website.
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🚨 New Zoom Link! If you’re attending The Generosity of the Generosity Project on February 3, be sure to use the updated Zoom link to join the discussion. This event is for past users, those who have adapted the resource, and anyone curious about its potential. No registration is needed—just click and join the conversation! Monday, February 3, 6:00-7:30 p.m. Central Time. Click here to join.
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In uncertain times, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by fear and division. Yet, Scripture reminds us of our call to community and mutual aid. Reflecting on Matthew 25, ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow Emily Ahern shares how faith can move us beyond isolation into active love and care for those in need. In a world that often feels unwelcoming, how can we create pockets of peace and solidarity? Read the full devotional and join in reflection on building communities of justice and care.
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In the latest news from ELCA Congregational Stewardship, Rev. Tim Brown shares a letter, as well as upcoming events, stewardship resources, and stewardship in the text.
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Simeon and Anna saw something extraordinary in an ordinary moment at the temple: God’s presence in Jesus. Their story reminds us that God is still near, revealing the sacred through everyday things—clean water, fresh air, the beauty of creation. As we care for the world around us, we honor God’s gifts and ensure future generations can experience them. This week, take time to notice where God’s fingerprints appear in your daily life. Where do you see the extraordinary within the ordinary?
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For areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, or political transition: Ukraine, Lebanon, Syria, Serbia…
For stampede victims at India’s Maha Kumbh festival…
For ceasefire in Gaza and for those returning home…
For happiness and many blessings for all celebrating Lunar New Year…
For immigrants, refugees, and all who work on their behalf…
For colleges and universities, students, research departments, and faculty/staff…
For all who experience discrimination, violence, or injustice due to race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, or other identity…
For the United States in this time of political tension and transition…
The Medicaid program, crucial for millions, is at risk of deep cuts by new Congressional leadership. Lutheran Services in America invites Lutherans to advocate for Medicaid’s protection. Learn how your voice can make a difference in preserving this vital program serving children, families, and seniors.
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Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a statement expressing deep concern over recent immigration executive orders, highlighting their impact on families, faith communities, and service organizations. The ELCA reaffirms its long-standing commitment to welcoming immigrants and calls for prayer, learning, personal witness, and public advocacy. Resources, including a webinar on January 30, are available to equip Lutherans to respond faithfully. Read more on how the Grand Canyon Synod can stand in solidarity with immigrants and refugees in these critical times.
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What 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.
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