Jesus didn’t lead from above—he stood among the people, teaching on a level place and challenging societal norms about blessings and woes (Luke 6:17-26). His model of leadership, reflected in the Civil Rights Movement, calls us to walk alongside the marginalized, not from positions of privilege. As we reflect on Black History Month, how can we follow Christ’s example and prepare for God’s reign where all share in His blessings?
Read MoreFor areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, or political instability, especially Ukraine, Gaza, and Bangladesh…
For Israeli and Palestinian hostages…
For all organizations whose mission and work centers on migrants, elders, those living in poverty, those seeking behavioral health services, foster care and adoption services, employment assistance, hunger relief, and other ministries of societal care…
For our nation, all who govern, and all leaders tasked with attending to the common good…
For healthcare workers and health research…
For those affected by flu, COVID, RSV, norovirus, and other heightened illnesses…
For global neighbors, especially Canada and Mexico…
For ongoing earthquakes on the Greek island of Santorini…
For victims of the Guatemalan bus crash and their families…
Faith and advocacy go hand in hand. As Rev. Kelly Bayer Derrick of the ELCA Virginia Synod reminds us in this ELCA blog post, engaging in civic life is a way to live out our faith and seek abundant life for all. Across the country, ELCA-affiliated public policy offices are hosting advocacy days to help Lutherans and faith-based advocates voice their concerns on issues like housing, hunger, migration, and environmental justice. Want to get involved? Find an upcoming event near you or contact your local synod office to learn how you can participate in shaping just policies in your community.
Read MoreWhen 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 MoreFebruary brings a wealth of opportunities for worship leaders, musicians, and faith communities. From Music That Makes Community’s singing workshops to the Institute of Liturgical Studies’ conference on rites of passage, these events offer learning and inspiration. The Lutheran Summer Music Academy seeks young musicians, while the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians provides training and networking for church musicians. Looking ahead to Lent, Augsburg Fortress has released Life Renewed: Devotions for Lent 2025. Discover more about these events and resources in this month’s ELCA Worship update: Read more here.
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 MoreJoin us as we celebrate Black History Month this February and Bold Women’s Day during Women’s History Month in March.
Read MoreELCA 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.
Read MoreJoin 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.
Read MoreHave 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.
Read MoreLutherans 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.
Read MoreIn 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.
Read MoreFor 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.
Read MoreCurious 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.
Read MoreFalse 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.
Read MoreWhat’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.
Read More🚨 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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