In 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 MoreHow can the church lead in a time of “gracious uncertainty”? In his latest Ministry in a Digital Age newsletter, Ryan Panzer explores how faith communities can navigate a year of radical change and emerging technology. Drawing from Oswald Chambers’ words, Panzer emphasizes the church’s role in fostering hope and connection amid uncertainty, with digital ministry as a key opportunity. Read more for practical insights and inspiring examples of faith in action.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Katie Langston, New Promise, St. George, who celebrates 3 years on February 4.
Rev. Shari Bernau, Living Water, Scottsdale, who celebrates 20 years on February 5.
Rev. Pam A. Reynolds, Lord of Life, Sun City West, who celebrates 4 years on February 6.
La Asociación de Ministerios Latinos de la ELCA ha respondido a recientes órdenes ejecutivas que amenazan a comunidades inmigrantes y espacios sagrados. Basada en fe y justicia, su declaración llama a la unidad, acción y abogacía, ofreciendo recursos esenciales para poblaciones vulnerables. Lea más aquí.
The ELCA Latino Ministries Association has responded to recent executive orders threatening immigrant communities and sacred spaces. Rooted in faith and justice, their statement calls for unity, action, and advocacy while providing essential resources for vulnerable populations. Read more here.
Read MoreGood Trouble Church in Baltimore, Maryland, embodies the call of Micah 6:8, creating “A Way Out of No Way” for those navigating systemic oppression, poverty, and housing insecurity. Led by Rev. Elazar Zavaletta, this ELCA congregation is a beacon of resilience and community care, offering initiatives like a Farm to Stoop Free Market, harm-reduction housing, and leadership workshops. Rooted in Afro-Indigenous wisdom and a “theology of the block,” Good Trouble Church demonstrates how faith can drive grassroots justice and liberation.
Read MoreIn her pastoral message, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton reflects on the recent executive orders and their impact on communities, emphasizing prayer, advocacy, and action grounded in faith. Highlighting Martin Luther’s teachings on daily bread and leadership, she calls on the ELCA to advocate for policies that uphold justice and protect the dignity of all people. Resources like the social message on “Government and Civic Engagement” and AMMPARO are commended as tools for action in these uncertain times. Read the full message to explore how our church can respond faithfully to these challenges.
Read MoreJoin the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Arizona for Living Our Faith, a free virtual event on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. MST. Discover how Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions navigate mourning rituals and customs, with insights from Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman, Pastor Judith Rainforth, and Imam Shahir Safi. Register now at www.isb-az.org/trifaith to participate in this inspiring evening of interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Read MoreAmid heightened uncertainty, knowing your rights is vital for immigrants and their advocates. ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative and the Archdiocese of Dubuque offer multilingual tools like Red Cards, family safety plans, and legal support directories to help communities stay prepared. View these pages for a comprehensive list of resources and how to share them in your congregation.
Read MoreJoin the Spirited Book Club this February to discuss Steven Charleston’s We Survived the End of the World, a compelling exploration of Native American resilience amid apocalyptic challenges. Learn from Indigenous prophets and sacred stories as we delve into strategies for courage and hope in times of crisis. Discussions are on February 6 and 20, from 3:00–4:00 PM AZ (MST). Register today to be part of this engaging conversation on faith, community, and survival.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod invites your congregation to submit its 2025 Mission Support Statement of Intent by February 1, 2025. Your gifts empower local, national, and global ministries, equipping leaders, transforming lives, and advancing God’s mission. Visit gcsynod.org/intent for forms and details. Together, we live into God’s vision of abundance and equality.
Read MoreThe ELCA invites your feedback on proposed updates to Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust. These small editorial changes reflect shifts in marriage laws and family diversity while maintaining the statement’s theological core. Review the edits and share your thoughts by January 31, 2025 via an online survey or email. Resources are available at www.elca.org/reconsiderations in English, Spanish, and large print. Together, we can shape this important work of the church.
Read MoreOnce institutionalized and nonverbal, Mark has found his voice to express his needs and wants. The post Once Institutionalized, Mark is Now Using His Voice appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreChristian nationalism threatens both the gospel and democracy, distorting faith and undermining religious liberty for all. The Christians Against Christian Nationalism campaign, led by BJC, is mobilizing local action to resist harmful policies nationwide. Join the movement to protect democracy and uphold true religious freedom in your community.
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 MoreAs wildfires devastate Los Angeles, faith communities are stepping up with compassion and support. ecoAmerica’s latest research reveals rising climate concern across political divides, and President Jimmy Carter’s legacy inspires faith-rooted action. Explore how worship facilities can improve energy efficiency, join the 2025 National Faith + Climate Forum, and learn about powerful climate ambassador initiatives. Read more in Blessed Tomorrow’s February newsletter: Read Here.
Read MoreThis week, join events like a conversation on peacemaking with Rev. Dr. Gary Mason, and advocacy opportunities like Environmental Day at the Capitol. Discover ways to deepen your faith and engage in justice. Learn more and register for events in the AFN newsletter.
Read MoreIn our January 2025 Mission Support Memo you will meet Rev. Leticia Alanis, pastor of Unidad y Fe Lutheran Mission in the Queens borough of New York City. Have you ever met a person of faith who shines with the light of Christ even in the hardest of times and places? After meeting Pastor Leticia, you will expereince awe of her experiences, her challenges, her love for others and her profound mission of building community and immigration justice.
Our memo also invites you to a reunion, yes a time to experience "The Generosity of The Generosity Project" on Monday, Feb, 3rd. Join to reminisce, to learn, to have fun! We also want to encourage you to share in gratitude the ways we are church together by accessing this years ELCA Annual Report Cover, Our Deep Dive or Thank You Certificate and lots of other relevant resources.
Read MoreThis week, ELCA Region 2 leaders respond to a recent presidential declaration limiting gender identity to a binary framework. Reflecting on Galatians 3:28 and the ELCA’s 2019 social statement, they affirm the inherent diversity of God’s creation, celebrate all gender expressions, and call for advocacy against discrimination. This letter underscores our shared identity in Christ and invites prayer for those affected by these harmful statements. Read the full letter and join us in standing for justice and inclusion.
Read MoreJoin the January 29 Beloved Community Gathering hosted by ELCA Coaching to reflect, discern, and take faithful action. This virtual event invites all faith leaders—rostered or not—to move from head to heart to hands in living out their faith. Inspired by Scripture, Martin Luther King Jr., and bell hooks, we’ll explore what it means to build trust and communion in our communities. Details and recordings at ELCA Coaching’s website.
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