Wondering About Seminary? Attend the PLTS Discernment Retreat! Join Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, CA, from November 8-10, 2024, for Signs Along the Way, a discernment weekend designed to help you reflect on your call. Engage with seminarians, faculty, and staff, explore degree options, and discern your future. Lodging and most meals are provided, with travel assistance available. Visit plts.edu/signs for more information.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Phillip Shuart, Rev. Mari Larson and the people of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, part of the Colorado River Conference.
Read MoreAttend one of a special series of talks from Palestinian Christian human rights lawyer Jonathan Kuttab in Phoenix, Nov. 7-9. Kuttab, co-founder of Al Haq and Executive Director of FOSNA, will discuss “The U.S., Palestine, Israel, and Human Rights.” Each day will feature a different location with presentations centered on peace and justice in the Holy Land. Don’t miss this chance to engage with Kuttab’s faith-rooted perspective on nonviolent advocacy and human rights in a region critical to our faith and world.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Mary Louise Frenchman, Vicar Wanda Frenchman and the people of Native American Urban Ministry in Phoenix, part of the Capital Conference.
Read MoreThe 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.
Read MoreLutheran 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.
Read MoreDiscover a groundbreaking approach to missional leadership with Dr. JR Woodward in this thought-provoking episode of the Pivot Podcast.
Read MoreIn this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the transformative power of contemplative practices with Westina Matthews, a former Wall Street executive turned spiritual director.
On September 11, 2001, Dr. Westina Matthews found herself running for her life down 34 flights of stairs in the World Financial Center, adjacent to the World Trade Center. This harrowing experience became a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey, leading her from the corporate world of Wall Street to a life dedicated to contemplative practices and spiritual direction.
Read MoreWhen 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.
Read MoreThe 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.
Read MoreNate 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.
Read MoreYou’re invited to nominate a student for LSM 2025! Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) is a faith-based residential music academy for high school students (grades 8-12) who come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build an intentional, supportive, and FUN community.
LSM 2025 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 22-July 20 (Full Session) or June 22-July 6 (Half Session). Priority Enrollment is open now through December 1. Nominate students at LSMacademy.org/nominate, and watch and share this LSM Experience Video to learn more!
Read MoreReformation Day: Celebrating diverse traditions of Lutheran identity
LWF highlights education challenges for refugee children at African Commission
Liturgy and Lutheran identity: new LWF liturgical studies coordinator
Diaconal actors in Asia showcase local solution-driven best practices
A historic moment: synodality in action by Rev. Prof. Dr Dirk Lange
Feeling the stress of election week? Reconnect with God’s peace through Faith+Lead’s free course, God and Mental Health Challenges, available now. This self-paced course offers a faith-based approach to mental health, practical tips on supporting others, and ways to integrate God’s presence amid life’s stresses. Read a letter introducing the course from Dr. Alicia Granholm, Faith+Lead Senior Director.
Read MoreFor 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…
In the spirit of unity and peace, join us in two interfaith gatherings to pray for a just election. The Arizona Faith Network invites everyone to a Statewide Prayer Vigil on Monday, November 4, and an Interfaith Meditation on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. These events offer a chance for collective reflection, peacekeeping, and prayer as we exercise our democratic rights. View info on these gatherings and more at Arizona Faith Network’s weekly newsletter.
Read MoreAs 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.
Read MoreLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona drops another voter engagement video. Filmed on location at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “What are your hopes post-election?” Find the whole series of videos here.
Read MoreThis Reformation Day, join hosts Dwight Zscheile and Terri Elton in the Pivot Podcast for a transformative conversation with the Rev. Dr. Mark Tranvik, professor of Reformation history and theology at Luther Seminary. Explore how Martin Luther’s revolutionary insights from the Protestant Reformation can breathe new life into 21st-century ministry and address the challenges facing today’s church.
Read MoreElection day is just around the corner! Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) offers essential resources for informed voting, including a voter guide, tips for choosing judges, and ballot tracking. With these tools, make sure your vote counts and aligns with your values.
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