This Advent, we explore the power of familiar stories to meet us in new ways. John the Baptist’s words in Luke 3 echo Isaiah’s ancient prophecy, connecting the human condition across generations. As we prepare the way for the Lord, we are reminded that faith, like art, is enriched by reinterpretation. What spiritual stories or art sustain you this season?
Reflect on your Advent journey and take the Faith Lens survey to help guide the future of this resource!
Read MoreFor lasting peace in Gaza, for Syria, and for all nations affected by ongoing warfare or conflict…
For political stability in South Korea and in France…
For Leonard Peltier and others seeking justice from the U.S. legal system…
For the U.S Supreme Court as it hears arguments surrounding transgender healthcare…
For the International Court of Justice as it prepares for a case on climate change…
In celebration of the renovations to the Notre Dame Cathedral…
For retail workers during the holiday season…
For those who are grieving during the holiday season…
Amid the busyness of the season, faithful celebration often gets lost in materialism and unsustainable practices. Discover how to simplify, honor creation, and embrace meaningful traditions this holiday season. Explore tips and resources from One Home One Future to make your celebrations joyful and climate-conscious.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for The Rev. Philip A. Shaw and the people of St. John’s Episcopal Lutheran Church in Williams, part of the High Country Conference.
Read MoreZion Lutheran Church’s Thanksgiving meal tradition served nearly 1,000 people last year, uniting the Trinidad community in generosity and service. Rooted in the congregation’s monthly 5 Loaves ministry, this annual effort combines faith, food, and fellowship to embody Jesus’ call to feed the hungry. Read more about how this small congregation makes a big impact in Living Lutheran.
Read MoreThis Advent, join the 2024 Advent Pilgrimage in Palestine webinar series to hear powerful stories of faith, justice, and resilience from Palestinian Christians and ELCA partners in the Holy Land. Featuring speakers like Khalil Sayegh, Rev. Rodny Said, the ELCJHL Youth, and YAGM alumni, the three sessions will inspire reflection and action.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Scott Summers, who celebrates 34 years on December 8.
Deacon Lorraine Brugh, who celebrates 45 years on December 10.
Únase al Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino este diciembre para profundizar las habilidades de alcance cultural y comunitario de su ministerio. Este evento virtual de tres días, organizado por el CTLM del Seminario Teológico de Wartburg, ofrece a los líderes de la ELCA estrategias prácticas y modelos de ministerio inspiradores de expertos en ministerio latino. Las sesiones se llevarán a cabo del 12 al 14 de diciembre, con un enfoque en el fortalecimiento de comunidades de adoración multiétnicas y bilingües. La inscripción está abierta en wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, con opciones para individuos y congregaciones. Descargue o vea el PDF aquí.
Join the Latine Ministry Competency Workshop this December to deepen your ministry’s cultural and community outreach skills. This three-day virtual event, hosted by Wartburg Theological Seminary’s CTLM, offers ELCA leaders practical strategies and inspiring ministry models from experts in Latine ministry. Sessions will be held December 12-14, with a focus on strengthening multi-ethnic and bilingual worshipping communities. Registration is open at wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, with options for individuals and congregations. Download or view PDF here.
Read MoreJoin the Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering on December 9 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, AZ, or online. Under the theme Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Peacemakers in Action, Rev. Eugene Cho, President of Bread for the World, will guide attendees in addressing the root causes of conflict and injustice in today’s world. Faith communities are invited to register now, as spots are filling quickly. For faith-based organizations, exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities offer a valuable platform to connect.
Read MoreGender justice: a theological and moral imperative by Ms Phiona Uwase
Burghardt: Faith communities have unique role in nurturing hope through dialogue
Child cancer patient from Gaza dies at AVH, separated from family
LWF pushes for ambitious goals, just solutions, as COP29 draws toward a close
This Advent, join The Lutheran World Federation on a journey of joy and hope. From December 1–24, LWF’s Advent Calendar will feature daily video messages from global voices, sharing theological reflections and personal stories on what joy means in their contexts. Visit LWF’s Advent Calendar to participate, and read more about the project here.
Read MoreJoin churches in Chandler and Mesa for “Anticipation, Hope & Peace: Advent Lessons and Carols” on December 8 at 5:00 PM at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Chandler. This collaborative service, uniting Lutheran and Episcopal congregations, offers an evening of scripture, music, and reflection. All are welcome to experience the Advent season through both traditions, celebrating the hope and peace that unite us.
Read MoreJoin us on Friday, December 6, at 6:30 PM at Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix for the Victorian Carolers Christmas Concert—a free evening of festive music, heartwarming songs, and a Christmas singalong. This talented ensemble of nine classically trained musicians brings joy and nostalgia through traditional carols and holiday favorites. Celebrate the season with us in this joyful community event! Learn more at mvlutheran.org.
Read MoreSpirit offers an Advent-specific daily devotion via email beginning Sunday, December 1 and ending on Christmas Day. If you would like to receive a special devotional reflection by Pr. Steve Holm in your inbox each day during Advent, register here.
Read MoreThis Monday, December 9, at 12:00 PM AZ/MST, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center invites you to the second session of Restore Our Hope: Advent Centering Prayer. This week’s theme focuses on slowing down in a world consumed by busyness and productivity. Through guided meditation and communal centering prayer, rediscover stillness and trust in God’s abundant grace. Register now to join this time of prayerful waiting.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Timothy Wright, Rev. Jose Valenzuela, Rev. Joshua Pontious and the people of Community of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria, part of the Cactus Conference.
Read MoreAdvent begins with a promise: God breaking into our world, transforming chaos into hope. This season also marks the renewal of Faith Lens, now offering concise devotions linking Scripture and current events. From Notre Dame’s restoration to the struggles of Gaza and Haiti, God’s presence reminds us that endings signal new beginnings. Explore more and share your feedback to shape the future of Faith Lens.
Read MoreAs 2024 draws to a close, the ELCA Foundation is offering a range of impactful and tax-advantaged ways to support ministries that matter to you. From IRA distributions to gifts of appreciated securities, there are options to maximize your giving while reducing taxes. Key deadlines for year-end gifts are fast approaching, so now is the time to act. Looking ahead, new opportunities like increased QCD limits in 2025 offer even more flexibility for generosity. Learn more about these strategies and contact Lisa Higginbotham for personalized guidance. Read the full newsletter.
Read MoreFor lasting peace in Gaza, and for an end to all war and violence around the world…
For immigrants, refugees, and all migrants seeking safety and stability…
For the continued work of the ELCA’s Truth and Healing Movement, and for rights and restoration for indigenous peoples…
For healing and cooperation in American politics…
For the dignity of all people, and especially for LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities…
In gratitude for all of God’s gifts, and for our generous hearts and responsible stewardship…
For Advent watching and waiting as we long for hope and peace to prevail on earth…
In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, Rev. Dr. Steve Thomason shares how to simplify Advent with art, stillness, and meaningful spiritual practices.
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