A servant and a leader
Living Faithfully

A servant and a leader

Lieutenant Commander William Bevins, a Navy chaplain, finds that ministry and the military have a lot in common. Both attract a certain kind of person, he said—one who isn’t afraid…

“A blessing to this day”
Mission & Ministry

“A blessing to this day”

In the northeastern corner of Oklahoma, at the end of the Trail of Tears, stands an enduring haven of hope. Oaks Indian Mission, a ministry of the ELCA, offers residential…

Who isn’t at the banquet?
Lectionary Blog

Who isn’t at the banquet?

Lectionary for Oct. 11, 2026 20th Sunday after Pentecost Isaiah 25:1-9; Psalm 23; Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14 Have you ever been invited to a fancy dinner? Maybe it was a…

Cinematic benedictions
Voices of Faith

Cinematic benedictions

In cinema, we’re able to see ourselves in stories and find spiritual truths that help guide us. From clear biblical analogies in the lands of Narnia or Middle Earth to…

The holy work of reconciliation and renewal
Theology & Beliefs

The holy work of reconciliation and renewal

Series editor’s note: The 2026 theme for “Deeper understandings” is faithful witness in challenging times. This year, various authors will explore what it means for the ELCA, and each of us as Lutherans,…

“Meaningful partnership goes beyond funding”
Voices of Faith

“Meaningful partnership goes beyond funding”

As youth coordinator for the Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church (KELC), Patrick Musembi is passionate about creating spaces for young people to grow in faith, discover their gifts and take an…

Belonging and togetherness
Living Faithfully

Belonging and togetherness

“ຍິນດີຕ້ອນຮັບ—welcome to this day,” proclaimed Sara Schultz in Lao and English. “Welcome to Grace Lao Lutheran Church, welcome to Hope Lutheran Church!” With these words, the pastor of Hope in…

Rooted and rising
Mission & Ministry

Rooted and rising

Across the ELCA, a new movement is taking shape, one grounded not in a single voice but in the collective witness of a people. The ELCA’s Asian and Pacific Islander…

Study guide for “The power of connection”
Study Guides

Study guide for “The power of connection”

We are not meant to be Christians alone, whether individuals or congregations, synods or denominations. Interdependence is hardwired into the Christian witness. For example, in teaching disciples the Lord’s Prayer…

A time to share stories
Voices of Faith

A time to share stories

Editor’s note: As we observe the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, Kevin Ritter-Jung, director of media and communications for the Metropolitan New York Synod, and Kathleen Ruen, synod director of…