Bearing witness: Put your body where love is needed
Theology & Beliefs

Bearing witness: Put your body where love is needed

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…

“We are worthy by God’s love”
Mission & Ministry

“We are worthy by God’s love”

Women of the ELCA will host its 2026 Triennial Gathering in Des Moines, Iowa, July 16-19, celebrating the theme “I Am Worthy,” based on Psalm 139:14—“I am fearfully and wonderfully…

“A marvelous mystery”
Voices of Faith

“A marvelous mystery”

Thomas Maltman’s latest novel, Ashes to Ashes (Soho Press, 2025), largely takes place against the backdrop of a Lutheran congregation. Maltman—whose spouse, Melissa, is pastor of Servant of Christ Lutheran Church…

Unlocking a new ministry model
Mission & Ministry

Unlocking a new ministry model

Growing up at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Greensboro, N.C., Lucille “CeCee” Mills, ELCA secretary, saw lay leadership as an opportunity for everyone to have their voice heard in…

“The church is called to do something about this”
Mission & Ministry, Theology & Beliefs

“The church is called to do something about this”

Congregation leaders suspect a child is being mistreated in her home but aren’t sure what to do, so they remain silent. A child is sexually assaulted by an adult who…

What is ELCA Innovation?
Living Faithfully, Mission & Ministry

What is ELCA Innovation?

The ELCA set sail into the 2020s on the winds of a fresh priority announced by then-presiding bishop Elizabeth Eaton: to become an “innovation denomination.” Two months into the first…

“Woven Together” for such a time as this
Living Faithfully

“Woven Together” for such a time as this

Walking into the 2023 Rostered Ministers Gathering in the middle of a sweltering summer in Phoenix, Jealaine Marple wasn’t quite sure what to expect. “I was hemming and hawing about…