Bearing witness: “Get curious. Speak truthfully. Act boldly.”
Theology & Beliefs

Bearing witness: “Get curious. Speak truthfully. Act boldly.”

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…

I’m a Lutheran: Trish Preston
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: Trish Preston

Epiphany Lutheran Church, Pickerington, Ohio Chief farm operator, Preston Family Farm; co-founder, Winchester Farm Exchange I grew up in a tiny congregation in Centerville, Ohio, Epiphany Lutheran. That congregation eventually…

I’m a Lutheran: Grace Carlic
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: Grace Carlic

Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Rochester, N.Y. Workforce and public affairs specialist, Plug Power, Inc. I connected with Messiah Lutheran late winter, early spring of 2025. I saw the sign and…

Reimagining faithful witness
Theology & Beliefs

Reimagining faithful witness

Series editor’s note: This article kicks off the 2026 theme for “Deeper understandings”: faithful witness in challenging times. In the coming year, various authors will explore what it means for…

Waiting with hope
From The Presiding Bishop

Waiting with hope

I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? (Isaiah 43:19). What does it mean to wait with hope? The upcoming months…

I’m a Lutheran: Zander Hine
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: Zander Hine

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hagerstown, Md. Senior, North Hagerstown High School; environmental, food security advocate; Congressional Award Gold Medal recipient I’ve been an active member at St. John my…

Faith in action: The social teachings of this church
Theology & Beliefs

Faith in action: The social teachings of this church

Series editor’s note: In 2025, “Deeper understandings” is focusing on the ELCA social statements. We hope to reintroduce them to readers as a means of provoking fruitful, enriching conversation between…

Fresh perspectives
Voices of Faith

Fresh perspectives

Editor’s note: The stories of ELCA pastors Mamy Ranaivoson and Joseph Boko are shared by the ELCA Ministries of Diverse Cultures and Communities team. This team works within the ELCA…