The gift of a life

The gift of a life

One of the most important dimensions of aging is to bring us to understand that life cannot be taken for granted. Life cannot be devoured—it can only be savored (Joan Chittister,…
I’m a Lutheran: Marty J. Uhle
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: Marty J. Uhle

Messiah Lutheran Church, Fairview Park, Ohio President and CEO, Community West Foundation My wife, Laura, and I are active at Messiah Lutheran and have many friends there. We lean toward…
The gift of community
Voices of Faith

The gift of community

Though I’ve often lived alone, I’m drawn to community and connection. I’ve been blessed to take part in many Christian communities, some for an intense, two-week period of formation and…
Steady faith, strong traditions, lasting impression
Voices of Faith

Steady faith, strong traditions, lasting impression

April is Arab American Heritage Month in the United States. While this is a celebration of all Arab Americans—Christian and Muslim alike—I’m going to focus on Christians. As an Arab…
A Lenten and Easter church
From The Presiding Bishop

A Lenten and Easter church

I often hear this phrase when I’m visiting congregations or sitting in meetings: “We are an Easter church.” I like that idea and the reasoning behind it. Who wouldn’t want…
Una iglesia de Cuaresma y de Pascua
From The Presiding Bishop (Spanish)

Una iglesia de Cuaresma y de Pascua

A menudo escucho la siguiente frase cuando visito congregaciones o participo en reuniones: “Somos una iglesia de Pascua”. Me gusta esa idea y el razonamiento que la respalda. ¿Quién no…
I’m a Lutheran: Pam Liberda
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: Pam Liberda

Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Overland Park, Kan. Executive chef and co-founder, Buck Tui BBQ; executive chef, Muni I connected with Holy Cross before my wedding in 2005. I was raised…
God’s love sets us free
Voices of Faith

God’s love sets us free

Martin Luther’s assessment that we as God’s people are simultaneously sinners and saints has sometimes rankled. Nonetheless, the older I become, the more I acknowledge Luther’s honest insight—and my own…
A new look at the devil
Theology & Beliefs

A new look at the devil

A mighty fortress is our God. … On earth he has no equal (ELW, 503-505). I’m a Lutheran, baptized, confirmed and ordained in that faith. Yet I was already on…
Bearing witness by serving my neighbor
Theology & Beliefs

Bearing witness by serving my neighbor

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,…
I’m a Lutheran: David Rutlen
Voices of Faith

I’m a Lutheran: David Rutlen

St. James Lutheran Church, Portland, Ore. Professor emeritus of medicine and retired head of General Cardiology, Oregon Health and Science University; marathon runner I’m named after my grandfather, David Ruotsalainen,…