Comforting companion
Lectionary Blog

Comforting companion

Lectionary for May 10, 2026 Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 17:22-31; Psalm 66:8-20; 1 Peter 3:13-22; John 14:15-21 What is the most recent thing that really brought you comfort? Some…
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,…
A catalyst for meaningful dialogue
Theology & Beliefs

A catalyst for meaningful dialogue

How can faith and science move beyond conflict and into meaningful conversation? This was the question ELCA pastors Will Rose and Thomas Johnston were pondering when they created the podcast…
A declaration of war … and peace
Theology & Beliefs

A declaration of war … and peace

On Feb. 28, the United States, in coordination with Israel, launched a bombing campaign against Iran, kicking off a series of debates about the justification for war. Secretary of Defense…
Hope and encouragement in challenging times
Theology & Beliefs

Hope and encouragement in challenging times

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,…
On martyrdom and violence
Lectionary Blog

On martyrdom and violence

Lectionary for May 3, 2026 Fifth Sunday of Easter Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16; 1 Peter 2:2-10; John 14:1-14 In the New Testament, Jesus’ followers kill exactly zero people. Christians…
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…
The doorkeeper’s voice
Lectionary Blog

The doorkeeper’s voice

Lectionary for April 26, 2026 Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 2:42-47; Psalm 23; 1 Peter 2:19-25; John 10:1-10 I’ve been a professor long enough now that I’m starting to hear…
Talk it <i>all</i> out!
Lectionary Blog

Talk it all out!

Lectionary for April 19, 2026 Third Sunday of Easter Acts 2:14a, 36-41; Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19; 1 Peter 1:17-23; Luke 24:13-35 There’s just so much information available right now. Do you…
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…
What do you hear?
Living Faithfully

What do you hear?

Focal verse “But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. They found the stone rolled…