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Israel-Hamas

Israel-Hamas War resources and statements

In the past weeks we have borne witness to the horrors of the escalating crisis between Israel and Hamas. In response to the Hamas attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel's declaration of war against Hamas, including the ongoing siege of Gaza, the ELCA offers statements from some of our Lutheran and global partners in the region. Included are ELCA resources for a deeper understanding of the context, the humanitarian crises of the current war, and the ELCA's work for a just peace in Palestine and Israel. Learn more.
 

Draft social message on gun violence

What is a faithful Lutheran response when considering U.S. gun culture? The draft of a social message on gun-related violence and trauma probes that question, and your feedback is requested. The draft focuses on trauma, public health and an ethic of shared responsibility for peacemaking, seeking to move beyond the strict polarization of gun rights versus gun control. This is an issue that affects everyone in the United States — let your voice in this process be heard! To participate in the public feedback period, read the draft and use the response form. Responses are due by Jan. 31, 2024.
 

gun violence
Advent resources

Advent resources from ELCA World Hunger

New resources are now available from ELCA World Hunger to enrich the life of your congregation in Advent 2023 and Lent 2024. These study guides and calendars will guide your devotional practices with Scripture, prayer and storytelling. As congregations across the ELCA creatively find new ways to lean into the future, we are eager to equip leaders with ELCA World Hunger resources during the important church seasons of Advent and Lent. Browse resources.
 

 

 

WATCH THIS

Future Church: Congregations Lead Initiative

Learn about the new, unique and innovative ministries of the Congregations Lead Initiative.

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR

 

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Presentation: Settler Narrative
Truth and Healing Movement

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Volunteer applications due
ELCA Youth Gathering

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Priority Registration closes
ELCA Youth Gathering

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Draft social message on gun-related violence
Public comment period closes

   
 

FEATURED RESOURCES

 

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“Hope for the Future”



“Hope for the Future” is an educational resource and reflection tool to stimulate a renewal of Jewish-Christian relations. Developed by the Lutheran World Federation, it aims to promote constructive and meaningful dialogue.

Candlelight vigil for missing and murdered Indigenous women

This year, during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (Nov. 25 to Dec. 10), your community is encouraged to host a candlelight vigil to honor and remember Indigenous women and girls who have been murdered or are still missing.

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries summer curriculum

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries offers a new Bible curriculum for camps, youth retreats, family events and vacation Bible schools. Everything you need for a week-long program is provided, including Bible studies, crafts, take-home activities, group-building exercises and worship.

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BULLETIN BLURBS

These snippets are available for you to copy and paste into your bulletins.

Registration is now open for the ELCA Youth Gathering

Priority registration is now open for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event (MYLE), the tAble and the Young Adult Gathering! 🥳You can save money by registering the majority of your group by Nov. 1. Remember that the earlier you register your group, the better your chances are of having your preferences honored. Register at ELCA.org/gathering.

 

Lutheran World Federation concludes its 13th Assembly

The 13th Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation concluded in Kraków, Poland, on Sept. 19 with member churches pledging to strengthen the bonds between them, celebrate the gift of unity in diversity and serve the neighbor, “knowing that the center is always Christ.” Citing the assembly theme, “One Body, One Spirit, One Hope,” the delegates pledged to be more effective advocates for economic and climate justice in times when bodies are hurting, rejected and excluded and when the earth is suffering from the effects of climate emergencies. Read more.

 

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