[Seeds Monthly] Stories for Black History Month

New! Draft social statement on civic life and faith

How should Lutherans understand their relationship to civic life — including government — as individuals and as a church? After three years of study a task force has posted a draft social statement on civic life and faith. Social statements govern church teaching and policies, support ministries, and serve as discernment tools on social issues for ELCA members. Between now and Sept. 30 you are invited to study and give feedback on the draft by filling out a survey or attending a hearing in your synod. That statement is available in English and Spanish. Access the draft and the survey.

Stories for Black History Month

February is Black History Month, and the ELCA is sharing stories of Black Lutherans and ministries across the country. African Descent Ministries offers season three of Talks at the Desk, a video series that explores diverse expressions of the church. A new video premieres each Wednesday in February at 7:30 p.m. Central time — and the first three episodes, as well as past seasons, are available to watch.

On livinglutheran.org find the series Black History Now, featuring interviews with Black Lutherans with the intention of acknowledging that while we reflect on the past, we also celebrate and recognize that Black history is happening now.

Living Lutheran: “I’m a Lutheran: Elizabeth Gilbert”

“I find hope in the beauty of community and connection, and in naming complex realities. I hope that community and connection can help others feel the love of God and of their community. I hope that community and connection can lead to the change in systems and structures needed for us to love all our neighbors with equity.”

In the January “I’m a Lutheran” column, Elizabeth Gilbert talks about her love for data sciences, the way she finds hope in connection with others and how important church community is to her. Read more of her story.

WATCH THIS

Love in deed and truth | 50 years of ELCA World Hunger

For 50 years we have joined together as Lutherans to address the root causes of hunger and poverty around the world through ELCA World Hunger. As we reflect on our last 50 years of ministry together, we know God calls us to respond to the needs of the world now more than ever.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Annual Congregation Report Filing due date	ELCA Youth Gathering Late registration closes
“God’s work. Our hands.” Day of service	Draft social statement on civic life and faith Public comment period closes

FEATURED RESOURCES

Reconciled to be Peacemakers in God’s World

Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey

Lent Resources

What does it mean to be a peacemaker in a time of ongoing war and conflict? The five-session study guide “Reconciled to Be Peacemakers in God’s World” uses the social statement For Peace in God’s World to explore this question through readings, video and conversation.

LEADERS | PARTICIPANTS

Six new videos produced for the ELCA's new initiative Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel introduce viewers to the Holy Land, the ideology of sumud and its significance through Scripture as the “way of Jesus.”

WATCH VIDEOS

Continue your Lenten journey with ELCA World Hunger. A study guide, a calendar and an action guide for congregations all reflect on the theme “The Glory of the Lord Shall Be Revealed.”

BROWSE

BULLETIN BLURBS

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

ELCA Advocacy: Support humanitarian aid, urge officials to call for a cease-fire

The devastating loss of life in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories has shaken our church and its members. ELCA Advocacy Action Alerts make it easy to contact your elected officials. Use these alerts to call for a cease-fire, support Palestinian access to Gaza and call for robust humanitarian aid, and press the various parties to protect civilians, release hostages and abide by international law. Take action at ELCA.org/advocacy/actioncenter.

Opportunities for Global Service

We’re hiring! Apply to serve with our global companions as a pastor, seminary professor, teacher or country coordinator. Browse openings at the ELCA job board by visiting ELCA.org/careers and clicking on “Global Service Opportunities.” Contact [email protected] with your questions.

Nonfiction books to read for Black History Month

Black writers continue to change the world not only by drawing attention to generational oppression and inequality in society but by sharing far-reaching insights on spirituality, family, society, personal growth and love. During Black History Month and all year long, we celebrate and honor the literary work of Black Americans. Take a look at 20 nonfiction books to read during Black History Month and beyond at blog.broadleafbooks.com/race-religion-and-justice.