“For what shall we pray?” is a weekly post inviting individuals, groups, and congregations to lift up our world in prayer. This resource is prepared by a variety of leaders in the ELCA and includes prayer prompts, upcoming events and observances, and prayer suggestions from existing denominational worship materials. You are encouraged to use these resources as a starting point, and to adapt and add other concerns from your local context. More information about this resource can be found here.
 

Prayer prompts:
For peace and reconciliation among the nations, especially in Iran, Lebanon, Gaza, Mali, South Sudan, Ukraine, and Venezuela…
For all immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…
For fair and compassionate immigration policies and enforcement…
For LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities during this upcoming Pride month…
For graduating students and all experiencing the transition of the school year into summer and beyond…
For all those wounded and grieving after various events of death and destruction across the world: a coal mine explosion in China, a building collapse in the Philippines, a suicide bombing in Pakistan…
For the safety of all evacuated in Garden Grove, California, due to a cracked chemical tank…
For Muslims completing their Hajj pilgrimage this year, for their safety and spiritual welfare…
For synods of the ELCA as they gather in their assemblies, that the Spirit would enliven and guide them…

Events and observances:
May observances: Mental Health Awareness Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, National Military Appreciation Month, National Foster Care Month.
June observances: LGBTQ+ Pride Month

John Calvin, renewer of the church, died 1564 (May 27)
Jiri Tranovsky, hymnwriter, died 1637 (May 29)
Jiri Tranovsky, hymnwriter, died 1637 (May 29)
Visit of Mary to Elizabeth (May 31)
Justin, martyr at Rome, died c.135 (June 1)
The Martyrs of Uganda, died 1886, June 3)
John XXIII, Bishop of Rome, died 1963 (June 3)
Boniface, martyr, died 754 (June 5)

Prayers from ELCA resources:
A prayer for those who suffer for sake of conscience (ELW p.80)
God of faithfulness, you bless those who are persecuted. Strengthen those who suffer for the sake of conscience. When they are accused, save them from speaking in hate; when they are rejected, save them from bitterness; when they are imprisoned, save them from despair. Give us grace to respect their witness and to discern the truth, that our society may be cleansed and strengthened; for the sake of our merciful and righteous judge, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A prayer for faithful living in society (ACS p.50)
God, our gracious giver, your Son Jesus taught us that where our treasure is there our hearts will be also. Teach us to love people more than money, relationships more than things, and you above all, that the way we live will reflect what we truly value and believe. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who emptied himself in love for us, and now reigns with you and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.

—

The following topical resources are available from resources.elca.org for use in public worship and personal devotion:
Worship Resources for the US Semiquincentennial July 2026
Worship resources in a time of war
Worship resources for the crisis in the Holy Land
Worship resources for the Eastern Europe Crisis

—

ELW = Evangelical Lutheran Worship
ACS = All Creation Sings: Evangelical Lutheran Worship Supplement

Additional topical prayers are found in Evangelical Lutheran Worship (pp. 72–87) and All Creation Sings (pp. 46–55), as well as in other resources provided in print and online at sundaysandseasons.com.

Crafted intercessions for every Sunday and festival are provided in the Sundays and Seasons worship planning guide published in-print and online by Augsburg Fortress. Further assistance for composing prayers of intercession can be found here: Resources for Crafting Prayers of Intercession

Prayer Ventures, a daily prayer resource, is a guide to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA, as well as for the needs and circumstances of our neighbors, communities and world.

from the ELCA advocacy office in Washington, D.C. – the Rev. Amy E. Reumann, Senior Director

Partial expanded content from Advocacy Connections: May 2026

LANDMARK SUPREME COURT DECISION | FARM BILL ADVANCES IN CONGRESS | VOTE CANCELED ON ESA AMENDMENTS |CUBA WAR POWERS RESOLUTION FAILS | CHURCHES FOR MIDDLE EAST PEACE CONFERENCE | THROUGH “RECONCILIATION” ANOTHER FIGHT FOR BILLIONS FOR ICE/CBP

LANDMARK SUPREME COURT DECISION: In a 6-3 decision on Louisiana v. Callais, the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) ruled that the creation of a second majority-Black district in the state of Louisiana was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander. The historic decision weakens key provisions of the Voting Rights Act (VRA). Weakened provisions have historically protected minority demographics by banning discriminatory voting practices on the basis of race and providing accountability on the outcomes of congressional maps. Section 2 of the VRA has had historical value and current relevance in preventing discrimination, improving outcomes for disadvantaged groups and recognizing and addressing historical injustices related to advancing voting rights and fair representation in our country.

Why It Matters in the ELCA:

Wider implications of the decision include weakened effectiveness of equal protection challenges and the use of disparate impact analysis as legal tools for accountability on issues related to access in employment, housing and education. ELCA individual members, and the ministries and organizations serving those impacted, will begin to see impacts in states racing against primary filing deadlines this year and widespread longer-term changes to federal policy and election administration in anticipation of the 2028 presidential election.

What’s Next:

With a weakened Section 2, the combination of restricted access to voting and diminished representation in Congress will undoubtedly have a generational impact on how our country is governed and how political parties are held accountable for the well-being of all. As the faith community has played a pivotal role in the multi-generational struggle to realize the vision of a more equitable multi-racial democracy, ELCA advocacy staff will monitor and track developments and take opportunities to raise nonpartisan, faith-centered priorities as Congress considers legislative responses.

FARM BILL ADVANCES IN CONGRESS: The House narrowly passed a Farm Bill Apr. 30, including a deeply underfunded nutrition title that will normalize cuts to the SNAP program made by H.R. 1 last year. This comes as over 3.4 million people have already lost their food benefits since the implementation of H.R. 1 in July, and governors have warned that SNAP could be in jeopardy in their state in the near future. Though the bill contains some measures restarting local food procurement programs and establishing virtual SNAP practices, this legislation heading to the Senate would inevitably result in a massive net cut to hungry families across the country. Lawmakers in the Senate are considering their own version of the legislation and could mark up a bill in committee as soon as early June.

Why It Matters in the ELCA:

ELCA World Hunger helps operate food pantries, administers hunger grants, supports rural ministries and runs community development programs across the nation. Our mission to end hunger is closely linked to the Farm Bill – as the charitable sector alone cannot absorb the millions of people at risk of losing food benefits. ELCA World Hunger estimates that requests for Daily Bread Grants have increased nearly 15-fold since last year, and with many pastors anecdotally citing concern for increased food-insecurity in their communities, a Farm Bill that supports both hunger and rural needs is more important than ever.

What’s Next:

Prior to the House vote, the ELCA Witness in Society Office shared an Action Alert resulting in over 3,000 messages to lawmakers in which advocates encouraged legislation that helps both farmers and hungry families, highlighting the cross-sectional nature of the issue. With next steps advancing in the Senate, a revised Action Alert will soon be issued, giving advocates a chance to express priorities in the process. ELCA advocacy staff will be tracking efforts in the Senate as these issues move forward.

VOTE CANCELED ON ESA AMENDMENTS: Just before Earth Day on Apr. 22, the U.S. House of Representatives canceled a planned vote on the Endangered Species Act (ESA) Amendments Act (H.R. 1897). The bill would significantly weaken protections for endangered and threatened species under the 1973 ESA. Bipartisan skepticism of the bill was voiced in final hours which eventually resulted in pulling the vote instead of failure on the floor.

Why It Matters in the ELCA:

The cancellation of this vote comes amidst strong public pushback, including through the ELCA Action Alert. That Action Alert notes our call to care for endangered species flows from our vocation to love and serve our neighbors, which include plant and animal life and the ecosystems that sustain them and us.

What’s Next:

While the cancellation of the vote brings relief, this bill could still move at any time or be included in a must-pass legislative vehicle. It is important that our advocacy continues to voice concerns about this legislation.

CUBA WAR POWERS RESOLUTION FAILS: In late April, senators failed to pass the Cuba war powers resolution (S.J. Res. 124) that sought to block President Trump from launching military operations in Cuba without congressional authority. The bilateral relationship between the United States and Cuba is extremely strained. In addition to sanctions and regulatory restrictions against Cuba, President Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 29 declaring a national emergency and imposing tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, effectively creating a de facto energy blockade. Cubans are currently faced with severe economic hardships, including severe fuel shortages, widespread blackouts, and cascading impacts on food production and healthcare systems.

Why It Matters in the ELCA:

The ELCA maintains a longstanding companion relationship with Cuban churches, creating direct ties between U.S. faith communities and local congregations on the island. The worsening humanitarian crisis in Cuba is affecting our companion partners and their families. Moreover, U.S. policy toward Cuba has made it very difficult for faith communities and humanitarian organizations to send assistance to Cuba.

What’s Next:

The Senate’s failure to pass the Cuba war powers resolution leaves the administration with broad latitude for potential military operations. While diplomatic talks continue, significant concerns about imminent U.S. military actions against Cuba remain. Witness in Society staff continue to advocate for the de-escalation of rhetoric, sustained diplomatic engagement and sanction relief for the Cuban people.

CHURCHES FOR MIDDLE EAST PEACE CONFERENCE: The ELCA was a sponsoring organization for this year’s Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) Joint Advocacy Summit, “Do Right; Seek Justice: Christians Uniting Against Oppression in Palestine/Israel” on May 5-7. Eight ELCA bishops and over 40 ELCA members took part. The summit was an opportunity to learn about and advocate to Congress and the administration on justice for Palestine and Israel issues. The CMEP summit included nearly 250 participants from 30+ denominations from around the country engaged in advocacy in support of peace and justice in the Holy Land. Several ELCA leaders, including advocacy staff, shared presentations, led workshops and provided essential support for the legislative visits.

Why It Matters in the ELCA:

Multiple ELCA social teachings and policy resolutions provide clear guidance for collaborative engagement and advocacy regarding the Holy Land and in support of our partners, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCHJL). Additionally, this witness upholding dignity, human rights and lasting security strengthens our commitment to ecumenical engagement.

What’s Next:

Additional updates and reports from the summit and its advocacy day are forthcoming.

THROUGH “RECONCILIATION” ANOTHER FIGHT FOR BILLIONS FOR ICE/CBP: The 75-day-long Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown came to an end on Apr. 30. The House passed a Senate bill that funds the agency through September 2026 but excludes funding for immigration enforcement. Congress immediately moved to fund immigration enforcement agencies [Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP)] via the same filibuster-proof single-party reconciliation process that led to last year’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill.” The new reconciliation bill includes $38 billion for ICE and $26 billion for CBP – enough to fund the agencies through the end of President Trump’s term. Votes on the reconciliation package are expected in the week of May 18.

Why It Matters in the ELCA:

The ELCA has opposed additional funding for immigration enforcement without key protections like prohibitions on enforcement at churches, the use of judicial warrants for detention and meaningful accountability for immigration agents’ actions. Funding ICE and CBP for three years without any bipartisan negotiations also removes important opportunities for congressional oversight.

What’s Next:

The reconciliation package is expected to move forward in early June, and ELCA advocacy will continue to advocate against a “blank check” for immigration enforcement without meaningful protections and oversight. As the reconciliation package is being debated, Congress is discussing DHS FY27 funding in parallel. The ELCA has joined interfaith partners in preparing funding recommendations that prioritize protections and due process for immigrants and refugees, while objecting to massive increases in immigration enforcement funding.

Receive monthly Advocacy Connections directly by becoming part of the ELCA Advocacy network – http://elca.org/advocacy/signup , and learn more from elca.org/advocacy .

Burma (Myanmar) earthquake | Photo credit: USGS

When a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar in March 2025, it left devastation in its wake. Entire communities were shaken. Homes reduced to rubble, livelihoods disrupted, and access to essentials like clean water suddenly uncertain. Yet even in the midst of loss, something remarkable began to take shape: stories of resilience, recovery, and hope.

Supported by a coordinated humanitarian response through Lutheran Disaster Response, the ACT Alliance, and Lutheran World Federation, families and communities began the hard work of rebuilding—not just structures, but their sense of stability and dignity.

Restoring What Matters Most: Water

In Hman Taw Village, one of the most urgent needs after the earthquake was access to safe drinking water. Before the disaster, a single water point served a dozen families. When it was damaged, residents were forced to walk long distances, often making multiple trips each day just to meet basic needs.

A village water point undergoing rehabilitation | Photo Credit: LWF

But the community didn’t give up. With support from local partners and engineers, villagers came together to repair the system, this time making it more resilient by powering it with solar energy. Within just a month, clean water was flowing again.

“Now, with clean water so close to home, we no longer worry,” shared Daw Khin San Nwe.

What was once a symbol of disruption has become a powerful reminder of what communities can achieve together.

Rebuilding Homes, Restoring Dignity

For many families, the earthquake deepened already fragile circumstances. In Bone Oe Village, Daw Mi Ma Ma, a grandmother raising three grandchildren, faced overwhelming challenges when her home was severely damaged. Her small income from selling fish was barely enough to cover daily needs, let alone repairs.

Left: Daw Mi Ma Ma’s house after the March earthquake. Right: Daw Mi Ma Ma standing in front of her home after its renovation with support from the project. | Photo Credit: LWR

Through emergency support, she first received essential household supplies, followed by cash assistance to rebuild her home. That support changed everything.

“The project’s support brought back safety and dignity,” she said.

Today, with her home restored, she can focus again on caring for her grandchildren and planning for their future.

The Power of Flexible Support

In times of crisis, flexibility can mean survival. In Sagaing, Daw Thida Myint was injured during the earthquake and had no reliable source of support. Emergency cash assistance allowed her to buy food and cover medical expenses when it mattered most.

An earthquake-affected resident, Daw Thida Myint, 60yrs, person with disability receives emergency cash assistance for food in Ywar Htaung, Sagaing Region. | Photo Credit: LWF

Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, this approach empowered her to make decisions based on her family’s immediate needs, preventing them from slipping into extreme hardship.

Her story highlights an important truth: when people are trusted to prioritize their own recovery, it restores both stability and dignity.

Starting Over: Livelihoods Reimagined

Recovery doesn’t stop at meeting basic needs. It also means rebuilding a way forward.

In Nay Pyi Taw, U Myint Zaw lost both his home and his job in the earthquake. With targeted support, he chose to invest in raising piglets as a new livelihood. What started as a modest step has grown into a renewed sense of purpose and hope for his family.

Similarly, Daw Aye Aye Thin turned to pig farming after losing her home and seeing her son leave school to work.

“This support gave me the strength to start again,” she said.

These small enterprises represent more than income. They’re pathways to independence and resilience.

Healing Beyond the Physical

The impact of the earthquake wasn’t only physical. Emotional healing, especially for children, has been an essential part of recovery.

Left: Children aged 11–15 writing stories and sharing them with peers. Center: Children aged 5–10 playing with toys in a safe space. Right: A 9-year-old child drawing a picture and proudly showing it to the project’s Safe Space facilitator in a Safe Space in Sagaing Region | Photo Credit: LWF

In Sagaing, safe spaces were created where young people could play, learn, and process their experiences. Through art, storytelling, and group activities, children who once lived in fear are rediscovering joy and security.

“Now, I feel happy… I feel safe,” shared one 14-year-old participant.

These spaces are helping rebuild not just lives, but futures.

A Long Road Forward, Together

The journey to recovery in Myanmar is far from over. But each repaired water system, rebuilt home, renewed livelihood, and smiling child reflects something powerful: hope is rising again.

These stories remind us that even after profound loss, communities can come together to rebuild stronger than before, especially when supported by compassion, partnership, and shared determination.

In the face of disaster, resilience shines brightest.

Supporting Communities Through Lutheran Disaster Response

In the face of these compounding emergencies, Lutheran Disaster Response continues to walk alongside communities as they respond to immediate needs and rebuild with dignity and hope. Through trusted international partners, LDR supports emergency relief, recovery, and long-term resilience efforts, addressing food security, shelter, livelihoods, psychosocial support, and disaster preparedness.

Supporting Lutheran Disaster Response enables timely, locally led responses that prioritize the most vulnerable and strengthen communities against future crises. As climate impacts intensify and conflicts persist, sustained solidarity and partnership are essential. Together, we can help ensure affected communities are not only supported in times of crisis, but also empowered to recover, rebuild, and thrive. Learn more about how to support the work of LDR here.

Updated May 27, 2026

STATUS ON CAPITOL HILL | ACTION ALERTS | RESOURCES AND WEBINARS | OUR COLLECTIVE VOICE

The Farm Bill, which guides much of U.S. agriculture, rural and food policy, is currently being debated in Congress. The ELCA urges Congress to pass a 2026 Farm Bill that promotes priorities consistent with our advocacy during 2023-24 Farm Bill reauthorization discussions:

• food for hungry neighbors at home and abroad,
• healthy rural and farming communities,
• inclusion of people of all backgrounds,
• care of creation to feed future generations

In a world of abundance, we strive for an end to hunger and poverty, and towards a just world where all are fed. Additionally, we are to work with each other and the environment to meet needs without causing undue burdens elsewhere. The Farm Bill is one of the most influential pieces of legislation affecting farmers, hunger and conservation in the United States and around the world.

ELCA social statements call for policies that provide adequate nutrition for all and create livelihood opportunities that are genuinely sustainable. We urge lawmakers to pass a 2026 Farm Bill that reflects these faith-based values.

Status on Capitol Hill

– May 27, 2026

The House of Representatives passed a Farm Bill at the end of April on a near-party-line vote (224-200). ELCA advocacy priorities for nutrition programs, conservation and international food aid were not included in the House-passed bill (see Mar. 5, 2026, Status on Capitol Hill update).

Now, the Senate will meet in the first week of June to consider their version of a Farm Bill.  

This comes at a time when houses of worship, food pantries, state governors, farmers and global partners are reporting alarming new rates of food requests in our communities. “In recent months, rising inflation, job losses and reduced government benefits have made it harder for families nationwide to afford the food they need. Feeding ministries across ELCA World Hunger’s network are reporting lines two or even three times longer than before, with fewer donations coming in,” reports LifeLines (Spring 2026) from ELCA World Hunger and Lutheran Disaster Response. Furthermore, ELCA World Hunger received over 15 times the number of Daily Bread grant applications in 2025 than in 2024.  

Compounding concerns are the upcoming H.R. 1 changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP) that would shift costs to states. Alarms are being raised that state budgets and local organizations are not prepared to meet the rapidly rising demand being placed on them.  

Our advocacy in the ELCA is steadfastly urging Senate passage of a Farm Bill that promotes vitality for rural communities and relief for hungry families. ELCA social statements call for policies that provide adequate nutrition for all and create livelihood opportunities that are genuinely sustainable. 

Senate leadership has indicated an openness to hear arguments against the SNAP cost-shift to states, among other negotiations, to ensure a Farm Bill reaches 60 votes to pass in the chamber. A current Action Alert is one of the ELCA’s advocacy opportunities in this moment to urge the Senate to reject the codification of cuts to SNAP, prioritize provisions that strengthen innovative practices for soil health and agroforestry, reauthorize key international food aid programs and make permanent the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). 

Action Alerts

Future Farm Bill Action Alerts will be added to this page – but you can be notified directly by signing up for the ELCA Advocacy Network. New Action Alerts and monthly updates are sent to the network, which you sign up for📝here.

Take Action as Senate Considers Farm Bill Next

The Farm Bill is now being considered in the Senate, and sharing your experiences and values can help shape a result that meets rural and nutritional needs. [Posted: 5/27/2026]

Resources & Webinars

• VIDEO: “Farm Bill Conversation” with presenter Alex Parker, ELCA Advocacy Coordinator (Recorded 6/19/24). ELCA Region 1 Conversation about the 2024 Farm Bill.
• RESOURCE PAGE: “H.R. 1 and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): What Counties Should Know” (Oct. 31, 2025). From the National Association of Counties.

Our Collective Voice

By raising our collective voice, we can help enact a more just Farm Bill that leaves no one hungry. In your location and federally, let’s act boldly to end hunger and poverty in our time and ensuring healthy creation to feed future generations.

Here are some other ideas for making your voice heard.

• Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper on the importance of anti-hunger and pro-farmer policies in the Farm Bill.
• Attend town halls or public events with your members of Congress to ask questions about their Farm Bill priorities.
• Pray for those experiencing hunger and for our elected officials to have wisdom and compassion.

This post gives the background and practical implications for an addition to the church year calendar. “Creation in Christ” (or “Feast of Creation”), to be observed on September 1 or the Sunday following, is supported with lectionary readings and forthcoming worship resources.

A New Ecumenical Observance

Following several years of study, prayer, and collaboration, a new ecumenical observance is encouraged in the church throughout the world. Grounded in the ancient liturgical tradition of the Orthodox Church, “Creation in Christ” (or “Feast of Creation”) celebrates God as Creator and ponders the great mystery that everything was created through Christ. And, as a result, it also inspires us to care for the gift of the created world. Although the rich theme of Christ’s activity in creation abounds throughout the liturgical year, setting aside this day brings an important focus to this mystery.

As summarized on the feast of creation website, “since the 1989 invitation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to pray together on September 1, many churches and ecumenical networks have adopted the Creation Day observance and collaborated to encourage its celebration. In 2023, various global Christian bodies began to dialogue about the ancient roots of Creation Day in the Byzantine liturgical calendar and its potential to enrich non-Byzantine calendars even more meaningfully. Since then, a series of theological dialogues have taken place in what came to be known as “The Assisi Process,” with the participation of 13 Christian world communions and various ecumenical bodies.”

ELCA Worship shared a blog post written by Dr. Benjamin Stewart  in September 2024 that introduced this process to ELCA congregations, specifically noting the churches that convened in Assisi in March of 2024. You can learn much more about the process at www.feastofcreation.com and more about its theological grounding here.

The ELCA is a member of both the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the World Council of Churches (WCC), two of the more than thirteen Christian communions that have encouraged the adoption of this festival. LWF shared helpful information in March 2026 and the WCC offered a helpful webinar on March 19 and it is still available for viewing.

For the past two years, the Consultation on Common Texts—of which the ELCA is a member– has worked with the ecumenical conveners of this proposed celebration, namely in the task of selecting lectionary texts. See a listing of the proposed texts and the methodology report approved by the Consultation on Common Texts. The CCT also suggests the name of the day be “Creation in Christ (or Feast of Creation)” for Christological clarity, ecumenical breadth, and alignment with the Revised Common Lectionary naming conventions. For example, “Creation in Christ” is similar to “Christ the King (or Reign of Christ)” or “Baptism of Our Lord.” See pg. 5 of the methodology report for further background.

Observing “Creation in Christ”

What does this mean for the ELCA? Supported by the Lutheran World Federation and World Council of Churches, ELCA worshiping communities are encouraged to celebrate the day, using the lectionary texts provided by the Consultation on Common Texts. The date to observe “Creation in Christ” will need to be determined locally. Although celebration is encouraged on September 1 or the Sunday following, with the observance of Labor Day in the United States, some communities may opt to celebrate in late August or later in September, perhaps aligning with the autumnal equinox. Yet others may keep a Season of Creation, beginning on or near September 1 and ending with the commemoration of Francis of Assisi on or near October 4.

We anticipate that adopting this new date on the liturgical calendar will be an evolving process, just as the process to get to this point involved much thought, prayer, and deliberation. You are encouraged to discern what works best in your context, knowing that resourcing and support for this day will be available over time and will be renewed and refined along the way.

Worship Resources for “Creation in Christ”

Some resources are already available to assist you in preparation and planning and more will follow in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

Subscribers to Sundays and Seasons can find an essay by Dr. Benjamin Stewart, “Joining the Cosmic Choir: An Introduction to a Liturgical Festival of Creation” as well as “Planning a Festival of Creation” as part of the Seasonal Rites for Autumn in the 2027 print edition (and available online).

The ELCA and Augsburg Fortress anticipate they will have resources available online later this summer. Stay tuned to communications from ELCA Worship, Augsburg Fortress, and Sundays and Seasons as worship resources become available for use on “Creation in Christ” in the ELCA.

In addition, an ecumenical call was put out to submit resources to be considered for wider sharing. These are being reviewed and compiled and will be accessible later this summer on the feast of creation website.

This is an exciting time, as the last time there was an addition to the liturgical calendar was Christ the King (Reign of Christ) in the 1920s (though it was only adopted by Western churches). It is the first time a new feast/festival has been adopted since the release of the common lectionary in 1983. To be in communion with the Eastern church in celebration of Creation in Christ (Feast of Creation), holds great promise, even in this time of global crisis and uncertainty.

Rom Chan Oun, (Note the ELCA sticker on the tuktuk)

Unlike many Cambodians who live near the border with Thailand, Rom Chan Oun decided not to migrate to Thailand to work. Instead, she joined the local Bour Samaki Meanchey Agricultural Cooperative.  The Bour AC, located in Battambang province in western Cambodia, is a initiative that supports farmers, creates employment opportunities, and improves access to essential goods and services within the community.  The cooperative is supported by Lutheran Hope Cambodia Organization, which in turn is supported by ELCA World Hunger.

Before joining the agricultural cooperative, “I was just a housewife and not many knew me,” says Chan Oun. “But now, I’m involved in market linkages and operate the coop tukuk.”

This has come through World Hunger’s particular support for Bour AC’s Women Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Agriculture Cooperative project. This project aims to increase income from selling pure drinking water – one of Bour AC’s enterprises – and provide for gathering, distributing and connecting to local markets. The tuktuk Chan Oun drives is part of all this.

Meanwhile, Chan Oun’s family income has improved, and she is now able to send her children to school. “I seek to work as a team, sharing responsibilities with all those in the cooperative. More than anything, people say to me: ‘oh, you are such a strong woman.’ I feel proud.”

Shawna with members of ROAD in Muskogee, OK | Photo credit Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma

In the first week of May 2022, severe storms and flash flooding swept through Eastern Oklahoma, leaving a trail of destruction across multiple counties. In Muskogee alone, more than seven inches of rain fell in a single day, overwhelming homes, properties, and communities. Thousands of households were impacted, many of them uninsured and uncertain of how they would recover.

Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) partnered with Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma through a grant supporting unmet needs from the storms. Together, this collaboration became a source of hope for families facing overwhelming loss.

Today, we celebrate a milestone: every household served through this project has now completed their recovery.

A Community Effort Rooted in Faith

The recovery effort was made possible through a powerful partnership. LDR funding provided critical resources for building materials. Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma offered compassionate case management, walking alongside survivors every step of the way. Volunteers from Recovering Oklahomans After Disaster (ROAD) contributed countless hours of labor, helping rebuild roofs, restore interiors, and return homes to safe and livable conditions.

Over the course of this project, from March 2024 through May 2026, this collective effort transformed lives, one home at a time. Many of the families served had no insurance and limited means, making this assistance not just helpful, but essential.

Shawna’s Story: An Answered Prayer

Among those impacted was Shawna, a Muskogee-area resident whose home and property were significantly damaged by the flooding. The storm impacted nearly every aspect of her life: her barns, flight pens, storage buildings, vehicles, animals, and home were all affected.

With extensive damage and limited financial resources, Shawna faced the very real possibility of losing her home. At one point, the city had considered condemning it.

Through the support of LDR and the coordinated efforts of Catholic Charities and ROAD volunteers, Shawna’s roof was repaired and multiple interior spaces were restored. What once felt like an impossible situation became a story of renewal.

Reflecting on her experience, Shawna shared:

“Our two barns, flight pens, storage buildings, vehicles, animals, and other property were flooded and damaged. We appreciate from the bottom of our hearts having our roof repaired, because this is the foundation of our home. The city was going to condemn it. Your assistance was an answered prayer, and we are so grateful for this help.”

Gratitude for a Shared Calling

This project has now officially concluded. While the storms themselves are now years behind us, their impact, and the long road to recovery, required persistence, compassion, and unwavering partnership.

Thanks to Lutheran Disaster Response, Catholic Charities, and dedicated local partners, families who once faced uncertainty now stand in restored homes with renewed hope.

“You became the hope so many survivors prayed for, and we are humbled to have witnessed Christ’s love through each of you,” said Catholic Charities in gratitude for this partnership.

This work is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about rebuilding structures. It’s about restoring dignity, stability, and hope.

Through faith and partnership, lives were changed, homes were restored, and prayers were answered.

Supporting Communities Through Lutheran Disaster Response

In the face of these compounding emergencies, Lutheran Disaster Response continues to walk alongside communities as they respond to immediate needs and rebuild with dignity and hope. Through trusted international partners, LDR supports emergency relief, recovery, and long-term resilience efforts, addressing food security, shelter, livelihoods, psychosocial support, and disaster preparedness.

Supporting Lutheran Disaster Response enables timely, locally led responses that prioritize the most vulnerable and strengthen communities against future crises. As climate impacts intensify and conflicts persist, sustained solidarity and partnership are essential. Together, we can help ensure affected communities are not only supported in times of crisis, but also empowered to recover, rebuild, and thrive. Learn more about how to support the work of LDR here.

Faith Lens is pausing its weekly article rhythm for the summer. However, be on the lookout for three new resources we hope will be useful:

• A pre-summer trip reflection to help prepare groups for a trip, released in June
• A post-summer trip reflection to help process the experience, released in July
• A special article on The Gathering to help groups begin thinking about this life-changing opportunity, released in August

If you are looking for an accessible devotion for yourself, teens, and/or young adults this summer, check out d365.org! It is a year-round daily devotion available on the web and in a free-to-download, user-friendly app. The ELCA is now a partner in this ecumenical resource!

Lastly, thanks to all our writers who produced thoughtful, meaningful articles throughout the year. Most of all, thanks to you, the readers, users, and supporters of this blog. I pray it has been, and continues to be, a faithful tool in whatever way you engage with it.

With gratitude,

Rev. Cogan Blackmon
Editor

As immigration detention surges across the United States, the private companies building and running immense detention facilities are reporting record profits. Nearly 90% of people in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody are held in private, for-profit facilities – which have been accused of overcrowding, unsanitary and unsafe conditions, and limited access to family, legal counsel or religious expression.  

Many of us hold the command of Deuteronomy 10:19 in our hearts: to love the stranger. Showing this teaching in our daily individual and communal lives takes many forms.  

New Immigration Detention Resource

A new resource from ELCA Advocacy and ELCA AMMPARO is titled: “You Shall Also Love the Stranger: Public Witness and For-Profit Immigration Detention.” It includes a brief history of immigration detention in the United States, a guided Bible study with questions for reflection, and concrete action steps for those interested in taking action to ensure safety and due process for all. 

• Check out “You Shall Also Love the Stranger: Public Witness and For-Profit Immigration Detention.”  

• • Download from the ELCA Resource Center. 

• Consider attending the webinar “Engaging as People of Faith Amid Rise in For-Profit Immigration Detention” on Wed., June 24 from 1-1:30 p.m. Eastern (with an optional extended Q&A session afterwards). 

• • ELCA leaders will share reflections on this contemporary challenge, including Tracey DePasquale, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania; Kate Parsons, ELCA Program Director for Migration; the Rev. Kaari Reierson, ELCA Program Director for Corporate Social Responsibility; and the Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos, ELCA Director for Theological Diversity and Engagement. 

• • Register from https://bit.ly/ELCAwebinarForProfitDetention 

Here’s a preview of contents of the resource: 

1. The Issue and a Lutheran Lens – including 
   1. How did we get here? 
   2. Children in detention 
   3. ELCA social teaching on private prisons and detention 
2. Bible Study – including 
   1. Prayer
   2. Reflecting on Hebrews 13:2 and other verses 
   3. Biblical challenges and private migration detention 
3. What Can You Do? – including 
   1. Take your money out of private immigration detention centers.
   2. Ask institutions not to invest in detention. 
   3. Join neighbors calling for no private detention in your backyard. 
   4. Advocate for people in private detention nationwide.

Recognizing the Humanity of Our Neighbors

Over and over again, the Bible challenges us to see the face of God in the prisoner, in the stranger, in someone who is hungry or ill or needy. When we treat people in detention as if they have no humanity and do not bear the face of God  — we ignore that challenge. In recognizing the humanity of our neighbors, we connect with the grace that God shows us — we bear witness to the love of Christ with each other. 

“For what shall we pray?” is a weekly post inviting individuals, groups, and congregations to lift up our world in prayer. This resource is prepared by a variety of leaders in the ELCA and includes prayer prompts, upcoming events and observances, and prayer suggestions from existing denominational worship materials. You are encouraged to use these resources as a starting point, and to adapt and add other concerns from your local context. More information about this resource can be found here.
 

Prayer prompts:
For peace and reconciliation among the nations, especially in Iran, Lebanon, Gaza, Mali, South Sudan, Ukraine, and Venezuela…
For all immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…
For health, safety, information, and wisdom amid outbreaks of the hantavirus and ebola…
For all impacted by and grieving after the shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego, and for religious understanding and appreciation…
For victims, first responders, and the community surrounding the lumber mill in Maine after an explosion…
For our nation as we observe Memorial Day, for all who serve in the armed forces, and for all who mourn the loss of a loved one to war…
For the Holy Spirit to descend on the church again this Pentecost…
For synods of the ELCA as they gather in their assemblies, that the Spirit would enliven and guide them…
For students and school personnel in the last days of the semester…

Events and observances:
May observances: Mental Health Awareness Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, National Military Appreciation Month, National Foster Care Month

Helena, mother of Constantine, died c.330 (May 21)
Declaration of the Bab, Bahá’í (May 22-23)
Vigil of Pentecost (May 23)
Day of Pentecost (May 24)
Nicolaus Copernicus, died 1543; Leonhard Euler, died 1783; scientists (May 24)
Memorial Day, USA (May 25)
John Calvin, renewer of the church, died 1564 (May 27)
Jiri Tranovsky, hymnwriter, died 1637 (May 29)

Prayers from ELCA resources:
A prayer for health care providers (ELW p.85)
Merciful God, your healing power is everywhere about us. Strengthen those who work among the sick; give them courage and confidence in all they do. Encourage them when their efforts seem futile or when death prevails. Increase their trust in your power even to overcome death and pain and crying. May they be thankful for every sign of health you give, and humble before the mystery of your healing grace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A prayer for peace (ACS p.48)
You calm and quiet us, eternal God, as a mother holds her children close; all people have refuge in the shadow of your wings. Spread over us the shelter of your peace. Hold before us the wisdom of your cross, where we are drawn to you not by might or power, but by your boundless love and forgiveness in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

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The following topical resources are available from resources.elca.org for use in public worship and personal devotion:
Worship Resources for the US Semiquincentennial July 2026
Worship resources in a time of war
Worship resources for the crisis in the Holy Land
Worship resources for the Eastern Europe Crisis

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ELW = Evangelical Lutheran Worship
ACS = All Creation Sings: Evangelical Lutheran Worship Supplement

Additional topical prayers are found in Evangelical Lutheran Worship (pp. 72–87) and All Creation Sings (pp. 46–55), as well as in other resources provided in print and online at sundaysandseasons.com.

Crafted intercessions for every Sunday and festival are provided in the Sundays and Seasons worship planning guide published in-print and online by Augsburg Fortress. Further assistance for composing prayers of intercession can be found here: Resources for Crafting Prayers of Intercession

Prayer Ventures, a daily prayer resource, is a guide to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA, as well as for the needs and circumstances of our neighbors, communities and world.