“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 an end to war and conflict, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine…
For all victims of gun violence, especially in Dallas, TX, and other acts of violence, including Pittsburgh, PA…
For all in the path of Typhoon Ragasa…
For the work of the United Nations as they meet in assembly…
For political transition in Malawi…
For those managing brush fires in Hawaii…
In gratitude for the diversity of human gifts, experiences, and abilities that all reflect God’s image…

Events and observances:
September Observances: National Literacy Month, Suicide Prevention Month, Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 to Oct 15)

Rosh Hashanah, Judaism (Sept 22-24)
Durga Puja, Hinduism (Sept 28-Oct 2)
Michael and All Angels (Sept 29)
Jerome, translator, teacher, died 420 (Sept 30)

Prayers from ELCA resources:
A prayer for the human family (ELW)
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son. Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred that infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and, through our struggle and confusion, work to accomplish your purposes on earth; so that, in your good time, every people and nation may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

A prayer for those who suffer for the sake of conscience (ELW)
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.

—

The following topical resources are available from resources.elca.org for use in public worship and personal devotion:
Worship resources and prayers in response to wildfires
Worship resources for the crisis in the Holy Land
Worship resources for the Eastern Europe Crisis
Worship resources for and following national elections

—

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.

The U.S. government could run out of funding on Oct. 1, 2025, if Congress does not pass new legislation to fund its operations. A government shutdown would occur at midnight on Sep. 30, the end of the 2025 fiscal year, if no agreement is reached. On Sep. 24 the ELCA advocacy staff advanced the following message to members of Congress and The White House Faith Office.

September 24, 2025

ELCA Urges Immediate Return to Negotiating Table

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), a denomination of 2.7 million members who span the ideological and partisan spectrum, strongly urges the members of Congress and President Trump to return to the negotiating table now and work in a bipartisan manner to fund the government.

Actions by this country’s elected officials jeopardize good government and the well-being of all that good governance facilitates. These actions include:

• • recurring government shutdown fights,
  • continual deepening of our nation’s unsustainably high debt, and
  • replacing normal bipartisan appropriations with unilateral reconciliation or rescissions.

This church understands government as a gift from God intended to promote the common good. This gift is a vital piece of God’s provision for the world God so loves (John 3:16) and especially for the hungry, sick, and poor with whom Christ identifies himself (Mathew 25:40).

Our government must do better. Failure to negotiate with one another and with the president will lead to a government shutdown that will hurt all Americans and harm the most vulnerable members of society first and worst of all. Likewise, failure to address healthcare premiums will result in over twenty million Americans facing dramatic increases in their healthcare costs starting in January 2026. Neither of these outcomes is acceptable.

We are deeply concerned by the breakdown of bipartisan governance, and we strongly urge the leaders and members of both major parties to govern for all their constituents, not just their supporters.

The Rev. Amy Reumann
Senior Director, Witness in Society
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

TERMS: More about reconciliation is available from Congress.gov. The Bipartisan Policy Center offers a “Rescissions 101” with more information.

Prepare (This section is preparation for the leader, not content meant for the whole group.)

Narrative context helps shed light on this parable. In the short passage between last week’s parable and this one, we learn that the Pharisees are among Jesus’ primary audience (Luke 16:14). The problem Jesus addresses here is the love of money.

In the larger narrative, Jesus has been telling stories about great reversals. In chapter 14, he teaches that when throwing a party, we should not invite those who can repay the favor. Then in chapter 15, we hear three parables about how, against all odds, the lost are found. Finally in chapter 16, we encounter the tangled story of a shrewd manager who is seemingly praised for his dishonest use of money and power. Today’s parable belongs in that same category of great reversals.

Some readers may feel discomfort with the portrayal of heaven and hell in this story. It is important, however, not to resolve that discomfort too quickly. As Lutherans, we may be tempted to jump immediately to the reminder that we are saved by grace and not by works. This parable does not challenge that central belief. But it does urge readers to pause, remember the witness of Scripture—“Moses and the prophets”—and to “listen to them” (Luke 16:29).

Finally, the use of the name “Lazarus” is significant. He is the only character Jesus ever names in a parable. This is not the same Lazarus whom Jesus raised from the dead. Since this parable is not referring to an actual person, there must be a reason Jesus chose the name. Lazarus is the Greek version of the Hebrew name Eliezer, which means “God has helped” or “God is my help.” Your group might consider whether this name is fitting or ironic. 

Opening Exercise:  

Think of a time when you encountered someone asking for money, help, or who was clearly in need. How did you respond? How did you feel about your response afterward? What might you do differently next time? Is there something you wish you could have done, but couldn’t?

Text Read Aloud:

Luke 16:19-31 

Living as the Rich Man’s Brothers

A common way to approach a parable is to try to identify who represents whom in the story. For

example, readers often look for the God figure or the hero on one side, and someone opposing God as

Lazarus waits on the margins. And so do we his siblings.

a kind of foil on the other. This approach can help peel back the densely packed layers of Jesus’ teachings—but it can also lead us astray, like when we mistakenly identify a cruel king or landowner as the God figure.

The story of the rich man and Lazarus offers multiple points of entry for readers. Some might identify with the rich man, while others might identify with Lazarus. These two perspectives lead to very different reactions. Those who see themselves in the rich man may feel indicted, fearful, or guilty. Those who identify with Lazarus may feel comforted or justified. Yet, these are not the only options. There is a third character we might see ourselves in: the rich man’s brothers (Luke 16:28).

The brothers represent many of us, or at least many in our churches. Consider how many people know the teachings of Moses, the prophets (Luke 16:29), and Jesus, but do not follow them. How many people know what is being asked of them in order to be faithful but are not willing to do it? Or how many know that they are not going the right way but refuse to turn around and repent? And how many of us are looking at one of the brothers when we look in the mirror? 

This raises a deeper question: what would it take for us to truly repent? Are the teachings of Jesus alone not enough? What if someone returned from heaven or hell to warn us? Would we change then? What about a mountain-top experience, a mission trip, or a close call? Would any of these experiences transform our hearts for good? What does your own faith story reveal?

This story is not meant to leave us feeling hopeless, as if repentance or salvation is impossible. Rather, it calls us to recognize that we already have what we need to live a holy life based on Scripture. The unspoken truth, however, is that we cannot guilt or hustle ourselves into perfect righteousness. We will always need Jesus in order to be made right with God and our neighbors. And this trust in God does not come from being intellectually “convinced” (Luke 16:31); it is a gift, freely given.

Reflection Questions  

• Who are the key characters in this parable, and what does each one do or experience?
• Why do you think Jesus chose to name Lazarus and not the rich man? What does this detail reveal about God’s care or justice, if anything?
• What is the significance of the brothers in the story? How might they represent people in our communities today?
• Consider your own faith journey: how might this parable challenge you to notice where you are acting like the rich man, Lazarus, or the brothers—and what might you do differently as a result?

Closing Activity

Two options for this week!

1. One-Word Reflection: Invite each participant to share one word that captures what they are taking away from the story of the rich man, Lazarus, and the brothers. After everyone shares, briefly reflect as a group on patterns or themes that emerged. This helps reinforce the main idea and gives everyone a chance to articulate their personal response in a concise, meaningful way.

2. Guided Breath Prayer: Lead the group in a short breath prayer focused on repentance and trust in God. Guide the group by saying, “breathe in” and “breathe out”. Invite them to follow this pattern:

Inhale slowly, silently saying: “Create in me a clean heart”

Exhale slowly, silently saying: “Renew my spirit, O God”

Repeat for 5–7 breaths. Encourage participants to notice where they feel tension, guilt, or longing, and offer these up to God in the rhythm of their breath. 

Afterward, allow a few moments for silent reflection or journaling on how God might be calling them to repent or to share the teachings of Jesus with those who need to hear them.

Final Blessing  

Read this blessing, written by Kate Bowler*. It helps us name what is broken, reflect on what is ours to restore, and ask God to guide our actions with courage and hope. As you end your time together, invite the group to breathe, reflect, and here this prayer:

“Oh God, I am done with broken systems
that break the very people
they are meant to serve.

Harness this anger.
Channel it into worthy action and show me
what is mine to fix and what boundaries to patrol
to keep goodness in and evil out.

Blessed are we who are appalled
that brute ignorance can so easily dominate
over decency, honesty, and integrity.

Blessed are we, who choose not to look away
from systems that dehumanize, deceive, defame, and distort.
We who recognize that thoughts and prayers are not enough.

We who stand with truth over expediency,
principle over politics,
community over competition.

Oh God, how blessed are we who cry out to you:
empower us to see and name what is broken,
what is ours to restore,
guide us to find coherent and beautiful alternatives
that foster life, hope, and peace.

Help us use our gifts with one another in unity.
Blessed are we who choose to live in anticipation,
our eyes scanning the horizon,
for signs of your kingdom—
heaven-come-down—
as we wait in hope
and act with courage.”

*Bowler, Kate. A Blessing for When You’re Tired of Broken Systems. Kate Bowler, 2023. https://katebowler.com/blessings/a-blessing-for-when-youre-tired-of-broken-systems-2/

Bio of author 

Sami Johnson is a pastor in the ELCA and has been ordained for 11 years. She is also a military spouse to a Navy Chaplain and currently on leave from call, caring for her family while her spouse is stationed in Key West, FL. Sami loves practicing hand embroidery, especially making ridiculously detailed felt applique Christmas stockings for her whole family.

On September 22nd, 2025, ELCA World Hunger will officially release our short educational documentary, “Intersections: Justice Ministry with ELCA Partners,” for free on YouTube and Vimeo. You can watch a trailer for the film at the link here. “Intersections” explores stories from three ELCA companion ministries, responding to the overlapping root causes of hunger in the United States and around the world.

This an interview with Mikayla Irle, who was the editing producer of “Intersections,” is an experienced documentary filmmaker. She was the primary creative professional supporting the development of this project.

Thank you for taking time to share more about your work, expertise, and professional story. I’m looking forward to this conversation.

First, tell us a little bit about yourself and your work. How do you understand your work as a documentary producer?

Mikayla Irle (pictured here) is a documentary filmmaker and the producing editor of “Intersections.”

“Producing” can mean a lot of things on a documentary, from managing the shoot to providing funding, but my role was focused on “writing” the story based on the footage we had and putting in the legwork to creatively fill any gaps. So, I watched all the interviews, put them in order to convey the information clearly, and gave it a beginning, middle and end. I also searched online for music and archival footage to help the stories come alive and wrote any text that appears onscreen. Of course, the team at ELCA World Hunger helped me along the way!

I am a freelance editor, who is, weirdly and happily, living on a Christmas tree farm in Washington State. For about a decade, I worked in New York on bigger-budget films, but I have happily transitioned to working more deliberately on documentary stories that excite me. Anyone who’s got a story to tell about how they’re finding solutions to big struggles in our world…that’s what I love to work on!

What is one of the most lasting lessons you learned–either about yourself or the work of the ELCA and its partners–while producing and editing Intersections that you did not know before?

I’m most proud of the scope of this short film! We covered stories from a rural farming community in Cambodia, an urban US city, and several countries in Central America. We touched on the themes of climate change, political and economic history, racial and gender disparity. While each story could have been a documentary unto itself, I think we managed to tell a short version of each and still connect them to the big theme of hunger.

What are some of the challenges you had to overcome while working on Intersections?

What made me most proud of this documentary is also what made it most challenging: the scope of world hunger is huge! The causes of and solutions to hunger in each story were so different, it was challenging to focus each story so it still connected clearly to the mission of ELCA World Hunger’s work. It wasn’t clear when we began how we would actually connect the stories, but we wanted the audience to learn about each place as a unique example and still get educated on the ELCA philosophical framework. Ultimately, our solution was to have Angela [Galbraith], an advocate, explain the framework between stories and use a graphic of the Earth rotating from location to location to transition us between stories.

If folks are looking for a documentary producer or editor, how can they get ahold of you?

The easiest way to contact me is directly through email! You’re also welcome to check out my work at my website.

mikayla.irle@gmail.com
https://mikaylairle.wixsite.com/editingresume

About the Author

Mikayla Irle is a documentary editor and producer working in the Seattle area. She loves working on big stories about people doing their piece to make the world a better place. Her background is in feature and episodic documentaries that have appeared on HBO, AppleTV, independent cinema screens and more.  

“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 an end to war and conflict, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine…
For all victims of gun violence, especially in Minneapolis, MN…
For government transitions in Nepal and Malawi…
For the plight of all migrants who seek safety, security, and opportunity…
For all who live under oppression, threat, and fear…
For Jewish neighbors preparing for Rosh Hashanah, and for all gifts of newness, self-reflection, and repentance…

Events and observances:
September Observances: National Literacy Month, Suicide Prevention Month, Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 to Oct 15)

Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, martyr, died around 258 (Sept 16)
Hildegard, Abbess of Bingen, died 1179 (Sept 17)
Dag Hammarskjöld, renewer of society, died 1961 (Sept 18)
Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (transferred, Sept 22)
Rosh Hashanah, Judaism (Sept 22-24)

Prayers from ELCA resources:
A prayer for faithful living in society (ACS p.50)
Eternal God, your Word brought forth creation, and your Spirit brings order out of chaos and confusion. You breathe upon us, and we are able to hear one another with language we can understand. Pour out your Spirit upon us now, that even when we disagree on the way forward, we may remain unted in Jesus Christ, in whom we are known and accepted with a single love. Amen.

A prayer for those who are incarcerated (ACS p.53)
O God, who creates us, redeems us, and calls us by name, we pray for all who are incarcerated, those rightly convicted and those falsely accused. Help those in prison to sense your presence with them. Heal brokenness, cure addictions, and provide for their needs. Comfort them in despair, restore their hope, and protect them from violence and abuse. We pray through Jesus Christ, in whom we are claimed and freed for new life. Amen.

—

The following topical resources are available from resources.elca.org for use in public worship and personal devotion:
Worship resources and prayers in response to wildfires
Worship resources for the crisis in the Holy Land
Worship resources for the Eastern Europe Crisis
Worship resources for and following national elections

—

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.

Prepare (This section is preparation for the leader, not content meant for the whole group.)

Our gospel reading for this week is not an easy one. Taking some time to remember the narrative context and who Jesus is speaking to is helpful as we try to untangle—or at least loosen—this knotted parable. 

Back in chapter 14, Jesus had dinner with some Pharisees, where he healed a man on the Sabbath and told a parable on hospitality. He continues telling parables and teaching on hospitality and discipleship as he journeys toward Jerusalem. If there is a through line for all the parables and lessons, it is that the kingdom of God is a great reversal of the ways of the world: the humble are exalted and the proud are humbled (Luke 14:7-14); the lost are found and the found are lost (Luke 15:4-7, 11-32); the ones who suffer are comforted and the comfortable suffer (Luke 16:19-31).

It’s not only the Pharisees who hear these teachings of Jesus, though. Along the way, there are also tax collectors and sinners (Luke 15:1), large crowds, and his disciples (Luke 16:1). It is worth considering how each group would have received these teachings.

Our gospel reading for today is a particularly difficult parable because we cannot easily identify a God character, a hero, or an enemy, as we might be tempted to do with other parables. And it seems that Jesus is praising dishonesty in one place and condemning it in another. The work of interpretation here is not straightforward, but our attempts to pull apart the tangled threads are well worth the effort, and your guidance through this process will be a worthy exercise for your group. Challenge yourself to resist the desire to tie it all up in a perfect bow at the end.

Opening Exercise:

Think about a time when you had the choice to do what was right, even though it might cost you. Or the option to do something questionable or rule-breaking that would benefit you. How did you decide what to do? Did you get caught? If you had it to do over again, what would you do?  

Text Read Aloud:

Luke 16:1-13

Article

A compass can only point in one direction, just as we can only place our trust in one thing. As Luther reminds us in the Large Catechism: Whatever you set your heart on and put your trust in—that is truly your god.

On September 10th, the answer to the question, “Who is the wealthiest person in the world?” briefly changed from Elon Musk to Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, a software company that focuses on cloud computing and database technology. You can learn more about how that happened and who Ellison is in this article.

We, especially as Americans, have a fascination with superlatives and wealth. Put them together, and we want to know it all: How did they get so wealthy? What can I learn from them? Can I do what they did, if even on a smaller scale?

Since the fascination is almost universal, it’s no surprise that many news outlets offered takes on Ellison’s wealth and how he earned it. They point to his business and how it compares to competitors. They make connections between Ellison and Musk, President Trump, and Oracle’s competitors and contract partners.

Even as Christians, we cannot deny that wealth—or the lack of it—has a grip on us. We are taught to trust in God over all else and build up treasure in heaven, but the security wealth provides is difficult to set aside. It keeps us chasing bigger, better, and more.

It seems the manager in our parable was trying to obtain his own slice of wealth and security, even though it did not belong to him. He was afraid that when he lost his job he would be left in poverty with no prospects. So he took things into his own hands. He chose to exploit what he did have—his fleeting power and influence—to make friends for himself, hoping they would feel obligated to help him after he was fired.

We expect the master (the same word as Lord in the language of the New Testament) to speak for Jesus and scold the manager’s shrewdness, warning his audience of Pharisees, sinners, tax collectors, disciples, and ultimately us, not to do the same. But that’s not what happens. Instead, the manager is “commended” (Luke 16:8) for his shrewdness. Even more, the master almost seems to chastise “children of the light” for not being so shrewd.

But the story does not end there. Jesus concludes by saying, “You cannot serve God and wealth” (Luke 16:13). This is more of what we expect, but it does not fit perfectly with the lesson of the parable, does it?

In a series of teachings and parables highlighting the reversal of the kingdom of God compared with the ways of the world, this story prompts questions about how we faithfully live in a world driven by wealth and the pursuit of it. Perhaps we will find it equally comforting and discouraging that this tension has persisted for so long.

Reflective Questions

• What drives the dishonest manager to try to curry favor—that is, gain the approval or support—of the people who owed money to his master? 
• Who is lifted up as the example, the “children of this age” or the “children of the light? Is it one or the other or do we have something to learn from both?  
• What does it mean or look like to serve wealth? 
• How can you determine if a certain choice would serve God rather than feeding the pursuit of wealth?

Closing Activity

• Give your group members a few moments to reflect on what gives them a sense of security outside of God. You can invite them to close their eyes and picture what comes to mind. Or make a list on a small piece of paper—whatever you have available. 
• After a few moments, invite them to either physically crumple the paper in their fist. If they made the list in their mind, to clench their hands into fists as if holding it. Then, invite them to silently ask God to help them let go of those things, dropping the paper in the garbage or simply releasing their hands. 
• Encourage them to pause for a few seconds with their hands released to appreciate the feeling of relaxation.

Final Prayer

God our Provider,  

You made us and you sustain us every day of our lives. Show us your way and lead us to follow it, even when we’re scared, even when we are tempted, even when we are caught up in comparison and feelings of not being or having enough. Yours is the only way to true freedom. In your holy name we pray, Amen. 

Bio

Sami Johnson is a pastor in the ELCA and has been ordained for 11 years. She is also a military spouse to a Navy Chaplain and currently on leave from call, caring for her family while her spouse is stationed in Key West, FL. Sami loves practicing hand embroidery, especially making ridiculously detailed felt applique Christmas stockings for her whole family. 

On September 22nd, 2025, ELCA World Hunger will officially release our short educational documentary, “Intersections: Justice Ministry with ELCA Partners,” for free on YouTube and Vimeo. You can watch a trailer for the film at the link here. “Intersections” explores stories from three ELCA companion ministries, responding to the overlapping root causes of hunger in the United States and around the world.

This an interview with Ashlyn Rhyne, a recent alumna of the Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program, who served in Cambodia. Rhyne worked primarily with the Lutheran Hope Cambodia Organization (LHCO), who features in the first part of “Intersections.” In addition, she played a key role supporting the production of the film on the ground, coordinating videography, translation, and interviews. This interview was conducted while she was still working in Cambodia.

Thank you for taking time to tell us your story of work alongside our partners in Cambodia, Ashlyn. I’m looking forward to this conversation.

While in Cambodia you’ve spent much of your time accompanying Lutheran Hope Cambodia Organization (LHCO). Can you tell us a little bit about LHCO’s work and what you appreciate most about it?

Ashlyn Rhyne, photo provided by author

Lutheran Hope Cambodia Organization (LHCO) is an NGO that serves vulnerable communities in Cambodia through development programs that prioritize human dignity. The main office is in Phnom Penh, and others are in various provinces.

What I appreciate most about LHCO’s work are the people. This year, I have mainly worked in the Phnom Penh office but have also gotten the opportunity to visit other offices. Through these times of accompaniment, I can tell that those who work for LHCO are doing it because they deeply care about the communities they are walking alongside. They are passionate about implementing impactful programs, leading relevant training, finding appropriate funding, and simply completing their everyday work. The positive energy they put into the work then trickles into those they help.

I am continually inspired by the work of LHCO, and I am thankful for the opportunity to learn from them.

Speaking of accompaniment—the ELCA theology of walking with communities as partners in the gospel—could you speak about how you understand “accompaniment”? How have you seen it in person since you began your ministry in Cambodia?

To me, accompaniment is walking alongside my siblings in Christ as we learn from each other, love, yet challenge one another and most importantly, embrace the joy that surrounds us.

Before my YAGM year, I thought of accompaniment on a much larger scale, seeing it more as a series of grand gestures. However, in Cambodia, I have realized that while it can be seen in grand gestures, accompaniment is an everyday act. I feel it when my co-workers step in to translate a conversation from Khmer to English for me. I notice it when strangers help each other cross the busy city streets. My cohort members and I walk hand-in-hand as we journey through our year of service together. I feel it each time I am offered food to try or taught a new Khmer word. I experienced it each day during a week-long holiday, Khmer New Year, when a friend invited me to travel with her family. Accompaniment finds us in the smallest of things. May we continue to find it too, as we learn, love and grow together.

As you know, ELCA World Hunger is preparing to release a short documentary about intersectional justice called Intersections: Justice Ministry with ELCA Partners that, in part, features LHCO’s ministry. You had a large role in bringing that film to audiences in the ELCA network. Could you tell us what your part in the project was?

I worked alongside Mr. Yu, who specializes in IT and communications at LHCO. Prior to filming, I assisted Mr. Yu in creating questions for each interview. We then traveled to two sites in one of the provinces where LHCO has an office. At each site Mr. Yu filmed drone footage, while I captured footage on my camera. During each interview, I listened and watched the camera to make sure the audio and framing stayed consistent, while Mr. Yu asked the questions. Following the filming and interviewing process, Mr. Yu translated the questions and answers from Khmer to English. After Mr. Yu translated the script, I assisted with grammar and spelling corrections. I am honored with the opportunity to share these stories alongside Mr. Yu and I am thankful for how our relationship grew in trust and teamwork.

Finally, to take a phrase from my colleague Regina Banks in the ELCA’s advocacy team (and host of the ELCA Advocacy podcast, “Here I Pod”), where have you seen the Gospel lately?

During my time with LHCO, I have assisted with a new project – Fullness of Life for Children and Youth of the City (FLUCY). As I near the end of my YAGM year, and my time with LHCO, I recently attended the last two FLUCY events before I leave. The youth know little English, and I know little Khmer. This limits our conversations, but, this is how I have learned that connection overrides any language barrier. Through these youth I have learned that one does not need language to communicate. It is a beautiful thing really – to feel so much love and joy from people who you have not had a full conversation with.

I see the Gospel through these youth. I feel it in our interactions during games, when we share meals, or simply take photos. I see the Gospel through their leaders, teachers and guardians. One of the main activities each youth group coordinates is a service project in their own communities. They are constantly learning through FLUCY and then choose to share what they are learning. The youth share their love, care and joy with me, and those around them.

Thank you, again, for your ministry, Ashlyn. It has been a pleasure to learn from you and to celebrate the ministry of LHCO through “Intersections.”

About the Author

Ashlyn Rhyne served as a Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) volunteer in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, volunteering with Lutheran Hope Cambodia Organization (LHCO). She grew up in Lincolnton, NC and graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill in May of 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in media and journalism. Following YAGM, she plans to serve as a short-term recruiter for the program.

Issue 101 of Administration Matters

Living Lutheran is back in print!

Guidance on Updated DHS Federal Nonprofit Grant Program Terms & Conditions

Portico announces 2026 benefit changes and new health options

Webinar: “Creating Accessible Spaces on a Budget” Monday, Nov. 17, 7-8 p.m. Central time

A guide to cybersecurity best practices for digital giving

Meetings make a difference

“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 an end to war and conflict, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine…
For peaceful resolution following protests in Kathmandu, Nepal…
For all victims of gun violence, especially in Orem, Utah and Evergreen, Colorado…
For victims of racism, racial profiling, and race-based violence…
For farmers and for all individuals and businesses navigating financial insecurity…
For colleges, universities, and all educational institutions…
For first responders, emergency personnel, and all who risk their lives in service of others…

Events and observances:
September Observances: National Literacy Month, Suicide Prevention Month, Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept 15 to Oct 15)

Patriot Day (Sept 11)
John Chrysostom, Bishop of Constantinople, died 407 (Sept 13)
Holy Cross Day (Sept 14)
Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, martyr, died around 258 (Sept 16)
Hildegard, Abbess of Bingen, died 1179 (Sept 17)
Dag Hammarskjöld, renewer of society, died 1961 (Sept 18)

Prayers from ELCA resources:
A prayer for emergency workers (ELW p.85)
God of earth and air, water and fire, height and depth, we pray for those who work in danger, who rush in to bring hope and help and comfort when others flee to safety, whose mission is to seek and save, serve and protect, and whose presence embodies the protection of the Good Shepherd. Give them caution and concern for one another, so that in safety they may do what must be done, under your watchful eye. Support them in their courage and dedication that they may continue to save lives, ease pain, and mend the torn fabric of lives and social order; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

A prayer in time of conflict, crisis, disaster (ACS p.49)
God, our healer and refuge, we pray for all who suffer from gun violence. With your mercy, bind up their wounds, restore their bodies, and heal their hearts. Comfort the mourners and embrace the lonely. With your might, empower us to change this broken world. Make us advocates for a stable society, alive with hope in you. We ask this through the one once wounded for our transgressions and now standing with us in our sorrows, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Worship Resources in Remembrance of 9/11 DOCX | PDF
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The following topical resources are available from resources.elca.org for use in public worship and personal devotion:
Worship resources and prayers in response to wildfires
Worship resources for the crisis in the Holy Land
Worship resources for the Eastern Europe Crisis
Worship resources for and following national elections

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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.

Each month ELCA Worship highlights resources and events from other organizations and institutions. These Lutheran and ecumenical partner organizations work alongside the ELCA to support worship leaders, worship planners, musicians, and all who care about the worship of the church. ELCA Worship also features resources from Augsburg Fortress Publishers in a monthly blog post.

Association of Lutheran Church Musicians

ALCM nurtures and equips musicians to serve and lead the church’s song.

Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival

Transforming and connecting lives through faith and music since 1981.

New FREE Arrangement from Lutheran Summer Music by Anne Krentz Organ

Download a new free arrangement from Lutheran Summer Music 2025 by Anne Krentz Organ: Beach Spring for solo instrument with keyboard accompaniment. Based on the well-known shape-note hymn tune, this versatile work is this year’s installment in the LSM Hymn Tune Project and can be performed either in full or as individual movements. Listen and download for free at LSMacademy.org/lsmpress.

Vi Messerli Memorial Lectures in Church Music

For All the Saints
October 19-21
Concordia University Chicago
River Forest, Illinois

Join us for another exciting year of celebrating the Church’s song at the Vi Messerli Memorial Lectures in Church Music. This year’s presenters include: John D. Witvliet, founding director of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI, and currently professor of theology and worship at Belmont University; noted organist and composer John Behnke, a Festival of Hymns by David W. Rogner, presented by Concordia-Chicago’s Kapelle, and the choirs of Grace Lutheran Church and First Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church, and organist and composer Brenda Portman.  Register today for this and much more!

Music that Makes Community

Rooted in Christian contemplative and activist traditions, Music That Makes Community envisions a liberative culture that empowers individuals and communities to claim and use the power of singing to heal our spirits, nurture our common lives, and work for justice.

Introductory Spaces – Meet Music that Makes Community at these events and conferences.

• CMP Converging 2025 in Columbus, Ohio, October 16-18.

Training Events — Join us at the following events for continuing education, community building, professional development, and celebrating this practice of paperless communal song-sharing.

• October 3-5: Workshop in Madison, Wisconsin
• October 12: Three-day Retreat in Albuquerque, N.M.
• November 7-9: Workshop in Waco, Texas
• February 6-8, 2026: Two-Day Retreat in Raleigh, N.C.
  Details and more in-person events are being planned. Please stay tuned!

Resources – Read the MMC blog for articles on a variety of topics.  The latest presents Songs for Justice.

Job Postings on Music That Makes Community website.

Sign up for Monthly Newsletter for regular updates on resources and events.  Read recent issues here.

Journey to Baptismal Living: North American Associate for the Catechumenate

An ecumenical Christian community seeking to support seekers, whether baptized or not, and those who accompany them on their journey of faith through the catechumenal process.

You are invited to visit the re-designed website to learn more about who we are and how to can assist you with resources, training, and other information about how we may work with you to connect through your commitment to the movement of faith through the sacrament of baptismal living as disciples of Christ.