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November 3, 2024–Do This to Remember

Warm-up Question

  • What are some of the easiest things for you to remember? This might be something like information on a certain school subject, pop culture trivia, or peoples’ names.
    • Why do you think you remember these things so easily?

Practicing Remembering

There’s a glut of information online about memory improvement. Some articles, like this one, detail the value of certain games to increase your brain’s health. At other times, phone applications promise a boost in your capacity to remember information. Websites like Quizlet offer resources to reinforce data memorization for school or work.  Everyone, it seems, knows that memory is important and that it’s not always easy to remember everything we want to remember, even the things most important to us.

Discussion Questions

  • What are some practices or tricks you use to help you remember things?

All Saints Sunday

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year A at Lectionary Readings.)

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Reflection on the Gospel

Memory isn’t just important for school quizzes or group trivia nights. Memory is essential for faith. On the Festival of All Saints, we remember the saints who’ve passed on from life to death and again into new life with Christ.

Like Jesus, who wept at Lazarus’ death, we too grieve the loss of our loved ones who’ve died before us. Memory like this brings emotions that are sometimes difficult to carry. It’s also true that memory brings hope. People often tells stories of a lost loved one in ways that inspire smiles, spark laughter, and even foster hope.

On his own way to death, Jesus told his disciples to practice Holy Communion as a way of remembering him. Though not many people laugh at the communion rail, many will smile as they receive this gift of life in their palms. Hope glistens in many eyes as they taste God’s embodied goodness in the simple elements of bread and wine.

When we remember the saints who’ve died before us, it’s normal to have the combination of grief and hope, of sadness and smiles. After all, unlike Lazarus’s sisters, we haven’t yet experienced the resurrection of our loved ones. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen. It simply means that, until then, we have a memory trick of sorts: ritual. Communion is a ritual to remember Jesus. All Saints is a ritual to remember our loved ones. In these rituals of memory, we hold close not only the hope of our own resurrection, but the hope of resurrection of all those we remember in the love and light of Christ.

Discussion Questions

  • Who are the saints that you remember today? Share a story about how they made a difference in your life.

Activity Suggestions

  • Carry on the memory tradition after Sunday’s worship concludes. Set aside time for journaling or group conversations to remember loved ones who’ve died. Describe the ways their memory makes you feel and what you hope for in our reunion with God.
  • Many struggle with loss around the holidays. Take time to make a collage of saints who’ve died in your community and place it in a public place. Share brief quotes or anecdotes that highlight the role each person played in your lives.

Closing Prayer

God of our Ancestors, we remember before you all the people who we love that have died. Please hold them, and us, in your care. Encourage us to hope in your resurrection promise, and until then, help us to recall the ways their lives inspire our faith in you, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord: Amen.

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Election Engagement Updates

 The image is a graphic designed to promote civic engagement during an election year. The background is divided into four quadrants with different colors: blue, light blue, red, and peach. In the top left quadrant, there is a blue megaphone with a red circle behind it. The top right quadrant features the word "Advocacy" under a white globe symbol divided into segments. The bottom left quadrant contains an illustration of a hand casting a ballot into a blue ballot box labeled "VOTE." In the bottom right quadrant, there is an illustration of four diverse individuals holding a banner with the hashtag "#ELCAelectionactivators." One of the individuals is depicted in a wheelchair. The text "CIVIC ENGAGEMENT in an ELECTION YEAR" is at the top of the image, and the central portion contains the bold text "ELECTION ENGAGEMENT UPDATES." The bottom right corner lists the following URLs: "ELCA.ORG/CIVICENGAGEMENT" and "ELCA.ORG/VOTES."

CONTENT UPDATED: October 29, 2024

Even as National Election Day on Nov. 5, 2024, approaches and beyond, our congregations, synods, rostered leaders, ELCA-affiliated state public policy offices and members are guided by faith to acts of non-partisan civic engagement. Thank you for sharing your local activity in previous months with others through this ELCA Advocacy Blog post.

There are still new things to highlight and refresh.

RESOURCE HIGHLIGHTS | HEIGHTENED CONCERNS | FAITHFUL INSISTENCE | ACTIVATORS

 

RESOURCE HIGHLIGHTS

📌 “Sacred Crossroads: The Intersection of Faith and Immigration in the 2024 Election” was made available by ELCA AMMPARO in October 2024. Use this nonpartisan resource to explore key facts about immigration (one of the most important issues informing the upcoming U.S. national election) and reflect on how Christian values compel us to pursue justice, help the oppressed, promote human dignity and human flourishing, and pray for a government that serves all neighbors.

📌 The ELCA maintains a new resource page at ELCA.org/civicengagement, “Faith in Action: Our Call to Civic Engagement During the 2024 Election,” which includes videos from the Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, ELCA presiding bishop; Living Lutheran articles; ELCA advocacy resources and more.

📌 “Guía de compromiso cívico de la ELCA” is available – the “ELCA Civic Engagement Guide” in Spanish.

 

HEIGHTENED CONCERNS

In the closing days of the election season through the presidential inauguration, anxiety surfaces frequently around possible reactions to the presidential election outcome. As spoken in the video ELCA Advocacy: Set free to do justice, “Our commitment to every human being and [creation] that Jesus cared about doesn’t sway with one election or another. Those values remain constant.” Yet facing concerns may be happening in your locality.

📌 The Episcopal Church has prepared an Addressing Political Violence” page, which encourages: “we can prepare by being familiar with the threats of political violence, practicing de-escalation in tense moments, and having a response ready to share with your community if political violence continues.”

📌 An “Elections Dashboard” is maintained by the organization National Task Force on Election Crises which compiles election-related developments. Clicking on your state or searching other keywords can be a helpful, sourced current information.

📌 LifeAfterHate.org offers resources affiliated with envisioning a safer society in which compassion and accountability enable change.

📌 In multiple languages, Election Protection hotlines are staffed through the national, nonpartisan Election Protection coalition information and assistance at all stages of voting – from registration to absentee and early voting, to casting a vote at the polls, to overcoming obstacles to their participation.

 

FAITHFUL INSISTENCE

📌 “Worship Resources for a National Election” includes new elements from ELCA Worship.Image of the U.S. Capitol with a prayer overlay and "PRAYER FOR ELECTION DAY" banner on the left.

📌 Ideas as we come together in prayer are available from many sources, including “Election Season Prayers” from the Kansas Interfaith Action in the ELCA-affiliated state public policy office network.

📌 With proximity to the Capitol in Washington, D.C. and a faithful focus, the ELCA Metro D.C. Synod held a Pre-election Prayer Service at Lutheran Church of the Reformation. Many ELCA congregations are hosting vigils and similar reflection times.

📌 Commitment to see one another as neighbors include member or faith community initiatives like Love Anyway Feasts and stepping forward with aims at “Addressing Polarization and Building Cohesion in Your Community” like those described in the blog post among others.

 

ACTIVATORS

Thank you to the nearly 300 of us who were part of the ELCA Election Activator Network, including many who participated in support and resourcing non-partisan civic engagement as people of faith. As Activators, you have made a difference in your localities and inspired others – and will continue to do so.

🔎 Some of the resource which had previously been referenced include the “Resources & Reflections” below.

 


RESOURCES & REFLECTIONS

Creating Space for Conversations: Resources and Inspirations for Reaching Common Ground – ELCA Grand Canyon Synod (shared 5/21/24)

🔎In response to the turbulent times we face and the heartbreaking events that have transpired recently, we are creating this special section on our site devoted to promoting understanding, dialogue, and unit. Whether you are seeking guidance on how to approach sensitive topics, or looking for ways to connect with others across divides, this page will be your go-to source.

Fair Wisconsin Maps – Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (recorded 4/6/24)

🔎 What the heck just happened with Wisconsin maps? was among questions posed in this “Wednesday Noon Live” interview in a state with maps WUWM reported were “recognized as among the most gerrymandered in the country.”

 This image shows a person with shoulder-length brown hair wearing glasses, standing outside the South Phoenix Baptist Church. The individual is smiling slightly and wearing a black shirt adorned with several pins related to voting. One visible pin reads "ALL POWER TO ALL VOTERS". The church building features white textured walls, and there is a set of brown double doors behind the person with a "VOTE" sign taped to it. To the right, there is an electronic sign for the church displaying the name "South Phoenix Baptist Church" and the phrase "Welcome". A red horizontal banner overlay at the bottom of the image has white text that reads, "from 'Solveig's Day as a Poll Monitor' RESOURCES & REFLECTIONS".Solveig’s Day as a Poll Monitor – Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona – authored by Solveig Muus, director (originally posted 3/19/24)

🔎 “I was to observe whether the polls opened on time, whether there was adequate parking, adequate signage, easy access for voters with disabilities, ensure voters people are receiving provisional ballots if indicated, ensure any activists stayed outside the 75-foot perimeter, answer questions, etc. I received another quizzical look…”

Autumn’s Day as a Greeter – Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona – authored by Autumn Byars, ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow (originally posted 3/19/24)

🔎“My job today was not to proselytize or advertise our services, but by volunteering at our welcome cart and offering refreshments to all our voters, I had the privilege of representing our congregation to the outside world— which is always a good opportunity.”

In a pivotal state, ways to serve our neighbor in an election year – Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (originally posted 2/29/24)

🔎Facing “overwhelmed or inexperienced county elections officials” in the state, through love of neighbors we can “step up… We encourage anyone of good will, but especially our eligible teens and young adults, to get trained and serve as official poll workers on Election Day.” Offering our facilities as polling sites if needed in its neighborhood also “can be a big service to our communities.”

 

 


BLOG PAGE LAUNCH DATE: Mar. 15, 2024

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October Updates – U.N. and State Edition

Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices (sppos) in the ELCA Advocacy Network this month. Full list and map of sppos available.

UN | ARIZONA | COLORADO |MINNESOTA | OHIO | PENNSYLVANIA | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WISCONSIN


Lutheran Office for World Community, United Nations, New York, N.Y. – ELCA.org/lowc
Christine Mangale, Director

Summit of the Future/Pact for the Future: Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC) was a strong presence at the Summit of the Future, which occurred in September, where a Pact for the Future was produced. The Pact for the Future outlines a roadmap for global collaboration in six key areas: Global Governance and Multilateralism Reform, Climate Action and Sustainability, Digital Governance and Innovation, Peace and Security, Equity and Social Justice, Financing for Development. LOWC hosted from the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) the General Secretary Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt, Head of Advocacy Isaiah Toroitich, and Head of Communications Arni Danielsson, as well as from the ELCA the Executive for the Service and Justice Home Area Rev. Khader El-Yateem, Senior Director of Witness in Society Rev. Amy Reumann and a representative from the ELCA office of the Presiding Bishop Kristen Opalinski.

LOWC, LWF and other ELCA staff were well-represented at several events, including “Interfaith Youth Responses to the Century’s Biggest Challenges: Faith Based Contributions to the Summit of the Future” (Lutheran Delegate Speaker: Rev Amy Reumann), “Migration for the Future” ( Lutheran Delegate Speaker: Rev. Khader El-Yateem), ”Toward Transformative Peace: A Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Transformative Peace” (Lutheran Delegate Speakers: Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt & Rev. Khader El-Yateem), as well as Jazz Vespers and more.

The ELCA has invested heavily in both programs and advocacy that work towards common aims that we share with the Pact. Faith based organizations, including the LWF and ELCA, have a critical role to play in this work, not the least of which is to inspire hope for a more dignified and right’s-based future. The Pact of the Future is a politically binding (non-legally binding) agreement. This means that it will take civil society, including LWF and ELCA, to hold states accountable to their commitments.

 

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona – lamaz.org
Solveig Muus, Director

Voter Engagement: As part of our congregational engagement work around voting, we’re promoting voter registration and tracking, election monitoring, early voting, and plenty of prayer. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) developed a Voter Guide to help faithful voters as they consider Arizona’s 13 ballot propositions.

In addition, LAMA produced a series of video clips featuring people of faith expressing their feelings about the upcoming election. Filmed at the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans, these 90-second clips can be an excellent resource for congregations. For easy sharing in your own social media channels, you can find them on LAMA’s Facebook page or YouTube.

Video #1: Does your faith influence your political opinion?
• Taina Diaz-Reyes, Savannah Jorgensen, Dcn. Becca and Addison Graf.

Video #2: Is voting important to you?
• Rep. Lindsay James (D-Iowa), Pastor Khader El-Yateem, Rev. Ismael Calderón and Whitney Apel.

Video #3: How can people with differing opinions work together during election season?
• Silas Kulkarni, Giovana Oaxaca and Frances J. Dobbs.

Video #4: What is your advice for someone who is on the fence about voting?
• Rev. Evie Landrau, Rev. Amy Reumann and Cathy Jacobs.

Video #5: Why should Lutherans vote?
• Will Milner, Zaya Gilmer and Bishop Elizabeth Eaton

Video #6: Do you think you would vote differently if you weren’t a person of faith?
• Caroline Graff, Ethan Roberts and Autumn Byars.

Video #7: What are your hopes post-election?
• Kayla Zopfi, Maya Goehner, Alexandra Murcia and Samantha Boyer.

 

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Colorado – lam-co.org 
Peter Severson, Director

LAM-CO VOTER GUIDE RELEASED: Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Colorado (LAM-CO) has released our 2024 Voter Guide. This year, Coloradans have fourteen ballot measures to consider on their statewide ballot. That’s not even including any local measures! It’s a lot to take in, but our Voter Guide is here to help. We’ve distilled all the measures into an easy at-a-glance table, with brief analysis and summaries of everything you’ll see.

We also have taken positions on four of these ballot measures:

NO on Prop 128, Parole Eligibility: This measure extends the length of time people must be incarcerated before being eligible for parole while removing incentives like earned time for good behavior. It’s overly punitive, expensive, and offers no net public safety benefit.

YES on Prop JJ, Retain Sports Betting Revenue: Colorado should be able to keep the revenue it’s collected from sports betting to support water infrastructure and projects. If this measure fails, “excess” tax revenue will be refunded to casinos.

YES on Amendment I, Bail Exemption: For public safety and with care and consideration for victim families, we should restore the bail exemption for persons arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder with evident proof and/or a greater degree of presumption.

YES on Amendment J, Remove Ban on Same-Sex Marriage: Same-sex marriage became legal de facto in Colorado in 2014, and this would remove old constitutional language. The ELCA’s social statement Human Sexuality uplifts marriage as the highest context for trust and mutuality in human relationships, and nearly 15,000 married same-sex couples now reside in Colorado.

 

Lutheran Advocacy – Minnesota – lutheranadvocacymn.org
Tammy K. Walhof, Director

Person with glasses smiling in front of a plant indoors.

Jacob Summerville, Lutheran Advocacy Minnesota Hunger Advocacy Fellow

Hunger Advocacy Fellow: Lutheran Advocacy-MN (LA-MN) welcomed Jake Summerville in September. He is already a very valuable part of the LA-MN team, creating election materials (see below) and providing leadership in recruitment of Poll Workers. Jake comes to LA-MN with several years’ experience in youth ministry, a seminary degree (plans to be ordained as Deacon), and a background in communications.

Election Materials & Recruitment: LA-MN created election resources in the form of fliers/posters, postcards, and stickers for synods and congregations to use (available here). LA-MN also sent poll worker recruitment information to 169 churches in Greater Minnesota, and many more in the two Metro Area synods.

Graceful Conversations: A 1.5 hour workshop Tammy developed almost 10 years ago has been turned into a 5 session workshop series with videos, worksheets, and facilitator guide with the help of Rev. Emily Meyer (Director, Ministry Lab). Instead of teaching how to be and act, it now helps develop skills to make Graceful Conversation and Action part of our core being. This series doesn’t negate the value of other trainings (Braver Angels) but uses a faith lens and is meant to have a shelf life far beyond our current contentious election cycle. (Available here).

Out & About: In addition to finishing Graceful Conversations and welcoming Jake, Tammy attended a screening of the Plastic People documentary, participated in a Synod Theological Event (short presentation & display), and played a key role in a synod/region event celebrating the 50th Anniversary of ELCA World Hunger (Poverty Simulation, 2 workshops, & display).

 

Hunger Network in Ohio – hungernetohio.com
Deacon Nick Bates, Director

To End Hunger in Ohio, We Must End Gerrymandering:
The Hunger Network continues to talk with community groups and congregations on the importance of a YES VOTE on State Issue 1. State issue 1 will create a 15 member citizens commission – 5 democrats, 5 republicans, and 5 independents – to oversee the drawing of legislative maps. Sadly, our current process is marred and bi-partisan courts have declared our current maps are unconstitutional multiple times. The new process will create a way to avoid conflict of interest that hurts our democracy. When elected officials are accountable to the public, we can guide them towards prioritizing their communities and not special interests.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Annual Celebration: Nov. 10 3:30 All Saints Lutheran Church
Advocacy in Advent: Dec. 10 at the Ohio Statehouse

 

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry – Pennsylvania – lutheranadvocacypa.org 
Tracey DePasquale, Director

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) continued equipping disciples for peacebuilding and faithful civic engagement in September-October. Working with Common Ground – USA, LAMPa offered webinars on digital peacebuilding, active listening , difficult conversations and managing conflict. Find recordings and links to resources. LAMPa activated our election support network to share accurate information, respond to needs of elections officials, and prepare to defend vulnerable communities or address attempts to undermine elections. Nearly 350 people received daily devotions through LAMPa’s 40-day Reflections Before an Election.

Speaker in front of a screen displaying "LOVE REVOLUTION" event details with a QR code.

Launch of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod’s (SEPA) Love Revolution initiative

LAMPa Director Tracey DePasquale joined Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Synod in the launch of their Love Revolution initiative. We look forward to accompanying congregations as they live into God’s call to love our neighbors.

The Rev. Erin Jones, LAMPa Communications and Advocacy Engagement Manager, attended the annual In God’s Image gathering in Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, helping to lead an advocacy workshop there and sharing LAMPa’s legislative efforts to advance equality and oppose discrimination and hate.

LAMPa was thrilled to announce recipients of the Isaiah 58:12 fellowship, supported by the inaugural Jackie Maddox Racial Justice Grant, as they began a year of transformative learning in their communities.

In the final weeks of the legislative session, LAMPa advocates pressed their senators to protect health care in Pennsylvania by strengthening reviews of proposed hospital and health system mergers.

DePasquale joined the task force working on the new social statement on civic life and faith in Chicago as they reviewed feedback on the draft statement.

 

Texas Impact – texasimpact.org 
Scott Atnip, Director of Public Witness

The Texas Impact Board of Directors recently released their biennial legislative agenda, entitled “Free, Safe, and Flourishing: A Faithful Agenda for Texas.”

Texas Impact is coordinating a Houston Faith Votes cohort to engage in civic engagement work to demonstrate the impact congregations can have in engaging voters. The fifteen congregations are joining with many other congregations using Texas Faith Votes resources.

Congregations are participating in the Vidas Robadas (Stolen Lives) displays, displaying the names of victims of gun violence on t-shirts.

An increasing number of congregations are signing up to participate in Texas Impact’s Courts and Ports program, traveling to the Texas-Mexico Border to experience public policy issues being lived out on the border.

Finally, the Weekly Witness podcast continues, and we were fortunate to have Robert Rivera, Vice President of the Synod Council of the Gulf Coast Synod, join the program to discuss immigration issues.

 

Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy – virginiainterfaithcenter.org
Kim Bobo, Co-Executive Director

October has been an especially busy month for the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy. The organization finished the last of five regional celebrations that honored legislators, volunteers, and congregations. It hosted three Faith and Housing workshops around the state helping congregations learn how they might use their buildings or land for affordable housing. The organization also held its first Interfaith Souls to the Polls event encouraging congregations to caravan to Sunday polling locations for early voting. Registration opened for the organization’s annual lobby day, which will be Jan. 15, 2025 in Richmond. Register here: https://virginiainterfaithcenter.org/day-for-all-people-2025/

 

Lutheran Office for Public Policy – Wisconsin – loppw.org
Rev. Cindy Crane, Director

Wednesday Noon Live: We had two interviews on the first Wednesday of October rather than our usual single interview for Wednesday Noon Live, because of the significance of the upcoming election.

Woman with glasses speaking against a purple "LWV"-patterned background.

 

We need poll workers! Hear from Delaney Zimmer, Voter Services Coordinator at the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin.

Screenshot of a virtual meeting with three people in separate frames.

 

Watch for misinformation (intentional and unintentional), know where to check out the facts about the voting process. In addition, learn about important details about absentee ballots. Hear from Riley Vetterkind, Public Information Officer at the Wisconsin Elections Commission.

Collage of four images featuring display boards with papers, a church interior, and people interacting with the boards.

 

Congratulations to the La Crosse Area Synod on their ComFest for confirmation students! There were meaningful speakers and a lot of activities. Many took the advocacy quiz and posted their advocacy interests at the Lutheran Office for Public Policy – Wisconsin (LOPPW) table.

 

 

 

Additional Activities Engaging with the Church: Between mid-September and mid-October, LOPPW’s director also led three workshops on Dietrich Bonhoeffer and his context, one workshop on human trafficking, one workshop on advocacy, and one on the draft social statement on Civic Life and Faith. We also broadly advertised the showing of the film, “Bad Faith” about Christian Nationalism, which was attended by several ELCA members beyond and around the state.

LOPPW hosted the Raise the Age Coalition (returning 17-year-old youth to the juvenile justice system) annual strategy planning meeting in October. We will regroup after the elections as well as meet with the entire coalition soon.

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Hunger Advocacy Fellows Serving with ELCA Witness in Society

By Joey Chin, ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow 

ELCA Witness in Society is excited to introduce the six members of the 2024-2025 Hunger Advocacy Fellows cohort. The year-long fellowship integrates professional development with faith formation and offers fellows the unique opportunity to address issues at the state and national level. Engaging in the work of advocacy remains integral to the life of faith and essential to our present witness. We look forward to the work ahead as we participate in the development of a more just world.


 

Smiling person with dark hair and a white lace top in front of a tree.Emily Ahren (D.C. Policy)

Emily Ahern (she/her) is originally from Allentown, Pennsylvania, and a lifelong member of congregations of the ELCA. She graduated from American University this past spring with a degree in Political Science, and is on track to graduate (once again) from American University this upcoming spring with a Master’s in Public Administration. Ahern is so excited to join ELCA Advocacy so that she can research and lobby for policy which will alleviate the effects of hunger and poverty for all Americans! In her free time, she can be found collecting vinyl, going to concerts, and watching Star Wars.

 

Portrait of a person smiling in front of a stone wall with a purple name tag overlay.Erin Brown (New York – LOWC)

Erin Brown (she/her/ella) is a deacon consecrated by the Lutheran Diaconal Association. She is passionate about multicultural exchange, language, and the power of storytelling. Before joining the Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC), Brown worked at Saint Peter’s Church in Manhattan as a fellow in cross-cultural ministry. Previously, Brown taught English to university students in Colombia and to Haitian adults seeking refuge in the greater Boston area. Prior to this, she lived in Costa Rica, completing her diaconal internship with a focus on refugee rights. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish & Global Service from Valparaiso University and a Master of Arts in Latin American & Caribbean Studies from Indiana University. In her free time, Brown enjoys spending her time outdoors hiking and exploring creation. She’s thrilled to continue her work with the LOWC team this year and continue to engage in international advocacy.

 

Joey Chin (D.C. Communications)A smiling man stands on a brick pathway with a historic building in the background.

Joey Chin (he/him) grew up in the greater Seattle area and earned degrees from The University of Washington in communication and political science. After graduating, he spent one year as an editorial fellow with Sojourners magazine followed by three years working as an elementary public school teacher in Redmond, Washington. Most recently Chin began a Master of Divinity degree at Wesley Theological Seminary. He is looking forward to joining ELCA Advocacy and being a part of all the important work being done. Chin enjoys books, movies, and podcasts and always appreciates any recommendations for new things to read, watch, or listen to.

 

Portrait of a smiling person with brown hair and a purple text banner.Courtney Hall (California)

Courtney Hall (she/her) is the Hunger Advocacy Fellow with the Lutheran Office for Public Policy in California. She graduated from Clemson University with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a double minor in Political Science and Religious Studies in May 2024. Her undergraduate pursuits were driven by her desire to understand the complex relationship between religion and politics in the United States. Additionally, while at Clemson, she was an undergraduate research assistant for the Chair of the Political Science Department, completing research for his book Dysfunctional Diplomacy: The Politics of International Agreements in an Era of Partisan Polarization. She also worked for Clemson University’s Athletic Academic Services as a tutor for student-athletes in history, political science, and English composition and rhetoric. She was born and raised in Long Beach, California and looks forward to being a faithful advocate and bettering the community that she loves.

 

Sagi Rudnick (Kansas)

Sagi Rudnick (he/him) is a political organizer, strategist, and activist with over half a decade of experience fostering community in Kansas and Missouri. During this time, with over a dozen campaigns and organizations, he has worked with diverse stakeholders and coalitions to achieve results for the community. These results include successfully lobbying for hundreds of millions in public dollars for public universities and working with faith communities and organized labor to raise the minimum wage and enact paid sick leave. Rudnick graduated from the University of Missouri – Kansas City in 2023 with bachelor’s degrees in political science and professional communications, and a minor in International Studies. Raised in the Jewish faith, Rudnick believes simultaneously that the whole community is greater than the sum total of its individuals, and that every person is a whole world unto themselves. He is excited to promote justice in partnership with Kansas Interfaith Action (KIFA) and the ELCA! Rudnick lives in Kansas City, Missouri with his fiancée, Caitlin, and their four cats and two dogs.

 

Portrait of a smiling person with glasses and a beard against a background of leafy plants.Jake Summerville (Minnesota)

Jake Summerville (he/him) is the newest addition to the Lutheran Advocacy – Minnesota team as our Hunger Advocacy Fellow! Born and raised in the ELCA with a professional background in youth ministry and direct service work, Summerville is excited to hit the ground running. He has just finished up at Luther Seminary and has been approved for ordination as a deacon in the ELCA, so this will be the first step of many on his journey. Ask him about his fiancé, his cat, the outdoors, or Dungeons and Dragons!

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October 27, 2024–Justification by Grace through Faith!

Chris Heavner, Clemson, SC

Warm-up Question

  • At what point did you realize that this week is Reformation Sunday?
    • Have you been planning for weeks?
      • Did you make sure your red clothing was washed and ready?
    • Is this devotion your first reminder?

Reformation? Renewal? Realignment? Reformatting?

“Reformation” is one of those words which can refer to a general reforming of “an institution or practice,” or it can refer to the events which began in Wittenberg, Germany in the 16th century.  Which reference is best known in your community?

I had opportunity to be in Wittenberg, Germany on Reformation Day in 2022.  There was a huge street festival filling and spilling over from the massive town square. There, statues of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon serve as reminders of the significance of the events which happened there in 1517.  Among the revelers, few seemed concerned with the 16th century “Reformation” which catapulted this village onto the world stage.  The festival was lots of fun but did little to call to mind the roots of our “justification by grace through faith” Reformation mantra. I was in Wittenberg to lead worship in the Chapel next to the congregation where Martin Luther served as preacher. Our service that day had a few more attendees than normal, but not the crowds who were working their way through the booths on the square.

I was back in Germany this September. This time, there were no street festivals. There were no crowds elbowing their way to the front. A small congregation assembled for a baptism.  Henry is the four-year old child of a young woman we came to know through Lutheran Student Movement-USA and the World Student Christian Federation. A decade earlier, she had an internship through the Evangelical German Church (EDK) which brought her to the U.S. and to the ELCA to learn how we go about youth and young adult ministry.  Henry’s baptism was a profound reminder that The Reformation (the one that traces its root to 16th century Wittenberg) binds followers of Jesus all around the world with an appreciation of what it means to love God, be loved by God, and share the Good News of God.

“Lutherans” in North America trace their roots to numerous countries around the globe.  Among my friends are Lutherans from India, many from Finland, and still others from Tanzania.  Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish hymnals are found in countless number of our ELCA congregations. The only thing special about Germany is being home to the first of the reformers.  It is special to me because I have had so many opportunities to visit. This helps me reflect on what it means to be “Lutheran,” particularly at a time when the Church appears to be in the midst of tremendous change.

As you reflect on what it means to be Lutheran, I would encourage you to remember that Martin Luther was far from a perfect role model.  He did say and write some horrible things about those of Jewish ancestry. Luther admitted this and begged that no one would be known by the name of Luther.  Luther wrote: “There is but one name by which we should be known and that is the name of Christ.”

“Reformation” is not something we decide to do. It comes out of necessity. How might God be calling upon us to reform, reshape, reboot?  “The Reformation” should serve as an encouragement to be ready for the next change into which God is calling the Church.

Discussion Questions

  • What would you like to see “reformed”?
  • What are the leaders of your faith community (think congregation) teaching you?
    • What would you like to hear them talking about?

Reformation Sunday

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year A at Lectionary Readings.)

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Reflection on Romans 3

There are two words in this passage which determine how we will understand the whole passage: “grace” and “faith.” Take a moment to reread verses 22, 24, 26, and 28 in Romans 3.

Let’s start with “faith”.  There are many ways to speak of faith and what it means in the life of one who seeks to follow Jesus.  Is faith (as most of those in my part of the country speak of it) the ability to “believe things others would find unbelievable”?  When understood this way, “faith” becomes cognitive assent to a set of confessions or affirmations.  Others seem to associate faith with seeing the world from a particular perspective (God’s perspective), or with the ability to trust that things work together for good.  None of these are mutually exclusive, but where we start may impact where we end.

One note which might guide our thinking is to see the footnotes associated with the repeated use of the word “faith” in these verses.  In a study bible, the footnote will remind you that the Greek phrase translated “faith in Jesus” could also be translated as the “faith of Jesus.”  How do we read these verses if we were to read, “(God) justifies the one who has the faith of Jesus”?  What was the faith “of” Jesus?  Might the phrase even invite us to consider the faith Jesus has in us?

Seeing faith this way aligns well with Martin Luther’s preferred way of thinking about grace.  In his disputes with the other reformers, Luther refused to accept any pre-conditions for God’s grace being freely bestowed.  This is a prevenient grace; it is the grace that goes before anything else.  It is a grace which acts on us, so that we might respond – perhaps respond by that which is spoken of as “faith.”

One seminary teacher asked us to consider whether we understood “faith” as the capacity to receive God’s grace, or if we thought of ourselves as persons to whom the “grace” had been given so that we might respond in faith.  Put differently, do we craft faith as a vessel into which God can then pour grace?  Or is grace a gift from God which then makes faith possible?

Perhaps your congregation will sing “Amazing Grace” this Sunday.  The first line of the second stanza speaks of grace as prevenient grace: “Twas grace that taught my heart to fear.” Remember that “fear” does not mean being frightened; instead, it is the host of emotions which comes from being welcomed into the presence of God.

There is one more, and absolutely essential, thing to remember. The followers of Martin Luther never insist that we, and we alone, possess all insights or answers. We trust that God has placed on our hearts a particular way of seeing, understanding, and living the Good News. In response, we must share what we have first received. We want everyone to know that God’s grace is much wider than the reach of our institutions, much deeper than our most profound thoughts. God’s grace is what makes it possible for us to join in those joyous celebrations of all the wonders of creation!

Discussion Questions

  • How do you understand the word “faith”?
  • What difference does it make to shift from thinking about “faith in Jesus,” to “faith of Jesus”?
    • What do you think Jesus’ faith was like?
  • What might your Lutheran community share with other faith communities in your area?
  • What does your Lutheran community need to learn from those neighboring faith communities?

Activity Suggestions

  • Take a look at Luther’s Small Catechism. It is printed near the back of the ELW Hymnals. In particular, recall the explanation to the third article of the Apostles’ Creed and the sections regarding Holy Baptism.
  • Gather around the baptismal font. Ask those who do not remember the day of their baptism (most of us were baptized when we were only a few weeks or months old) to speak of how something they don’t remember has changed their lives.
  • On the day of your baptism, who carried you to the font? Share how their actions impacted the life you have gone on to live.

Closing Prayer

Gracious God, you knew me as I was formed in my mother’s womb.  You cared for me as I entered the world and uttered my first cry.  You looked at me with love when I took my first steps.  With the grace which makes all things possible, enable me to respond in a way which shares with others the good news of your salvation.  Take my life and let it be a light in the darkest corners and a beacon to those whom I encounter. Amen.

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October 20, 2024–Serving the Public Good

Warm-up Question

  • What are the qualities you look for in a leader?
    • Why do those attributes matter to you?

Why Did You Get Into This?

Through the United States of America, we are in the midst of election season. From local trustees to state representatives to the President of the United States, many leadership positions will be decided on November 5. If you’re of voting age, make a plan to vote! Even if you’re not, engage in the process. Learn about the candidates and issues at hand. Research deeper than just soundbites and slogans.

One of the questions I always ask of anyone pursuing politics is, “Why did you get into this field?” After all, public office of any sort is a leadership position. The reasons someone wants to lead deserve our attention. One way to know this is to listen to what the candidates have to say about why they’ve chosen to run. We can also learn by discovering what additional benefits–things like money, fame, power, and influence–might come with an election. Any leadership position comes with some benefit, so this question of “why” ultimately looks at how an elected official will use the power that comes with their position.

As people of faith, engaging in the political process is both a privilege and a responsibility. You can learn more about our denomination’s resources for this  through ELCA Votes.

Discussion Questions

  • Have you ever run for an elected position in school? Why or why not?

Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year A at Lectionary Readings.)

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

Today’s Gospel reading follows the trajectory of the last few weeks. Jesus is once again teaching us that God’s approach to authority and value differs from ours. From redefining greatness to valuing those society otherwise downplays, the way of Jesus is just different. Mark 10:45 highlights why this is: Jesus “came not to be served, but to serve.”

Jesus chooses a kind of leadership that serves people’s needs. Rather than expect ancillary benefits, Jesus gives his life for the good of others. Such actions emphasize that Christian leadership prioritizes the public good rather than personal gain. That’s a needed reminder, not only in politics, but in family, in business, in sports, in art, and indeed throughout society.

Leadership matters. Who we follow matters, and why they lead matters, too. As you continue to follow Jesus, consider how following someone willing to serve can inform how you choose leaders in all areas of your life.

Discussion Questions

  • How could you serve others in ways that prioritize public good over personal gain?

Activity Suggestions

  • Invite leaders of different kinds to speak to your church group. Ask them why they chose to pursue that specific sort of leadership. Then ask them to reflect on Jesus’ decision “not to be served, but to serve.”
  • Take time to journal about leaders that you admire. As you list the people, also note what it is that you admire about each particular leader. Then ask yourself whether this person reflects the leadership qualities seen in Jesus.

Closing Prayer

God of All, teach us to embrace your humble style of leadership. When you call us to lead, inspire us to serve the public good rather than seek personal gain. When you call us to follow, encourage us to hold our leaders to the standards you set through Jesus, the one who leads us into abundant life. We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ: Amen.

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Partner Organization Events and Resources

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.


Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival

Transforming and connecting lives through faith and music since 1981.

Youth musicians are invited to Lutheran Summer Music

Enrollment for LSM 2025 is open now! Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) is a faith-based residential music academy for high school students who come together to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build a supportive and fun community. Musical experiences include large ensembles (band, choir, orchestra), chamber music, private lessons, and electives like handbells, jazz, musical theatre, composition, conducting, church music and more. Priority enrollment deadline: December 1. Standard enrollment deadline: March 1. Learn more at LSMacademy.org.

 


Association of Lutheran Church Musicians

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

Where Do We Go from Here is a symposium that will , first, attempt to stimulate conversation about being faithful, creative, and nurturing stewards of the church’s song; and give composers a focused opportunity to explore the changing offerings of music software.

 

 

 

Join us from August 4-8, 2025, in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina for our 2025 national biennial conferenceFor all that is to beThis conference will be an exciting opportunity to gather with friends and colleagues, old and new, who share a passion for leading the church’s song. Attendees will leave feeling both inspired and equipped with knowledge and new ideas.

 

 

 


Institute of Liturgical Studies

An ecumenical conference on liturgical renewal for the church today.

Rites of Passage: Engaging Occasional Practitioners in a Secular Age
Valparaiso, Ind., April 28–30, 2025

The American religious landscape is characterized by declining participation in religious institutions, increasing uncertainty about matters of faith, and a growing population identifying as non-religious. Nevertheless, many people continue to turn to churches at some of the most significant moments in their lives—such as the birth of a child or the loss of a loved one—and many others show up to support them. At last year’s Institute, Rev. Dr. Sarah Kathleen Johnson introduced the idea of occasional religious practice to describe a way of relating to religion that is characterized by participation in religious practices occasionally rather than routinely, most often in connection with certain types of occasions, including holidays, life transitions, and times of crisis. She encouraged us not to rush to judge occasional practitioners’ lack of involvement or to come to hasty conclusions about why they are seeking out these practices but instead to listen to and learn from them.

Most of our planning resources are directed at the Sunday assembly. Yet, baptisms, weddings, and funerals are liturgical events rich in their potential for service and outreach. How might we more fully consider the possibilities of these occasions to be better prepared to serve a decreasingly churched culture?

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay up to date on the 2025 conference.


Music that Makes Community

Music that Makes Community (MMC) practices communal song-sharing that inspires deep spiritual connection, brave shared leadership, and sparks the possibility of transformation in our world.

Music that Makes Community invites you to consider the following events and resources for continuing education, community building, professional development, and celebrating this practice of paperless communal song-sharing.

Communities around the nation gather together to sing and build bridges of connection. Be sure to go to our events pages for information on Workshops and Retreats, Community Events and other gatherings in your area. Join one of these regular groups, if they aree near you or start your own (we can help you with that; just reach out!):

Albuquerque, New Mexico 1st Tuesdays
Brownsburg, Indiana1st Tuesdays
Chicago, Illinois 3rd Wednesdays
Ellensburg, Washington 2nd Thursdays
Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota – varies


The Hymn Society & The Center for Congregational Song

The mission of The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada is to encourage, promote, and enliven congregational singing. The Center for Congregational Song is the resource and programmatic arm of The Hymn Society, connecting resources, leading deep and vital conversations about the church’s song, and collaborating with our partners.

Back in 2020, The Center for Congregational Song hosted a 12-hour broadcast of music and pastoral moments on Election Day in an effort to provide a space for peace in a time of great anxiety. Four years later, the political discourse in the United States is not all that different, and, in some ways, even more charged than it was before. If you find yourself in need of a break from the news, we invite you to recharge by watching our broadcast from four years ago.


Resources from the Center for Church Music

The Center for Church Music is a place where one can tap into an expansive library of resources and perspectives on the music and art of the church, with a focus on a Lutheran context.

“Profiles in American Lutheran Church Music” presents video conversations with prominent church musicians Nancy Raabe (conversation with Barry Bob, 2023) and Paul Westermeyer, (conversation with Carl Schalk, 2013) as well as many other Lutheran Church musicians.


Augsburg Fortress Events and Resources

Augsburg Fortress is the publishing ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

A Watered Garden: Christian Worship and Earth’s Ecology 
A Watered Garden by Benjamin M. Stewart explores the deep ecological connections within our patterns of worship and the inherent wisdom that ties us to creation. From the waters of baptism to the ashes to which we return, our sacraments and natural world are inseparable. Insight, meditation, and conversation around these various roots can lead us to a renewed relationship with an ailing earth.  The Worship Matters Studies Series examines key worship issues through studies by pastors, musicians, and lay people from throughout the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

 

Come, Lord Jesus: Devotions for the Home: Advent/Christmas/Epiphany 
This devotional collection is perfect for little hands to hold and experience through the seasons of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. Readings, meditations, seasonal blessings, mealtime prayers, and songs prepare the home for the celebration of the Savior’s birth. With the introduction of customs from around the world, these activities also invite our curiosity about the lives of the people around us. The varied ideas in Come, Lord Jesus can also support creative worship planning during these seasons.

 

See Me, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship with Congregational Leaders of Color 
In See Me, Believe Me, Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers draws from the wisdom and experience she has gained—and the racism she has endured—as a female, Black, and queer pastor in the ELCA. Through storytelling, biblical reflection, and colleague interviews, Denson-Byers offers an honest and unflinching look at the challenges faced by leaders of color in the predominantly white ELCA. Her insights and concrete suggestions for action illustrate how seeing and believing leaders of color are essential steps in the journey of allyship. Chapters beckon readers to acknowledge ignorance, respect boundaries, join in celebration and lament, offer reparations, and continue doing their own work to dismantle racism and live into the fullness of loving God and neighbor.

 

Good News, Great Joy: Devotions for Advent & Christmas 2024-2025 
This pocket-sized devotional explores, shares, and celebrates the joyous good news by continuing a centuries-old Christian tradition of setting aside time to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth and to anticipate his return. From the first Sunday in Advent through Epiphany, this collection of readings, images, reflections, and “To Ponder” sections can focus us on the messages of the season. Amidst the busy Advent and Christmas seasons, use these devotions as an opening meditation for a church meeting or a gift to treasured groups – especially a handbell choir!

 


 

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October 13, 2024–The Last Shall Be First

Warm-up Question

  • Tell a story about when you were genuinely surprised. Maybe you learned something shocking or experienced a surprise party.
    • How did being surprised impact you?

Left Behind in Paradise

Another hurricane is coming. Even as parts of the country from Florida’s panhandle to the Appalachian mountains try to clean up from Hurricane Helene, younger sibling Hurricane Milton is already threatening life with similar ferocity. Those of us who live further away might think of these vacation destinations as wealth centers. Massive beach houses on the coast to log mansions on the Blue Ridge Parkway are annually rented by many, giving the impression that money is everywhere.

Yet, that’s almost never the case. This article details the lives of those who live and work in Martha’s Vineyard, another holiday havens where many visit without knowing the realities of local life. What some view as a paradise is also a place where some people experience poverty, live without secure housing, and can hardly afford the food or accommodations enjoyed by the seasonal visitors. Too often, locals who are first to serve others vacation needs are also the last to enjoy a respite of their own. Those who make our rejuvenation possible are left behind in the wake of the vacation industry. No one deserves they. The people who help provide relief to others deserve the same helping hand.

Now, as another hurricane threatens many of these destinations once again, those people who have so often been last in normal circumstances are now at an even more urgent risk. While we’ll find out the worst results soon, we can prepare now as people of faith to support communities who deserve to be first in our minds not only when disasters strike, but all the time.

Discussion Questions

  • Does it surprise you that vacation destinations experience poverty? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever felt left behind?
    • What was that like for you?

Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year A at Lectionary Readings.)

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

Each short scene in this Gospel lesson includes a reflection on who is left out. After all, only those with power and value can enter a king’s court. A rich man, used to the ease of life made possible by money, wants to access heaven. Jesus’ metaphor about a camel passing through a needle’s eye expresses the difficulty of entering heaven. Peter, argues that the disciples, who left their families and resources behind, have earned what the rich man had not.

The whole passage hinges not on what humans can do, but on what God does. After all, Peter pipes up only after hearing Jesus say “for mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.” In other words, Peter tries to justify himself and his friends, even after hearing that justification wasn’t even possible.

What Peter doesn’t understand, along with the rest of the disciples, is that they’re no better off than the rich man. Upon his arrest, Peter will eventually deny knowing Jesus and the rest will scatter. Neither the rich man nor Jesus’ friends could ultimately thread the needle of following him on their own power.

But that’s not the end of the story. The story ends with new beginnings. With Jesus making possible what seemed impossible. Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus breaks open the needle’s eye so that elephants and blue whales could pass through. We don’t need to assume, demand, or otherwise perform authority or worth to enter God’s reign. We just need what Jesus has already given us: his very self.

Even more, those who are left behind by the world’s standards no longer need to fear being forgotten on the margins of eternity. The last among us becomes first because, in Christ, there is no ledger of earning our worth. Those of us like the disciples and the rich man will eventually follow once we realize we can’t earn our way into God’s love.

Discussion Questions

  • What does it mean to you that “the last will be first and the first will be last”?
  • What would be the hardest thing for you to give up in order to follow Jesus? Why is that?

Activity Suggestions

  • Plan a fundraiser for those impacted by Helene and Milton to support the work of Lutheran Disaster Response or Lutheran World Relief. Whether a bake sale, Flocking, raking leaves for donations, or another format, do something simple that can quickly deliver resources to those often left last in times of disaster.
  • Play a game of musical chairs, first with the standard practice of having one less chair than number of players and continuing to remove a chair after each round until there is only one winner. Then, without telling the group, start a new round and make sure there are enough seats for everyone. Use that as an example to highlight that everyone can be included and that we can change the ways we act now to include those people who are left last in society.

Closing Prayer

God of All, help us to recognize the value of all people. Empower us to recognize the dignity of those left behind by our society and change our ways to amplify their worth. Remind us that the last in this world are the first in your heart not only during times of natural disaster, but in every day and every way. Amen.

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October 6, 2024–Connecting with Kids

Warm-up Question

  • When is the last time you asked a child their opinion about something related to faith?
    • Is that more or less often than talking to teens or adults about religious perspectives?
    • Why is that?

Kids Talk. Do We Listen? 

If you haven’t yet discovered research from the Springtide Institute, it’s well worth your time. They spend much time researching Gen Alpha (born after 2010 or so), as well as Gen Z (who are now all in high school or older). The research often focuses on issues of mental health and religious belief, among other things. Newsweek summarized a recent study of Gen Alpha 13-year-olds and the findings therein might surprise you.

For instance, many in Gen Alpha saw positive outcomes from our global experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kids are often aware of their own smartphone addictions. Many less united on their response to global climate change and most are still figuring out their political affiliations.

This also indicates that kids are willing to share who they are, what they think, and how they believe. But that begs a question: are adults willing to listen to them? Springtide’s earlier research makes clear that kids with trusted mentors are more likely to have positive mental health and deeper spiritual engagement. No matter their age, it makes a difference whether we take children seriously and welcome their perspectives.

Discussion Questions

  • In what ways does your church empower children to share their perspectives and questions?
    • What kind of changes would you recommend?
  • During your childhood, who was a supportive mentor for you?
    • What made that experience positive?

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year A at Lectionary Readings.)

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

In Mark 10, when children try to get close to Jesus, the disciples “spoke sternly” to the kids. They were rebuked for wanting to connect with Jesus. How absurd! We would never do that, right?

Unfortunately, that’s all too common in communities of faith. How often do newcomers, people with questions about Christianity, experience rejection by insiders? Too often. How often do people young in their faith, with curiosity about Christ, receive harsh correction for their boldness? Too often.

It’s also true that kids still receive this sort of treatment. Under the guise of protection, we sometimes block children’s access to the serious things of faith, like the question of divorce in today’s Gospel. At other times, kids’ questions are ignored because they seem naive or irrelevant to adult conversations. In Jesus’ day, many considered children less valuable than adults, which is still a perspective some carry today.

Both in metaphor and in reality, the church too often puts gates between the young and the Savior.

Jesus’ response is one that applies in all situations: let the children come to me. In other words, whether they’re real children or young in their faith, stop putting unnecessary obstacles between people and God. Jesus wants to connect with kids, not keep his distance. Jesus welcomes what adults consider naive when brought with the sincere faith of a child. Jesus honors what polite society considers irrelevant when arising from the true curiosity of fresh perspective. In short, Jesus doesn’t need protection. Jesus seeks connection. Connection with kids, connection with disciples, connection with all.

Discussion Questions

  • What, do you think, made the disciples try to prevent children from coming to Jesus?
  • If you could ask Jesus anything, what would you ask him?
    • Why is that?

Activity Suggestions

  • Utilize a prayer method, like Praying in Color, to embody a childlike faith in your prayer practices this week. Express yourself to God in ways that lean on the simplicity and boldness so many children display.
  • Intentionally seek out a child younger than you and ask them questions about faith. Then, take time to reflect on how their perspective might shape your own connection to God.
  • Talk with your pastor about how you might amplify the voices of children in worship so that the congregation can learn from the connection that kids have with Christ.

Closing Prayer

Welcoming God, we thank you for welcoming all those who seek you out. Remind us to seek connection with you and to empower others to connect with you, especially the youngest among us. Help us to learn from the perspectives of children and listen to the opinions of those who are new to the faith. Encourage us to remove all barriers that prevent others from connecting with you. We pray this all in the name of Jesus Christ: Amen.

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September Updates – U.N. and State Edition

Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices (sppos) in the ELCA Advocacy Network this month. Full list and map of sppos available.

UN | COLORADO | MINNESOTA | PENNSYLVANIA | WISCONSIN

 

U.N.
Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC), United Nations, New York, N.Y. – ELCA.org/lowc
Christine Mangale, Director

International Tax Cooperation: The United Nations adopted terms of reference on International Tax Cooperation in August, despite opposition by the United States and other developed Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. The terms of reference (ToR) are the ground rules and procedures for all member states to engage in intergovernmental negotiations and the subsequent investments in these processes required to ensure their facilitation. While the European Union opposes these negotiations (along with the OECD) their members abstained rather than vote against, which allowed the ToR to be adopted.

The social statement Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All supports monitoring of taxation policy. It calls for, among other things: corporate governance that is accountable for the effects of a company’s practices on workers, communities, and the environment here and throughout the world; scrutiny of the tax breaks, subsidies, and incentives many companies receive, to assure that they serve the common good; enforcement of laws to prevent the exercise of inordinate market power by large corporations; and appropriate government regulatory reform so that governments can monitor private sector practices more effectively and efficiently in an ever-changing global economy (p. 14).

UN General Assembly Summit of the Future: Lutheran Office for World Community (LOWC) will be hosting a high-level delegation from the LWF and ELCA who will represent LWF at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) and the Summit of the Future. The UNGA opens on Sep. 10, 2024, and will contain the following elements: General Debate, Summit of the Future. Additionally, there will be high-level meetings on sea level rise, elimination of nuclear weapons and antimicrobial resistance.

The UNGA is a critical decision-making body in multilateral policy generation and accountability. The LWF is both a stakeholder in the global response to the existential issues of our time and a watchdog of these policies to hold states accountable to their decisions. The outcomes of the UNGA and the Summit of the Future will be key UN processes that will influence our strategy for advocacy engagement moving forward to 2025 and beyond.

 

Colorado
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Colorado (LAM-CO) – lam-co.org
Peter Severson, Director

Tri-fold pamphlet titled "Colorado Ballot Measures Voter Guide" for Fall 2024 with information on voting faithfully, important dates, resources, and the importance of ballot measures.

2024 Voter Guide

2024 VOTER GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE: Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Colorado (LAM-CO) is proud to once again publish our annual Voter Guide, a resource to walk voters through the myriad ballot measures on which Coloradans will be asked to vote this fall. This year, there will be 14 measures on the ballot, the most since 2008. The measures address everything from criminal justice and abortion to same sex marriage and wildlife management.

LAM-CO has taken a position on four of the ballot measures this year: we recommend voting YES on Amendment I, Amendment J, and Proposition JJ, and we recommend voting NO on Proposition 128. We are formally neutral on the rest of the measures, but check out our Guide for more information and analysis about each one, as well as information about faithful voting in elections.

View our 2024 Voter Guide here. Ballots will be going out to voters in the mail starting Oct. 11. Happy voting!

 

Minnesota
Lutheran Advocacy – Minnesota (LA-MN) – lutheranadvocacymn.org
Tammy Walhof, Director

A rainbow over a landscape with text about "Graceful Conversations."Graceful Conversations: Lutheran Advocacy – Minnesota (LA-MN) and The Ministry Lab (PCUSA & UCC with LA-MN director) have teamed up to share Graceful Conversations: Building Arcs Across Divided Perspectives. It started as a workshop LA-MN Director Tammy Walhof initially created ten years ago (and has continued to improve) to help participants think about how we as Christians should ‘be’ in the world as we attempt to address ever increasing polarization. With the help of Rev. Emily Meyer, an expert on contemplative practices, it has been transformed into a five-part series of learning, reflection, and practice to help participants make Graceful Conversations part of their core being (1-1.5 hour sessions, with 15-20 minutes of video to be paused at various points for discussion). These sessions do not negate the value of Braver Angels workshops or other depolarizations initiatives. Rather, they are geared specifically to churches. Watch for it on our website soon!

Poster for "Walking Together: 50 Years of ELCA World Hunger" event on Oct 12, 2024, in Nisswa, MN. Features event details, activities, and a group photo.Out & About: Walhof has been meeting, presenting, and sharing resources across the state over the last month, including at a statewide EcoFaith Leadership Retreat, the Saint Paul Area Synod’s Creation Care Task Force Retreat, and the Theological Conference of the Northeastern Minnesota Synod. Don’t forget to invite her to your events! She loves these kinds of opportunities, especially now that things are happening in-person again.

Upcoming Event: Walking Together (Lutheran Church of the Cross, Nisswa, Saturday, Oct. 12) – An event to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of ELCA World Hunger has been planned by the Northeastern Minnesota Synod, with LA-MN as co-sponsor. All of Region 3 is invited.

 

Pennsylvania
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry – Pennsylvania (LAMPa) lutheranadvocacypa.org
Tracey DePasquale, Director

A group of people stands on steps with a man in clerical attire speaking at a wooden podium.

Bishop Christopher deForest (center), bishop of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, speaks at the event at the Pennsylvania State Capitol.

On Sept 5. approximately 100 religious leaders of various faith traditions from across the state gathered at the Pennsylvania Capitol to issue a call for peace during this election season. Acknowledging the current climate of political unrest and polarization, they pledged to foster dialogue over division and urged civic leaders to use responsible rhetoric, reject all calls for violence, and inspire hope rather than fear.

In a statement signed by more than 350 religious leaders representing more than 3 million Pennsylvanians, they called on their communities and all Pennsylvanians to prioritize understanding over assumptions and commit to truthfulness, recognizing the real harm caused by misinformation. They called on people of faith across the Commonwealth to commit to courageous peacebuilding and to sign on in support of the statement. Listen to more coverage on public radio!

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) was honored to partner with these leaders and encourages all people of faith in Pennsylvania to add their name and continue the work of building up peace.

LAMPa is offering skills training for peacebuilding throughout September and October and will launch a 40-day devotional for election season on Sept. 27. Sign up here to receive a daily emailed reflection written by Pennsylvania rostered leaders and seminarians.

Oct. 18-19 – Join us virtually or in person at the Gettysburg campus of United Lutheran Seminary for “Hope in a Divided World: Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s This-Worldly Christianity as an Antidote to Christian Nationalism.” Registration is now open.

 

Wisconsin
Lutheran Office for Public Policy – Wisconsin (LOPPW) loppw.org
The Rev. Cindy Crane, Director

 

Wednesday Noon Live

Screenshot of a video conference with three participants labeled Cindy Crane, Andy Twiton, and Blake Chastain (he/him).

Wednesday Noon Live

Podcaster and Author Blake Chastain shares his story about responding to Christian Nationalism and the problems the movement presents. Hear about some of the themes in his book, “Exvangelical and Beyond: How American Christianity Went Radical and the Movement That’s Fighting Back,” coming out later this month.

We have more resources on Christian Nationalism on a new page on our website.

Close-up of a smiling person with blonde hair pulled back, wearing a light-colored scarf and dark top, with an out-of-focus tree trunk and outdoor scenery in the background.

Frances Dobbs

Frances Dobbs Ended her Year as a Hunger Advocacy Fellow. She left behind fruits of her work including a unique immigration resource, Undocumented in Wisconsin 2024, and presentation on hunger in Wisconsin and on Healthy School Meals for All.

Voting

Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (LOPPW) has been reaching out to congregations with information on how adults and youth can find opportunities to be civically engaged on Nov. 5. We are grateful for a grant that our four ELCA state public policy offices received to support this work.

Responding to Two Synod Resolutions

In the spring, LOPPW was included in resolutions from the Greater Milwaukee Synod and East Central Synod of Wisconsin requesting that we support the synods in addressing money in politics. Both resolutions supported Wisconsin United to Amend. In August, the director gathered the key authors of the resolutions from each synod to explore how to work together. She also reached out to La Crosse Area Synod, which passed a similar resolution. With feedback from the meeting, she also met with the director of Wisconsin United to Amend to discuss empowering ELCA members to lead workshops and take other actions.

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