Logout
Thomas Maltman’s latest novel, Ashes to Ashes (Soho Press, 2025), largely takes place against the backdrop of a Lutheran congregation. Maltman—whose spouse, Melissa, is pastor of Servant of Christ Lutheran Church…
Theologian Marvin E. Wickware Jr.’s research addresses the intersections of identity, emotions, politics and theology. But he came to write Loving Through Enmity: Healing the Broken Heart of Christian Antiracist…
Martin Luther’s assessment that we as God’s people are simultaneously sinners and saints has sometimes rankled. Nonetheless, the older I become, the more I acknowledge Luther’s honest insight—and my own…
Living Lutheran spoke with Joe Davis about the ways art can inspire communities and motivate action toward the liberation and well-being of others. This video is Part 2 of that…
St. James Lutheran Church, Portland, Ore. Professor emeritus of medicine and retired head of General Cardiology, Oregon Health and Science University; marathon runner I’m named after my grandfather, David Ruotsalainen,…
While many people traditionally observe Lent through acts of self-denial, this year we are shifting the way we think. Rather than giving something up, we encourage you to join us in making room for something…
The ELCA set sail into the 2020s on the winds of a fresh priority announced by then-presiding bishop Elizabeth Eaton: to become an “innovation denomination.” Two months into the first…
While many people traditionally observe Lent through acts of self-denial, this year we are shifting the way we think. Rather than giving something up, we encourage you to join us in making room for something…
Bethel Lutheran, like many churches, was built for a membership much larger than today’s. Decades ago, more than 1,500 members filled the building’s halls and classrooms. But the Willmar, Minn.,…
Focal verse Let your eyes look directly forward and your gaze be straight before you (Proverbs 4:25). Reflection Some days, doing one thing at a time might be the holiest…
While many people traditionally observe Lent through acts of self-denial, this year we are shifting the way we think. Rather than giving something up, we encourage you to join us in making room for something…
Women of the ELCA will host its 2026 Triennial Gathering in Des Moines, Iowa, July 16-19, celebrating the theme “I Am Worthy,” based on Psalm 139:14—“I am fearfully and wonderfully…
Dan Michel was working diligently with his team on a new feature for ELCA.org: a guided exploration tool that would provide a more interactive search experience for those looking to…
Yehiel Curry, presiding bishop of the ELCA, has issued a pastoral message on gender-based violence. “It is hard to avoid the crushing news of the headlines and what they mean…
The Conference of Bishops of the ELCA met March 3-7 at the Eaglewood Resort and Conference Center in Itasca, Ill. The conference is an advisory body of the ELCA that…
Growing up at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Greensboro, N.C., Lucille “CeCee” Mills, ELCA secretary, saw lay leadership as an opportunity for everyone to have their voice heard in…
Congregation leaders suspect a child is being mistreated in her home but aren’t sure what to do, so they remain silent. A child is sexually assaulted by an adult who…
I don’t remember the first time I received a blessing, nor when I first offered one myself. I only know that, looking back, the giving and receiving of blessings have…
Congregation leaders suspect a child is being mistreated in her home but aren’t sure what to do, so they remain silent. A child is sexually assaulted by an adult who…
Each month, Living Lutheran will share history and fun facts behind some hymns beloved by Lutherans. This month’s hymn is Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth. Mothering God, You Gave Me Birth. Text:…
A mighty fortress is our God. … On earth he has no equal (ELW, 503-505). I’m a Lutheran, baptized, confirmed and ordained in that faith. Yet I was already on…
Series editor’s note: The 2026 theme for “Deeper understandings” is faithful witness in challenging times. This year, various authors will explore what it means for the ELCA, and each of us as Lutherans,…
Each month, Living Lutheran will share history and fun facts behind some hymns beloved by Lutherans. This month’s hymn is Be Thou My Vision.
Spiritual Resources
Trending Articles
20 Largest ELCA congregations in 2012
Hope, West Des Moines, Iowa 9,539 Mount Olivet, Minneapolis 6,000 Santa Maria de Guadalupe, Irving, Texas 4,500 Hope, Fargo, N.D. 3,258 St. Philip the Deacon, Plymouth, Minn. 1,968 Shepherd of…
2015 ELCA Youth Gathering
Clad in candy-colored shirts, some 30,000 Lutherans met July 15-19 in Detroit for the 2015 ELCA Youth Gathering under the theme, “Rise Up Together.” The triennial event aims to enrich…
June film and book reviews
Film review The Jungle Book. This stunning Disney film with live-action and computer-generated imagery in 3-D is an adventure story that keeps us on the edge of our seats. It’s…
Voices of Faith
Stories, reflections and perspectives from a diverse range of voices across the ELCA.
Living Faithfully
Stories of God’s people putting their faith into tangible action in their communities.
Mission & Ministry
Stories about the ways in which the mission and ministries of the ELCA and its partner churches are lived out.
Theology & Beliefs
Articles that reflect and examine ELCA Lutheran theology, beliefs and history.
