Sometimes we need to open and spring clean our spiritual houses too. To stop and take a breath and give our internal living spaces a good, strong scrubbing. | more »
Faith and spirituality
Why does prayer matter? We answer that question with: How has prayer helped you?
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Consider ways of highlighting the juxtaposition of the resurrection and the gift of the Holy Spirit. | more »
Here are some words of comfort for times of trouble. | more »
Here are some ways a pastor and congregation can help those who are in the muddle or crisis of midlife. | more »
“Those who are still afraid of men have no fear of God and those who have fear of God have ceased to be afraid of men.” | more »
Our prayer gives voice to our longing for God’s grace and shapes our expectations for encountering that grace in our lives and in the world. | more »
We’ve asked ELCA pastors from across the country to recommend their favorite inspirational quotes. Here is what they had to say. | more »
Christians around the world gather to remember Jesus’ death and celebrate his resurrection. | more »
They are a gift of God’s love and, like that love, freely given.
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The new ”Connect Bible” encourages young people to not only read the text but delve into the story and see how it connects with their life. | more »
When Christ shines in the darkness of our world, there is real hope for safe harbor. | more »
Grace Lutheran Church finds itself on a journey of faith, facing the challenge of how to demonstrate the love of God to new neighbors. | more »
The whole Christian community has the privilege and responsibility to celebrate and support God’s gift of baptism in a number of ways. | more »
If you want to understand what is going on in a congregation, you need to listen to the stories. | more »
We asked the ELCA Resource Center directors: What devotional resources would you recommend for individual or small-group use during Lent? | more »
The goal should go beyond merely raising enough money to pay the bills. | more »
Instead of giving something up for Lent, why not add something to enrich your spiritual life? | more »
Look other members of Christ’s body in the eye and realize the unity to be found in him, says Martin Marty. | more »
Participants in this small-group study are often amazed to discover the contemporary implications of the Large Catechism. | more »
"Protestantism isn’t going to cease to be. It will give way to something new," says author Phyllis Tickle. | more »
They know that there may be a difference between professed faith and operational faith and that the crisis of hospitalization may uncover that gap for the first time. | more »
“Christ must above all things become our own and we become his, before we can do good works.” | more »
Help make this Christmas special for those who are terminally ill.
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Here are some ways for the congregation to provide prayer requests and individual prayers during worship. | more »
Here is a selection of prayers that you may use as is or to help you find your inspiration this Thanksgiving Day. | more »
You may want to use these thanks-giving Bible verses to help you observe the “day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father.” | more »
Perhaps the best way to nurture prayer in a congregation is to simply stop and pray. Stop talking about prayer and begin praying at every opportunity. | more »
Take the time to focus on God’s purpose for you and how you live out the word of God. | more »
People over 55 will soon make up over a third of the U.S. population, but few congregations focus on this emerging area of ministry. | more »
Must you choose either faith or science, or are they different disciplines that can strengthen each other? | more »
Mark Minnick’s seminary experience revealed that the ELCA was lacking relevance with young adults.
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Filled with the promises of the crucified and risen Jesus Christ, we are set free to be “on the loose” in the world. | more »
Vulnerable moments in people's lives can be important entry points to connect with them in practical, emotional and spiritual ways. | more »
Lucia took food to Christians hiding from persecution, wearing candles in a wreath around her head to light the way.
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Call on Faith offers multiple channels that feature inspiration, encouragement and information. | more »
Are we providing ministries that nurture the most basic needs for faith and identity in community? | more »
The use of an "Affirmation of Christian Vocation" in worship affirms the varied vocations of the baptized and underscores the common call of the community to participate in God's mission in our daily lives. | more »
The Youth and Family Institute in Bloomington, Minn., offers two resources to help ELCA members and their loved ones discuss their beliefs.
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The first English translation of "Wondrously Sheltered" is a great introduction to Dietrich Bonhoeffer's thoughts on faith and life. | more »
Kim Winchell's 50-page resource is a study guide for faith-based small groups. | more »
Martin Marty's book is for those already baptized as well as those who are considering baptism. | more »
Recent Comments
Brian Beckstrom: “You're welcome Marcus. Thanks for reading.” | more »
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