The connection between music and labor is well-documented, from the likes of “whistle while you work” and “a spoonful of sugar” to the maritime work songs known as sea shanties (or “chanties”). Singing together reinforces shared identity and vision, and transforms esoteric, intangible ideas into lived-in, collective experiences.

I’m curious what we imagine The Offering is for, what is its function?”

The Conference of Bishops of the ELCA added its voice to concerns about international situations during its meeting Feb. 27-March 5 at Eaglewood Resort in Itasca, Ill.

The Bishops issued a statement and sent a letter to President Joe Biden calling for a permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza and urging the president and legislators “to do everything in their power to bring an end to the current suffering and lay the foundation for lasting peace with justice.”

The conference is an advisory body of the ELCA that comprises 65 synod bishops, the presiding bishop and the secretary.

Learn about the Commission for a Commission For A Renewed Lutheran Church and share your ideas for the future of the ELCA

Bishop Malpica shares an Ash Wednesday message for the start of Lent.

As bishops and as Christians, we pledge ourselves to accompanying both migrants and those who serve migrants with protection, advocacy, representation and opportunities, and we urge all people of goodwill to join us.

Bishop Malpica reflects on ministry taking place across the synod in 2023.

If people of faith do not step up and try to make a difference in how divided we are, who will?

Wednesday, January 17th @ 1pm via ZOOM

Join in learning from Rev. Brenda Smith and Deacon Tammy Devine.

There is a lack of civility in our country that is painful to see and even more painful to experience. What is the solution? This week's presentation will challenge us to think about how we, as people of faith, can be leaders in our homes and communities to address this.

As we enter this new season, we have many opportunities for sharpening our skills, and abundant support for our care for God's amazing creation. From pollinator gardens, to waste management, heat pumps to solar, insulation to impermeable surfaces, we can see creation and its climate with eyes wide open. The goal is to provide information, education, and opportunity with activities and studies to pursue during Lent and bring to organizational practices.

Form A

Please direct any questions about your Congregational Report to Brianna Iverson at Brianna@lacrosseareasynod.org or (608) 788-5000.

Check out NEW monthly updates from the synod creation care team.

Join the ELCA in shaping a faith-based response to gun violence in the U.S. Review the draft social message, focusing on trauma and public peacemaking, and share your feedback. Your voice matters in this critical dialogue for change. Feedback due by Jan. 31, 2024. View all ELCA current social writing projects here.

Pastor Linda McPeak is a chaplain at Eagle Crest Communities

The ELCA Church Council appointed members to the Commission on a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC). The 2022 Churchwide Assembly called for the council to establish the CRLC to reconsider statements of purpose for the church and its organizational structure. The commission will present its findings and recommendations to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly in preparation for a possible reconstituting convention.

Like all ELCA LuMin campus ministry sites across our synods, this ministry happens because congregations share food — yes, cookies — and also through Mission Support that is shared with our synods and churchwide organization to support these vital, transformative, grace-filled ministries with students.