Gifting or donating baked goods – another instance in which plastic zip-top bags are all too convenient. Instead, try some of these other options. Learn more…

In some cases, compostable plastics may be a preferred environmental alternative but the case is complex. Learn more…

The prevalence of child maltreatment in the United States is staggering. At least 1 in 7 children has experienced abuse or neglect in the last year, according to the U.S. Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), though the CDC cautions that abuse and neglect are often unreported.

Recognizing the church’s important role in addressing this, the ELCA Church Council authorized the develop a social message on child protection and maltreatment, as requested by the 2022 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. Social messages are ELCA teaching documents that draw from existing social teaching but focus direct attention on a particular social issue.

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a video message for Transgender Day of Visibility. In her message, Eaton speaks out against the inhumane actions by legislatures and executive orders while also speaking directly to the transgender and nonbinary community.

You can recycle clean and dry plastic wrap and bags at many grocery stores and other retailers. Learn more…

The life and ministry of the Rev. Dr. Robert Young, a pastor of the La Crosse Area Synod

“Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias” Executive Order violates religious freedom, corrupts separation of Church and State, asserts power that belongs to the Church

Every day, families seeking refuge face fear, separation, and uncertainty. Parents are forced to make impossible choices. Children endure journeys no child should have to take. And as our nation reckons with how it will treat the most vulnerable, we are called—as people of faith—to respond.

This Ash Wednesday, we remember. We remember our shared humanity. We remember that we, too, were once strangers in a foreign land. And we remember that faith calls us to act.

We live in a time when information is being consolidated onto fewer and fewer platforms owned by a small group of very wealthy and influential people. Many of us have come to rely on these platforms to distribute news about our churches and groups—live stream worship services and other events, invite people to activities, post articles, share photos, recruit volunteers, and otherwise promote good work.

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has convened a coalition of interfaith leaders in support of refugees and immigrants who are forced to flee their homes.

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a video message in response to the executive order on immigration that rolled back guidance to immigration authorities in protected areas such as places of worship, schools and hospitals.

Houses of worship, while sacred spaces, are not immune to disruption, emergencies, or violence. The top recommendation from ELCA’s crisis communication experts is simple but crucial: assemble a crisis team before you need one. A well-prepared congregation can respond swiftly, communicate effectively, and ensure safety for all.

False claims about Lutheran organizations and federal funding circulated on X on February 1, prompting a strong response from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. In a video statement, Bishop Eaton reaffirmed the ELCA’s commitment to truth and its long-standing mission of serving the vulnerable. Lutheran organizations have responsibly used federal grants for 85 years, and the ELCA calls on political leaders to reject misinformation and uphold integrity. Watch Bishop Eaton’s full response in our blog post.

What to Do If You Feel Led to Be a Leader in Ministry?

Connecting with the La Crosse Area Synod Candidacy Committee is a great next step. This is a team of appointed people throughout the synod to accompany people exploring their calling to further education and leaders in the church.

January is a great time to check for Radon air levels in your church building and at home. This article holds tips for dealing with this colorless, tasteless gas that causes lung cancer.

This trip was in part, a celebration of our 20 years of companionship with the IL-P. To say that this trip was incredible is an understatement.

The La Crosse Area Synod (ELCA) has received a $1.25 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help establish the Engaging Children Initiative.

Walking may be the most natural and accessible activity to improve and maintain health and well-being. You can’t beat walking for convenience, and you don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy its benefits.

Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s...for many of us these are joyous times spent with family and friends. But for some in our community, the holidays bring uncertainty.