Southwest California Synod ELCA

"As we observe the 503rd anniversary of the Reformation, we are reminded that in Martin Luther’s day, the people and the churches also experienced the horrible pandemic of 1527. While we do not know for sure, some have suggested that Luther wrote 'Ein Feste Berg' (A Mighty Fortress) during those dark days. So, Luther’s well-known question is again before us now as we face the trials of these days. What does this mean for us as the church, for our individual congregations, and for the members and friends of our faith communities, especially now as we head into the Fall and Winter seasons?"

For Reformation Sunday, the pastors and congregants of Southwest California Synod's African Descent communities offer this celebration of Reformation Day. Pastor John Miller preaches. Music by Chester Gregory and Corey Hogan. Spencer Sanders from Olivet, Hawthorne as videographer.

Pastor Amy Beveridge of Bethel, Templeton guest blogs about Isolation and Alienation at the new Living the Resurrection website: "This is a time when our normal bonding rituals have been upended and we have been left vulnerable to alienation... Perhaps it is too tired a thing to say that God is still at work in the small encounters. Or is it?"

Support local ELCA congregations with feeding ministries by reminding them there's still time to apply! Spread the news #UntilAllAreFed ELCA.org/DailyBread #MinistryMonday

#ELCAVotes #SWCASynodVotes #VotingMatters #VotingRights #VotingPlan

Hi all -- I have been increasingly concerned about the possibility of violence around the election, as well as the underlying divisions that could erupt into vi...olence. My colleague and friend Mary Glenn and I decided to simply invite everyone we know to pray the night before and night of the election and to encourage others by posting about it. I do believe in the power of prayer. Of course, there are many other ways that you can work for peace and a just election process -- Sojourners, Faith Matters and Faith in Public Life are all offering various options if you are interested in going farther. Several other leaders and ministries have also joined the call to pray, including a vigil being organized in Spanish by Rev. Carlos Malave. Please feel free to share the materials. I will send materials in Spanish later along with Rev. Malave's info. Blessings, Alexia See more

For the 20th Sunday after Pentecost, Pastor Julie Morris and the congregation of Mt. Cross Lutheran Church in Camarillo share their service with the synod. Music and a children’s chat from Lutheran Retreats, Camps and Conferences are included.

"These may be some of the most challenging and demanding days many of us have experienced in our lifetimes. As we open our hearts and wallets in generosity, as we care about the less fortunate, as we rise up to speak out for justice and peace and truth, as we are good stewards of God's gift of Creation, as we vote responsibly, as we support each other and our church communities, as we love all our neighbors, as people of God and people of faith - what legacy are we leaving to our children and grandchildren who are bound to ask the difficult questions?"

We join states, cities and towns across the country to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day in place of Columbus Day and honor the people whose lands we walk, whose Indigenous voices have always been spoken here and who share their gifts and contributions throughout our society.