Sierra Pacific Synod - ELCA

06/25/2026

What stories about Christianity have shaped who you are today, for better or worse?

Rooted + Rising explores how Christian stories and communities can be reclaimed in ways that are honest, accountable, authentic and welcoming. As part of this work, we're inviting people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences to participate in two-hour focus group conversations.

Interested individuals can apply through the link below, and if chosen and participate in the focus groups, will receive a $100 stipend as a thank you.

https://forms.gle/UEfiBaapu6xrhvTH6

06/24/2026

Smaller church leaders—we want to hear from you. What support do you actually need in youth ministry right now? What challenges are you facing? What resources would make the biggest difference?

Take 5 minutes to help shape future training and support for smaller churches through this listening project with Youth Ministry Consultants by taking the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SmallerChurch! In doing so, you have the opportunity to win a gift card!

06/23/2026

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Burlingame is excited to welcome a new Arab Middle Eastern ministry led by Joseph Zaarour. As Joseph prepares to come to the United States and begin this new chapter of ministry, we are looking for a reliable vehicle. If you have a car you would be willing to donate, or know of someone who might be able to help, please contact Pastor Amy Kienzle at [email protected].

06/22/2026

Hope Lutheran Church El Sobrante California and Grace Lao Lutheran Church are beginning a mission partnership in which the two congregations will share space and explore opportunities for collaborative ministry. The congregations marked the beginning of their partnership with a joint Pentecost worship service and the commissioning of Elder Vanphone Anlavan as a Synodically Authorized Minister.

06/21/2026

Today is Father’s Day. For many, this day brings joyful memories and reasons to celebrate. For others, it may carry grief, longing, or complicated emotions. Wherever this day finds you, know that you are held in our prayers.

06/20/2026

Recently, Saint Paulus Lutheran Church in San Francisco received The Rev. Rebecca Edwards' through the Rite of Invitation to Extended Service. May God bless their partnership!

06/19/2026

On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally learned they were free. Juneteenth commemorates that day and invites us to remember both the long struggle for freedom and the ongoing work of justice.

As people of faith, we give thanks for those who persevered in hope and continue to work toward a world where all God’s children can live in dignity, freedom, and peace.

God of freedom,
for voices that would not be silenced,
for hope that would not die,
for courage that carried people forward,
we give you thanks.

May we remember,
may we learn,
and may we join in your work
of justice, healing, and liberation.
Amen.

06/18/2026

Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) returns to St. Olaf College for its 2026 season, June 21–July 19, featuring more than 40 freeconcerts, recitals, worship services, and special events free and open to the public.

Highlights include the inaugural LSM Choral Gathering, guest performance by Cantus, Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, the Bach Cantata Eucharist, and Festival Week concerts featuring LSM’s Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra. Most events will also be available online via Live from LSM.

View the season brochure, explore events, and reserve free tickets at

LSM 2026 Season Brochure Discover the 2026 LSM SeasonLutheran Summer Music is thrilled to announce its 2026 season, featuring over 40 free concerts, recitals, and worship services open to the public.Hosted at St. Olaf College from June 21 to July 19, this season offers a vibrant lineup of musical ex...

06/18/2026

Today marks eleven years since we lost nine beautiful souls.

On June 17th, 2015, these faithful individuals welcomed a stranger into their Bible study. Their final collective act was one of radical hospitality and profound courage.

Their lives demonstrated that love is a fierce force of resistance. The Nine and the survivors did not succumb to terror.

Eleven years later, the legacy of the Emanuel Nine lives on as a testament to unyielding love, moral courage, and the refusal to let hatred prevail.

06/17/2026

Join Organizing For Mission Network and regional partners for a chance to sharpen skills in faith-rooted organizing August 27-29 in Tacoma, Washington. Learn more at https://ofmn.betterworld.org/events/Western-Training-2026