News - News & Events

Presiding Bishop Issues Response to DACA Ruling

As a church we will continue to welcome all people, regardless of their documented status, seeking to ensure hospitality and safety for all. Bishops and synods are encouraged to find ways to support congregations working with newcomers and existing vulnerable individuals and communities.

IMAGE GALLERIES: MNYS JUNE 19th SERVICES

Please enjoy the image galleries of these beautiful services. These moments were captured by Bob Williams, for whom we give thanks for his photography ministry in our synod.

World Refugee Day 2021

The global need for refugee resettlement has never been greater, and the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) is that lifeline — for children forcibly conscripted into armies, for LGBTQ+ people attacked for who they are, for religious minorities persecuted for their worship. In response to deepening crises around the world, the United States must reclaim its humanitarian and moral responsibility and reassume global leadership in refugee resettlement.

An Updated Statement from the Bishop Regarding New CDC Guidelines

In line with New York State guidance, it is my official recommendation for our ordained ministers, lay leaders, and congregations to follow these updated guidelines. The new CDC guidelines apply to fully vaccinated individuals; if you have children under 12 in your congregation, or are unsure about the vaccination status of all your congregants, you should continue to follow the State’s existing COVID-19 health guidelines.

A Statement from the Bishop Regarding New CDC Guidelines

It is my official recommendation for our ordained ministers, lay leaders, and congregations to continue monitoring and following guidelines from New York State, while more information is made available in the upcoming days. […] Let us remember that the well-being and safety of all our members is the priority of our mission, upholding the Gospel. While we await further updates, let us remain cautious as we continue to be Church TOGETHER.

ALAMEH

The Association of Lutheran of Arab and Middle Eastern Heritage is concerned and disheartened about the violent events that are taking place in East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip. We stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people of Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan who are facing the threats of expulsion and home demolition.

ELCA Church Council Approves Sanctuary Church Guidelines

The council approved a motion to recognize that the ELCA's ministry as a sanctuary church body is a public witness that calls ELCA members to value the dignity of each human being made in God's image.

A Pastoral Word on the Verdict of George Floyd's Murder Trial

The murder of George Floyd is one of the many examples of the ongoing abuse of police authority. The extrajudicial killings of Brown and Black bodies must stop. The work of confronting these injustices is long overdue.

A Statement from Bishop Eaton Addressing Racial Justice

As an anti-racist church that condemns white supremacy, we acknowledge how these injustices are traumatizing to Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) and call on God’s comforting love.

Earth Day Statement from Bishop Eaton

Because God gave humans the vocation to be stewards of the earth, we proclaim that, for Christians, care of the earth is not an "environmental cause." Instead, it is central to our holy calling to treasure the earth and care for it as our home, fully integrating creation care into our love of God, neighbor and all in the environment.