Gather Twin Cities: A Pint Size Gathering
2025-04-13 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Broken Clock Brewing, 1712 Marshall St NE Suite 100, Minneapolis, MN, 55413
Come for a night of conversation and community! Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for participants to purchase at the brewery.

Better Together Film Festival
2025-04-21 - 2025-04-27
Minnesota faith and community groups join national “Better Together Film Festival” to reduce political polarization.
Six churches and community groups across Minnesota are inviting their neighbors to watch movies and bridge divides during the Better Together Film Festival, held the week of April 21 – 27.
The festival, part of the National Week of Conversation, is a nationwide experiment in evidence-based peacemaking. It offers Minnesotans a simple invitation: sit down, watch a powerful story, and reflect with others on how we can better connect across our differences.
More information >

Youth Group Night at Luther Seminary
2025-04-23 18:30 - 20:30 | Luther Seminary, 2481 Como Ave, St. Paul, MN, 55108, United States
Congregations are invited to bring their confirmation (6th-grade graders) and/or high school youth groups and adult leaders to the Luther Seminary campus for a night of worship, learning, pizza, and some fun surprises! This event is free, but please register by Wednesday, April 9.

Hans Nielsen Hauge Lecture: Presented by Pastor Brian Lunn
2025-04-26 13:30 - 14:30 | Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church / Mindekirken, 924 E. 21st Street, Minneapolis, MN, United States
Hans Nielsen Hauge—The Heart of His Message: Hans Nielsen Hauge is one of the most well-known Norwegians. But what did he teach? Why were so many gripped by his message? Was he legalistic, like many of those later called Haugeans were reputed to be? Come and hear about the heart of the man who awakened Norway.
Free, no reservations required.
Join us before the lecture for our Lapskaus Luncheon at 12 pm.
More information >

Caritas Concert to Support Cherish All Children
2025-04-26 16:00 - 18:00 | Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church, 5011 S 31st Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55417, United States
Once Upon A Song

Join Cherish All Children for a joyous program for all ages that celebrates childhood whimsies in song performed by Caritas Vocal Ensemble.
Your support allows Cherish All Children to reach children and families with education, tools, and skills to stay safe from in-person and online exploitation, sextortion, and trafficking. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door, $25
Contact joy.mcelroy@cherishallchildren.org with any questions or visit caritasvocalensemble.org/events.

Eco Fair and Electric Vehicle Car Show
2025-04-27 12:00 - 15:00 | Mount Olivet Lutheran Church of Plymouth, 12235 Old Rockford Rd, Plymouth, MN, United States
Come and see EV cars and talk with owners, then celebrate Earth Day with family-friendly activities in our Community Room.

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Electric vehicles have become mainstream with all major automakers announcing multiple models across most vehicle types. EVs have reached cost parity or are cheaper to own and operate than gas or diesel equivalents and chargers are now available across the US. EVs can be recharged at home and preheated in closed garages, among many other advantages.

Join electric vehicle owners of currently available models who will show their cars and answer all your electric vehicle questions. You will be able to get up close with vehicles and learn first hand what it is like to drive electric.

More info >

Webinar: Resourceful Servants Educational Debt Conversation
2025-04-29 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Student Loan Payments: You’ve got Questions – We’ve got Answers!
There have been a lot of announcements lately regarding federal student loans. As a result, you may be experiencing some confusion and asking a lot of questions.
If you are currently employed by the churchwide organization, a synod, a congregation, or a non-profit organization, Resourceful Servants and Portico Benefit Services invite you to an online presentation and Q&A session with Kim Miller, Senior Program Manager for Partnerships and Financial Education at LSS Financial Counseling, on Tuesday, April 29, at 11:00 a.m. Central.
Kim will share information about the changes in federal student loan repayment and answer your specific questions. The likelihood is that if you have a question, someone else does as well. Click here to register.
To protect the privacy of the attendees, this session will NOT be recorded.

The Future of Church: Embracing Innovation that Grows Faith & Community Formation
2025-04-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Normandale Lutheran Church, Edina, MN, United States
As part of its 75th anniversary commemoration, Normandale Lutheran Church is planning free and public forums around three (3) focus areas – faith and community formation, leadership, and mission and outreach – to prepare churches like Normandale as we lean into the future.
This program is the first of the series, focusing on faith and community formation, speaking on using innovation to grow faith, hope, and relationship. Meta Herrick Carlson, pastor, author, poet, parent, and child of Normandale, will be the keynote speaker.
The program will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary, with a wine and cheese reception following.
Livestream link

Addressing Neurodiversity in a Congregation (for clergy and faith leaders)
2025-04-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Bethlehem Lutheran Church – Twin Cities, Minneapolis Campus, Minneapolis Campus, 4100 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN, 55409, United States
Mental Health Connect has a vision for faith communities with no mental health stigma and is increasingly aware of the ways in which neurodiversity fits into this vision. So, faith leaders and clergy are invited to a talk with Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund about her new book and a discussion that is just for faith leaders and clergy.
Everyone who registers and attends will receive a free copy of her book. So come, and invite your colleagues!
More information >
Blessed Minds: Breaking the Silence about Neurodiversity is a profound exploration of how the church can embrace and honor neurodiversity. Affecting up to 20 percent of Americans, neurodiversity includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and several other conditions. Through personal stories, historical context, and theological insights, beloved author Sarah Griffith Lund unpacks the concepts of neurodiversity, mental health, and disability. This book challenges the stigma surrounding neurodivergent individuals and offers practical steps for creating inclusive and supportive faith communities. With themes of vulnerability, compassion, and justice, Blessed Minds is a call to recognize the divine nature of all minds and to foster a church environment where every individual is valued and celebrated.

This is a two-part event. Clergy and faith leaders are invited for a conversation 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Lunch and discussion beginning at 12:00 p.m. is open to the public.

Rewiring the Brain, Restoring the Soul. Integrating Neuroscience, Faith, and Addiction Recovery
2025-04-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Discover how cutting-edge neuroscience and spiritual practices are transforming addiction recovery. In this powerful online session, cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Jeffrey Leighton of the Prayer Collective and recovery leader Jeff Jensen of RockBridge Treatment & Recovery explore how prayer, neurofeedback, and holistic, hospitality-based care can help regulate brainwave activity, relieve anxiety, reduce cravings, and restore hope.
Whether you’re clergy, a counselor, a faith leader, someone in recovery, or someone who loves someone who’s struggling – this free webinar from the Center of Addiction & Faith offers practical tools, emerging research, and inspiring stories that engage both the brain and soul.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and be inspired.
Zoom link >

Blessed Minds: Breaking the Silence about Neurodiversity
2025-04-30 12:00 - 13:30 | Bethlehem Lutheran Church – Twin Cities, Minneapolis Campus, Minneapolis Campus, 4100 Lyndale Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN, 55409, United States
Join Mental Health Connect for lunch with Sarah Griffith Lund, author of Blessed Minds; Breaking the Silence About Neurodiversity. Sarah will discuss how she unpacks the concepts of neurodiversity, mental health, and disability, challenging the stigma surrounding neurodivergent individuals and offering practical steps for creating inclusive and supportive faith communities. Enjoy networking and conversations about how faith communities can embrace and honor neurodiversity.
More information >
Please RSVP for lunch and discussion

This is a two-part event. Clergy and faith leaders are invited for a conversation 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Lunch and discussion beginning at 12:00 p.m. is open to the public.

Money, Lies, and God: A Conversation with Katherine Stewart on Faith and Politics
2025-05-03 15:00 - 17:00 | Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55403, United States
Join award-winning author Katherine Stewart on Saturday, May 3, as she discusses her new book, Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy. Stewart explores how disinformation and religious nationalism threaten democracy. Her work appears in The New York Times, New Republic, and Religion News Service. The book discussion will be followed by a book signing.
Tickets are free, but donations are appreciated. Register >

Screening of “Religion, Racism, and Reconciliation"
2025-05-04 13:00 - 16:00 | Mount Olivet Lutheran Church of Plymouth, 12235 Old Rockford Rd, Plymouth, MN, United States
Join the Mount Olivet Racial Equity Team for a free screening of “Religion, Racism & Reconciliation,” a ground-breaking documentary that explores how racism is intertwined with American religion. It follows the stories of individuals and communities of faith who have engaged in addressing the issues of systemic racism, such as voting rights, income inequality, and mass incarceration.
Hear from a broad range of academic and religious luminaries who provide historical and sociological perspectives on the contradiction of an American society that values individual freedom and equality while ignoring the realities of slavery, segregation, and racism. The documentary shows that while religion plays a part in our racial division, it is also a meaningful force in our nation’s healing and reconciliation.
See event flyer >

National Lutheran Choir Spring Concert
2025-05-04 16:00 - 18:00 | Central Lutheran Church, 333 S 12th St., Minneapolis, MN, 55404, United States
Spring Concert: Healing for our Future
Join the National Lutheran Choir for their Spring concert: Healing for our Future, an honest yet hopeful exploration of the impact of gun violence on school communities. Presented alongside Cantus, St. Michael-Albertville High School Concert Choir, and Westminster Presbyterian Church Choir, this finale of the season seeks to unite communities in fostering healing, reducing harm, and building a safer future.
Tickets at NLCA.com.

Addiction Ministry 101: Four-Part Seminar
2025-05-06 11:00 - 2025-05-27 12:30 | Online
Every experienced Pastor/Minister has run into the frustrations of dealing with substance use problems and other addictions. Referring people to AA, Alanon, and treatment is helpful, but sound pastoral care is important for everyone in the family. Pastoral care is equally important to people in recovery as they rethink their spiritual lives.
Rev. Otto Schultz, a retired Lutheran pastor and alcohol and drug counselor, joins us for a discussion of this unique program providing a model of pastoral care and a model of congregational ministry. These models show how sound theology and good science work together for church and clergy to “let their light so shine” with people and families in trouble with alcohol, drugs and other addictions.

You are invited to this four-part seminar to learn:
1. How to use five simple communication tools to give exceptional care to families troubled by substance problems and for people in early recovery.
2. How these communication tools are useful for many hard conversations.
3. Why you don’t need to be a therapist to do sound pastoral care with addicted people or their families.
4. How science and theology work together on this issue.
5. What it’s like to be a clergy who has struggled with addiction and now enjoys recovery.
6. What congregations can learn from 12 Step Recovery.
7. Why it’s likely that your congregation has experienced people who want to help in this ministry.
8. How to find these people and help them become a team with an effective ministry.

More information and registration >

CYF Leaders Healthy Boundaries Training
2025-05-06 18:00 - 19:30 | Online
Participants will explore their own relationship to power, boundaries, and authority, gaining insights into how these dynamics shape their leadership. Beyond personal reflection, the workshop will also equip leaders to actively foster wise boundary-setting skills in the young people they serve. Through discussion and practical strategies, attendees will be empowered to nurture healthy, trust-filled ministry spaces.
Details:

Tuesday, May 6, 6:00-7:30 p.m. on Zoom
Cost: $10 donation to benefit Global Refuge
Rev. Emily Carson of SEMN will facilitate the training
Register through the NEMN Synod to receive the Zoom link

Screening of “Anxious Nation"
2025-05-07 18:30 - 20:30 | St. Michael Cinema, 4300 O'Day Avenue Northeast, Saint Michael, MN, 55376, United States
Alleluia Lutheran Church is hosting a free screening of the movie, “Anxious Nation.” A panel of local mental health professionals will lead a discussion after the screening.
This film explores the many dimensions of anxiety and the broader mental health crisis in America, particularly among youth (ages 10–26) and families. It examines contributing factors like social pressures, the nature vs. nurture debate, college stress, and the impact on underserved communities. Topics include stigma, isolation, suicide, and the role of social media. The film aims to foster community, encourage open dialogue, and promote compassion and support.
Get your free tickets >

Stories of Hope: Youth Mental Health and Well-being
2025-05-08 08:00 - 09:00 | Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, 5025 Knox Ave S., Minneapolis, MN, 55419, United States
Join Mental Health Connect for the uplifting Stories of Hope breakfast. This year, the fundraiser shines a spotlight on youth mental health, showcasing real stories from young individuals and families facing mental health struggles. Get ready to be touched by these stories, enjoy delightful music, savor a delicious breakfast, and mingle with fellow community members. Mental Health Connect is dedicated to providing essential support and resources for mental health concerns, as well as combating the stigma surrounding mental health conversations—especially within faith communities. Your contributions at this event will help sustain our impactful work all year round. Let’s come together to spread hope and support each other!
More information >

Kingian Nonviolence Training
2025-05-09 17:30 - 2025-05-11 16:00 | Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 2315 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN, 55404, United States
People over the age of 16 are invited to a Kingian Nonviolence Training at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, May 9-11. Together, participants will immerse themselves in the principles and steps of nonviolence through interactive modules that will equip them with tools for organizing for justice and peace. The training is an experience of being in beloved community together, and the hope is to have a diverse group that will bring unique contexts, perspectives, questions, and experiences to the training.
More information >

Spirituality for Times Like This
2025-05-13 19:00 - 2025-06-03 20:30 | Online
Sessions will include an introduction to the topic with relevant definitions of ideas and supporting readings. I also will share examples of my inner work. Discussion and questions are integral to each evening.
This group actively welcomes members of different professions, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, socioeconomic realities, spiritual/religious beliefs and practices, gender identities, gender expressions, and family structures.
The sessions are on Tuesday evenings (May 13 – June 17) on Zoom and will be led by Pastor Wendy Vie Trittin
Pastor Wendy Vie Trittin is an ordained pastor of the ELCA and a Spirituality Guide and Life Coach. She is a member of Spiritual Directors International, Clergy Voyagers, and the Minnesota Jung Association.

Twin Cities Deacon Gathering
2025-05-15 13:00 - 16:00 | Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN, United States
Word and Service ministers and candidates from the Saint Paul and Minneapolis Area Synods are invited to gather for conversation and treats. Advance registrations are appreciated >

Gather Twin Cities May Gathering
2025-05-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Eat Street Crossing, 2819 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55408, United States
Gather Twin Cities has a large table reserved at Eat Street Crossing in Minneapolis.
It’ll be a space to make and continue friendships and brainstorm for Gather Twin Cities Summer events.
Food, ice cream, alcohol, and n/a drinks will be available for participants to purchase in the food hall.

White Supremacy and Lutheranism Webinar
2025-05-20 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
Join the Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos, ELCA Director for Theological Diversity and Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement, and the Rev. Dr. James R. Thomas, Visiting Professor of Church History and Ministry at Good News Theological Seminary in Accra, Ghana, for an engaging thought-provoking and educational webinar to deepen our understanding of white supremacy, and explore new resources created by ELCA theologians.
Join the webinar on Teams>
Meeting ID: 278 593 654 808
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Walking Together in Truth: Indigenous Justice, the ELCA, and MMIW
2025-05-22 12:00 - 13:00 | online
The Oasis Team with the ELCA Youth Ministry Network is hosting an upcoming webinar. Prairie Rose Seminole will help attendees explore the historical relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), highlighting the impact of missionization, boarding schools, and systemic erasure. They will examine the church’s past involvement, its commitments to truth and healing, and the ongoing work needed for accountability.

Breaking Chains, Building Hope: Faith Communities Rising Against America’s Addiction Crisis
2025-05-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Join this one-hour, free webinar with Jeff Horowitz, CEO of SAFE Project, presented by the Center of Addiction & Faith. Addiction touches every corner of our society; it doesn’t just happen somewhere else. Jeff Horowitz will discuss how our language, assumptions, and attitudes toward those struggling with substance use disorders often create barriers to healing and recovery. Jeff will also discuss the unexpected pathways to addiction that could affect anyone – from prescription medications after surgery, to coping with trauma, mental health challenges, or even social pressure, and how to empower faith communities with practical life-saving strategies. Move beyond judgment to genuine understanding and effective support.
Register >

Justice and Joy: Empowering Support for Trans Lives
2025-05-30 09:00 - 16:00 | United Theological Seminary
United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities is hosting “Justice and Joy: Empowering Support for Trans Lives.” The event invites people of faith to explore means of supporting Trans lives and rights in authentic and faithful ways.

Learn more about and register for the free event at https://www.unitedseminary.edu/event/justice-and-joy/

Future of Church Series: Multiplying Leadership
2025-06-01 19:00 - 21:00 | Normandale Lutheran Church, Edina, MN, United States
FUTURE OF CHURCH – A Speaker Series created to motivate thinking and creativity for all church leaders to use as they look to the future.

“Multiplying Leadership: Cultivating a Mixed Ecology of Church in Today’s World” with The Rev. Dwight Zscheile, PhD

An expert on innovation and congregational mission, Rev. Zscheile will talk about embracing innovation as a way to multiply leadership, grow mission and advance the spreading of the Gospel as a way to invigorate church and make it more relevant. He’ll use the example of Martin Luther as the ultimate innovator in “meeting people where they are” and how that is a powerful tool for any church in 2025 wondering how they can grow their community and increase their impact in their congregation, their neighborhood, the broader community and the world.

More information >

Dwight Zscheile is professor of congregational mission and leadership at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is author of Embracing the Mixed Ecology: Inherited and New Forms of Christian Community Flourishing Together (with Blair Pogue, Seabury Books 2025), Leading Faithful Innovation: Following God into a Hopeful Future (with Michael Binder and Tessa Pinkstaff, Fortress, 2023), Participating in God’s Mission: A Theological Missiology for the Church in America (with Craig Van Gelder, Eerdmans, 2018), The Agile Church: Spirit-Led Innovation in an Uncertain Age (Morehouse Publishing, 2014), People of the Way: Renewing Episcopal Identity (Morehouse Publishing, 2012) and The Missional Church in Perspective: Mapping Trends and Shaping the Conversation (with Craig Van Gelder, Baker Academic 2011), editor of Cultivating Sent Communities: Missional Spiritual Formation (Eerdmans, 2012) and co-editor (with Ed Olsworth-Peter) of The Starter’s Way: Leading New Contextual Christian Communities (Church Publishing, 2025). A graduate of Stanford University (BA), Yale University (MDiv) and Luther Seminary (PhD, Congregational Mission and Leadership), he has served congregations in Minnesota and Virginia. Dwight’s experience growing up in a secular home in California has shaped his commitment to helping the church cultivate Christian community with neighbors in today’s changing world.

Go Wild, Woman Spiritual Retreat
2025-06-04 - 2025-06-07 | ARC Retreat Center, 1680 373rd Ave. NE, Stanchfield, MN, United States
Pastor Siri leads four enriching days in nature, surrounded by a sisterhood. Throughout our days we will engage in optional yoga, singing and chanting, nature walks, communing with the earth, and sacred ceremony. There will be lots of free time for rest, connection, and creativity. Options for massage. Begins Wednesday with dinner and ends Saturday at 11:00am.

More information >

Synod Senior Band Concert
2025-06-05 14:00 - 17:00 | Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 5005 Northwest Blvd, Plymouth, MN, United States
The Synod Senior Band is a community band made up of seniors playing for seniors. They welcome players of any band instrument to join them for camaraderie and making great music. The 2025 theme is “The Promise of Living.” Enjoy one of their concerts throughout the year!

Cherish All Children Hybrid 5K
2025-06-06 - 2025-06-08
Join Cherish All Children for this fun event where you can make a significant difference in keeping children safe! Sign up or sponsor a participant at cherishallchildren.org/events.
Participants can walk or run together at 4499 Victory Memorial Parkway or do it at their own location.
