Mpls Area Synod ELCA

Monthly Children's Ministry Online Meet-Up - January
2026-01-12 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Online
Monthly Children’s Ministry Online Meet-Up – January
Topic: Resource Sharing
Join the Call >

YAGM Info Sessions
2026-01-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Online
The Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) team are hosting two info sessions on January 12 and January 30. Young adults (ages 21 – 35) are invited to attend this session to learn more about the YAGM program and get their questions answered ahead of the application deadlines. If you are a young adult interested in learning more about YAGM, register here.
Questions? Email Brooke Helfers at brooke.helfers@elca.org.

Monthly Children & Youth Ministry Gathering - January
2026-01-13 15:00 - 17:00 | Wicked Wort Brewing, 4165 W Broadway, Robbinsdale, MN, United States
January Children & Youth Ministry Gathering
Liturgical Seasons: Doing Advent & Lent Differently

Luther Seminary's Annual Rutlen Lecture on Faith and Creation
2026-01-13 18:00 - 20:30 | Luther Seminary, 2481 Como Ave, St. Paul, MN, 55108, United States
This year’s Rutlen Lecture on Faith and Creation will explore the value of God’s creation in Job and for us all in the face of climate crises. Brown will address questions such as: What would it be like to read the story of Job by reading the ending first? How does one understand the book of Job as a whole, with creation taking center stage? And what about all those wild animals God presents for Job’s consideration?

William P. Brown is an ordained minister of the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary. His work explores justice, creation care, and hope from biblical and theological perspectives. He is author of several books, including “Sacred Tension: Embracing Dialogue and Dissonance in the Old Testament” and “Deep Calls to Deep: The Psalms in Dialogue amid Disruption.”

Learn more and register >

About the Rutlen Lecture Series
The Robert William Ruotsalainen Rutlen and Elizabeth Jane Runn Rutlen Lecture on Faith and Creation is a biannual lecture series designed to examine the intersection between faith and eco-justice. David Rutlen, a member of Luther Seminary’s board of directors, established the series to honor his family’s passion for environmental justice and God’s creation. Previous Rutlen lecturers include Rick Lindroth, Ellen Davis, and Randy Woodley. View past events in this series and other public lectures from Luther Seminary on YouTube.

JustMove Party for Youth
2026-01-18 14:30 - 23:30 | Woodlake Lutheran Church, 7525 Oliver Ave S, Richfield, MN, 55423, United States
Mark your calendars! The JUSTmove Party is back at Woodlake on January 18 from 2:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Youth from all over the Twin Cities will come together for a justice themed party centered on being holy disruptors. All 6 – 9th grade youth and their friends, 10 – 12th graders are invited to participate as leaders.
Follow the link to register: https://forms.gle/XffJ2qkoKL2Pd7ou6
Want to help volunteer? Fill out the adult registration form! https://forms.gle/4ZATyQFnZpCwpWyCA

Taking the First Step—Reclaiming Dr. King’s Dream
2026-01-18 17:00 - 18:30 | Westwood Lutheran Church, 9001 Cedar Lake Road, St. Louis Park, MN, 55426, United States
Westwood Lutheran Church is hosting “Taking the First Step—Reclaiming Dr. King’s Dream,” a must-see, multi-disciplinary celebration intermixing the words of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
with musical performances, dance, audience singing, and spoken reflections.
The concert theme is based on Dr. King’s quote, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”
G. Phillip Shoultz, III, well known for his roles with the University of Minnesota MLK Tribute and VocalEssence, is the curator of this event. Featured artists include: Joe Davis and the Poetic Diaspora, Jhadiya Steele, Tesfa Wondemagenehu, VocalEssence Singers Of This Age, Chadwick “Niles” Phillips, and Suzette Gilreath with OneAccord Dance Collective. The program includes
special guest appearances by civic leaders, including Dr. Carlondrea Hines, Superintendent of St. Louis Park Schools.
The family-friendly concert celebrates the life and accomplishments of Dr. King through the performing arts and an on-site service project.
More information >

Luther College’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Lecture
2026-01-19 | Luther College, 700 College Drive, Decorah, IA, 52101, United States
The Rev. Yehiel Curry, Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, will offer keynote remarks at Luther College’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Day lecture on Monday, January 19, 2026, in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall.
The theme of the day and Curry’s talk is “Courage for the Common Good.” Supported by the Williams Endowment Fund, the day begins with Curry’s address at 10:30 a.m. Following an optional community lunch at noon for attendees, two sessions are planned for the afternoon at 1:15 p.m., a youth discussion with Curry, and a panel discussion with regional ELCA bishops for all others.
The event is open to the public, and admission to the morning program and the afternoon break-out sessions are free. Lunch tickets for adults are $10, but free for youth who are registered for the youth session.
More information >

Stories the Land Holds: Housing and Inequity
2026-01-22 19:00 - 20:30 | Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 4801 France Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN, 55410, United States
Introducing “Stories the Land Holds” – A Community Invitation to Listen, Reflect, and Connect

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd is beginning a new initiative that invites the community into a deeper relationship with the land we inhabit and the stories it holds. “Stories the Land Holds” is a multi-session project beginning October 9 at 7:00 p.m. Rooted in the belief that the land beneath us speaks—through its history, its people, and its enduring presence.

Hosted by Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Minneapolis, and supported by a generous foundation grant, this series explores the layered histories of the neighborhood lands between the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers. Through storytelling, reflection, and dialogue, participants will ask:

– What has the land absorbed?
– Who has lived here, been welcomed, excluded, or expelled?
– How have these histories shaped our present?
– And how can listening to the land guide us away from division and racism and towards justice and harmony?

More information >

Welcoming Our Neighbor: A Prophetic Vision for the World
2026-01-24 09:00 - 15:00 | American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55407, United States
In recent months, cities across the country have experienced heightened intimidation and fear, particularly affecting our most vulnerable residents: immigrant neighbors. How might we then reflect on what meaningful solidarity entails and what we can do collaboratively to shape a future in which our communities flourish? The Minneapolis Area Synod’s Immigration Task Force invites you to join a conversation on Saturday, January 24, dedicated to learning and community building as we collectively address the realities unfolding in Minneapolis and envision the future we seek. Hosted at the American Swedish Institute, this gathering is designed to foster strategic, faith-driven responses to these challenges.
We are honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Gregory Cuéllar, a distinguished scholar from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Drawing on his extensive expertise in the migrant experience and his work on the U.S./Mexico border, Dr. Cuéllar will share insights from both his scholarship and grassroots engagement to help us cultivate a prophetic vision for our communities.
After lunch, a panel of community leaders will offer insights into current challenges and share reflections on possible paths forward. This event provides a valuable opportunity to listen, learn, and consider how to be fully present during this critical time.

Details

This event is open to all clergy, lay leaders, and community members.

There is no cost. Donations are welcome and will contribute to the Welcome Fund, a mutual aid fund established to support our immigrant neighbors in the Minneapolis Area Synod, ELCA.

Lunch is included. Pre-registration is encouraged for lunch counts.

Register >

About Rev. Dr. Gregory Cuéllar

Dr. Gregory L. Cuéllar is the Full Professor of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible and the Ruth A. Campbell Chair in Biblical Studies at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. As an international biblical scholar, Dr. Cuéllar is interested in counterintuitive ways of reading biblical texts, in particular those that are rooted in a decolonizing discourse of liberation. His research explores topics related to the U.S. Mexico-Borderlands, immigration detention (UK and US), anti-black and brown racism, and the intersections of religion and migration. His current book project is titled, Religion in Immigrant Detention: Securing Faiths in a State of Removal (Palgrave, forthcoming). For this book project, he was awarded the Louisville Institute Project Grant for Researches (2019).
He has published his research in a wide range of journals. He is also author of Voices of Marginality: Exile and Return in Second Isaiah 40-55 and the Mexican Immigrant Experience (Peter Lang, 2008). His two most recent books are, Resacralizing the Other at the US-Mexico Border: A borderland Hermeneutic (Routledge 2020) and, Empire, the British Museum, and the Making of the Biblical Scholar in the Nineteenth Century: Archival Criticism (Palgrave, 2019).
He has been a visiting scholar at the Centre on Migration, Policy, and Society (COMPAS) and the Centre for Criminology, Faculty of Law at the University of Oxford.
In terms of advocacy work, he is the co-founder of a refugee artwork project called, Arte de Lágrimas (Art of Tears): Refugee Artwork Project. This project is a traveling art exhibit and archive that aims to create greater public awareness of the lived migratory journeys of asylum-seeking children, youth, and adults.

Money: Let's Make it Less Weird
2026-01-24 09:30 - 12:00 | Center of Belonging, 3501 Aldrich Ave S, Minneapolis, MN, 55408, United States
Conversations about money deserve room to be honest, curious, and supported without pressure or shame. That’s why Fabric – Mpls is hosting a free half-day workshop at the Center of Belonging on Saturday, January 24. Young people (ages 14+) are encouraged to participate as well, as we have an additional facilitator for teenage participants.
Together, we’ll unearth the money stories we’ve inherited, get clearer about our “money scripts,” and set realistic financial goals— whether you’re just starting out, living paycheck to paycheck, or figuring out what to do with a surplus. No matter where you fall on the financial spectrum, whether you’re single, partnered, and/or parenting, or how equipped you feel for the conversation, it’s never too early (or too late) to look at money with fresh eyes.
Join Shannon Doyle from the Lutheran Social Services (LSS) Financial Counseling team for this interactive, practical workshop from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. on January 24 at the Center of Belonging. More info at FabricMpls.com/money

Quarterly Racial Justice Liaisons Gathering - January
2026-01-27 18:30 - 20:00 | Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, 2315 Chicago Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55404
Join the Minneapolis Area Synod’s Racial Justice Team at their quarterly Racial Justice Liaisons gathering.
Racial Justice Liaisons at MAS worshipping communities are invited to come together to meet, network, and connect.
Email Pastor Jen Collins if you have questions or are interested in attending.

When Play Becomes a Problem
2026-01-28 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
The Center of Addiction & Faith is hosting a one-hour free webinar titled “When Play Becomes a Problem: Internet Gaming and Spiritual Formation” on January 28, 2026, from Noon – 1:00 p.m.
The guest presenter, Michael Hsu, MD, will explore the role of internet gaming and digital technology in the lives of children, adolescents, and adults—highlighting both the potential benefits and the risks of problematic or compulsive use. The session will help faith leaders recognize signs of unhealthy gaming or technology use, understand when gaming may be serving deeper emotional or spiritual needs, and offer practical, compassionate ways to support individuals and families while encouraging balance, community, and healthy limits.
Register >

January 2026 Ministerium for Rostered Leaders
2026-01-29 08:00 - 12:00 | Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Maple Grove, 7401 County Rd 101, Maple Grove, MN, 55311, United States
Who is Christ for Us Today? Hope and Lessons from Bonhoeffer
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Maple Grove
In our times, marked by political and ideological division and fueled, in part, by the rise of Christian Nationalism, Dr. Lori Brandt Hale (Director of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Augsburg) offers a compelling vision for a faithful and courageous response. Drawing on the life and witness of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Brandt Hale highlights four guiding themes—neighbor, community, grace, and responsibility—that can ground us in justice, compassion, and resilient hope as we work together for the common good.

Agenda:

8:30 a.m. Check-in
9:00 a.m. Worship
10:00 a.m. Fellowship & Refreshments
10:30 a.m. Presentation
12:00 p.m. Sending

Register >

Conference Assemblies: Bloomington, South Minneapolis, and Crosstown Conferences
2026-01-29 19:00 - 20:30 | St. John’s Lutheran, Minneapolis, 4842 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55419, United States
More information and registration >

ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza
2026-01-30 - 2026-02-02 | Hyatt Regency at the Arch, 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO, 63102, United States
The Extravaganza is a four-day leadership event for ELCA congregational leaders in children’s, youth, young adult, and outdoor ministry.
Extravaganza is about faith formation. Extravaganza is about helping you in your ministry. Extravaganza is about renewal, education and connection.

Intensive Care Courses: January 29-30, 2026
The Main Event: January 30-February 2, 2026
This event runs Friday evening through Monday noon with optional pre-conference add-ons on Thursday & Friday.
The ELCA’s Youth Ministry Network invites leaders of color to participate in a pre-conference Multicultural Initiative. Learn more about the Multicultural Initiative.

Register >

YAGM Info Session
2026-01-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Online

Rostered Minister Prayer Time
2026-02-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
In this challenging time across our state, we see you navigating the many responsibilities and concerns. The Bishops of Minnesota invite currently serving Rostered Ministers and SAMs to gather together online for an hour of prayer and connection led by Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry. Email the Synod office to receive the Zoom link.

Webinar: Safety in Faith Communities
2026-02-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Does your faith community have a plan to manage medical emergencies and reduce your liability?
Are your safety policies and procedures up-to-date?
Who’s responsible for first aid supplies and AED care?
Are protections in place for children, youth and the vulnerable?
This FREE Webinar on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from Noon – 1:00 p.m., will provide you with several ways you can improve safety for staff, members and visitors.
Led by an RN and faith community nurse who developed safety policies and procedures for three congregations, you’ll learn practical ways to address these important issues.
Register >

Conference Assemblies: Northern, Rum River, and Western Waters Conferences
2026-02-05 19:00 - 20:30 | Grace Lutheran Church, Andover, 13655 Round Lake Blvd, Andover, MN, 55304, United States

Conference Assemblies: Central, North Minneapolis, and Northwest Hennepin Conferences
2026-02-07 09:00 - 11:00 | House of Hope Lutheran Church, New Hope, MN, United States
Save the date – more information to come!
More information and registration >

Pre-Super Bowl Party Fundraiser
2026-02-07 15:00 - 18:00 | Immanuel Lutheran Church, 16515 Luther Way, Eden Prairie, MN, 55346, United States
3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Come for a time of multicultural food, drinks, music, fellowship and fun benefitting members of Cristo Obrero and their community. Many are suffering from restricted movement and inability to safely go to work.
5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Bi-lingual service of Holy Communion with guest preacher Bishop Jen Nagel
Direct Donations can be made to Cristo Obrero’s Venmo at @Cristo-Obrero
Register and/or sponsor a family >

Monthly Children's Ministry Online Meet-Ups - February
2026-02-09 13:00 - 14:00 | online
Monthly Children’s Ministry Online Meet-Ups – February
Discussion Topic: TBD
Join the Call >

Monthly Children & Youth Ministry Gathering - February
2026-02-10 15:00 - 17:00 | Steel Toe Brewing, 4848 W 35th St, St. Louis Park, MN, 55416, United States
February Children & Youth Ministry Gathering
AI in Church: What are we Doing?

Nuts and Bolts of Dementia
2026-02-12 09:15 - 13:00 | Online
This symposium will help nurses better understand the risk factors for dementia with a focus on hearing loss as a risk factor. Nurses will also learn the importance of early detection and dementia friendly interventions.
Closed captioning and ASL Interpretation Available.
More information >

Western Suburbs CYF Ministry Network February Gathering
2026-02-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Advent Lutheran Church, 9475 Jefferson Hwy, Maple Grove, MN, 55369, United States
The Western Suburbs CYF Ministry Network gathers CYF leaders for quarterly gatherings around different topics.
In February, the Network will be talking about Parent Engagement. How do we connect with parents and faith in the home? How do we connect parents in volunteer roles? Come and let’s learn together.
More information >

Conference Assemblies: Southwest, 394, and Western Parks & Lakes Conferences
2026-02-12 18:00 - 19:30 | St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Eden Prairie, 13600 Technology Drive, Eden Prairie, MN, 55344, United States

Stories the Land Holds: Race and History
2026-02-12 19:00 - 20:30 | MN

Foundations of Faith Community Nursing Course
2026-02-22 - 2026-03-22 | Online
For RNs who wish to practice as Faith Community Nurses, this course provides 36 hours of continuing education credit and prepares RNs to lead health ministries in faith communities or other communities.
15 modules include Spiritual Care, Advocacy, Prayer, Documentation, Care Coordination. Outstanding review from students!
Dates: 2/22, 2/26, 3/8, 3/12, 3/22

More information >

Discerning Your Call: Exploring the Next Faithful Step
2026-02-22 14:00 - 20:00 | Oak Knoll Lutheran Church, Minnetonka, 600 Hopkins Crossroad, Minnetonka, MN, 55305, United States
A discernment retreat hosted by the ELCA synods of Region 3 in the states of Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota
Wondering what’s next?
Wondering if God is calling you to something different?
Wondering if there’s “something more”?
Explore these and other questions in the context of our faith, with other wonderers through storytelling, introspection, and studying of Scripture. We strongly encourage you to bring a conversation partner (your pastor, a colleague, family member, friend, etc who will continue this conversation with you). The event costs $10 per person, which includes an evening meal.
Sunday, February 22
Oak Knoll Lutheran, Minnetonka
Register by February 15
Register now >

An Evening with Rev. Angela Denker
2026-02-23 18:30 - 20:00 | Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55403, United States
Join in person or online for a discussion of the book, followed by Rev. Denker taking audience questions about the movement to resist Christian Nationalism. Meet in the sanctuary at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55403, or watch the live stream of the event on the church’s website, YouTube channel, or Facebook page.

You can also join…
Christians Against Christian Nationalism Minnesota Statewide Book Club on February 10, 6:30 p.m.
Zoom Book Club Discussion on Disciples of White Jesus: Radicalization of American Boyhood by Rev. Angela Denker
After a short welcome, attendees will divide into breakout rooms of 5 – 6 people for a deeper discussion of the book.
