ELCA Youth

06/01/2026

05/20/2026

Faith Lens is pausing its weekly article rhythm for the summer. However, be on the lookout for three new resources we hope will be useful as youth and young adult ministries continue at a different pace during these warmer months. Thank you for reading along and engaging in Bible Study with us this past year!

https://blogs.elca.org/faithlens/summer-sabbatical-2026/

05/19/2026

Perfect way to get started on your journey to Minneapolis for the 2027 Gathering!

Dive into Course One of the updated Handbook Series on the Academy. This course will cover the structure of the Gathering, shifts in programming, how to start creating your congregation’s timeline, and more. Over the next few months, we’ll continue to add new courses to the Handbook Series on the Academy. Let’s get started! 🎉

https://theacademy.elca.org/courses/gathering101

05/13/2026

What does “eternal life” actually mean?

This week’s Faith Lens explores Jesus’ prayer in John 17 and invites us to see eternal life not just as something after death, but as a way of living now; a life shaped by knowing God, following Jesus, and joining in what God is doing in the world.

In John 17, Jesus defines eternal for his disciples and for his followers today. Eternal life is for us here and now.

05/12/2026

05/12/2026

Interested in MYLE & the tAble? 👀

Be sure to register for Thursday's webinar to talk through why we have pre-events, what happens during them, and how to invite your young people to these live-changing ministries. 🎉

https://elcafoundation.zoom.us/webinar/register/2417685181310/WN_Jvog_25dRNyv0oRyEvynzg #/registration

05/06/2026

How do you experience God’s presence in the things you do, and in the ways you show acts of service for family, friends, and strangers?

This week’s Faith Lens explores this question through Jesus’ command in his “farewell discourse” with the disciples: https://blogs.elca.org/faithlens/may-10-2026-ordinary-household-acts-of-love/

04/29/2026

Where do young people find safety right now?

This week’s Faith Lens explores Jesus’ promise in John 14, that we are not alone, and that God is preparing a place for us, even in a world that feels anything but secure.

In John 14, Jesus promises a place for you. Explore how this message of safety, and hope speaks into a fearful and uncertain world.

04/22/2026

This week’s Faith Lens starts with a simple question: when was the last time you felt awe?

Acts tells the story of a community shaped not by strategy, but by wonder at God’s presence. And somehow, that awe led to a way of life where no one was in need.

Where is awe showing up in the world, and what action does it inspire?

In Acts, awe brings beloning. Discover how the early church’s awe shaped a community where no one was in need and what it means for today.

04/21/2026

Looking for a great summer or fall retreat option? Consider joining us as we bring some of the best elements of camp and the Gathering together for week-long and weekend retreats.

Get your group together for some pre-Gathering bonding at one of our 2026 Gathering Expeditions! ⚡️

Registration is OPEN for Western States Youth Gathering and Lutheridge Expeditions. Registration for Carol Joy will open verrrrrrrry soon. 👀

https://www.elca.org/how-we-serve/churches-and-church-leaders/faith-foundations/gathering-expeditions