The Faith Practices Initiative of the ELCA urges members of this church to "put their faith into practice" by living out the promises contained in the liturgy for the Affirmation of Baptism. (See box on right.) In that promise, we pledge as members of the body of Christ through baptism to put our faith into practice. These faith practices-the Five Gifts of Discipleship-include:
Five Gifts of Discipleship
The Five Gifts of Discipleship are faith practices-five gifts to be unwrapped, discovered, and re-discovered. The Holy Spirit uses these gifts to teach discipleship, stir the embers of faith, create bold leaders, and transform congregations to be communities of Jesus where there are life-changing relationships with God, one another and the world. See more.
A Personal Inventory: Inward, Outward Gifts of Discipleship
Faith practices are both inward and outward. We receive God's grace and are sent to the world joyfully to share the love of God made known in Christ. Take time for a personal inventory as you reflect on how God is calling you to put your faith into practice.
Bible Studies
As a Book of Faith Church, we recognize the importance of hearing the word of God. Free online lectionary-based bible studies are available for classes, preaching or personal use:
Proclaim: Evangelism Tips
We are sent to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed. E-tips is a series of articles on evangelism available for download and distribution in full-page or bulletin insert format. Use E-Tips to spark a conversation with committees, council meetings, or the whole congregation. See more.
Race Relations
The Journey to Right Relationship is a four-part conversation which begins with "We do not know what we do not know." Isn't that true? And so, we listen and enter into the lament. Why? We are all God's children and some of our family is hurting.
Spiritual Renewal
Communities of Jesus are intended to be life-changing. Vitality comes as our spirits become alive in Christ. There is a team (lay and clergy) in the ELCA who is passionate about stirring the ELCA through prayer, renewal events, prayer services, workshops, and Lutheran revivals. See more.
Story Matters
The Story Matters Initiative helps congregations articulate their unique missional Identity using the bible as the framework for naming this identity. A congregation choses a biblical passage or story that is representative of their missional identity, developing discipleship and mission strategies based on their selection. See more.
We are the church that shares a living, daring confidence in God's grace. Liberated by our faith, we embrace you as a whole person--questions, complexities and all. Join us as we do God's work in Christ's name for the life of the world.