On July 30, 2025, the Churchwide Assembly of the ELCA passed the memorial, “Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine”. Please join RMS Sumud on zoom Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 7pm to learn more about this memorial, the doors it opens for engagement, ELCA resources that support our engagement, and how you can connect. More details coming soon.
ELCA Churchwide Assembly Passes Resolution Calling for an End to Genocide in Gaza
The Resolution, "Toward Ending the Occupation of Palestine," calls for advocacy to end the genocide and human rights violations in Gaza, recognition of a Palestinian state, and an end to settler violence in the West Bank. It also reaffirms the ELCA’s commitment to amplifying the voices of ELCA partners in Palestine and Israel. Read the full text of the Resolution.
Resources for study and advocacy:
4- minute video about Sumud's work and longer webinar update - watch these below
IMPLEMENT the ELCA resolutions on Israeli settlements and responsible investment - read a FACT SHEET on the Memorials
STUDY the KAIROS PALESTINE document, the Palestinian Christians' call to Christians around the world, asking for support in their struggle for human rights
Opportunity Palestine - supporting Lutheran schools in Bethlehem, Beit Jala, Beit Sahour and Ramallah: http://opportunitypalestine.org.
Bright Stars of Bethlehem - supporting ministries of Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem - K-12 school and after school programs, elder care programs, Dar Al-Kalima University College and more: http://brightstarsbethlehem.org
Worship Resource: Thomas Mass Liturgy
The Thomas Mass is a Lutheran worship liturgy designed for contemplation, prayer, and questioning. It is named for the Apostle Thomas because of his questions in faith. The bulk of this service is an Open Phase during which worshippers are invited to participate in different worship stations as they feel compelled. This particular Thomas Mass has been developed by the Rocky Mountain Synod’s Peace Not Walls committee. The service may be adapted for use throughout the year in various worship settings.