State and Local Strategies for Strengthening Communities and Protecting Immigrants

As federal immigration enforcement dramatically expands, state and local lawmakers play a critical role in shaping policies that safeguard immigrant communities.

Please join the American Immigration Council on Thursday, October 30, at 1 PM ET for a webinar exploring the solutions available to state and local policymakers to shape fair, effective, and community-focused policies that protect all residents and reflect their community values and priorities.

LEAN is Hitting the Road

Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) is on the move, connecting with congregations and communities across the state to share the good news of faithful advocacy.

We invite you to welcome Pastor Paul Larson, LEAN’s Advocacy Director, to your congregation in 2026. Pastor Paul is available to:

  • Lead a Bible study or adult forum
  • Offer a preaching engagement
  • Share a temple talk on the work of Lutheran advocacy in Nevada

Together, we can strengthen our shared commitment to justice, compassion, and faithful public witness.

To schedule a visit, contact Pastor Paul at paullarson@leanforjustice.org.

Faith and Immigration: Strangers No Longer is Now Available!

LEAN is excited to share that Faith and Immigration: Strangers No Longer is now available for purchase!

If you’re interested in using this resource in your congregation or small group, please contact Pastor Paul at paullarson@leanforjustice.org.

donation of $30 to Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) is encouraged to help sustain this important ministry.

Why now?

The story of God’s people is the story of migration. From Abraham and Sarah journeying to an unknown land, to Israel wandering in the wilderness, to Ruth crossing borders, to Mary and Joseph fleeing with Jesus as refugees — the Bible is filled with stories of displacement, migration, and resettlement.

Through it all, God continually shows up along these journeys, promising presence, provision, and hope.

This study invites participants to see immigration not as an abstract political issue, but as part of God’s ongoing story — and as central to what it means to be people of faith.

Thrive 2025: Stories of Hope, Healing, and Renewal after Disasters

“As you read through the stories in these pages, you will see compassion in action. In Honduras, Ukraine and the United States, our neighbors are showing resilience, faith and empathy in the face of disaster. Even when their own lives have been upended, they are looking out for others in similar situations.”

— Maryn Olson, Director

Contents include:

  • MAPPING OUR IMPACT
  • ONGOING RESPONSES
  • FINDING DIRECTION AFTER DISASTER
  • EDUCATIONAL STABILITY IN UKRAINE
  • HELPING HANDS AMONG THE MOUNTAINTOPS
  • FROM CRISIS TO COMMUNITY
  • BUILDING A BETTER TOMORROW IN HONDURAS