Election seasons can feel overwhelming. The constant noise, division, advertisements, and political tension can make many people want to disengage entirely. Yet as people of faith, we are called not to withdraw from the world, but to engage it thoughtfully, compassionately, and faithfully.

That is why Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN) is launching LEAN into 2026, a statewide initiative focused on nonpartisan civic engagement, public discipleship, and helping congregations and communities participate faithfully in Nevada’s election season.

Nevada’s:

• Primary Election is June 9, 2026
• General Election is November 3, 2026

But elections are not simply one day on a calendar. They are part of an ongoing process of shaping our communities and participating in public life together.

As Lutherans, we believe faith is lived not only inside the walls of the church, but also in how we love our neighbors, care for the vulnerable, seek justice, and participate in the common good. Civic engagement is one expression of that calling.

This work is not about endorsing candidates or political parties. In fact, any election-related engagement by congregations must remain strictly nonpartisan and comply with IRS guidelines. Instead, this initiative is about equipping people with trustworthy information, opportunities for learning, and resources that encourage thoughtful participation in our democracy.

Throughout the year, LEAN will offer online events, trainings, educational materials, and opportunities for conversation around faithful civic engagement.

Planned opportunities include:

• Online discussions on elections and ELCA social teaching
• Civic engagement trainings for rostered and lay leaders
• Resources for congregations and ministry teams
• Nevada-specific voter information and educational guides
• Post-election gatherings focused on prayer, reflection, and ongoing engagement

One upcoming event, Elections & Civic Engagement: What the ELCA Teaches & How Congregations Can Engage, will explore how Lutheran social teaching connects to public life and how congregations can engage in ways that are faithful, transparent, and nonpartisan.

Another planned gathering following the election will create space for worship, reflection, and conversation about where we go from here as communities seeking hope and healing in a polarized time.

The ELCA also offers important resources to support this work, including guides on:

• Being a public church during election seasons
• Voter engagement and civic participation
• Churches serving as polling places
• Supporting voters experiencing homelessness
• Understanding the relationship between race and voting access

At a time when distrust and fear often dominate political conversations, faithful civic engagement reminds us that our neighbors are not our enemies. Democracy depends on participation, relationships, listening, and a shared commitment to human dignity.

As people of faith, we have an opportunity to model a different way forward — one rooted not in fear or division, but in compassion, truth, justice, and hope.

We invite congregations, ministry leaders, and individuals across Nevada to join us as we LEAN into 2026 together.

For more information, upcoming events, or resource requests, visit LEAN for Justice or contact Pastor Paul Larson at paullarson@leanforjustice.org.