The LWF expresses deep concern over the situation in Venezuela following the U.S. military action on 3 January and calls for urgent action to prevent further escalation.

The sovereignty and national integrity of Venezuela, and international law, must be respected.

The LWF stands in solidarity with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela and with the communities affected by the situation in the country, which has been deteriorating for months.

In this time of uncertainty and concern, we hold the people of Venezuela in prayer and invite the global Lutheran communion to join us in seeking stability and peace.

Let us pray together:

God of peace, we lift our sisters and brothers in Venezuela. Protect those who are in danger. Comfort those who live with fear, loss, or uncertainty. Give wisdom to leaders, give courage and perseverance to all who work for unity and peace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

In a year marked by rising housing costs, extreme heat, and a housing market stacked against working-class Nevadans, our leaders, clergy, and community members showed what is possible when faith is put into action. Together, we helped advance policies that protect the dignity, safety, and well-being of Nevada’s families and communities.

Legislation LEAN advocated for and supported:

• AB 96 – Protecting Neighbors from Extreme Heat
  Expands protections for workers and vulnerable populations facing dangerous heat conditions.
• AB 121 – Eliminating Hidden Rental Fees and Protecting Tenants
  Increases transparency in rental housing and curbs unfair, surprise fees that drive up housing costs.
• AB 161 – Hospice Standards
  Strengthens oversight and care standards to ensure dignity and accountability in end-of-life care.
• AB 366 – Supportive Housing Fund
  Invests in long-term supportive housing solutions for Nevadans experiencing housing instability.
• AB 220 – Identification for People Experiencing Homelessness
  Removes barriers to obtaining identification, opening access to housing, employment, and essential services.
• SB 421 – Recruiting Poll Workers for Tribal Reservations
  Supports equitable access to democracy by increasing poll worker recruitment in tribal communities.

These victories reflect what happens when people of faith show up, speak out, and advocate together for justice.

Throughout 2025, LEAN has continued to show up at the Nevada Legislature and in communities across the state, advocating for policies that reflect our faith commitment to dignity, justice, and the common good. Rooted in Lutheran social teaching and lived experience from our congregations, our advocacy has focused on the following key areas:

Housing & Homelessness

• Expanding access to affordable housing
• Supporting renter protections and housing stability
• Addressing the growing housing wage gap impacting working families, seniors, and young adults
• Advocating for investments in supportive housing and homelessness prevention

Hunger & Economic Security

• Protecting and strengthening SNAP and nutrition programs
• Supporting emergency assistance programs during government shutdowns
• Addressing rising costs of living, including utilities, groceries, and healthcare
• Advocating for policies that support low-income workers and families

Health Care Access

• Protecting affordable health coverage for Nevadans
• Advocating against premium increases and coverage losses
• Supporting healthcare workforce recruitment and retention
• Standing with those forced to choose between medication, rent, and food

Immigration & Refugee Justice

• Standing in solidarity with immigrant and migrant communities
• Opposing policies that criminalize or scapegoat immigrants
• Supporting protections for students and families from ICE enforcement
• Advocating for dignity, due process, and humane treatment for all people

Criminal Justice & Public Safety

• Opposing harmful “tough on crime” legislation that disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities
• Supporting policies centered on rehabilitation, fairness, and community safety
• Advocating for transparency and accountability within the justice system

Creation Care & Climate Justice

• Supporting responsible environmental stewardship
• Advocating for clean energy investments that benefit communities
• Protecting public lands and natural resources for future generations

Faith in the Public Square

• Mobilizing Lutherans and faith partners for advocacy days and legislative visits
• Providing education, testimony, and moral framing rooted in faith
• Equipping congregations to live out their call to love neighbor through public witness

Are you looking for a meaningful way to deepen your antiracist commitment in community? Kirkridge Retreat and Study Center is offering a White Antiracist Practice Group Series 11: Somatic Antifascist Edition with facilitator Nicole Bauman beginning Wednesday, January 14, through February 18, 2026, 9 am – 10:30 AM PT on Zoom. Payment is by donation, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Register HERE!

As members of the ELCA, we are called to respond to eradicate poverty and hunger. Working with and through our congregations in the U.S., Lutheran churches overseas, and other partners, ELCA World Hunger is uniquely positioned to reach communities in need. Learn More.

Use these resources to join the movement to eradicate poverty and hunger. From education to fundraising, from bulletin inserts to short videos — ELCA World Hunger has resources for all ages and group sizes. Seasons of the church year like Lent, Easter and Advent are perfect times of the year to raise awareness for issues surrounding hunger and poverty. Ready to get started? Use these resources to plan educational and fundraising events at your congregation.

Action Guide for Congregations 2025-26

This guide is designed to equip you with some of the newest and most popular ELCA resources to activate your congregation as you continue your ministry. Through this work and together as a church, we are achieving things on a scale and scope we could never do otherwise. FREE and free shipping. 16 PG, 65 MB.

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