Winter is coming. It has already produced the first measurable snowfall, and the nights are starting to get around freezing. This is a friendly reminder that warming Centers will open in Novemebr, and many are housed in churches.

In Reno, there is a volunteer training at St. Thomas Wuinas on Monday, October 2th at 5pm.

In Carson City, Thursday, Oct. 23 – Resource Fair 5:00 | Training 5:30 and Saturday, Oct. 25 – Resource Fair 9:30 | Training 10:00 at First United Methodist Church, 200 N Division Street.

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.

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.

LEAN is planning for 2026—and we want to hear from YOU!
Take a few minutes to complete our two quick surveys to help shape our work in the year ahead.

• Tell us how your congregation engages with ELCA World Hunger.
• Share what advocacy issues matter most—affordable housing, food insecurity, voter engagement, and more.

Your input will guide LEAN’s priorities and strengthen our shared voice for justice in Nevada.

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.

A 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.