Perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18)

Siblings in Christ,

News of federal immigration actions in the Bay Area stirs anxiety in our communities and uncertainty in our hearts. Yet as fear sweeps down upon us, love wells up within us. And love—God’s love made flesh among us—is stronger than fear, stronger than violence, stronger than intimidation, stronger than death.

When fear and violence are on the move, the Church must move with love. We stand together with the targeted and the vulnerable. We bear witness to our solidarity on the Way of Jesus—not because it is easy or popular, but because it is faithful.

“Stand firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel, and in no way intimidated by your opponents.” (Philippians 1:27–28)

In this moment we are called to stand up and to stand together—to stand for love and to bear witness to the crucified and risen Christ among us.

If you encounter officers of the government who stir fear or disrupt the peace of our neighborhoods, root yourselves in faith and in prayer. Let your footing be courage and compassion. Stay centered and wise. Do not amplify anxiety, but share trustworthy information. Keep watch over one another. Reach out to your neighbors.

“Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another; be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.” (Romans 12:9–12)

Hold fast to what is good, my friends. Love is stronger than evil. This is our confession. This is our hope. And this is our witness.

Confident that God’s grace is sufficient,

+Jeff

Sierra Pacific Synod

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

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.