The Conference of Bishops of the ELCA added its voice to concerns about international situations during its meeting Feb. 27-March 5 at Eaglewood Resort in Itasca, Ill.

The Bishops issued a statement and sent a letter to President Joe Biden calling for a permanent bilateral cease-fire in Gaza and urging the president and legislators “to do everything in their power to bring an end to the current suffering and lay the foundation for lasting peace with justice.”

The conference is an advisory body of the ELCA that comprises 65 synod bishops, the presiding bishop and the secretary.

As bishops and as Christians, we pledge ourselves to accompanying both migrants and those who serve migrants with protection, advocacy, representation and opportunities, and we urge all people of goodwill to join us.

The ELCA Church Council appointed members to the Commission on a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC). The 2022 Churchwide Assembly called for the council to establish the CRLC to reconsider statements of purpose for the church and its organizational structure. The commission will present its findings and recommendations to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly in preparation for a possible reconstituting convention.

“As we approach March 31, many people are preparing to recognize Transgender Day of Visibility, an international day to celebrate the contributions of transgender people and raise awareness about the deadly injustices they face.”

Wisconsin has a state motto of “Forward,” reminding us to strive to be a national leader. We move forward when we ensure that all people, including those with whom we disagree, work together in the pursuit of the common good.