Faithful.
Loving our neighbors.
Joyful.

The Southwest California Synod of the ELCA walks with congregations and communities in Christ’s love.

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What does it mean to be Lutheran in Southern California?

First and foremost, to be Lutheran means to be Christian. We believe and wish to live out the words of the Apostles creed, believing in God the creator, Jesus the Savior and the Holy Spirit, God’s gift to the church to bring us together in love with God, each other and this world...

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Recent messages from Bishop Brenda

Bishop Brenda Bos' public witness as read in synodical newsletters and media posts.

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Bishop’s Quarterly Report – 4th Quarter, 2025
Bishop’s Quarterly Report – 4th Quarter, 2025

Marking one year since the Eaton and Palisades fires, Bishop Brenda Bos offers a pastoral reflection and outlines key priorities for the synod in 2026, including disaster response, congregational resilience, and long-term ministry planning.

Informe del Cuarto Trimestre de 2025 de la Obispa
Informe del Cuarto Trimestre de 2025 de la Obispa

En este mensaje para iniciar 2026, la obispa Brenda Bos reflexiona sobre el primer aniversario de los incendios de Eaton y Palisades, comparte avances en la respuesta del sínodo y presenta los ejes del nuevo Plan Estratégico, reafirmando que somos iglesia juntos, llamados a la fidelidad, la resiliencia y el amor.

A Prayer from Bishop Brenda Bos for ICE Shooting in Minneapolis
A Prayer from Bishop Brenda Bos for ICE Shooting in Minneapolis

In light of the tragic Minneapolis ICE shooting that stirred national concern, Bishop Brenda Bos prays for comfort, courage, and justice for all affected. The prayer invites Christians to remain united in love, even amid deep pain and difference. 

Bishop's Close of Advent Message 2025
Bishop's Close of Advent Message 2025

In her closing Advent message, Bishop Brenda Bos reflects on waiting, vulnerability, and God’s surprising presence in a troubled world. Drawing on the journey of Mary and Joseph, she invites the church to walk forward in faith, trusting that God is with us.

  • “Your life as a Christian should make non-believers question their disbelief in God.” —Dietrich Bonhoeffer

  • “Pray, and let God worry.” —Martin Luther

  • “God writes the gospel, not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars.” —Martin Luther

Featured Flyer
Give the Gift of Life: Blood Drive at Lutheran Church in the Foothills
Give the Gift of Life: Blood Drive at Lutheran Church in the Foothills

A blood drive will be held February 26, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., at Lutheran Church in the Foothills in La Cañada Flintridge. Appointments are encouraged through the American Red Cross.

Volunteers Needed: Lutheran Build Day in Altadena
Volunteers Needed: Lutheran Build Day in Altadena

Lutheran Build Day is March 7 in Altadena, supporting wildfire recovery through Habitat for Humanity. Construction and lunch support volunteers are needed. Registration closes February 23.

Black History Month Worship Series: “Where Dreams Take Flight”
Black History Month Worship Series: “Where Dreams Take Flight”

Join the ADLA Los Angeles Chapter for a Black History Month worship series at California Lutheran University, February 5, 12, and 19 at 11:00 a.m., under the theme “Where Dreams Take Flight.”

Save the Date: Bishop’s Colloquy and Chrism Mass
Save the Date: Bishop’s Colloquy and Chrism Mass

The Bishop’s Colloquy and Chrism Mass will take place on March 16, 2026. Time and location will be announced soon. Please mark your calendars and watch for upcoming details.

Assembly 2026: Dates Set and Call for Resolutions Now Open
Assembly 2026: Dates Set and Call for Resolutions Now Open

The 2026 Southwest California Synod Assembly will be held May 29–30, 2026, under the theme “God Is Our Refuge & Strength.” The call for resolutions is now open, with submissions due by March 31 at 4:00 p.m.

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Southwest California Synod

Synod Assembly

Friday, May 29, and Saturday, May 30, 2026
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