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...
Recent messages from Bishop Brenda
Bishop Brenda Bos' public witness as read in synodical newsletters and media posts
Dear siblings in Christ, Yesterday, June 7, 2025, exactly five months after wildfires raged through Pacific Palisades and Altadena, the President of the United States deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles. These troops were not requested by our governor. There is no natural disaster here. These troops were sent to quell "widespread violent protests" against ICE raids in our city. It is not clear whether there were any violent protests against ICE, which means even if there was violence, it was not "widespread." Los Angeles saw widespread violence in the 1993 riots - this is NOT that. There were peaceful protests, and the Los Angeles police report all is under control. But the president chose this moment to assert his power in our streets and intimidate our state and local leaders. What is the church to do? First, we call for peace. Peaceful protest is part of our American democracy. It is also part of the non-violent movement, built by Jesus, Gandhi, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and so many others. Jesus called us to be the salt of the earth, flavoring, savoring, keeping society fresh and vital. We are to call out injustice and demand rights for the marginalized. Second, we are to name a thing what it is. Intimidation by any force, positive or negative, good or evil, is wrong. In my mind, the answer is not to raise up against national guard, the answer is to encourage all parties to de-escalate, rather than escalate, the situation. The church can be a voice of solidarity, calm and spiritual strength. This does not mean we are weak: it means we bring the Holy Spirit into all scenarios. Third, we check in on those affected by this police action. We know people who will be in hiding. We know pastors who are caring for frightened church members. We know organizations (or we should learn about them!) who provide emergency legal aid and support to families affected by violence and arrest. We can stand in support with them. Fourth, we contact our elected officials. Let them know we care about justice for migrants and due process. Tell them peace for all people is our priority. No matter where you stand on immigration issues, as Christians, we are called to love, care, pray, offer a cup of cold water in Jesus' name. Preachers: preach about love and justice and freedom found only in Christ. Parishioners, pray mightily and see what the Holy Spirit is calling you to do. We cannot remain silent. God most holy, God most merciful, protect your people from harm. Remove hate from our hearts, remove fear from our bellies. Keep Los Angeles and the surrounding areas free from violence. Bring peace to our land, and change the hearts of those who wish us ill. In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen. With the love of God and the strength of the Holy Spirit, +Bishop Brenda Bos
Beloved in Christ, Southern California has always been the home of people from all over the world. Migrants strengthen our communities and our churches. As the Trump administration begins to endanger the livelihoods and families of so many migrants, I pledge my support for all of God's children. Our churches are places of worship, faithfulness and community, and we are glad you are here. We understand our churches can offer spiritual care and support your efforts for employment, legal status and safety for your families. We stand with you.
“The Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit intercedes for us with sighs to deep for words.” (Romans 8:26) Most beloved in Christ, Grace and peace to you in this time of great loss and strength. God is with us, in each of our situations, from those who are safe and unaffected to the homeless and grieving. My prayer is we lean into God’s grace and wonder in these times and that all of us may be made whole in Jesus’ name. The wildfires which devastated multiple communities in Southern California have impacted thousands of us. We know God calls us to care for each other, even people we do not know, in times of need. The Southwest California Synod is being called to care for victims of the wildfire in intentional, thoughtful ways. In response to the wildfires, our synod is working closely with Lutheran Disaster Response and Lutheran Social Services of Southern California. We are also creating our own synod disaster response team and hiring a disaster response coordinator. This person will match needs with ways to assist, be that with designated funds, volunteers or resources. I, myself, am taking a leave of absence for at least a month to grieve, heal and deal with the myriad new questions and needs in my life. I will be well in God’s care, and also in the confidence that we have so many talented and committed people, on our staff, in our synod council, in our congregations and within our partner organizations. I will pray for you while I am away from my office, and I ask for your prayers as well. People will require care for many years to come. We are not daunted by this task, as we cling to God’s promises to strengthen and inspire us. Indeed, people of faith can bring a unique compassion and understanding to the needs of our communities.
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