Equipped for the First Third.
The Academy by the ELCA provides training and resources for ministry leaders and volunteers committed to building meaningful, lasting first third of life ministries — grounded in faith and designed for real-world impact.
Support for Every Season of Leadership.
From volunteers guiding Wednesday night groups to full-time ministry leaders, The Academy offers practical tools, training, and resources for every stage of your work. Find what you need to lead with confidence, clarity, and lasting impact.
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Curious Christian Children
Curious Christian Children (CCC) is a multi-year, Lilly Endowment–funded initiative working to reshape how communities across the ELCA include children—especially children with disabilities—in worship and prayer.
We’re inviting ministry leaders to explore big questions:
- What makes worship truly welcoming for children?
- How do we make room for curiosity, creativity, differing physical abilities, and neurodiversity?
- How do children teach us about God?
YOUTH MINISTRY
Resources For Ministry Today
Youth ministry is about walking with young people as they discover who they are and how God is calling them to live in the world today. The Faith Foundations team understands the challenges of leading in a culture that moves quickly, and we believe teens need ministry that speaks into their lives right now.
That’s why we provide tools, ideas, and experiences that are both faithful and fresh. From Bible studies and service opportunities to leadership development and faith practices, our resources in the Academy are designed to help you meet teens where they are and guide them toward bold discipleship.
ELCA YOUTH GATHERING
Imagine More 💭
Every three years, thousands of high schoolers and their adult leaders from across the ELCA come together for the ELCA Youth Gathering. It’s not just an event but a movement in which faith ignites and community comes alive. Through inspiring speakers, experiential learning and transformative connections, young people experience the church in bold, unforgettable ways. Each night, participants share a unique faith experience through high-energy worship and powerful storytelling. The Gathering is an opportunity to ask big questions, grow in faith and be part of something bigger than yourself. Are you ready to join the movement?