From Bishop Miller: September 2026

This summer, I attended the 15th National Assembly of the Association of Lutheran Liberians in the Americas (ALLIA) in Baltimore. The theme for this gathering was “Moving ALLIA Forward through Unity, Institutional building and Enhanced Ecumenical Partnerships.” Scheduled speakers for the event included Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, Bishop William Gohl (Delaware-Maryland Synod), and Bishop G. Victor Padmore of the Lutheran Church in Liberia (LCL). Regrettably, Bishop Padmore could not obtain a visa to attend the event. Nevertheless, the group had an effective meeting that included time for networking among Liberian Lutherans from Maryland, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Canada, and other regions.

Through the report of the President of ALLIA, I learned that Phebe Hospital, operated by the LCL, lost its license this year. Phebe has provided important medical care for many years, including through the time of civil war. We do not yet know whether their license can be renewed. I ask that we pray for the healing ministries of the LCL, especially Phebe Hospital.

We face our own struggles with healthcare in this country, especially shortages of providers and growing costs. Medical insurance will increase dramatically next year, including for those using Portico Benefits (our ELCA plan). This will further challenge the ability of our congregations to support a pastor and our members to access the care they need.

The ELCA Social Statement, Caring for Health: Our Shared Endeavor, speaks of our Christian calling to advocate for just and equitable healthcare for all people. I encourage our members to read this statement and to consider how congregations and our synod can fulfill Christ’s mission to bring healing to our broken world.