Light of the Valleys, Reno, Nevada, is one home mission congregation that received matching grants from WELS Home Missions and WELS Christian Aid and Relief to provide pandemic relief in its community. Light of the Valleys wanted to support local businesses that had been hurt by the pandemic and support community members in need. In order to do both, they purchased gifts cards from local restaurants that members could give out to frontline workers and families that have been directly affected by COVID. Each gift card included a note of encouragement and an invitation to Easter worship. Photos show members assembling the pandemic relief outreach packets. WELS Christian Aid and Relief has also set aside $200,000 to help established WELS congregations offer pandemic relief to their communities. Congregations can receive up to $2,500 in matching grant money to provide aid to those who are struggling in their neighborhoods. To learn more, read "New opportunities to offer pandemic relief" from the March issue of Forward in Christ.

Today is Day 30 in our Bible readings that detail Jesus' journey to the cross. A new video/podcast is available each of the 40 days of Lent at forwardinchrist.net. Click the button below to watch today's video or to catch up on those you may have missed.