Eastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

Member church of the Lutheran World Federation

Installation of Rev. Emily Graff

Posted: |

Emily Graff: New Pastor for First Lutheran

Pastor Emily Graff, M. Div., has taken up duties at First Lutheran in downtown Toronto effective February 1. Her installation will take place on Sunday, February 22, 3:00 pm. Pastor Katherine Gohm, Assistant to the Bishop of the Eastern Synod will perform the installation, and Pastor Adam Snook, Assistant to the Bishop of the Eastern Synod will preach. The service is open to the public. All are welcome; refreshments to follow.

Pastor Graff grew up in Illinois. A graduate of Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota, she was ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, in 2024. She and her wife and daughter have moved to Toronto from North Carolina, where she has been serving a Lutheran parish since ordination.

First Lutheran Church has a mission to serve its downtown neighborhood, including the Toronto Metropolitan University community, the homeless (especially through its Little Free Pantry), condo dwellers, and newcomers to the GTA. First Lutheran is celebrating its 175th anniversary in 2026. The friendly and diverse congregation holds services every Sunday at 10:30 am at 116 Bond Street. 

For more information contact Masha Koyama, Church Council Chair- chair@firstelc.ca

Diaconal Ministry Sunday – Feb 22

Posted: |

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, congregations across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada will observe Diaconal Ministry Sunday. This annual day of emphasis lifts up the ministry of service — diakonia — and honours the ministry of diaconal ministers, who share Christ’s love through service, compassion, and justice in the world.

Within the ELCIC, diaconal ministers are rostered leaders called to ministries of word and service. They serve in congregations, schools, hospitals, social service agencies and other community organizations, helping the church live out its faith in daily life while serving the needs of the wider community.

To support congregations, the ELCIC has prepared 2026 Diaconal Ministry Sunday resources, including a sermon (both text and video files available) and worship and education materials, available for use throughout February.