Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Joaquin Garcia, Vida Nueva, Glendale, Pan de Vida, El Mirage, who celebrates 42 years on July 20.

In this episode of the Pivot podcast, Dr. Angela Williams-Gorrell shares her framework for religious decision making when facing difficult choices. .

• Marking a Decade of Rights-Based Advocacy

• Creating a just future: responsible theology and transformative learning in Asia

• Planting Hope: Reforesting Nicaragua’s Dry Corridor

Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

• Rev. Alan Field, who celebrates 40 years on July 18.

• Rev. Amy Janssen, Tanque Verde, Tucson, who celebrates 5 years on July 18.

• For an end to war, violence, and genocide across the world, especially in Ukraine, Gaza, Iran, Israel, Haiti, Sudan, Myanmar, Yemen, India, and Pakistan…

• For the ongoing work of first responders and relief organizations, including Lutheran Disaster Response in Kerr County, Texas, and in all places affected by natural disasters…

• For those experiencing or anticipating storms and floods in the Northeast US and in the Gulf region…

• For the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada who has elected the Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer to serve as its fifth National Bishop and in thanksgiving for the ministry of outgoing National Bishop Susan Johnson…

• For our own church and the discernment of voting members who will soon elect a new Presiding Bishop and Secretary of the ELCA…

• For those affected by recent ICE raids in Camarillo, California, including those injured and killed…

• For all victims of sexual abuse and assault…

• For those killed and injured in a recent fire at an assisted living facility in Fall River, Massachusetts…

Catastrophic flash floods in South Central Texas have caused heartbreaking loss of life and widespread destruction. Bishop Sue Briner calls us to fervent prayer for those affected. Join the Grand Canyon Synod in supporting survivors through Lutheran Disaster Response, which is providing both immediate aid and long-term recovery. Give today.

Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Timothy Brown, who celebrates 31 years on July 17.

The Office of the Bishop gathers for an in-person staff meeting, and prepares to welcome the ELCA to Phoenix for the 2025 Churchwide Assembly. Join us as a volunteer!

Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church in Sun City partners with Community Action Market & Produce (C.A.M.P.) to bring fresh, rescued produce to neighbors across the Northwest Phoenix Valley. This nonprofit, run entirely by volunteers, distributes nutritious food through its Saturday Shop & Select markets, prepacked produce boxes, and delivery programs for the elderly and disabled—all with no income qualifications required. To learn more about this inspiring ministry or how you can support it, click here.

Lutheran Services in America has released a strong public statement following the passage of H.R. 1, a budget reconciliation bill that includes nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts projected to leave 17 million fewer people insured over the next decade. While some harmful provisions were successfully removed, the bill poses real challenges for caregivers, providers, and vulnerable communities. The Lutheran network continues to stand firm—grounded in faith, committed to service, and urging leaders to work with nonprofits on practical, people-centered solutions. To read and share the full statement from Lutheran Services in America, click here.

Explore the July update from Lutherans Restoring Creation featuring new webinars, book discussions, climate trainings, and a 2026 in-person retreat. From a July 22 energy-saving session to a September Christian Climate Training and an ongoing Book Club on Building a Moral Economy, there are many ways to get involved. Plus, help shape LRC’s future through a strategic planning survey. Read the full LRC newsletter.

This week’s AFN newsletter is full of hands-on ways to live your faith. Join the Interfaith Bag Packing event, sign up for Monday meditations, attend Bahá’í 101, or join the book study on The Tears of Things. You’ll also find volunteer opportunities, interfaith connections, and a special Prayer Circle for Oak Flat. Read the full newsletter and RSVP today: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter

Bishop-elect Benjamin Quanbeck, chosen to lead the Montana Synod beginning September 1, brings a leadership vision grounded in trust, collaboration, and gospel-centered hope. In an interview with Living Lutheran, Quanbeck emphasized supporting congregations and leaders with the tools they need to thrive—and letting the Spirit lead from there. His mantra, “people over programs,” shapes his pastoral and adaptive approach to ministry. Get to know his vision, values, and hopes for the synod by reading the full interview in Living Lutheran —click here.

Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Mark Huggenvik, who celebrates 53 years on July 16.

The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) has released its final report ahead of the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, offering a bold roadmap for structural reform grounded in equity, inclusion, and the gospel. Key recommendations include constitutional amendments, support for lay leadership, and commitments to dismantling racism. As our synod prepares to send voting members to Phoenix, this is a critical moment to reflect on who we are—and who we are called to become. Click here to read the full article in Living Lutheran.

Meet Ritu Rishidev, an 18-year-old student from Nepal’s marginalized Musahar community, who is rising as a powerful advocate for women’s rights and social justice. Supported through a Lutheran-led training in human rights and advocacy—organized by the Lutheran Community Welfare Society and funded by the ELCA—Ritu is now a bold voice speaking out against gender-based violence and discrimination. To read more about Ritu’s inspiring journey and the Lutheran support behind her work, click here.