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Those wishing to submit a resolution for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly must do so by Monday, April 27, 2026, by sending an editable electronic file to Kathye Hamm (khamm@gcsynod.org). Resolutions must comply with the ELCA and Grand Canyon Synod governing documents, Robert’s Rules of Order, and the assembly’s rules and agenda. More info here.
The Reference and Counsel Committee will review submissions and publish a report—including recommendations—on the synod website by May 22, 2026. While all submitted resolutions will appear in the report, the assembly’s agenda and rules determine whether they are discussed or voted on during the gathering.
The 2026 Lenten Challenge invites individuals and congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod to join four other ELCA Region 2 synods in raising $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger during Lent. Participants commit to three of four spiritual practices—devotions, learning, action, and donation—using a Matthew 25–centered toolkit.
Everyone is welcome to participate, with a shared goal of engaging at least one person from 50 congregations per synod. Sign up, invite others, and live out Jesus’ call to serve “the least of these” this Lent.
The Grand Canyon Synod is now accepting workshop proposals for the 2026 Synod Assembly. Workshops are one-hour sessions designed to equip rostered ministers and lay leaders with practical tools, theological insights, and ministry resources aligned with this year’s theme, “Rooted in God’s Story.”
Proposals must be submitted by Monday, April 6, 2026, with presenters notified by mid-April. Submit your workshop title, description, audience, presenter information, and technology needs through the synod’s online proposal form.
The Grand Canyon Synod invites you to travel with Bishop Deborah Hutterer to Egypt, January 27–February 5, 2027, for a ten-day pilgrimage exploring the Pyramids, the Nile, and historic Coptic churches tied to the Holy Family. Hosted by Elias Tours, this active journey includes 5-star accommodations, a Nile cruise, daily meals, and expert guides. Cost is $3,890 (land only) with a $300 deposit required; registration is now open. Discern whether this faith-filled adventure is right for you and secure your space today.
Lent & Easter
Welcome to our dedicated space for reflections, resources, and community engagement during this season of renewal and spiritual depth. Here, you will find a curated collection of blog posts, thoughtful letters, and valuable resources designed to enrich your journey. Whether you're looking for inspiration, guidance, or simply a moment of contemplation, our contributors offer diverse perspectives to accompany you through these forty days.
Lenten Challenge
We also extend a special invitation to participate in the Region 2 Lenten Challenge—a unique opportunity to deepen your faith through devotion, discipline, decluttering, and donation, all while connecting with a broader community of believers. Join us as we walk this path of reflection, prayer, and action together, embracing the transformative power of Lent.
Featured
The 2026 Lenten Challenge invites individuals and congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod to join four other ELCA Region 2 synods in raising $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger during Lent. Participants commit to three of four spiritual practices—devotions, learning, action, and donation—using a Matthew 25–centered toolkit.
Everyone is welcome to participate, with a shared goal of engaging at least one person from 50 congregations per synod. Sign up, invite others, and live out Jesus’ call to serve “the least of these” this Lent.
The “Making Room” Lenten series invites Christians to rethink the traditional focus on giving something up for Lent. For the week of March 8, the focus is making room for imperfection—releasing unrealistic expectations and remembering that God’s grace, not perfection, is what sustains us.
Grounded in 2 Corinthians 12:9, this week’s practice encourages journaling about one expectation you can release and reflecting on how God’s grace allows space for growth and compassion toward ourselves. Read the full reflection and explore the prayer and practice in the Living Lutheran article.
This Lent, individuals and congregations across ELCA Region 2, including the Grand Canyon Synod, are invited to participate in the “Lord, When Did We See You?” Lenten Challenge, a set of simple daily practices rooted in Matthew 25. The toolkit offers intergenerational activities that connect prayer, worship, advocacy, and daily acts of compassion.
Participants are also encouraged to support ELCA World Hunger using Appeal Code R2LENT2026, or donate to ELCA World Hunger here. Explore the toolkit and join the challenge: lentenchallenge.org/toolkit.
Living Lutheran begins a new Lenten series inviting readers to shift the focus of the season—not simply giving something up, but making room for what nourishes faith and life. The first week centers on rest, encouraging a simple daily practice: a 30-second “holy pause” to breathe deeply, clear the mind, and remember God’s sustaining grace.
Grounded in Psalm 121 and reflections on grace, this practice invites us to notice where rest already exists in our lives and where we might create more space for it during Lent. Explore the Lenten practice and reflection at Living Lutheran.
In a reflective essay for Living Lutheran, retired ELCA pastor Kristin D. Anderson revisits Martin Luther’s understanding of the devil and explores how evil can appear in everyday behaviors—accusing, gossiping, vengeance-seeking and more. Through Scripture, pastoral experience, and a Lenten lens of self-examination, Anderson reminds readers that while the devil seeks to corrupt and divide, Christ’s victory on the cross frees us to respond with forgiveness and love.
This thoughtful Lenten reflection invites readers to examine their own responses to harm and temptation and to rediscover the grace that leads us away from revenge and toward reconciliation. Read the full reflection at Living Lutheran.
Bishop Deborah Hutterer invites you to join the 2026 ELCA Region 2 Lenten Challenge, beginning February 22. Rooted in Matthew 25:37–40, this six-week journey focuses on spiritual practices that strengthen our learning, care, and advocacy on behalf of neighbors who are hungry, thirsty, strangers, sick, imprisoned, or in need of clothing. Each week centers on one portion of the Gospel text and calls us to reflect on how serving others is serving Christ.
Watch Bishop Hutterer’s invitation video and consider registering today. Let’s make this year’s Lenten Challenge the most impactful yet as we grow together as a church for the sake of the world.
On Ash Wednesday, LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt issued a powerful Lenten letter urging Lutheran churches worldwide not to remain indifferent when human dignity is ignored or ranked by status, ethnicity, or gender. Grounded in Scripture and Luther’s teaching on the Eighth Commandment, she calls the church to bear gentle yet firm witness to the God-given dignity of every person and to preach the liberating gospel in opposition to fear-based and prosperity-driven theologies.
Burghardt invites churches to use Lent as a season of prayer, discernment, and courageous action—supporting justice, truth, and global cooperation while embodying Christ’s love across dividing lines. Read her full Lenten message as PDF here and read more about the letter on the LWF site.
In this special Pivot Podcast Lenten reflection, the Rev. Dr. F. Willis Johnson invites us into four transformative Lenten practices for church leaders.
Lent invites us into a story.
Not a story we invent. Not a story we control. But the story of God’s faithfulness: a story that holds us, shapes us, and sends us.
Beginning Ash Wednesday 2026, Lutherans across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to receive a daily Matthew 25 devotion by email throughout Lent and Holy Week as part of the Region 2 Lenten Challenge supporting ELCA World Hunger. Participants commit to three of four practices — Devotion, Learning, Action, and Donation — with a regional goal of raising $100,000 and engaging at least 50 congregations per synod. Sign up now and center your Lenten journey on Christ in “the least of these.”
Lent and Easter 2026 resources are now live on our site, featuring reflections, worship tools, and opportunities for faithful action across the Grand Canyon Synod. Highlights include the Region 2 Lenten Challenge supporting ELCA World Hunger, upcoming Lenten events, and new worship resources for the season.
Congregations and leaders are invited to explore, participate, and share their own stories and events at gcsynod.org/share as we journey together from ashes to resurrection hope.
Celebrate Fat Tuesday with food, music, and generosity at Music for Meals on Tuesday, February 17, at Hope Hall at Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix. Enjoy New Orleans–style cuisine and live music from the Connections band, with the meal beginning at 6:00 p.m. and music at 6:30 p.m.
This free event supports the Pitchfork Pantry, serving ASU Downtown students facing food insecurity. Bring canned goods, and know that all monetary donations will help purchase fresh, healthy food for the pantry. Join us for one last joyful gathering before the season of Lent begins.
Lent is soon upon us (Ash Wednesday February 18). Once again, we are invited into a holy season of prayer, repentance, and renewed love of neighbor. If you’ve participated in the Region 2 Lenten Challenge before, you already know how powerfully God can work through simple, daily steps: a Scripture-based reflection, a faithful action, a moment of courage, a practice of compassion. This year’s challenge is ready for you at lentenchallenge.org—and your place in it matters.
All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix invites you to begin Lent with a half-day Silent Prayer Retreat on Saturday, February 28, from 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Rooted in monastic tradition, the retreat includes silent and communal prayer, worship, a shared meal, and service projects.
Space is limited. Contact the church office at 602-866-9191 or email Pastor Daniel Volkmann at dvolkmann@allsaintsphoenix.org to register or learn more.
ELCA Worship highlights new offerings from Augsburg Fortress, including Love Outpoured: Devotions for Lent 2026, a free webinar series on hymn improvisation with David Cherwien, Martin Luther’s Easter Book, and Bible People: Monologues for Lent.
These resources support worship planners, musicians, and congregations seeking fresh, faithful approaches to the church year. See what’s new for 2026.
Upcoming Gatherings
Click for full details and map.
This coming spring, our Grand Canyon Synod will gather across Arizona and southern Nevada under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. These gatherings are opportunities for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and congregational members to connect, learn, and grow in community. Together, we reflect on God’s Word as the foundation of our lives and ministries. View our spring gatherings page for more info.
Please mark your calendars and plan to attend the gathering in your area:
As people of faith, we know that our stories are woven into God’s greater story of love, grace, and renewal. These spring gatherings are a chance to be reminded of that truth and to strengthen the bonds that hold our synod together.
Featured Events
Featured
Join us this spring as the Grand Canyon Synod gathers across Arizona and southern Nevada under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Each gathering offers a chance for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and congregational members to come together for learning, conversation, and community grounded in God’s Word. These events remind us that our lives and ministries are woven into God’s greater story of love, grace, and renewal. For full details, locations, and registration information, please visit our spring gatherings page. We look forward to seeing you there.
Join us this spring as the Grand Canyon Synod gathers across Arizona and southern Nevada under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Each gathering offers a chance for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and congregational members to come together for learning, conversation, and community grounded in God’s Word. These events remind us that our lives and ministries are woven into God’s greater story of love, grace, and renewal. For full details, locations, and registration information, please visit our spring gatherings page. We look forward to seeing you there.
Youth in grades 7–12 from ELCA congregations across the Valley are invited to a Youth Community Event on Sunday, March 29 from 4–7 p.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa. The evening will include games, food, and fellowship, bringing together youth from multiple congregations including Esperanza and Desert Cross.
Additional churches are welcome to join. Congregations interested in participating can contact Deacon Laura Book (lbook@gcsynod.org) for details.
The annual Rostered Minister Report to the Bishop is now open and due Monday, March 30, 2026. This report offers rostered ministers an opportunity to reflect on their ministry and connect directly with Bishop Deborah Hutterer as part of our shared life as a synod.
All active (including those on leave or disability) and retired rostered ministers are asked to complete the appropriate online form. Every report is read by the bishop, with care given to each response. Links to both forms are on the synod website.
Join us this spring as the Grand Canyon Synod gathers across Arizona and southern Nevada under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Each gathering offers a chance for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and congregational members to come together for learning, conversation, and community grounded in God’s Word. These events remind us that our lives and ministries are woven into God’s greater story of love, grace, and renewal. For full details, locations, and registration information, please visit our spring gatherings page. We look forward to seeing you there.
Carly Chamberlain will be ordained to Word and Service at Faith-La Fe Lutheran Church (801 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014), Saturday, April 18 at 10:30 am. She will be installed at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church at a later date. Rostered ministers are invited to robe and process, color of the day is red. Pastor Jonathan Linman will preach, Bishop Hutterer will preside.
A reception will follow immediately in the parish hall. The service will be live streamed on the Faith Lutheran Facebook page.
Latest News
Carly Chamberlain will be ordained to Word and Service at Faith-La Fe Lutheran Church (801 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014), Saturday, April 18 at 10:30 am. She will be installed at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church at a later date. Rostered ministers are invited to robe and process, color of the day is red. Pastor Jonathan Linman will preach, Bishop Hutterer will preside.
A reception will follow immediately in the parish hall. The service will be live streamed on the Faith Lutheran Facebook page.
Those wishing to submit a resolution for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly must do so by Monday, April 27, 2026, by sending an editable electronic file to Kathye Hamm (khamm@gcsynod.org). Resolutions must comply with the ELCA and Grand Canyon Synod governing documents, Robert’s Rules of Order, and the assembly’s rules and agenda. More info here.
The Reference and Counsel Committee will review submissions and publish a report—including recommendations—on the synod website by May 22, 2026. While all submitted resolutions will appear in the report, the assembly’s agenda and rules determine whether they are discussed or voted on during the gathering.
The 2026 Lenten Challenge invites individuals and congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod to join four other ELCA Region 2 synods in raising $100,000 for ELCA World Hunger during Lent. Participants commit to three of four spiritual practices—devotions, learning, action, and donation—using a Matthew 25–centered toolkit.
Everyone is welcome to participate, with a shared goal of engaging at least one person from 50 congregations per synod. Sign up, invite others, and live out Jesus’ call to serve “the least of these” this Lent.
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona’s latest newsletter highlights an urgent ELCA Action Alert supporting a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, along with upcoming advocacy opportunities including the LAMA Liaison Roundtable (March 16) and Interfaith Day at the Capitol (March 25).
The update also includes legislative resources, hunger advocacy opportunities, and ELCA statements on peace and justice. Read the full LAMA newsletter to learn more and take action.
Arizona Faith Network’s latest newsletter highlights upcoming opportunities for interfaith learning, dialogue, and advocacy across Arizona—including a four-week Interfaith Book Group beginning March 11, Interfaith Day at the Capitol on March 25, sacred site visits, and ongoing meditation gatherings.
These events invite people of faith to deepen relationships across traditions and engage in public witness for the common good. Read the full AFN newsletter for complete details and registration links.
The Office of the Bishop staff will gather for an in-person staff meeting while continuing key synod work, including participation in the High Country Conference Spring Gathering in Flagstaff, preaching and congregational visits, and meetings focused on congregational vitality and faith formation. Staff will also advance preparations for Synod Assembly, manage communications and upcoming events, and support the synod’s annual audit and financial close.
The Grand Canyon Synod is now accepting workshop proposals for the 2026 Synod Assembly. Workshops are one-hour sessions designed to equip rostered ministers and lay leaders with practical tools, theological insights, and ministry resources aligned with this year’s theme, “Rooted in God’s Story.”
Proposals must be submitted by Monday, April 6, 2026, with presenters notified by mid-April. Submit your workshop title, description, audience, presenter information, and technology needs through the synod’s online proposal form.
This week’s Faith Lens reflection for Lent explores how Scripture challenges our assumptions about what we think we see. Drawing on 1 Samuel 16 and John 9, the study reminds us that while people often judge by outward appearances, God looks at the heart. Through discussion questions, activities, and reflection, participants are invited to consider where spiritual blindness may shape our views of others and how Christ can reshape our vision.
The reflection also invites readers to think about how we remember public figures—such as the late Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr.—and how easily complex lives are reduced to headlines or quick judgments. Faith Lens encourages individuals and groups to seek deeper understanding, seeing others and themselves through the grace and mercy of God.
A Phoenix congregation in the Grand Canyon Synod is gaining local attention as Faith Lutheran Church launches a campaign to restore its historic M. P. Möller pipe organ. The more-than-3,000-pipe instrument—built in 1962 and installed at the church in 2005—now requires $150,000 in restoration after years of wear and Arizona’s harsh climate.
The effort recently made local news on ABC15, which visited the church to share the story and highlight a kickoff concert featuring former music directors. Watch the news segment to see how this congregation is working to ensure its organ—and its voice in worship—can sing again.
The Grand Canyon Synod invites you to travel with Bishop Deborah Hutterer to Egypt, January 27–February 5, 2027, for a ten-day pilgrimage exploring the Pyramids, the Nile, and historic Coptic churches tied to the Holy Family. Hosted by Elias Tours, this active journey includes 5-star accommodations, a Nile cruise, daily meals, and expert guides. Cost is $3,890 (land only) with a $300 deposit required; registration is now open. Discern whether this faith-filled adventure is right for you and secure your space today.
Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis will lead Belonging: Five Keys to Unlocking Your Potential as a Disciple on Saturday, April 11 (1:00–4:00 PM) at Living Water Lutheran Church in Scottsdale. Centered on Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman (John 4), this free event invites participants to explore discipleship “from wonder to witness.” Registration is required by April 6 at lwlcaz.org/nevcevent/. Reception to follow. Watch a welcoming video from Karoline Lewis here.
Living Water Lutheran Church in Scottsdale is collecting new and gently used books from April 6 through June 30, 2026. Donations for readers of all ages—including children’s books, early readers, youth and adult books, cookbooks, and recipe magazines—may be dropped off at 9201 E. Happy Valley Road, Monday–Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The drive aims to expand access to reading materials across the Phoenix area and help place books into homes where they are needed most. Donations must be in good condition, with no rips, tears, or markings.
Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix will host a Connections Taco Tuesday fundraiser for Hope Women’s Center on March 31 at 6:00 p.m. The evening will include free food, live music, and fellowship, with attendees invited to bring full-size body wash, shampoo, or conditioner donations to support women and teen girls served by the ministry. The congregation is also hosting a St. Patrick’s Day gathering on March 17 featuring Irish music and storytelling as part of its weekly Connections series.
Camp ALOMA is hosting its Elementary Retreat for children in grades 1–6 from Friday, March 20 (5:30 p.m.) to Sunday, March 22 (2:00 p.m.). The $100 weekend retreat offers a preview of summer camp with games, food, Bible study, and fellowship in a welcoming Christian camp community.
Families are encouraged to invite friends and register today at campaloma.com.
Camp ALOMA in Prescott is hiring summer staff (18+) for the upcoming camp season. Positions include counselors, kitchen staff, and other support roles for those who love Jesus, children, and the outdoors.
Serving on staff is a chance to build leadership skills, support faith formation for young people, and experience community in an outdoor ministry setting. Learn more and apply at campaloma.com.
This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Peter Lai, who celebrates 41 years on March 16.
Rev. Martin Overson, who celebrates 47 years on March 18.
Rev. Daniel Potaznick, Office of the Bishop, Phoenix, St. John’s, Glendale, who celebrates 3 years on March 18.
Church & Society
Featured
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona’s latest newsletter highlights an urgent ELCA Action Alert supporting a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, along with upcoming advocacy opportunities including the LAMA Liaison Roundtable (March 16) and Interfaith Day at the Capitol (March 25).
The update also includes legislative resources, hunger advocacy opportunities, and ELCA statements on peace and justice. Read the full LAMA newsletter to learn more and take action.
In a March 4 pastoral statement, ELCA Presiding Bishop Rev. Yehiel Curry calls the church to prayer, advocacy, and renewed commitment to peace as war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran intensifies. Grounded in Scripture and Lutheran social teaching, Curry laments the loss of life—including Iranian schoolchildren and U.S. service members—and raises concern about the lack of congressional authorization prior to U.S. military engagement.
The bishop urges Lutherans to pray for peace, support diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, and stand in solidarity with companions in the Middle East, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. Read the full statement from the ELCA Presiding Bishop.
A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking ICE from conducting enforcement actions at or around houses of worship for five ELCA synods and their ecumenical partners. Region 2 synods — Sierra Pacific and Southwest California — were among the plaintiffs. The ruling restores long-standing protections for sensitive locations and affirms religious freedom under the Constitution. Read more about this significant step forward for sacred spaces and immigrant communities.
On February 12, 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it would rescind the 2009 “Endangerment Finding,” the legal foundation for regulating greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. The ELCA, which previously testified in support of upholding the finding, has expressed profound concern and disappointment, calling this a “Kairos moment” for urgent climate action grounded in faith and science.
In its official statement, the ELCA affirms that caring for creation is a sacred responsibility and urges the EPA to restore protections that safeguard public health and future generations. Read the full ELCA statement and learn more about the church’s advocacy response here.
BJC and Christians Against Christian Nationalism are collecting stories of ICE activity occurring on or near houses of worship after some U.S. senators questioned whether such enforcement is happening. If you have witnessed or experienced such activity, BJC invites you to submit detailed documentation. Read their full message for submission guidelines and links.
LAMA invites Lutherans to gather for Lutheran Day at the Legislature on February 23 at the Arizona Capitol and to take action through RTS on healthcare and food insecurity legislation moving during crossover week. Additional opportunities include the Hunger Leaders Network (Feb. 24) and voting rights advocacy. Read the full LAMA newsletter for event details and action links.
The Spirited Book Club at Spirit in the Desert meets Thursday, February 26, from 3:00–4:00 pm AZ (MST) to discuss Strange Worship: Six Steps for Challenging Christian Nationalism—with author Drew J. Strait joining the conversation. Facilitated by Sheri Brown, this timely gathering invites faithful reflection on how worship, theology, and public witness intersect.
It’s not too late to register or read the book. Rostered ministers and lay leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod are warmly invited to take part in this important and hope-filled discussion.
Lutherans from across Arizona will gather at the Arizona Capitol for Lutheran Day at the Legislature on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Wesley Bolin Plaza in downtown Phoenix. Rooted in our baptismal calling to strive for justice and peace, the day will include speakers, legislative meetings, prayer, training, and opportunities to engage directly with public leaders.
Registration opens at 8:30 a.m., with breakfast and lunch provided. All Lutherans and friends of Lutherans are invited to learn, witness, and raise a faithful voice in the public square. Registration is now open.
With a February 13 deadline looming for DHS funding, ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry joined eight other Christian leaders in urging Congress to enact just and humane immigration policies. The February 9 letter calls for due process, accountability for violence, protections for houses of worship, limits on excessive enforcement funding, and an end to the detention of children.
Grounded in Isaiah 58 and Leviticus 19, the letter affirms that immigrants are “beloved children of God” and encourages reforms that reflect human dignity and the common good. Read the full letter here. Read the original post at ELCA.org here.
LAMA’s February update highlights urgent action on food insecurity legislation, preparation for Lutheran Day at the Legislature (Feb. 23), Environmental Day at the Capitol, and national ELCA action alerts. Lutherans across Arizona are invited to activate their faith in love through advocacy, prayer, and public witness. Read the full LAMA newsletter for action links and registration details.
The February 2026 Faith Freedom Dispatch from BJC highlights urgent actions to protect religious freedom, including calling on Congress to pass the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act, submitting public comments to safeguard church–state separation by February 9, and applying for the 2026 BJC Fellows Program.
The issue also features BJC’s voice in Rolling Stone on immigration enforcement and religious liberty. Read the full newsletter to learn how people of faith can defend sacred spaces, uphold freedom of conscience, and take action now.
This week’s Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) newsletter includes an urgent action alert calling advocates to speak out by February 4 in support of SNAP integrity and against punitive legislative measures. The update also highlights advocacy events focused on hunger, voting rights, creation care, and civic engagement, along with new LAMA blog posts and upcoming opportunities to learn and act.
Featured
Is seminary part of God’s call in your life? Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary invites you to Signs Along the Way, a discernment weekend March 13–15 2026 in Berkeley, CA, designed for those exploring online seminary education. Participants will experience a PLTS class, connect with faculty and students, and reflect on vocation in community.
Lodging and most meals are covered, with travel assistance available. Learn more and register at plts.edu/signs.
Join us this spring as the Grand Canyon Synod gathers across Arizona and southern Nevada under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Each gathering offers a chance for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and congregational members to come together for learning, conversation, and community grounded in God’s Word. These events remind us that our lives and ministries are woven into God’s greater story of love, grace, and renewal. For full details, locations, and registration information, please visit our spring gatherings page. We look forward to seeing you there.
Pastor David Pavesic invites pastors and congregational leaders into a four-session online book study based on Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work. Building on the recent Possibilities in Partnership presentation, this study explores how mission can be strengthened through collaboration and shared ministry.
Offered in both morning and evening Zoom sessions, the study creates space for honest conversation, faithful discernment, and hope-filled imagination—because while we may not be able to do this work alone, we are better together. Find full information and registration links here.
Pastor David Pavesic invites pastors and congregational leaders into a four-session online book study based on Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work. Building on the recent Possibilities in Partnership presentation, this study explores how mission can be strengthened through collaboration and shared ministry.
Offered in both morning and evening Zoom sessions, the study creates space for honest conversation, faithful discernment, and hope-filled imagination—because while we may not be able to do this work alone, we are better together. Find full information and registration links here.
Join us this spring as the Grand Canyon Synod gathers across Arizona and southern Nevada under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Each gathering offers a chance for rostered ministers, lay leaders, and congregational members to come together for learning, conversation, and community grounded in God’s Word. These events remind us that our lives and ministries are woven into God’s greater story of love, grace, and renewal. For full details, locations, and registration information, please visit our spring gatherings page. We look forward to seeing you there.
Youth in grades 7–12 from ELCA congregations across the Valley are invited to a Youth Community Event on Sunday, March 29 from 4–7 p.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa. The evening will include games, food, and fellowship, bringing together youth from multiple congregations including Esperanza and Desert Cross.
Additional churches are welcome to join. Congregations interested in participating can contact Deacon Laura Book (lbook@gcsynod.org) for details.
The annual Rostered Minister Report to the Bishop is now open and due Monday, March 30, 2026. This report offers rostered ministers an opportunity to reflect on their ministry and connect directly with Bishop Deborah Hutterer as part of our shared life as a synod.
All active (including those on leave or disability) and retired rostered ministers are asked to complete the appropriate online form. Every report is read by the bishop, with care given to each response. Links to both forms are on the synod website.
Pastor David Pavesic invites pastors and congregational leaders into a four-session online book study based on Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work. Building on the recent Possibilities in Partnership presentation, this study explores how mission can be strengthened through collaboration and shared ministry.
Offered in both morning and evening Zoom sessions, the study creates space for honest conversation, faithful discernment, and hope-filled imagination—because while we may not be able to do this work alone, we are better together. Find full information and registration links here.
Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Click here to access the meeting, at 6pm on the last Tuesday of every month.
Pastor David Pavesic invites pastors and congregational leaders into a four-session online book study based on Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work. Building on the recent Possibilities in Partnership presentation, this study explores how mission can be strengthened through collaboration and shared ministry.
Offered in both morning and evening Zoom sessions, the study creates space for honest conversation, faithful discernment, and hope-filled imagination—because while we may not be able to do this work alone, we are better together. Find full information and registration links here.
Grounded in Grace, Growing in Generosity
How the ELCA Foundation and our synod are cultivating faithful giving that endures.
Generosity has the power to transform ministries and communities. Watch this short video to see how Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley, the Grand Canyon Synod, and the ELCA Foundation are partnering to build a legacy of faith for generations to come.
Read the full story to learn more about this ministry partnership and how generosity grows the church.
To explore endowment or planned giving for your congregation, contact Lisa Marie Higginbotham, ELCA Foundation Gift Planner, here »
Synod Spotlight
This section is dedicated to celebrating and lifting up the everyday work of our congregations, ministries, and partners at various levels—from local to global. Join us in gratitude and prayer for these people and organizations. View all spotlight posts here.
Land Acknowledgment
We acknowledge and honor the original inhabitants of the various regions of our synod. The Grand Canyon Synod is spread across lands in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, which are currently home to over two dozen tribal nations.
We acknowledge and honor these communities, their elders both past and present, as well as future generations. We give thanks to our Indigenous siblings who have cared and continue to care for this place — this land — and call it their home.
Learn more about ELCA Indigenous Ministries, land acknowledgments, and Native American and Indigenous education resources.
Carly Chamberlain will be ordained to Word and Service at Faith-La Fe Lutheran Church (801 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014), Saturday, April 18 at 10:30 am. She will be installed at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church at a later date. Rostered ministers are invited to robe and process, color of the day is red. Pastor Jonathan Linman will preach, Bishop Hutterer will preside.
A reception will follow immediately in the parish hall. The service will be live streamed on the Faith Lutheran Facebook page.