Only 15 spaces remain for Executive Skills for Church Leaders, Jan. 4–8, 2027, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree, with arrival Jan. 3. New faculty member the Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown joins sessions on reconciliation, finances, human resources and leadership, alongside time for rest and connection. Grand Canyon Synod leaders qualify for a $200 Region 2 discount. Learn more and register.

How can our concern for creation become shared action at church? Lutherans Restoring Creation’s 2026 strategic plan identifies three priorities: strengthening relationships, equipping congregations for action and holding the church accountable to its commitments. Rooted in our call to love our neighbors and care for God’s creation, the plan invites us to consider our part. Read the plan and imagine your congregation’s next step.

Our October 2026 Mission Support Memo explores the story of Living Stones Prison Ministry in our Southwestern Washington Synod. A ministry where every Thursday as they gather for planning, band practice and worship, all are reminded to “have grace with one another,” to know we are the kingdom of God, no matter where we are.

Make sure to find out more about the new free stewardship webinar coming November 16th “Making a Helpful Ask for Sustainability”.

Grounded in our Lutheran call to love and serve our neighbors, the ELCA’s Oct. 28 advocacy update covers SNAP funding changes, proposed census restrictions, energy permitting reform, threats to global health funding and violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Public comments on the census proposal are due Nov. 2, 2026. Explore the church’s perspectives and next steps: Read the ELCA advocacy update.

Preparing youth for the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering? Watch the recorded morning worship webinar with your adult leadership team, then begin a conversation with youth about worshiping together. Find the video and links to upcoming Gathering webinars on our blog.

In the latest Pivot podcast, Reformation historian Mark Tranvik joins Terri Elton and Dwight Zscheile to talk about what Luther’s Small Catechism was meant to do.

• Lutheran leaders attend Assisi meeting on ‘unarmed and disarming peace’

• Training of trainers to strengthen rights-based approach

• ‘Wisdom from the Cross’: first global conference on responsible theology

• ‘Bond of peace’ lessons on unity from Augsburg

Celebrate the beginning of Advent with Lord of Life Lutheran Church’s Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along on Sunday, November 29, at 3 p.m. in Sun City West. Join the choirs and orchestra for beloved selections from Messiah, including the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Sing along or simply enjoy the music! Wednesday rehearsals are open to all, and a freewill offering will support the event.

Enjoy free Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Sunday, November 8, at 5:30 p.m., featuring Beth Lederman, Joe Corral, and Felix Sainz. Part of the Music for Food series, the concert supports the Olive Branch Community of Hope Food Pantry, serving more than 300 families weekly. All are welcome!

Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer joins Arizona faith leaders in calling for a peaceful 2026 election grounded in human dignity and care for neighbors. Read the shared statement and watch the accompanying video for practical ways to encourage informed participation, protect voters and election workers, counter misinformation and practice peacemaking—before and after Election Day.

Find encouragement and a practical next step with ELCA Coaching’s Wayfinding in the Commons on Wednesday, November 4, at noon Arizona/Mountain time or 11 a.m. Pacific. This approximately 45-minute gathering welcomes rostered ministers, lay leaders and anyone seeking community, shared discernment and support. Join on Zoom.

Arizona Faith Network’s latest newsletter features Vote Is Sacred gatherings in Tucson October 29 and Flagstaff November 3, plus opportunities for interfaith learning, peacebuilding and supporting seniors experiencing homelessness. Explore Diwali celebrations, a Psalms conversation and more. Read the full newsletter for dates, details and registration links.

Next week, the Office of the Bishop will support ministry candidates and congregational vitality, connect with ministry partners and donors, and advance Mission Support planning, grant preparation, communications and daily operations. Bishop Hutterer will be on vacation as staff continue serving congregations and leaders across the synod.

Flood damage now affects most buildings at Navajo Lutheran Mission/House of Prayer, where staff continue providing meals, supplies and essential transportation to Rock Point neighbors. Financial gifts are needed most; Amazon deliveries are the best way to send requested supplies while receiving visitors remains difficult. See additional photos, review immediate needs and give through the Mission’s website.

As we remember loved ones on All Saints Sunday, November 1, ELCA’s Faith Lens reminds us that we belong to the community of saints here and now. Drawing on the Beatitudes and 1 John, Bishop Becca Middeke-Conlin explores our identity as children of God and our calling to support one another in faith. Discussion questions, a blessing activity and a closing blessing offer resources for youth groups and congregational conversations. Read “Blessed Are You, Saint.”