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.”

Preparation is faithful stewardship. LAMA’s new eight-page guide helps congregations plan for election-related disruption through trusted communication, care for neighbors and clear response roles. Begin with a 20-minute readiness checklist or gather leaders for a fuller discussion grounded in Lutheran faith. Read more and download the guide.

LAMA’s latest newsletter offers timely Arizona ballot-return guidance, a bilingual voter guide, upcoming interfaith gatherings and resources for congregations preparing for election-related disruption. You’ll also find Advent and giving resources, advocacy opportunities and an invitation to offer feedback on the ELCA’s homelessness social message by November 30. Read the full newsletter and find ways to put faith into action.

Prepare for Advent with four ELCA Sumud and Young Adults devotions available November 22. The latest Sumud newsletter also features the five-part “Stolen Stories” video series, Ambassador network updates, Bishop Imad’s visit and a Chicago-based program director opening. Read the full newsletter and explore ways to learn, pray and participate.

As Election Day approaches, ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry invites Lutherans to practice healthy patriotism through prayer, civic participation and service to the common good. Drawing on Fannie Lou Hamer’s voting rights witness and Martin Luther’s reflections on Mary’s Magnificat, he calls us to hold leaders accountable and help every voice be heard—with our hope grounded in God’s steadfast love.

Read Bishop Curry’s full message on faithful citizenship and healthy patriotism.

Celebrate the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the Grand Canyon Synod January 17, 2027, at 3 p.m. at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe. Singers can sign up now for the celebration choir, with rehearsals beginning January 7 and Gospel music coaching from LaRiche Lamar. Offerings will support four ministries of justice and neighbor-love. Learn more and sign up to sing.

Support Lutheran Campus Ministry at ASU with tamales and football! Order red chile pork tamales by November 12 for $37.50 per dozen—only 50 orders are available—or reserve $25 tickets for the November 28 ASU–UofA watch party, including food and soft drinks. Tamale pickup and the party are at University Lutheran Church in Tempe; times will be announced. Read more for ordering instructions and select the correct LCM fund when paying.

What hymn brings you comfort, recalls someone you love, or inspires you to serve? As Reformation Day approaches, Living Lutheran shares readers’ reflections on beloved hymns and the ways singing together nurtures faith, expresses God’s grace, and connects generations. Read their stories and reflect on your own favorite hymn.

Save the date! The 2027 Bishop’s Fall Gathering is October 18–20 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, with First Call gathering continuing October 21. Set aside time for worship, learning and connection with synod colleagues. Registration and program details will follow.

For the Common Good: Prayers and Resources for Congregations in Public Life offers Lutheran theological grounding, worship materials and practical ideas for faithful, nonpartisan civic engagement during the fall 2026 election season.

Pastors, deacons, worship planners, councils and advocacy teams are invited to download the resource and adapt its hymns, intercessions, prayer services and other tools for communities across the Grand Canyon Synod. Help your congregation respond to anxiety and division with prayer, truthful discernment, humility and love of neighbor.

Nevada early voting ends October 30; Election Day is November 3. Explore LEAN’s October 23 newsletter for Nevada and Utah voter guides, explanations of local races, and resources connecting faith and civic life. Some reminders are dated—check current official guidance as you finalize your voting plan.

October 12–13 flooding displaced Rock Point residents on the Navajo Nation. Navajo Lutheran Mission/House of Prayer’s buildings are safe, and staff are providing food, water, clothing, and other support as families face a lengthy recovery. Pray for the community and give to support the Mission’s ongoing care.

What holds the church together amid deep disagreement? This 23-minute Learn and Discern episode explores the roots of differing convictions and our shared grounding in Christ’s Gospel, offering encouragement for honest conversation about the ELCA’s sexuality social statement.

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

• Rev. Verónica Alvarez, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 4 years on October 30.

• Rev. Brian Ward, Community, Las Vegas, who celebrates 16 years on October 31.

• Deacon Katherine Kline, who celebrates 6 years on October 31.

• Rev. Thaddeus Book, Desert Cross, Tempe, who celebrates 17 years on November 1.

• Deacon Anada Guse, who celebrates 36 years on November 4.

• Rev. Conrad Braaten, Spirit of Joy, Clarkdale, who celebrates 54 years on November 5.

As we remember the saints who shaped our lives, consider a gift that honors their influence. Explore ways to celebrate a loved one or mentor while supporting your congregation, the Grand Canyon Synod, or another cherished ELCA ministry.