Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet
Nov
29
8:00 AM08:00

Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet

Begin your Advent Saturdays in prayer and quiet community with Earth and All Flesh: Advent Prayer Gathering, meeting on Zoom from 8:00–8:30 am MST on November 29, December 6, 13, and 20. Each 30-minute gathering includes a reading from Martin Luther’s Christmas Book, guided meditation, music or poetry, silent contemplation, and prayers of intercession, led by retreat facilitator Sheri Brown in partnership with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.

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Messiah Sing-Along at Lord of Life Lutheran in Sun City West
Nov
30
3:00 PM15:00

Messiah Sing-Along at Lord of Life Lutheran in Sun City West

Join Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West for a beloved holiday tradition: the Messiah Sing-Along on Sunday, November 30 at 3 PM. Sing with the choir and full orchestra or simply enjoy the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah, including Comfort Ye My People and For Unto Us a Child Is Born. Rehearsals are available November 19, 26, and 29. All are welcome to lift their voices in this joyful celebration of Christ’s coming.

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Slow Down and Be Still: Join the 4-Day Mindful Advent Challenge
Dec
1
to Dec 4

Slow Down and Be Still: Join the 4-Day Mindful Advent Challenge

Begin your Advent with intention and peace. From December 1–4, the 4-Day Mindful Advent Challenge offers daily devotionals featuring contemplative artwork by Steve Thomason, a prayer, and a simple spiritual practice. This short, reflective experience invites you to slow down, breathe, and rediscover Advent’s themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Sign up to receive the daily devotions directly to your inbox.

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United We Rise: Join the 2025 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering
Dec
2
9:00 AM09:00

United We Rise: Join the 2025 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering

  • Bahá’í Center, Scottsdale (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join faith and community leaders at the 2025 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, 9 AM–12 PM at the Bahá’í Center in Scottsdale. The morning features guest speaker Gen Kelsang Chenma and honors the 2025 Arizona Leadership Awardees. Register at arizonafaithnetwork.org/annualgathering. A communications toolkit and graphics are available to support congregational sharing.

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Roster Manual Revised for 2025: Join the Dec. 2 Webinar to Learn More
Dec
2
12:00 PM12:00

Roster Manual Revised for 2025: Join the Dec. 2 Webinar to Learn More

The ELCA Church Council has approved major revisions to the roster manual, with updates now in effect across the church. Changes include new policies on on-leave and retired status, interim and supply ministry, expanded exceptions to the three-year congregational service bylaw, and a new 10-hour minimum for part-time calls. View and download as PDF here.

A webinar explaining these updates will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 1–2 p.m. Central. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85159197176. Leaders are encouraged to discard old versions of the roster manual and direct questions to Keith.Fry@ELCA.org.

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Vintage Jewelry Sale at Beautiful Savior in Tucson
Dec
6
8:00 AM08:00

Vintage Jewelry Sale at Beautiful Savior in Tucson

  • Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Tucson will host a Vintage Jewelry Sale on Saturday, December 6, from 8 a.m. to noon at 7570 North Thornydale Road. The sale features new, boxed vintage jewelry—rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, charms, and Christmas pieces—with some items containing lab-created gems. All proceeds support charitable causes, and the event is cash only.

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Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet
Dec
6
8:00 AM08:00

Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet

Begin your Advent Saturdays in prayer and quiet community with Earth and All Flesh: Advent Prayer Gathering, meeting on Zoom from 8:00–8:30 am MST on November 29, December 6, 13, and 20. Each 30-minute gathering includes a reading from Martin Luther’s Christmas Book, guided meditation, music or poetry, silent contemplation, and prayers of intercession, led by retreat facilitator Sheri Brown in partnership with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.

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Join Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix for Breakfast with Santa
Dec
6
8:30 AM08:30

Join Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix for Breakfast with Santa

  • Mountain View Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Mountain View Lutheran Church invites families to Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 6, 8:30–10:30 am. Enjoy a hot breakfast, crafts, games, cookie decorating, and a visit with Santa. Early Bird pricing ends December 2.Register at https://bit.ly/apbws2025 or contact 480-893-2531.

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Jazz Vespers Celebrates One Year of “Music for Food” with December 7 Concert at Mount of Olives in Phoenix
Dec
7
5:30 PM17:30

Jazz Vespers Celebrates One Year of “Music for Food” with December 7 Concert at Mount of Olives in Phoenix

  • Mount of Olives Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Mount of Olives Lutheran Church on December 7 as Jazz Vespers celebrates its one-year anniversary of the Music for Food ministry, which has supported over 7,000 family units since last December. This month’s concert features Beth Lederman and Sandra Bassett at 5:30 p.m., with a reception at 6:30 p.m. Free admission; offerings support the Olive Branch Community of Hope Food Pantry.

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Ordination of Wanda K. Frenchman
Dec
11
6:00 PM18:00

Ordination of Wanda K. Frenchman

Join us for the Ordination for Wanda K. Frenchman on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, Phoenix. Bishop Deborah Hutterer will preside, and Vance Blackfox will preach. Rostered ministers are invited to vest and process; the color of the day is red. Dinner will follow. The service will be livestreamed via Grace Lutheran Church’s Facebook page, with video later on the Native American Urban Ministry page. All are welcome.

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A Powerful Christmas Drama: “I, Joseph” — Free One-Man Presentation at Mountain View Lutheran
Dec
12
6:00 PM18:00

A Powerful Christmas Drama: “I, Joseph” — Free One-Man Presentation at Mountain View Lutheran

  • Mountain View Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Mountain View Lutheran Church hosts “I, Joseph,” a free one-man Christmas presentation by Tom Owen, on Friday, December 12, 6–7 pm. Walk with Joseph through the Nativity story in a powerful dramatic experience. Refreshments provided; all are welcome. View the event flyer here.

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Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet
Dec
13
8:00 AM08:00

Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet

Begin your Advent Saturdays in prayer and quiet community with Earth and All Flesh: Advent Prayer Gathering, meeting on Zoom from 8:00–8:30 am MST on November 29, December 6, 13, and 20. Each 30-minute gathering includes a reading from Martin Luther’s Christmas Book, guided meditation, music or poetry, silent contemplation, and prayers of intercession, led by retreat facilitator Sheri Brown in partnership with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.

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Desert Cross Lutheran in Gilbert Presents The Winter Rose: A Free Advent Cantata of Hope and Wonder
Dec
14
4:00 PM16:00

Desert Cross Lutheran in Gilbert Presents The Winter Rose: A Free Advent Cantata of Hope and Wonder

Desert Cross Lutheran Church in Gilbert invites you to The Winter Rose: Songs of Worship and Wonder on Sunday, December 14, from 4:00–5:00 p.m. This free Advent cantata weaves scripture, prayer, and music into a beautiful reflection on Emmanuel—God with Us. Featuring choirs, guest musicians, and a Christmas cookie reception, the event is offered as a gift of love to the community. All are welcome.

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German-Language Christmas Service Returns December 14 at Mountain View Lutheran in Ahwatukee
Dec
14
4:30 PM16:30

German-Language Christmas Service Returns December 14 at Mountain View Lutheran in Ahwatukee

  • Mountain View Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Mountain View Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee on Sunday, December 14, 2025, for a German-Language Christmas Service, beginning with caroling at 4:10 p.m. and worship at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy fellowship afterward with coffee, tea, and Christmas cookies (donations welcome). The service will also be livestreamed at bit.ly/weihnachtsgottesdienst2025inphoenix. Learn more at weihnachtsgottesdienstphoenix.com.

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Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet
Dec
20
8:00 AM08:00

Advent Saturdays of Prayer, Poetry, and Quiet

Begin your Advent Saturdays in prayer and quiet community with Earth and All Flesh: Advent Prayer Gathering, meeting on Zoom from 8:00–8:30 am MST on November 29, December 6, 13, and 20. Each 30-minute gathering includes a reading from Martin Luther’s Christmas Book, guided meditation, music or poetry, silent contemplation, and prayers of intercession, led by retreat facilitator Sheri Brown in partnership with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.

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Women of the ELCA Host Annual Blue Christmas Service on the Winter Solstice
Dec
21
6:00 PM18:00

Women of the ELCA Host Annual Blue Christmas Service on the Winter Solstice

Join the Women of the ELCA for the annual Blue Christmas Service on Sunday, December 21, 2025, the Winter Solstice—the longest night of the year. This virtual Zoom service at 6 PM (Arizona/Utah) / 5 PM (Nevada) offers a peaceful space with music, readings, and prayer for all who seek comfort and hope during the holiday season. Register to attend here.

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Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Dec
30
6:00 PM18:00

Hunger Leaders Network meeting

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.

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Executive Skills for Church Leaders at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center
Jan
5
to Jan 9

Executive Skills for Church Leaders at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center

  • Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join pastors, deacons, bishops, and church leaders for a week of continuing education and renewal in the Arizona desert. Daily sessions cover hybrid ministry, AI tools, congregational vitality, and communication strategies, led by experienced facilitators. Register here. Download event poster (PDF).

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Leading Well: A Learning Retreat for All Church Leaders at Franciscan Renewal Center
Jan
6
to Jan 9

Leading Well: A Learning Retreat for All Church Leaders at Franciscan Renewal Center

  • Franciscan Renewal Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Renew your leadership and spirit at Leading Well: A Learning Retreat, January 6–9, 2026, at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale. Designed for all who serve in faith-based ministry, this ecumenical event blends sabbath rest, collegial support, and practical learning. Participants will leave refreshed, connected, and equipped with a tailored Leadership Formation Plan. Learn more and register: surfacetosoul.org/2026-lwr

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Living into a New Story Retreat at Spirit in the Desert
Jan
16
to Jan 19

Living into a New Story Retreat at Spirit in the Desert

  • Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, AZ, January 16–19, 2026, for Living Into a New Story. Led by Pastor Ron Rude and hymnist Sharon Reinbott, this retreat explores how science, Scripture, and earth wisdom can renew our faith and reshape our relationship with creation. Scholarships are available.

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“Effective Reentry Ministry for Ordinary Congregations” Workshop Coming January 17 to Grace Lutheran in Phoenix
Jan
17
9:30 AM09:30

“Effective Reentry Ministry for Ordinary Congregations” Workshop Coming January 17 to Grace Lutheran in Phoenix

Join us Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix for Effective Reentry Ministry for Ordinary Congregations, a free interactive workshop led by Fred Nelson of the Inside Out Network. Explore a biblical foundation for reentry ministry, learn from new research, and discover eight practical models to help your congregation welcome and walk with returning citizens. Register today at the link provided—free parking and refreshments included.

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Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Jan
27
6:00 PM18:00

Hunger Leaders Network meeting

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.

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Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Feb
24
6:00 PM18:00

Hunger Leaders Network meeting

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.

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Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Mar
31
6:00 PM18:00

Hunger Leaders Network meeting

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.

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2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly
Jun
11
to Jun 13

2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly

  • Love of Christ Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly as we gather under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. We’ll come together for worship, learning, connection, and the business of the church as we celebrate how God continues to work through our synod.

More information, registration details, and a full schedule will be shared as the date approaches.

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2026 Bishop’s Fall Gathering
Oct
19
to Oct 21

2026 Bishop’s Fall Gathering

  • Franciscan Renewal Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Mark your calendar for next year’s Bishop’s Fall Gathering—a time of rest, renewal, and community for rostered ministers and lay leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod. This retreat will continue our 2026 theme, Rooted in God’s Story.

Additional details, registration information, and session themes will be announced in the coming months.

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Grace Lutheran in Phoenix Hosts Free “Night of Jazz” on Nov. 26
Nov
26
6:00 PM18:00

Grace Lutheran in Phoenix Hosts Free “Night of Jazz” on Nov. 26

Join Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix for A Night of Jazz on Wednesday, November 26 at 6:00 p.m. This free community event features musicians Beth Lederman and Typhaine Monique and is hosted by Connections, a ministry centered on belonging and God’s unconditional love. All are welcome for an evening of music, joy, and community at 1124 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix.

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Rethinking Addiction: Free Webinar for Faith Leaders
Nov
26
11:00 AM11:00

Rethinking Addiction: Free Webinar for Faith Leaders

Join the Center of Addiction & Faith for a free webinar on Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, from 11 AM–12 PM MST (Arizona) / 10–11 AM PST (Nevada) titled Rethinking Addiction: A Faith Leader’s Guide. Guest presenter Rachel Bowling will help participants reflect on how we understand addiction through moral, medical, and social lenses, offering insights for compassionate, informed pastoral care. Registration required.

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Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Nov
25
6:00 PM18:00

Hunger Leaders Network meeting

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.

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You’re Not Done Becoming: A Spirited Book Club Conversation with Sarah Payne Naylor
Nov
20
3:00 PM15:00

You’re Not Done Becoming: A Spirited Book Club Conversation with Sarah Payne Naylor

Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club welcomes transformational life coach and author Sarah Payne Naylor on Thursday, November 20 at 3 p.m. (MST) for a discussion of her inspiring new book, You’re Not Done Becoming: Reclaim Personal Power and Purpose to Transform Your Life at Any Age.

Naylor—long connected with Lutheran ministries in Arizona—offers a heartfelt reminder that growth and faith never end. Learn more or register at Spirit in the Desert.

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Understanding Christian Nationalism: A Community Conversation at King of Glory
Nov
18
6:30 PM18:30

Understanding Christian Nationalism: A Community Conversation at King of Glory

  • King of Glory Lutheran Church Sanctuary (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

King of Glory Lutheran Church, Tempe, will host a community conversation on Christian Nationalism on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 (6:30–8:00 p.m.) with guest speakers Rev. Caleb Campbell and Rev. Ellie Hutchison. All are invited to explore what Christian Nationalism is, why it matters, and how people of faith can respond with humility, grace, and Gospel-centered love. Learn more at kogaz.org/events. View PDF flyer here.

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Songs of Restoration: Watoto Choir at Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria
Nov
15
5:30 PM17:30

Songs of Restoration: Watoto Choir at Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria

  • Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 5:30 p.m. for a powerful evening with the Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda. Their new production, Better Days—There is Hope, features vibrant music, dance, and testimonies of God’s love. Come be inspired by their message of hope and restoration.

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Join LSS-SW for a Refugee Services Webinar
Nov
14
11:00 AM11:00

Join LSS-SW for a Refugee Services Webinar

Join Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest for a Refugee Services Update Webinar on Friday, November 14, at 11 a.m. Hear directly from Connie Phillips, President & CEO, and key staff about the state of refugee resettlement in Arizona and what’s ahead in 2026. Learn how congregations and individuals across our synod continue to walk alongside refugee families with compassion and hope. Register here.

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Thanksgiving Food Drive at Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix for Flood-Affected Families in Globe/Miami
Nov
8
9:00 AM09:00

Thanksgiving Food Drive at Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix for Flood-Affected Families in Globe/Miami

  • Mountain View Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix invites all to support families in Globe and Miami recovering from September’s floods through a Thanksgiving Food Drive, November 1–10. Donations of traditional Thanksgiving items—or financial gifts for turkeys and other foods—will benefit the Gila Community Food Bank in Globe. A special drive-up drop-off event will be held Saturday, November 8, from 9 a.m. to noon. Together, we are blessed to be a blessing.

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Join Women Across the Synod for the 2025 WELCA Convention in Phoenix
Nov
8
8:30 AM08:30

Join Women Across the Synod for the 2025 WELCA Convention in Phoenix

Join women from across the Grand Canyon Synod for the 2025 Women of the ELCA Biennial Convention and Gathering on Saturday, November 8, at Faith/La Fe Lutheran Church in Phoenix. The day includes worship, speakers, and lunch for just $30. Special guests include Myrna Wells-Ulland, Pastor Jacqui Pagel, and Connie Phillips.

Register today at grandcanyonwomen.org/events.

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Fall Boutique at Desert Hills Lutheran Church in Green Valley
Nov
8
8:00 AM08:00

Fall Boutique at Desert Hills Lutheran Church in Green Valley

  • Desert Hills Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Find handmade gifts that give back! Join Desert Hills Lutheran Church in Green Valley on Saturday, November 8, from 8 AM to 1 PM for the Sewing Bee’s annual Fall Boutique, featuring quilts, jewelry, décor, purses, baked goods, and more. All proceeds support local charitable organizations.

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Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) Discernment Weekend
Oct
31
to Nov 2

Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) Discernment Weekend

  • Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Are you wondering if seminary might be right for you? Consider joining Signs Along the Way at PLTS in Berkeley, California to connect with others in discernment, get to know PLTS faculty, and explore what it’s like to be an online student in the MDiv, MA in Spirituality and Social Change, or Lutheran Year programs.

PLTS is transitioning to only offer online study with in-person intensives, so this weekend is designed for those interested in online learning. PLTS covers lodging and meals during the event and can offer travel assistance for those who need it. Visit plts.edu/signs to learn more and sign up.

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Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Oct
28
6:00 PM18:00

Hunger Leaders Network meeting

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.

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Installation of Rev. Ryan Marsh at Crossroads Lutheran in San Tan Valley
Oct
26
2:00 PM14:00

Installation of Rev. Ryan Marsh at Crossroads Lutheran in San Tan Valley

Rev. Ryan Marsh will be installed at Crossroads Lutheran (2769 E Combs Rd, Building D, San Tan Valley, AZ 85140) on Sunday, 10/26/2025 at 2pm. Rev. Tina Mills will preach and preside. View live-stream on the Crossroads YouTube channel.

Following the installation service, there will be an angel food cake dessert celebration.

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Walking Through History: Our Saviour’s Tucson Marks 80 Years of Ministry
Oct
25
10:00 AM10:00

Walking Through History: Our Saviour’s Tucson Marks 80 Years of Ministry

  • Our Saviour's Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Celebrate 80 years of ministry with Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Tucson during a History Walk on Saturday, October 25, at 10:00 a.m. Walk through key spaces on campus as congregation members reenact moments from the church’s story, followed by a celebratory luncheon. Free and open to the public. For details or luncheon RSVPs, contact 520-327-6521 or oslc@lutherantucson.org.

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Celebrate 80 Years of Ministry with Faith–La Fe in Phoenix
Oct
24
to Oct 26

Celebrate 80 Years of Ministry with Faith–La Fe in Phoenix

  • Faith-La Fe Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Faith–La Fe Evangelical Lutheran Church in Phoenix for a joyful 80th Anniversary Celebration, October 24–26, 2025. The weekend includes worship, music, fellowship, and food. RSVP by Sept. 14 by phone, email, or online. Contributions are welcome toward the restoration of the pipe organ and church beautification.

Faith–La Fe en Phoenix celebrará su 80.º aniversario del 24 al 26 de octubre con un fin de semana de adoración, música y compañerismo. Confirme su asistencia antes del 14 de septiembre por teléfono, correo electrónico o en línea. Se agradecen donaciones para apoyar proyectos de restauración y embellecimiento del templo. (PDF)

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Fall Fest at Mountain View in Phoenix: Trunk or Treat, Food Trucks, and a Laser Light Show
Oct
24
5:00 PM17:00

Fall Fest at Mountain View in Phoenix: Trunk or Treat, Food Trucks, and a Laser Light Show

Join Mountain View Lutheran Church for Fall Fest and Trunk or Treat on Friday, October 24, 5–8 p.m. at 11002 S 48th Street, Phoenix. Enjoy a laser light show, food trucks, games, crafts, prizes, and more—plus a costume-friendly Trunk or Treat contest with a grand prize for best trunk. Volunteer or register your trunk at bit.ly/mvlctrunkortreat2025.

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Finding Faith in the Great Turning: Spirited Book Club Reads Active Hope
Oct
23
3:00 PM15:00

Finding Faith in the Great Turning: Spirited Book Club Reads Active Hope

Join the Spirited Book Club at Spirit in the Desert on Thursday, October 23 (3:00–4:00 p.m. AZ/PDT) for a discussion of Active Hope by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone. The book invites readers to face global challenges with courage and creativity, offering a framework for resilience rooted in faith, gratitude, and community action. Facilitated by Sheri Brown, this conversation explores how Christians can live out “active hope” amid uncertainty. Register here: spiritinthedesert.org/events/spirited-book-club-active-hope.

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Awakening the Church to Address Addiction: One-Day Virtual Conference
Oct
23
8:00 AM08:00

Awakening the Church to Address Addiction: One-Day Virtual Conference

  • Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join the Oct. 23 one-day Virtual Addiction & Faith Conference, “Awakening the Church to Address Addiction,” hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith. Open to clergy, laypeople, and all impacted by addiction, this $50 event equips congregations to become safe, recovery-friendly communities. Register now and share the flyer to spread the word across our synod.

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"Bearing Worthy Fruit," A Retreat for Rostered Ministers with Rev. Karoline Lewis
Oct
13
to Oct 15

"Bearing Worthy Fruit," A Retreat for Rostered Ministers with Rev. Karoline Lewis

  • Franciscan Renewal Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Rostered and synodically authorized ministers are invited to “Bearing Worthy Fruit,” a fall retreat led by Rev. Karoline Lewis, October 13–15 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale. Together, participants will explore gender justice, embodied leadership, and preaching rooted in God’s transformation. Registration opens May 1 and space is limited to 25 participants.

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Jazz Vespers Returns October 12: Beth Lederman and Donna Wilde in Concert
Oct
12
5:30 PM17:30

Jazz Vespers Returns October 12: Beth Lederman and Donna Wilde in Concert

  • Mount of Olives Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join Mount of Olives Lutheran Church for Jazz Vespers on Sunday, October 12 at 5:30 p.m., featuring Beth Lederman and Donna Wilde. Last month’s concert raised $850, helping the Olive Branch Community of Hope Food Pantry serve 238 families. Enjoy an evening of jazz and generosity that feeds both body and spirit. 

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Santa Cruz Lutheran in Tucson Marks 40 Years with Worship, Music, and Community
Oct
11
to Oct 12

Santa Cruz Lutheran in Tucson Marks 40 Years with Worship, Music, and Community

  • Santa Cruz Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Santa Cruz Lutheran Church in Tucson will celebrate its 40th Anniversary October 11–12, 2025. Saturday includes greetings, lunch, video presentations, history displays, cake, and mariachi music. Sunday’s worship, with Bishop Hutterer preaching, will bless a new youth-created banner and pray for future generations. Join in giving thanks for 40 years of ministry!

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Resurrection Lutheran’s Fall Craft Fair in Oro Valley
Oct
11
9:00 AM09:00

Resurrection Lutheran’s Fall Craft Fair in Oro Valley

  • Resurrection Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Resurrection Lutheran Church hosts its Fall Craft Fair on Saturday, October 11, from 9am–2pm in Oro Valley. With 50+ vendors, food supporting the youth group, Art by Heart, and a diaper drive for local food banks, it’s a joyful day to shop local, support ministry, and share in community. Free admission and parking.

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Mandatory Boundary Training for Rostered Leaders: Complete by October 8
Oct
8
8:00 AM08:00

Mandatory Boundary Training for Rostered Leaders: Complete by October 8

  • Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

All rostered leaders in the Grand Canyon Synod are required to complete boundary awareness training in 2025. The synod has partnered with Faith+Lead to offer an online course at a reduced cost of $29, plus a mandatory Zoom review session with Pr. Jacqui Pagel. The course must be completed by October 8, 2025, and certificates submitted to the synod office by October 13, 2025.

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Rev. Yehiel Curry to Be Installed as ELCA Presiding Bishop in Minneapolis
Oct
4
12:00 PM12:00

Rev. Yehiel Curry to Be Installed as ELCA Presiding Bishop in Minneapolis

The Rev. Yehiel Curry will be installed as presiding bishop of the ELCA on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025, at 2 p.m. Central (12 p.m. MST) at Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis. Curry, the first Black presiding bishop of the ELCA, was elected during the 2025 Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix. The service is open to the public, with livestream access available here: ELCA Installation of the Presiding Bishop.

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Blessing of the Animals at Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix
Oct
4
9:00 AM09:00

Blessing of the Animals at Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix

  • Mountain View Lutheran Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Blessing of the Animals — Join Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Saturday, October 4 at 9:00 a.m. for a service in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. Bring your pet—or a photo—for a special blessing as we give thanks for all God’s creatures. View the Facebook event page.

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Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latine
Oct
2
to Oct 4

Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latine

  • Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join this three-session workshop led by Rev. Dr. Rubén Durán and a team of practitioners, equipping leaders for ministry with and among the Latine community. Cost: $250 individual / $600 congregation. Register here. More info and flier (PDF)

Participe en este taller de tres sesiones dirigido por el Rev. Dr. Rubén Durán y un equipo de líderes, que ofrece herramientas para el ministerio con y entre la comunidad latine. Costo: $250 individual / $600 congregación. Regístrese aquí | Más información y folleto (PDF)

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