Diakonia graduates from across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to gather this January for fellowship, learning, and worship at one of three regional graduate events. Hosted by the Growing In Faith/Diakonia Steering Committee, these gatherings are designed to reconnect graduates, celebrate what God is doing through the Diakonia program, and offer a meaningful mini-course led by trusted Diakonia instructors.

Three identical gatherings will be held on Saturdays in January, making it easy for graduates to attend at the location most convenient for them—or to join more than one if desired.

Event Dates, Times, and Locations

All events run from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

• Saturday, January 10

  New Song Lutheran Church

  1291 Cornet Street, Henderson, NV

• Saturday, January 17

  Peace Lutheran Church

  18265 N 89th Avenue, Peoria, AZ

• Saturday, January 24

  Dove of Peace Lutheran Church

  665 W Roller Coaster Road, Tucson, AZ

What to Expect

Each gathering follows the same rhythm, blending connection, learning, and worship:

• 10:00–10:15 – Welcome, ice breaker, and housekeeping

• 10:15–10:30 – Growing In Faith/Diakonia update, celebrating how God is at work

• 10:30–11:30 – Mini-course led by beloved Diakonia instructors

• 11:30–1:30 – Lunch and extended fellowship (provided by the Steering Committee)

• 1:30–1:45 – Closing worship, offering thanks and praise together

These events reflect the heart of the Diakonia program: equipping lay leaders for lives of faith, service, and learning, grounded in Lutheran theology and lived out in community.

Who Is Invited

All Diakonia graduates and instructors are warmly invited. Graduates are also encouraged to bring a friend or family member who may be curious about the Growing In Faith/Diakonia program and its role in nurturing lay leadership across the synod.

RSVP Information

Please RSVP by December 31 to: Tina Gilson, tinag963@gmail.com

When you RSVP, please include:

• Which event you plan to attend

• Whether you will bring a guest

• Any food allergies or doctor-ordered dietary restrictions (gluten-free, dairy-free, etc.)

Questions may also be directed to the same email address.

The Growing In Faith/Diakonia Steering Committee looks forward to welcoming graduates for a time of renewal, connection, and shared thanksgiving as we begin a new year together in Christ.