ELCA Evangelism and Congregational Vitality Workshop
Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
In-Person Gathering at the Synod Office (Hybrid Satellite Experience)
“As members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, we often struggle with that ‘E’ word.”
Yet evangelism—sharing the good news of God in Jesus Christ through word and deed—is central to who we are and who we are called to be. On Saturday, January 24, 2026, leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to gather for a supportive, practical opportunity to explore that calling together.
Pastor David Pavesic, Director for Evangelical Mission, will host an in-person gathering at the Synod Office as part of a hybrid, regional “satellite” experience, connected by Zoom with other synods and leaders across Region 2 and with Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS).
Event Details
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time:
9:00 AM – Registration & coffee
9:30 AM – Opening devotions
2:00 PM – Conclusion (following lunch and conversation)
Location: Grand Canyon Synod – Office of the Bishop (Synod Office)
1819 East Morten Avenue, Suite 110, Phoenix, AZ 85020
This gathering is designed for lay leaders, rostered ministers, and congregational teams who want to engage evangelism and congregational vitality together, without needing to travel out of state. Participants will take part in a shared regional experience while also spending meaningful time in local conversation and reflection.
The day will include:
Devotions and prayer
Teaching and presentations via Zoom with regional leaders
Local, in-person discussion and story-sharing
Time for congregations to reflect on how they are called to share Christ’s story
Lunch and continued conversation together
As Pastor Pavesic notes, “What will happen on the Saturday is a kind of satellite experience. We will watch and participate in some things through Zoom with others across the region and at PLTS. We will also have local focused discussions amongst ourselves.”
This Saturday gathering is intentionally connected to the January 22–24, 2026 in-person Evangelism and Congregational Vitality Workshop at PLTS in Berkeley, offering multiple ways for leaders to participate according to their context and capacity.
RSVP Requested
To help with food planning, participants are asked to please let Pastor David know if you plan to attend.
📧 RSVP or questions: Pastor David Pavesic, David.Pavesic@elca.org
Let us connect people to create opportunities to communicate Christ.
More info here: Gathered to Share Christ’s Light: ELCA Evangelism & Vitality Workshop at PLTS in Berkeley.
