Youth from ELCA congregations across the Valley are invited to gather for an evening of games, food, and fellowship on Sunday, March 29, from 4–7 p.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa. The event is open to all youth in grades 7–12 and is designed to strengthen relationships among young people from congregations throughout the Grand Canyon Synod.

Location: Love of Christ Lutheran Church, 1525 N Power Rd., Mesa, AZ 85205

This gathering offers a relaxed opportunity for youth to meet peers from other congregations, share in community, and build connections grounded in faith. In the Lutheran tradition, community is central to how we grow together in Christ—gathering not only in worship but also in friendship, conversation, and shared experiences.

Several congregations have already committed to participate, including Esperanza Lutheran Church and Desert Cross Lutheran Church, joining the host congregation Love of Christ Lutheran Church.

Additional congregations are welcome to join—even at the last minute. If your church has youth interested in attending, please reach out to Deacon Laura Book at lbook@gcsynod.org for details and coordination.

Events like this help foster a sense of connection across our synod, reminding young people that they are part of something larger than their own congregation—a community rooted in Christ and committed to walking together in faith.

We encourage congregations across the Valley to share this opportunity with their youth and consider participating in this evening of fellowship and fun.