Celebrate the beginning of Advent with Lord of Life Lutheran Church’s Handel’s Messiah Sing-Along on Sunday, November 29, at 3 p.m. in Sun City West. Join the choirs and orchestra for beloved selections from Messiah, including the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Sing along or simply enjoy the music! Wednesday rehearsals are open to all, and a freewill offering will support the event.

Enjoy free Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Sunday, November 8, at 5:30 p.m., featuring Beth Lederman, Joe Corral, and Felix Sainz. Part of the Music for Food series, the concert supports the Olive Branch Community of Hope Food Pantry, serving more than 300 families weekly. All are welcome!

Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer joins Arizona faith leaders in calling for a peaceful 2026 election grounded in human dignity and care for neighbors. Read the shared statement and watch the accompanying video for practical ways to encourage informed participation, protect voters and election workers, counter misinformation and practice peacemaking—before and after Election Day.

Find encouragement and a practical next step with ELCA Coaching’s Wayfinding in the Commons on Wednesday, November 4, at noon Arizona/Mountain time or 11 a.m. Pacific. This approximately 45-minute gathering welcomes rostered ministers, lay leaders and anyone seeking community, shared discernment and support. Join on Zoom.

Arizona Faith Network’s latest newsletter features Vote Is Sacred gatherings in Tucson October 29 and Flagstaff November 3, plus opportunities for interfaith learning, peacebuilding and supporting seniors experiencing homelessness. Explore Diwali celebrations, a Psalms conversation and more. Read the full newsletter for dates, details and registration links.

Next week, the Office of the Bishop will support ministry candidates and congregational vitality, connect with ministry partners and donors, and advance Mission Support planning, grant preparation, communications and daily operations. Bishop Hutterer will be on vacation as staff continue serving congregations and leaders across the synod.

Flood damage now affects most buildings at Navajo Lutheran Mission/House of Prayer, where staff continue providing meals, supplies and essential transportation to Rock Point neighbors. Financial gifts are needed most; Amazon deliveries are the best way to send requested supplies while receiving visitors remains difficult. See additional photos, review immediate needs and give through the Mission’s website.

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.