The Grand Canyon Synod welcomes Rev. Cherlyne Beck as a Transition Coach. A former ELCA churchwide staff leader and Director of Candidacy, she brings decades of experience in leadership development, call processes, and congregational ministry.
Now based in Prescott Valley, Rev. Beck will support congregations and leaders in times of transition, continuing the church’s work of discernment and faithful change across the synod.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod gives thanks for the ministry of Rev. Phil Gustafson as he concludes his role as Transition Coach while continuing interim service in Goodyear through June 30. With decades of experience in congregational leadership, coaching, and transition ministry, Pastor Phil has faithfully guided individuals and congregations through seasons of change.
We celebrate his contributions to the synod and give thanks for his steady leadership, spiritual insight, and commitment to God’s work in times of transition.
Read MoreLuther College continues to form students for lives of purpose through faith-centered liberal arts education. With a renewed mission focused on the common good, new leadership programs, and global engagement, Luther remains a vital partner in preparing leaders for the church and world.
Read MoreThe ELCA’s Truth-Seeking and Truth-Telling Initiative is expanding nationwide in 2026, inviting clergy and lay leaders to research and confront Lutheran involvement in Indian boarding schools. This growing effort focuses on uncovering historical records, educating the church, and supporting truth-telling and healing for Native communities impacted by this legacy.
Participants can contribute through research, education, and quarterly gatherings. All are welcome to get involved. Learn more and sign up at tstti.org.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Rolf Jacobson shares what he learned, theologically and personally, about suffering, community, and what it means to show up for someone in crisis.
Read MoreAs the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly approaches, congregations and ministries across the synod are invited to share stories of how God is at work in their communities. Submissions—including written reflections, photos, short videos, or audio—should be sent to Brian Flatgard by Friday, May 8, 2026. Learn how to share your story here.
Gathering under the theme “Rooted in God’s Story” (Psalm 78:4), the synod will highlight around 50 ministry stories through the assembly, blog, newsletter, and social media. This is an opportunity to celebrate the many ways God is working across Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation.
Read MoreLAMA is highlighting an ELCA Action Alert urging action by April 24 against a proposed federal rule that would severely restrict work permits for people seeking asylum. The ELCA is calling on Lutherans to submit a public comment and contact members of Congress in support of protecting asylum seekers’ ability to work and meet their needs safely in our communities. Read the full post for background, theological grounding, and links to take action.
Read MoreIn a recent Verde Independent feature, the Hands Healing Hunger ministry of Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona is recognized for raising $111,000—every dollar supporting 13 food providers across the Verde Valley. Among the gifts, a $10,000 contribution to The Station on 6th helps sustain its Meals on Wheels program, ensuring vulnerable neighbors continue to receive daily meals.
Through auctions, community partnerships, and deep congregational generosity, this ministry embodies our shared calling: God’s work, through our hands, for the sake of our neighbors. Read more in the full news story.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod Assembly will feature a Friday Night Variety Show on June 12, 2026, offering an evening of music, storytelling, humor, and creative performances from across the synod. If you would like to be considered for the Friday Night Variety Show, please submit a brief description of your act using this form by Monday, April 27, 2026.
The planning team is currently inviting 5–7 minute family-friendly acts from individuals, groups, congregations, and families. Interested performers are encouraged to submit a short description of their act using the online form, with selected performers contacted prior to Assembly. If you would like to be considered for the Friday Night Variety Show, please submit a brief description of your act using this form by Monday, April 27, 2026.
Read MoreArizona Faith Network’s latest newsletter highlights upcoming opportunities for engagement, including Earth Day events, a Doctrine of Discovery teach-in, interfaith dialogue, health and safety trainings, and community care initiatives. The update also includes upcoming media training and openings for the 2026 Heat Relief Program.
Read MoreLAMA’s latest update highlights urgent advocacy opportunities, including a public comment period open through April 24 to support work permits for those seeking asylum. The newsletter also features upcoming events like the Earth Day Vigil at the Capitol, advocacy training, hunger network gatherings, and funding opportunities for ministries.
Read the full newsletter for key actions, events, and resources—and find your place in this week’s work for justice.
Read MoreNext week, the Office of the Bishop is engaged in worship leadership across Tucson and Phoenix, supporting congregations through preaching, installations, and vitality conversations, while also preparing reports and continuing mission support and leadership development work. At the same time, staff are advancing preparations for Synod Assembly—including communications, storytelling, logistics, and financial oversight—ensuring the synod is ready for the work ahead.
Read MoreLove of Christ Lutheran Church in East Mesa is hiring a part-time Children and Youth Director (10–15 hours/week) to lead relational, Christ-centered faith formation for children and youth. Responsibilities include Sunday and Wednesday programming, monthly gatherings, and coordination with families and volunteers.
Read MoreGrace Lutheran Church in Phoenix invites you to a free Jazz Night on Tuesday, April 28 at 6:00 PM, supporting ASU’s Pitchfork Pantry. With one in four ASU students facing food insecurity, this student-led ministry provides essential resources with dignity. Bring a nonperishable food item and enjoy live music, food, and fellowship while living out our call to serve our neighbors.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Stephen J. Hammer, who celebrates 44 years on April 25.
Rev. Debra Slifer, who celebrates 39 years on April 25.
Rev. Diane Drach-Meinel, Christ the Servant, Henderson, who celebrates 39 years on April 26.
Rev. David Drach-Meinel, who celebrates 39 years on April 26.
Rev. Kevin Meyer, LSS-SW, Phoenix, Covenant, Quartzsite, who celebrates 31 years on April 30.
Deacon Sally Almen, who celebrates 39 years on April 30.
Camp ALOMA invites you to an Open House on Sunday, April 26 at 2:00 p.m. in Prescott (300 S. Margaret Dr.). Tour the camp, enjoy refreshments and s’mores, and experience activities while exploring options for retreats or summer camp.
RSVP to office@campaloma.com or (928) 778-1690, and learn more at campaloma.com.
Read MoreIn an emergency, clarity saves time—and can save lives. This article highlights the importance of defining simple roles in advance: who calls 911, who meets first responders, and who communicates with the congregation.
Part of the Grand Canyon Synod’s 2026 security series, this reflection offers a practical step congregations can take to respond more calmly and effectively when it matters most.
Read MoreNominations are open for leadership roles to be elected at the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, including Synod Secretary, council members, and committee positions. Any member in good standing may nominate themselves or others, with all forms due by May 4, 2026.
This is an invitation to prayerfully discern how God may be calling leaders to serve in the life of the synod. Learn more about open positions and submit nominations today. Learn more and submit a nomination.
Read MoreThose wishing to submit a resolution for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly must do so by Monday, April 27, 2026, by sending an editable electronic file to Kathye Hamm (khamm@gcsynod.org). Resolutions must comply with the ELCA and Grand Canyon Synod governing documents, Robert’s Rules of Order, and the assembly’s rules and agenda. More info here.
The Reference and Counsel Committee will review submissions and publish a report—including recommendations—on the synod website by May 22, 2026. While all submitted resolutions will appear in the report, the assembly’s agenda and rules determine whether they are discussed or voted on during the gathering.
Read MoreYoung adults are invited to a special Women of the ELCA webinar on Wednesday, May 6 at 4:30 p.m. (AZ/NV time). Hear from three young leaders—Naomi Mbise, Rebeca Amaro Trevino, and Bliss Tungnung—who have launched ministries supporting women and girls around the world through Seed Grants.
Learn how they discerned their call, started their work, and how you can make a difference in the church and world. Register now to join this inspiring conversation.
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