Grand Canyon Synod Update on Ongoing Federal Investigation
Public Update from the Office of the Bishop
December 11, 2025
The Grand Canyon Synod continues to cooperate fully with law enforcement and the ELCA churchwide organization regarding the federal investigation involving former synod leader Casey Goslin.
As of this posting, there are still no known victims within our synod, and all criminal allegations involve online activity. The investigation remains active and ongoing under the leadership of ICE Homeland Security Investigations in coordination with the Tucson Police Department. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will share verified updates as they become available.
The Office of the Bishop—under the leadership of Acting Bishop Pastor Mike Girlinghouse—remains committed to clear communication, pastoral care, and transparency throughout this process. Even in this continued period without new developments, our priority is to support congregations, rostered ministers, and lay leaders who may be navigating concerns, questions, or emotions related to this matter.
Pastors and deacons are encouraged to remain attentive to their communities and to reach out to the Office of the Bishop with any pastoral care needs or inquiries.
Pastoral Care
Acting Bishop Pastor Mike Girlinghouse – mgirlinghouse@gmail.com
Communications
Brian Flatgard, Director of Communications – bflatgard@gcsynod.org
We remain grounded in prayer, trusting that God accompanies us with truth, courage, and hope. Thank you for your continued patience, care, and faithfulness as we walk together through this season.
—Office of the Bishop
Grand Canyon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)