More Than Attending: Five Ways to Participate in the 2026 Synod Assembly

Rooted in God’s Story

Share, Create, Perform, Learn, and Give Together

As we prepare for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly (June 11–13, 2026), there are many ways to participate—whether or not you are attending in person.

Under this year’s theme, “Rooted in God’s Story” (Psalm 78:4), we are inviting congregations and ministry partners across Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation to share, create, lead, celebrate, and give as part of our life together as the body of Christ.

Below are five key ways to participate in this year’s Assembly:

1. Share Your Ministry Story

Deadline: Friday, May 8, 2026

God is at work across our synod—and your story matters.

We invite congregations and ministry partners to submit written reflections, photos, short videos (2–3 minutes), or audio recordings that highlight how your community is living out the gospel. These stories may be featured during Assembly and across synod communications, including our blog, newsletter, and social media.

This is an opportunity to bear witness to the Holy Spirit at work—in outreach ministries, partnerships, worship, justice work, and everyday moments of faith.

Send submissions to: bflatgard@gcsynod.org

2. Contribute to “Rooted at the Table” (Recipe Project)

Deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026

We are creating a community recipe book—Rooted at the Table—that will be shared with every Assembly participant.

This project is about more than food. It is about memory, culture, and faith lived around tables—from potlucks to funeral meals to celebrations of baptism and confirmation.

Submit a recipe along with a short story (500–600 words or fewer) that reflects:

  • Who taught you the recipe

  • When it is shared

  • Why it matters in your life or congregation

Space is limited, and submissions should be final and ready to print.

3. Perform in the Friday Night Variety Show

Proposal Deadline: Monday, April 27, 2026

After a full day of Assembly, we will gather on Friday, June 12 for a joyful evening of creativity.

We are inviting 5–7 minute, family-friendly acts—including music, storytelling, poetry, comedy, cultural performances, and more. Pastor Thaddeus Book (Desert Cross Lutheran, Tempe) will serve as emcee

This is a chance to celebrate the gifts of our synod and experience the joy that comes through shared creativity.

A limited number of acts will be selected.

4. Lead a Workshop

Proposal Deadline: Monday, April 6, 2026

Workshops are a vital part of Assembly, offering space to equip and encourage leaders for ministry today.

We are seeking one-hour workshops that:

  • Offer practical tools and resources

  • Engage Scripture and Lutheran theology

  • Address leadership, justice, spiritual care, or innovation

  • Strengthen resilience and collaboration

If you have wisdom, experience, or tools to share, we invite you to submit a proposal.

5. Participate in Our Synod-Wide Giving Focus

Open to all congregations

This year’s Assembly offering will support the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL)—a small but vibrant church serving in the places where our faith first took root.

Congregations are invited to participate whether or not they are attending Assembly by collecting an offering locally and sending it with participants or mailing it to the synod office.

The ELCJHL’s ministry includes:

  • Six congregations across the region

  • Four schools serving over 3,000 students

  • Ongoing work in education, peacebuilding, and reconciliation

Their witness is often described by the word sumud—steadfast endurance rooted in hope.

As Lutherans, we give not out of obligation, but in response to God’s grace—joining in God’s global story of faith, resilience, and reconciliation.

One Body, Many Gifts

The Synod Assembly is more than a gathering. It is a shared expression of who we are as the church—a people rooted in God’s story and sent into the world.

Whether you:

  • Submit a story

  • Share a recipe

  • Offer your creativity

  • Lead a workshop

  • Or participate in the Assembly offering

You are helping to tell the story of God’s work among us.

“We will tell the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord.” — Psalm 78:4

We look forward to what you will share.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Synod AssemblyComment