Office of the Bishop Updates
This week, the Office of the Bishop continues its work across the synod, from preaching, teaching, and stewardship support to event planning, communications, and financial administration.
On sabbatical—back for one week in December before returning February 1.
Rev. Jacqueline Pagel
Bishop’s Associate for Candidacy and Faith Formation
Speak at GCS Women of the ELCA annual convention
Preach @ Mt. Olives Lutheran in Lake Havasu City
Research possible future speakers
Rev. David Pavesic
Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM)
Preach and present Congregational Vitality Survey results to Spirit of Grace Lutheran in Surprise.
Presenting on Church Organization Styles and Healthy Communication to Trinity Lutheran in Phoenix.
ELCA LeadNet Training Day and All Churchwide Staff Convocation on Zoom.
Rev. Dan Potaznick
Director of Generosity and Strategic Development
Meet with GCS Synod Council "Telling the Story" Team to set vision for the new year
Preparing to co-lead storytelling exercise with Karen Kretschmann, ELCA Coordinator for Storytelling Engagement, at the Synod Council meeting on November 15th
Share with every congregation the Q3 Mission Support Impact Story... stay tuned!
Theresa Thornburgh
Director for Administration and Events
Preparing for upcoming meetings and events
Facilitating GCS Grants Committee
General administrative duties of the Synod Office
Brian Flatgard
Director of Communication
Weekly news posts and newsletter
2026 Ordination cards
MLK celebration page and updates
Amy Birchard
Finance Administrator
Begin working on month end procedures for October.
