Office of the Bishop Updates
The Office of the Bishop will gather for a staff retreat at Spirit in the Desert while continuing to support congregations and leaders across the synod. The week also includes the Ordination and Installation of Guy Ilunga at Trinity Lutheran in Phoenix (August 29, 2026, 10:00 AM), ministry at Central Lutheran in Arizona City, ongoing grants and communications work, and preparation for upcoming events and financial reporting.
We also share photos from Bishop Hutterer’s worship with Church of Our Saviour in Lakeside, Myrna Wells-Ulland’s birthday at Spirit in the Desert, the Office of the Bishop’s visit to West Valley Lutheran Thrift Store, and a visit by author Bill Kalaf and former Vice President Paul Gryniewicz (2017-2021).
Ordination and Installation of Guy Ilunga at Trinity Lutheran in Phoenix, August 29, 2026, 10:00 AM
Staff retreat, Spirit in the Desert
Rev. Jacqueline Pagel
Bishop’s Associate for Candidacy and Faith Formation
Rev. David Pavesic
Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM)
Participating in Guy Ilunga's ordination at Trinity- Phoenix.
Preaching and meeting with Central Lutheran- Arizona City.
Gathering with the Synod Staff for our in-person retreat.
Rev. Dan Potaznick
Director of Generosity and Strategic Development
Ordination and Installation of Guy Ilunga at Trinity Lutheran in Phoenix, August 29, 2026, 10:00 AM
Attend Synod Staff Retreat, Spirit in the Desert (August 30–September 1)
Charlie Ann’s baptism at Prince of Peace, Phoenix (September 6)
Theresa Thornburgh
Director for Administration and Events
Preparing for upcoming meetings and events
Facilitating GCS Grants Committee
GCS Staff Retreat
Brian Flatgard
Director of Communication
Maintain news communications: Facebook, blog, and weekly newsletter
Staff retreat
Website audit
Amy Birchard
Finance Administrator
Begin preparation for the closing of the current months books. Available to respond to emails and requests as needed.
Church of Our Saviour in Lakeside
Happy birthday Myrna!
Myrna Wells-Ulland’s birthday at Spirit in the Desert. Myrna is a synod council member and outgoing president of Churchwide Women of the ELCA.
An office visit by author Bill Kalaf and former Vice President Paul Gryniewicz (2017-2021).
West Valley Thrift Store visit
Special thanks to Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran for hosting us for lunch afterwards, and particularly for Pastor John Maroni for making his grandmother’s pasta sauce!
