Register by Sept. 18 for the 2026 Bishop’s Fall Gathering
Pastors, deacons, and Synod Authorized Ministers are invited to register by Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, for the Bishop’s Fall Gathering, taking place Oct. 12–14 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Grounded in our synod theme, Rooted in God’s Story, this annual gathering offers ministry leaders time for worship, learning, renewal, and connection. Together, we will reflect on faithful leadership in a changing world and the ways God continues to call, form, and sustain us for ministry.
Featured presenter: Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos
This year’s featured presenter is Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos, PhD, theologian, pastor, and author of A Liberation Theology of the Brain.
Drawing together theology, neuroscience, liberation theology, and justice, Dr. Santos will lead three keynote sessions exploring healing, identity, suffering, and human flourishing. Born and raised in Puerto Rico and originally trained as a chemist, he brings a distinctive perspective on how science and theology can deepen our understanding of ourselves, our communities, and God’s liberating work in the world.
His work considers how our minds and emotions are shaped by the stories and systems surrounding us—and how communities of faith can participate in God’s work of liberation, restoration, and abundant life for all.
Worship, conversation, and community
The tentative agenda includes:
Worship and daily prayer
Three keynote sessions with Rev. Dr. Santos
Synod updates and Grand Canyon Synod conversations
Fellowship and table discussions
Conversations about emerging topics in ministry
A screening of A Time for Burning, followed by a guided conversation led by Pastor Amalia Vagts
The gathering begins Monday, Oct. 12, with check-in at noon and opening worship at 1 p.m. Tuesday will include a full day of presentations, worship, synod conversations, and fellowship. The event concludes late Wednesday morning following closing worship, with Dr. Santos preaching. Lunch will not be provided Wednesday.
The agenda remains tentative and may change as plans are finalized.
Register by Sept. 18
Registration includes lodging according to the option selected and the following meals: Monday dinner; Tuesday breakfast, lunch, and dinner; and Wednesday breakfast.
Choose the registration option that fits your plans:
First Call Rostered Ministers and SAMs attending the extended event should use these registration links:
First Call registration includes the additional meals of dinner on Oct. 14 and breakfast and lunch on Oct. 15. Room sharing is encouraged so that as many First Call participants as possible can be accommodated.
When registering multiple people, select and complete one registration form at a time before adding the next attendee. This ensures that the synod receives each participant’s email address and individual needs. When finished, select the cart at the top right of the registration page to check out and pay.
Commuter registration includes meals, so commuters are encouraged to join the community at mealtimes and help prevent food waste. Participants are also encouraged to stay at the Franciscan Renewal Center for the fullest experience of connection with ministry colleagues.
Guests with severe allergies may bring outside food into the dining room to supplement the meals served. The Franciscan Renewal Center cannot guarantee against cross-contamination in its kitchen or food-preparation areas.
Location
Franciscan Renewal Center
5802 E. Lincoln Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
For registration questions or changes, email office@gcsynod.org or call the synod office at 602-957-3223.
