Rooted in God’s Story: Mission Support Intent Forms Due March 1, 2026

As we enter a new year of shared ministry, the Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA invites congregations to take an important next step in grounding our common life in the synod’s 2026 theme: Rooted in God’s Story.

All congregations are asked to complete and return their 2026–2027 Mission Support Statement of Intent by March 1, 2026, by emailing the form to office@gcsynod.org.

Your congregation’s Mission Support is essential to sustaining ministry across our synod, the wider church, and the world. Just as trees draw strength from deep, unseen roots, our shared mission grows from faithful generosity—connecting us to work far beyond what any one congregation could do alone.

Why Your Statement of Intent Matters

Mission Support makes responsible planning possible. When congregations submit their Statements of Intent, the synod is able to steward resources faithfully and invest confidently in ministry for the sake of the Gospel.

The Synod Council encourages congregations to consider sharing 10% of regular offerings as Mission Support. These shared gifts support ministry at every level of the church:

  • 25% supports local ministries and partnerships within the synod

  • 25% strengthens synod leadership and congregational support through the Office of the Bishop

  • 50% supports ministries of the wider Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, including disaster response, hunger ministries, Young Adults in Global Mission, and global companions

Full details are outlined in the Mission Support Letter, including a helpful infographic showing how every dollar is stewarded.

Resources to Review and Share

Congregations are encouraged to download and use the following materials:

We also invite you to download and share Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer’s Thank You Video, which may be used freely in worship, council meetings, newsletters, or on social media. The video offers gratitude and encouragement, celebrating the shared ministry made possible through Mission Support.

Rooted in Abundance, Partnership, and Hope

Mission Support is more than a budget line—it is a theological statement. It proclaims that we are rooted in God’s abundance rather than scarcity, partnership rather than isolation, and hope rather than fear.

Together, we invest in ministries that form leaders, accompany congregations in transition, strengthen justice advocacy, nurture youth and young adults, and connect us with neighbors near and far. Your congregation’s participation makes this shared ministry possible.

Next Steps

  • Review the Mission Support Letter

  • Complete the Statement of Intent Form

  • Consider a 10% Mission Support commitment

  • Return the form by March 1, 2026 to office@gcsynod.org

Questions? Please contact the synod office at 602-957-3223.

Thank you for your faithful partnership, generosity, and leadership across the Grand Canyon Synod.

Together, we are rooted in God’s story—a story of grace, hope, and abundant life that continues to grow through congregations like yours.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardMission Support, StewardshipComment