Explore the Grand Canyon Synod's latest initiative, 'Creating Space for Conversations', a dedicated resource hub for fostering understanding and unity in trying times. We’ll be adding to this page in the coming months.
Whether you are seeking guidance on how to approach sensitive topics, or looking for ways to connect with others across divides, we hope this page can help. Have an idea for this page? Let us know!
Read MoreExplore the story of Grace Lutheran Church in downtown Phoenix, where the practice of civil dialogue opened doors for deep listening, empathy, and healing. Engaging in intentional conversations about provocative subjects such as race, private prisons, and police relationships, participants found a space to share their experiences and emotions.
Pastor Sarah Stadler writes how these dialogues became a transformative force, revealing how open and respectful conversation can create understanding and even exhaust the hurt. Learn how civil dialogue may be a step towards solving the problems of hearts waiting to be seen and heard.
Read MoreIn their latest newsletter, join Blessed Tomorrow in championing climate awareness this autumn. From student awards to mental health insights and faith-based actions, discover ways to care for our planet and ourselves.
Read MoreWe pray for the family and friends of Rev. Roy A Guinn, who died August 24, 2023. Services will be held at Resurrection Lutheran Church, Oro Valley on October 16, 2023, at 11am, with interment in the church’s columbarium.
Read MoreExplore the profound impact of Father Ed, the spiritual sponsor of AA's co-founder, in an upcoming webinar from The Center of Addiction & Faith. Discover recovery tales with author Dawn Eden Goldstein on Sept. 27, 2023. Register here.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop gathers with the synod council, and hots the Application Webinar for Grand Canyon Synod's Project Support and ACTS Grants, Sep 26, 2023, 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM. We also share photos from the Sierra Pacific Synod election.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Gary Ulrich, who celebrates 44 years on September 24.
Rev. Ryan Hersch, Peace, Peoria, who celebrates 20 years on September 27.
Rev. Carl Braaten, who celebrates 65 years on September 28.
Join Rev. Mike Girlinghouse as he shares his exploration journey in Flagstaff and at the Northern Arizona University campus in this blog post. Emphasizing the power of 'exploring' over 'being lost', he recalls how Paul embraced new communities in the Bible. Drawing inspiration, he encourages communities to view their surroundings with fresh eyes. Dive into his experiences and don’t miss the insightful resource by Pastor Liz Bell on building a community-centered church.
Read MoreDiscover the evolving dynamics of worship across generations with Faith Roberts in "From Wedding Rings to Nose Rings." Delve into worship styles, the Covid effect, and more in this enlightening session sponsored by the Lutheran Faith Community Nurse Association. Register here for the event scheduled on October 10, 2023.
Read MoreThis is Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. Three DSPs, including Carrie Alexander in Arizona, share why they love helping those with an intellectual or developmental disability live the lives they choose. Read at Mosaic.
Read MoreJoin the Capital Conference as we explore "Growing Young," a book that strategizes how churches can engage younger generations more effectively. Dive into enlightening discussions, both in-person and online, across four Mondays in October.
Read MoreThe Rev. Jeff R. Johnson, Berkeley, Calif., was elected Sept. 17, 2023, to serve a six-year term as bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod. Johnson is the first openly gay man to be elected bishop in the synod. Read more at ELCA.org or at spselca.net.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod invites applications for Project Support Grants and ACTS Grants for 2024. With $218,000 available for supporting congregations and strategic ministries, these grants align with the Synod's goals and visions. Don't miss this opportunity to fund projects ranging from educational materials to outreach efforts. Check the eligibility, apply by October 30, 2023, and make your ministry's vision a reality.
We will also provide an application webinar on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 4:30pm PDT/MST, 5:30pm MDT. Click here to register.
Read MoreThe Islamic Speakers Bureau invites us to explore the unexpected convergences between Islam and contemporary dance in a special lecture with Professor Tim Winter. Unveiling the connection between Muslim cultural forms and modern dance pioneers, the event delves into themes of body, eros, and the sacred. Join us on September 28, 2023, at ASU Tempe or via live-stream. Register now for this inspiring exploration of art and faith.
Read MoreExplore the fusion of faith and technology in "Amplifying Digital Ministry: AI and Content Creation," a workshop by Ryan Panzer and presented by Luther Seminary’s faith+lead, designed to guide faith communities in the digital age.
Read MoreIn upcoming days, the Office of the Bishop travels for meetings, and continues with ongoing daily, weekly, and monthly work. We also share photos of Bishop Hutterer’s recent High Country Conference visit and the Installation of Rev. Ken Miller.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Craig Geiger, who celebrates 51 years on September 17.
Rev. Martin Iszler, who celebrates 62 years on September 17.
Rev. Mark Holman, who celebrates 47 years on September 18.
Rev. Judith Rainforth, who celebrates 20 years on September 21.
LSSN's fall initiatives have led to remarkable personal success stories - from a jobless man now driving for Amazon to a large family finding a home before the arrival of their newest member.
Read MoreWe pray for Rev. Chad Rimmer, his children, and the family and friends of Natalie Rimmer, who died August 28, 2023. Many in our synod know them through their work as ELCA missionaries in Senegal.
A celebration of life was held Saturday, 2 September, at St. Philip Lutheran Church, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Excerpts of Pastor Chad’s sermon and an acknowledgment of grief can be found here, and the full service can be watched here.
Read MoreThe Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission's House of Prayer celebrates 70 years with the historic installation of its first Navajo-speaking leaders, Patricia Charley and Patterson Yazzie, marking a significant milestone in their ministry.
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