Posts in Grand Canyon Synod
Connecting Faith and Advocacy: Takeaways from LAMA's Annual Summit
Connecting Faith and Advocacy: Takeaways from LAMA's Annual Summit

The Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona community convened at the Love of Christ Lutheran Church for an engaging and spirited LAMA Summit. This year's assembly, themed "Advocacy as a Spiritual Practice," not only fortified the bond between advocacy and spirituality but also highlighted key policy focuses: addressing hunger and food insecurity, enhancing voting and civic engagement, and conserving water resources.

The summit, facilitated by Pastor Sarah Stadler, featured story-sharing sessions, strategic planning for advocacy as a daily spiritual routine, and a meaningful invitation writing campaign to legislators for the upcoming Lutheran Day at the Legislature. Read more about the summit on the LAMA site.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
“Sacred Places at the Heart of Communities” Photo Contest deadline is 11/19/2023
“Sacred Places at the Heart of Communities” Photo Contest deadline is 11/19/2023

Seize the chance to celebrate and showcase the vibrancy and essence of community-serving sacred places across America! Partners for Sacred Places announces its “Sacred Places at the Heart of Communities” Photo Contest, open from October 1 to November 19, 2023, with exciting cash prizes up to $1000. Capture the profound spirituality, community events, open spaces, and services these places offer and share your vision with the world! For submission and more detailed information, please visit Sacred Photo Contest or email photocontest@sacredplaces.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPartners for Sacred SpacesComment
Spirited Examen continues on Thursday, 11/16/2023
Spirited Examen continues on Thursday, 11/16/2023

Embark on a spiritual adventure with the Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center as Spirited Examen continues this fall. Dive deep into reflective practices focusing on strengthening your bonds with God, Creation, and fellow humans. Engage in meaningful online sessions every other Thursday through 2023. Discover more about this enlightening journey here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Ashleigh’s Story: Finding a Forever Home with Mosaic at Home
Ashleigh’s Story: Finding a Forever Home with Mosaic at Home

Discover Ashleigh's moving journey towards independence and belonging, despite the challenges of cerebral palsy and personal loss. Thanks to the loving support of her mother, the guidance of her grandfather, and the nurturing environment provided by Mosaic at Home, Ashleigh has found her place to thrive. Her story is a powerful testament to the impact of personalized care and the enduring strength of community support.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMosaic, Disability MinistriesComment
Discover Your Next Chapter at the Young Adult Transitions Retreat
Discover Your Next Chapter at the Young Adult Transitions Retreat

Seeking clarity on life's next chapter? Check out the Young Adult Transitions Retreat from Nov 16-19, 2023. Find support, community, and direction in Wisconsin’s beautiful Lutherdale.

Don't miss this unique chance to discern your path and find your tribe. Dig deep into the event details here, and secure your spot here. If you're in need of financial assistance, simply fill out the form here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young AdultComment
Uncorking Compassion: Lutheran Social Services of Nevada's Evening of Gratitude
Uncorking Compassion: Lutheran Social Services of Nevada's Evening of Gratitude

Join Lutheran Social Services of Nevada for "An Evening of Gratitude" wine tasting and fundraiser on Nov 28, 2023, at 4:30 pm. Delight in fine wines, savory bites, and live music while supporting the vital services of LSSN. Get your tickets and details at www.lssnv.org/an-evening-of-gratitude.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Social Services of Nevada, Colorado River Conference Comment
St. John's Lutheran in Glendale featured at Arizona Faith Network Gathering
St. John's Lutheran in Glendale featured at Arizona Faith Network Gathering

At the 2023 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering held on 10/24/2023, Pastor Peter Perry and St. John's Lutheran in Glendale was one of the ministries highlighted by Arizona Faith Network in their Heat Respite campaign sharing the work they did this summer. We share the program spotlight video in this post.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSt. John's Glendale, Cactus Conference, Arizona Faith Network, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Heat ReliefComment
Empower Your Church Leadership: Join the 'Leading with Purpose' Workshop
Empower Your Church Leadership: Join the 'Leading with Purpose' Workshop

Elevate your church leadership skills with the "Leading with Purpose" workshop, beginning November 8, 2023. Learn effective team coaching strategies, overcome leadership challenges, and guide your team towards mission-aligned success under Dr. Nathan Swenson-Reinhold's expert guidance. Enroll now and transform your approach to purposeful leadership. Don't miss this game-changing opportunity; spots are filling fast!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLay Leadershipo, faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Bishop Hazelwood’s message about the shooting in Maine
Bishop Hazelwood’s message about the shooting in Maine

As Maine is added to the list of places that have experienced a mass shooting, we in the New England Synod raise our voices with the psalmist to cry out, “How long, O Lord? How long?” How much longer will gun violence ravage lives and rip apart communities?

We also lift up prayers for those affected by this tragedy in Lewiston. Those who have lost loved ones, are injured or in pain, as well as those who are tasked with the difficult work of helping to heal: first responders, medical personnel, chaplains, clergy, funeral directors, crime scene investigators, law enforcement officers, trauma counselors and more. We pray for them and all those affected.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardGun ViolenceComment
Office of the Bishop Updates: 10/27/2023
Office of the Bishop Updates: 10/27/2023

Bishop Hutterer travels for the Holy Closure of Living Hope Lutheran Church in Las Vegas on Reformation Sunday, attends the Grand Canyon Synod Retirees Retreat, Oct 30, 2023 – Nov 1, 2023, attends a California Lutheran University Board Meeting, and participates in a Latin American Consultation with President Roberto Trejo Haager ILM, and Pastor Sandy Jones.

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News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
ELCA Advocacy October 2023 Updates, U.N. and State Edition
ELCA Advocacy October 2023 Updates, U.N. and State Edition

In October's ELCA Advocacy updates, global Lutherans convened in Krakow, Poland, for the LWF Assembly, with U.N. discussions focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals. Arizona's LAMA hosted an influential retreat, welcomed a new advocacy fellow, and continued their efforts in addressing hunger. Meanwhile, states like California and Colorado witnessed legislative shifts and advocacy initiatives on various topics. Stay updated with these important developments across the ELCA network.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Faith Meets Innovation: How Human-Centered Design is Changing Ministry
Faith Meets Innovation: How Human-Centered Design is Changing Ministry

Revolutionize your ministry approach with Luther Seminary's Human-Centered Design on-deman course! Explore empathy, creativity, and practical problem-solving to address your community's unique needs. Led by Dr. Ramon Pastrano IV, this interactive, faith-focused course offers tools for impactful change. Enroll now for just $55.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLay Leadershipo, faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
A Message of Hope Amidst Turmoil: Updates from Meghan and Gabi Aelabouni in the Holy Land
A Message of Hope Amidst Turmoil: Updates from Meghan and Gabi Aelabouni in the Holy Land

In this challenging time, we're relieved to share that Meghan and Gabi Aelabouni are safe in Jerusalem amidst the ongoing crisis. Their poignant update offers a glimpse into the harsh realities on the ground, underscoring the urgent need for peace and the critical role of the local church and the ELCA. For deeper insights and personal narratives from the Aelabounis, access the full story in this PDF. Their courage and resolve shine a light of hope through the darkness of conflict.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and PalestineComment