The Office of the Bishop Staff prepares for our synod assembly and continues preparation for hosting the churchwide assembly. We also share photos from the Synodically Authorized Minister (SAM) retreat.
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The Arizona Faith Network invites participation in several meaningful events this week, including a Healing Circle at the U.S./Mexico border (April 13), a community Tree Planting in Glendale (April 14), weekly Monday meditations, and applications for summer heat relief staff and volunteers. Learn more and explore the full AFN newsletter at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
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In this video, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande addresses recent letter from the Department of Homeland Security insinuating the diocese's involvement in illegal activities, including human trafficking.
Bishop Hunn outlines the diocese's longstanding ministry efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border, including the operation of a shelter for legal asylum seekers in partnership with Homeland Security's Border Patrol and ICE. He underscores the legality and moral grounding of their work, rooted in Christian teachings and constitutional rights. Despite the scrutiny and funding withdrawal from FEMA, he reaffirms their commitment to borderland ministry and invites support through prayers and donations.
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New updates on misconduct reporting and resources: The Grand Canyon Synod and the ELCA have updated their official contact information and resources for reporting clergy sexual misconduct. Learn how to report, review our misconduct policy, and access support at gcsynod.org/misconduct. Together, we are called to be a safe place.
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Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) is hiring a new Rector to lead its Berkeley-based seminary community. ELCA rostered ministers with at least seven years of leadership experience are encouraged to apply by April 24, 2025, for this full-time role beginning June 1. The Rector will guide theological education and public witness in the ELCA, steward seminary partnerships, and serve as a key representative of PLTS and California Lutheran University. Apply now.
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107 rostered ministers have already submitted their annual Report to the Bishop—thank you! If you haven’t submitted yours yet, there’s still time. Bishop Hutterer personally reads and responds to each report, offering a chance to share your journey, joys, and challenges in ministry. Visit gcsynod.org/rostered-minister-report to get started.
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Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) is now offering free weekly medical care—including doctor consultations, prescriptions, and lab work—every Wednesday for all clients, regardless of insurance. March brought record-breaking achievements in meals served and families supported. Plus, mark your calendar for the Spring Easter Fest on April 18and check out this week’s featured recipes.
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Thriving Leadership Formation shares their annual report for 2025, view here as a PDF.
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St. Olaf College, in Northfield, Minnesota, shares their annual report for 2025.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Charles Newman, King of Glory, Tempe, who celebrates 20 years on April 15.
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Still need to submit your 2024 ELCA Congregation Report? The deadline is April 11. This year’s new reporting platform has caused challenges for many, but help is available through FAQs and temporary workarounds. Learn more and access the system before it closes.
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Camp ALOMA in Prescott is hiring three young men for summer staff. This is a unique opportunity to grow in faith, lead youth, and spend the summer outdoors. If you know someone ready for a Christ-centered adventure, invite them to apply today: https://forms.gle/Pu6vL5PzGesvsGUF6. Contact office@campaloma.com or 928-778-1690 for details.
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Registration for Camp ALOMA’s 2025 summer sessions is now open! Seven weeks of faith-filled fun await youth in grades 1–12. Enjoy archery, canoeing, worship, and Bible study in the pines of Prescott. Bus transportation is available from Phoenix. Early bird pricing ends April 15 — register today at campdoc.com/register/aloma.
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Dr. Jennifer Wojciechowski joins the Pivot Podcast to explore how ancient traditions speak to contemporary spiritual needs.
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Rev. Dan Potaznick, Director of Generosity & Strategic Development for the Grand Canyon Synod, has been recertified as a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). This globally recognized credential affirms his ongoing commitment to ethical, effective fundraising in service to the church.
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April with AFN: Join interfaith leaders across Arizona for healing circles, justice work, tree planting, and community care. RSVP for Zoom gatherings, attend in-person events like the April 4 Health Fair and April 13 Healing Circle at the border, and apply for summer Heat Relief roles. Read the full newsletter and get involved: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter
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Lutheran Quarterly is now fully open access—free to read online through Johns Hopkins University Press. This respected journal explores Lutheran theology, history, and public witness, offering valuable insight for pastors, lay leaders, and curious minds alike. Browse articles and deepen your understanding of our shared faith.
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Leadership Lab 2025 is open for registration! From June 23–28, youth and adults from across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to Augustana College in Illinois for a transformative week of worship, small group connection, and leadership development. In their annual report, learn how this ELCA-rooted ministry equips high schoolers and young adults to bring fresh faith and leadership home to their congregations—and how adults and rostered leaders can join too. Affordable rates and strong support make this an opportunity not to miss.
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In one of her final letters to the church, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton reflects on how God’s love is being made real across the ELCA and calls us to remain faithful in our mission as we prepare for new leadership in 2025. Her words inspire our ongoing Synod Assembly theme of transformation, service, and hope.
En su carta final a la iglesia, la Obispa Presidente Elizabeth Eaton reflexiona sobre cómo el amor de Dios se hace realidad en la ELCA y nos llama a permanecer fieles a nuestra misión mientras nos preparamos para nuevos liderazgos en 2025. Sus palabras inspiran nuestro tema de Asamblea Sinodal: transformación, servicio y esperanza.
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The Office of the Bishop Staff gathers for an in-person staff meeting, and travels to congregations around the synod.
We also share photos from the Farewell and Godspeed for Pastor Tim Wright, Community of Grace.
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