The Deaconess Community of the ELCA is hiring a Strategic Mission and Interpretation Manager to support its storytelling, outreach, and strategic goals. This flexible, benefits-eligible position may be part-time or full-time, remote or called. Learn more in this PDF and share the opportunity widely.
Read MoreJoin the Grand Canyon Women of the ELCA for an online Bible study event with Gather magazine author Rev. Brooke Petersen on Saturday, May 17 from 9–11am MST/PDT. Learn to lead the Summer 2025 study, “Where Two or More Are Gathered: Flourishing in Relationships.” Open to all—register now at www.GrandCanyonWomen.org. View PDF flyer here.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. John Maroni and the people of Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church in Sun City, part of the Cactus Conference.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Jonathan Heilner, who celebrates 50 years on May 18.
Rev. Greg Hartman, New Spirit, Tucson, who celebrates 6 years on May 18.
Rev. Patricia Reed, who celebrates 24 years on May 19.
Rev. Richard Glover, who celebrates 66 years on May 20.
Rev. Phillip Hausknecht, who celebrates 62 years on May 20.
Rev. Mel Soderberg, who celebrates 58 years on May 21.
Deacon Laura Book, Williams Field High School, Gilbert, who celebrates 15 years on May 21.
Rev. Carl Zimmermann, who celebrates 48 years on May 22.
The benefits of being a nurse at Mosaic cannot be measured simply by a paycheck. The intangible, but real benefits gained through relationships and fulfilling work are invaluable. The post Mosaic Nurses Fill a Unique Role With Unique Rewards appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreAs we approach Endangered Species Day on May 19, Avery Davis Lamb reflects on the deep spiritual resonance of sitting with Michaux’s sumac, a small endangered shrub. This act of presence becomes a holy vigil, inviting us to recognize the wounds of creation—and to wonder whether resurrection extends not just to humanity, but to all living things. In the Easter season, could practicing resurrection mean bearing witness to extinction with reverence, grief, and hope? Click here to read the full reflection on practicing resurrection in the presence of an endangered species.
Read MoreThis month’s Faith and Freedom Dispatch highlights local efforts to counter Christian nationalism, BJC’s legal advocacy at the Supreme Court, and practical tools for public engagement from the Respecting Religion podcast. See how people of faith are changing the narrative and learn how you can get involved. Read more.
Read MoreEvery congregation in the Grand Canyon Synod is encouraged to create written Safe Church guidelines to protect children, youth, and vulnerable adults. This blog post outlines who should be on your policy-writing team, what legal and insurance steps to follow, and includes dozens of helpful links, resources, and sample policies from across the ELCA
Read MoreRegistration continues for the 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, June 12–13 in Las Vegas. Voting members, visitors, and exhibitors can register now on our website by May 19. New voting member guidelines are in place, and each congregation can register one youth or young adult for free using code YOUTH2025. Join us as we “Build up the Body” together!
Read MoreRev. Tina Mills will be installed Sunday, 5/18/2025, at 3pm at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, East Mesa Campus (612 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa, AZ 85208). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.
The color of the day is white. There will be a reception following, and the service will be live-streamed on the church’s website and social media.
Read MoreWe pray for the friends and family of Deacon Ardie Senft passed away on May 3, 2025, at the age of 79. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 17 at 11:00 a.m. at Living Water Lutheran Church in Scottsdale. Ardie served faithfully for over 30 years as a diaconal minister in the ELCA, embodying Christ’s call to serve others through teaching, pastoral care, and community leadership. Memorials may be directed to Arizona Faith Network and Feed My Starving Children.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Brian Cain and the people of Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church in Chandler, part of the Rio Salado Conference.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, host Dwight Zscheile interviews Pastor Ed Doerner from Messiah Lutheran Church about their revolutionary approach to church leadership and community engagement.
Read MoreWe share the video annual report from California Lutheran University (CLU) and Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) as part of our 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly.
Read MoreIn their 2025 Annual Report, Camp ALOMA, your Lutheran camp and retreat center in Prescott, Arizona, invites youth, families, and congregations to participate in its 2025 summer camps, retreats, and annual events. With sessions running from June 1 to July 18 for campers in grades 1–12, and opportunities for staff and volunteers of all ages, Camp ALOMA continues to offer “places and programs pointing to Christ.” Retreat options are available year-round for groups of all sizes, with affordable rates and welcoming facilities.
Read MoreThe Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church has released its final report ahead of the 2025 Churchwide Assembly, outlining 13 recommendations for renewing the ELCA’s purpose, structure, and governance. Pastor Carla Christopher and Leon Schwartz have shared a presentation for our synod assembly, highlighting key calls to action on dismantling racism, increasing accountability, empowering lay leadership, and continuing the work through new task forces. View the full report as a PDF or as images in our blog post.
Read MoreCoaching is a transformative ministry resource available to rostered and lay leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod. Whether you’re navigating a call transition, facing burnout, leading a congregation, or exploring spiritual growth, trained ELCA coaches—including several right here in our synod—are ready to walk with you. In 2024, GCS coaches logged 153 hours across 39 clients, and we’re aiming to double that in 2025.
Read MoreRev. David Pavesic shares reflections from his first year as Director for Evangelical Mission in the Grand Canyon Synod. From site visits and preaching engagements to supporting new ministry efforts like “Fresh Expressions” and joining the “Pray Without Ceasing” initiative, his journey has been one of deep learning and faithful connection. Read his full update on how congregations across our synod are building community, exploring collaborative ministry, and taking the gospel beyond church walls.
Read MoreGrand Canyon Synod Vice President Barbara Carl shares reflections on her four years of service as she prepares to complete her term on August 31, 2025. In this annual report, she highlights the Synod Council’s ongoing work to support congregational vitality, improve communication across the synod, expand Spanish-language resources, and train the first cohort of Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAMs). With gratitude for the journey and hope for what lies ahead, she offers prayers for the next Vice President and Council.
Read MoreWe share the video annual report from Northeast Valley Consortium as part of our 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly.
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