In part two of the Pivot podcast conversation with Andy Root, we explore a radically different approach to sharing faith that moves beyond happiness-hunting strategies to embrace God's presence in brokenness.
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On Juneteenth Day, we celebrate the end of slavery and the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. But that freedom granted to all enslaved people in 1865 was short-lived. In her video, Bishop Eaton recalls the stark differences experienced by White American soldiers, like her father, and African American soldiers after World War II.
“Like my father, after the war, the Tuskegee Airmen came home to start families and build a life. However, despite their sacrifices, despite wearing the same uniform and flying the same missions, they were denied the benefits of the GI Bill because they were African American. This is white supremacy.” Watch the video on YouTube here, download at bit.ly/4eapi9h.
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We’ve released the 50 mosaic-style images created for the 2025 Synod Assembly after many of you asked how they were made. Using Midjourney, an AI tool that turns text into art, we created visuals inspired by handcrafted tilework and the desert tones of our synod. These images are now available for all congregations and ministries to use. View and download the collection in this blog post.
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Missed the 2025 Synod Assembly or want to relive the highlights? Recordings of both days and the stunning Thursday evening concert hosted by Community Lutheran in Las Vegas are now available. Watch the worship, music, and ministry that brought our synod together.
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Pastor Lars Hammar, who has photographed our Synod Assemblies since 2016, captured 75 beautiful images during this year’s gathering — his final one with us before departing for a new call in Washington. We give thanks for his faithful camera ministry and invite you to view the full photo gallery.
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Our 2025 Synod Assembly was made possible by the faithful service of volunteers, leaders, and congregations across our synod. From hospitality and worship to technology and planning, every contribution helped shape a Spirit-filled gathering centered on connection, discernment, and shared mission. We extend deep thanks to all who served—named and unnamed—and celebrate the many ministries and partners who made our time together possible.
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Nearly 300 gathered in Las Vegas for the 2025 Synod Assembly, celebrating new congregations, electing leaders including Vice President Mark Myers, and hearing inspiring messages from Bishop Hutterer and David Scherer. Read more for key decisions, ministry updates, and highlights from this year’s theme: Build Up the Body.
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The Office of the Bishop travels for work and vacation while wrapping up the final details from our 2025 Synod Assembly. Thanks to all of you who made our gathering such a joyful success.
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In honor of Juneteenth, the Office of the Bishop is closed today, June 19, 2025. We mark this federal holiday with reverence, commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S. and recommitting ourselves to racial justice. Join us in a prayer for liberation and healing.
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Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. John Groh, who celebrates 59 years on June 19.
Rev. Norbert Schroeder, who celebrates 65 years on June 19.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Mark Rossman, Living Water, Scottsdale, who celebrates 37 years on June 18.
Rev. Paul Hansen, who celebrates 36 years on June 18.
Rev. Glen Stadler, who celebrates 47 years on June 18.
Rev. Raymond Christenson, who celebrates 57 years on June 18.
Join Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club for a two-part discussion of How We Learn to Be Brave by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, Thursdays, June 12 and 26 at 12:00 PM AZ time. Explore faithful courage in life’s turning points through a book that blends Scripture, story, and personal reflection. Registration now open.
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Over 80 youth from across the synod will attend Lutheran Campformation at Pinerock from June 30–July 4, exploring faith through worship, study, and fellowship. This year features a new focus on Creation theology. You can support this ministry by sponsoring meals, camper days, scholarships, or giving to the Gerald Manlove Memorial Camp Fund.
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Join a free, one-hour webinar on June 25, Prepare to Quit: Equipping Others for Readiness to Change, hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith. Author and coach Rose Ann Forte offers a biblically grounded, neuroscience-informed approach to support those exploring recovery from alcohol and substance use. This resource is ideal for ministry leaders, lay leaders, and anyone walking with others through the preparation stage of change. Register now to gain tools that empower without shame.
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Youth from the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to Leadership Lab 2025, a weeklong Lutheran leadership experience for grades 8 through age 24, held June 23-28 at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. Rooted in faith and friendship, Leadership Lab helps young people grow as disciples and leaders. Register now at leadershiplab.net.
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Ready for summer? Lutheran congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod are offering Vacation Bible Schools and children’s camps filled with faith, fun, and fellowship. Explore the growing list of programs, and help us share your church’s summer offerings by emailing Deacon Laura Book at lbook@gcsynod.org.
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Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Daniel Megorden, who celebrates 46 years on June 17.
Rev. Richard Bosse, who celebrates 69 years on June 17.
Rev. Daniel Storvick, who celebrates 52 years on June 17.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. James Vadis, who celebrates 57 years on June 16.
Rev. Corrine Chilstrom, who celebrates 40 years on June 16.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Timothy Swanson, who celebrates 52 years on June 15.
Rev. Dennis Morreim, who celebrates 56 years on June 15.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Charles Wilfong, who celebrates 61 years on June 14.
Rev. Dana Reardon, who celebrates 27 years on June 14.
Rev. Tom Shelly, who celebrates 44 years on June 14.
Rev. Ronald Tellefson, who celebrates 61 years on June 14.