In BJC’s August Faith Freedom Dispatch, meet the 2025 BJC Fellows, learn how North Texans are organizing against Christian nationalism, and read why the Johnson Amendment still matters for churches. Plus, celebrate a $50,000 grant awarded to the BJC Center for Faith, Justice, and Reconciliation. Read the full BJC newsletter here.
Read MoreWhat does it mean to live more simply as a person of faith? In a world shaped by overconsumption and climate anxiety, One Home One Future invites us to embrace simplicity as a spiritual, ecological, and justice-oriented practice. Rooted in Scripture and supported by science, this reflection from Rev. Carol Devine explores how simple living—spending time outdoors, consuming less, and making sustainable choices—connects us to God, to our neighbors, and to all of creation. Click here to read the full reflection on Blessed Tomorrow’s blog.
Read MoreThis week’s Arizona Faith Network newsletter includes updates on the new Safe Communities Coalition, upcoming interfaith events, and ways to serve amid extreme heat. RSVP for AFN commissions, book groups, and meditation sessions. Find opportunities for service and justice—including heat relief canvassing, interfaith internships, and a contemplative retreat. Read the full newsletter and subscribe at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Read MoreRegistration is now open for the Women of the ELCA 2026 Triennial Gathering, held July 16–19 in Des Moines, Iowa. With the theme “I Am Worthy,” this powerful event brings Lutheran women together for worship, learning, and connection. Reserve your spot today!
Read MoreLutheran Summer Music (LSM) will return to St. Olaf College in 2026, the site of its inaugural season in 1982. The move marks a homecoming and a fresh chapter for LSM as it partners with the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) for a vibrant summer of sacred music and intergenerational learning. This follows a successful eight-year residency at Valparaiso University.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Sharon Brown, who celebrates 12 years on August 2.
Rev. Thomas McFarland, who celebrates 39 years on August 3.
Rev. Janet Richardson, who celebrates 36 years on August 6.
Rev. Richard Peterson, who celebrates 32 years on August 8.
Rev. John Hoelter, who celebrates 58 years on August 9.
Rev. Wyatt Linde, Resurrection, Oro Valley, who celebrates 2 years on August 9.
Rev. Joseph Dillon, who celebrates 49 years on August 10.
Rev. Paul Campbell, who celebrates 46 years on August 12.
Spirit in the Desert shares campus updates, fall retreat previews, and spiritual resources in their August 2025 newsletter. From facility improvements and heartfelt summer reflections to new retreats and ongoing prayer offerings, Spirit invites you to rest, reflect, and reconnect. Read the full newsletter here: Spirit August 2025 Newsletter.
Read MoreJoin us Sept. 29–Oct. 1 at the Franciscan Renewal Center for the 2025 Bishop’s Fall Gathering: Life Together—Lament, Love, and Christian Hope in a Time Such as This. Rostered ministers and SAMs will reflect on Bonhoeffer’s Life Together alongside biblical texts with Wartburg Seminary guests Rev. Dr. Kristin Johnston Largen and Rev. Dr. S. Helen Chukka. Meals and lodging included; commuter options available. Registration deadline is Friday, Sept. 5.
Read MoreFeeling like your church doesn’t have enough? Join a free webinar on Thursday, Aug. 14 at 6 p.m. Central (4 p.m. AZ)to discover the hidden resources your congregation already holds. Learn from the Kaleidoscope Institute how currencies of relationship, truth, and more can help us move from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance. No registration required—just click to join.
Read MoreJazz with a purpose! Join Mount of Olives Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Sunday, August 10 at 5:30 PM for Jazz Vespers featuring Beth Lederman and Kimberly Weston. This free concert supports the Olive Branch Food Pantry, which feeds over 150 families weekly. Refreshments follow, and the series continues September 14—guest artist to be announced.
Read MoreDeacon Emma Janzen will be installed Sunday, 8/10/2025, 10:45 AM, at Resurrection Lutheran Church, (11575 N 1st Ave., Oro Valley, AZ 85737, livestream here), with Pastor Jacqui Pagel preaching and presiding.
Rostered ministers and candidates for rostered ministry are invited to process and wear their albs. Color of the day is green.
Read MoreIn this episode of the Pivot podcast, Tim and Tabitha share the inspiring story of transforming a unused church basement from 1985 into the thriving Center for Belonging.
Read MoreSubmissions are now open for the 2026 Faith & Form International Awards for Religious Architecture & Art.Architects, artists, designers, students, and faith communities are invited to submit completed projects by October 10, 2025. Recognizing excellence in sacred space, liturgical design, and community engagement, the awards offer global recognition and are a powerful witness to the intersection of faith and creativity. Learn more and apply today.
Read MoreThis month’s AFN newsletter includes a full calendar of interfaith opportunities—meditation gatherings, youth climate action, ELCA Assembly vigils, and a 5-week Rohr book study. RSVP now and stay connected through prayer, learning, and justice. Read the full newsletter at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Read MoreGather with fellow rostered leaders at the Franciscan Renewal Center, September 29–October 1, for the Bishop’s Fall Gathering. Under the theme Life Together: Lament, Love, and Christian Hope in a Time Such as This, we’ll explore Bonhoeffer’s vision of community with theologians from Wartburg Seminary, enjoy meaningful worship, and share in meals and fellowship. Space is limited—register by September 5.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop attends and volunteers at the final events of the Churchwide Assembly, and also attends the Ordination of Kevin Anderson at Love of Christ in Mesa, Aug 6, 2025, 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Rebecca Boardman, U of A LCM, Tucson, who celebrates 21 years on July 31.
Rev. James Schubert, who celebrates 35 years on July 31.
Stepping Up to Supervision is a practical, faith-based leadership training designed to help ministry leaders supervise with clarity and care, while staying rooted in their pastoral identity. Led by author and coach Rev. Susan Beaumont, this live online training runs August 5–19 and includes 9 contact hours, a comprehensive workbook, and year-long access to all materials. Scholarships available.
Read MoreRegistration is still open for the inaugural Seminar on Lutheran Liturgy, August 13–15 in Minneapolis. Join clergy, musicians, and lay leaders from across the country to explore how liturgy forms faithful leadership and serves as a counter to Christian Nationalism. Registration closes August 1. Learn more and register now at: seminarliturgy.org/event-list.
Read MoreKevin Anderson will be ordained Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at 1:30 pm. The service will be in the Sanctuary at Love of Christ Lutheran Church (1525 N. Power Rd. Mesa, AZ 85205). Pastor Steve Talmage will be serving as Assisting Minister. Pastor Nanette Christofferson will be preaching. Bishop Deborah Hutterer will be presiding. The service will be live-streamed at on the church website, on Facebook and YouTube.
Rostered Ministers are invited to process, robes are encouraged. The color of the day is red. A light reception will be offered after the service in Love of Christ’s Center of Compassion. If clergy would RSVP, that would be helpful so we can know how many seats to reserve.
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