LSS-SW is seeking volunteers for Christmas gift-wrapping, delivery, Shopping Guide roles, and card-making in both Tucson and the Phoenix area. All gifts and Christmas cards are due December 15, with deliveries taking place December 18–21. More than 1,500 gifts will be distributed this year, and volunteers can also support ongoing needs such as Refugee Youth Mentors, English tutoring, and homework helpers.
Read MoreDesert Cross Lutheran Church in Gilbert invites you to The Winter Rose: Songs of Worship and Wonder on Sunday, December 14, from 4:00–5:00 p.m. This free Advent cantata weaves scripture, prayer, and music into a beautiful reflection on Emmanuel—God with Us. Featuring choirs, guest musicians, and a Christmas cookie reception, the event is offered as a gift of love to the community. All are welcome.
Read MoreJoin Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West for a beloved holiday tradition: the Messiah Sing-Along on Sunday, November 30 at 3 PM. Sing with the choir and full orchestra or simply enjoy the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah, including Comfort Ye My People and For Unto Us a Child Is Born. Rehearsals are available November 19, 26, and 29. All are welcome to lift their voices in this joyful celebration of Christ’s coming.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Rev. Dr. Dwight Zscheile and Rev. Ed Olsworth-Peter explore church plant leadership skills that begin with deep listening to the Spirit and to the neighborhood—not blueprints or programs.
Read MoreExplore the newest resources, stories, and opportunities for faith-rooted climate action in the December Blessed Tomorrow newsletter. Highlights include the 2026 American Climate Leadership Awards, sustainable holiday ideas, new research insights, and updates from congregations and national partners. Read the full newsletter for tools, inspiration, and ways to engage this season.
Read MoreThe Fall 2025 Lutheran Men in Mission Ambassador-Gram is now available, featuring updates on men’s ministry resources, national retreats, weekly Bible and book studies, and LMM’s 2025–27 strategic plan. Read the full newsletter—as a PDF or a Constant Contact link —and help us share it with men seeking to grow as bold followers of Jesus Christ.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod continues to cooperate fully with law enforcement and the ELCA regarding the ongoing federal investigation involving former synod leader Casey Goslin. There are still no known victims within our synod, and all allegations involve online activity. This week’s update includes gratitude for those who attended our recent Holding Space gathering for prayer and conversation. The Office of the Bishop remains committed to transparency, pastoral care, and clear communication as the investigation continues.
Read MoreAFN shares a full lineup of upcoming events, including the 2025 Annual Gathering (Dec. 2), interfaith Thanksgiving services, prayer walks, ecology workshops, and the “No Amazon for Advent” campaign. Learn more and view all events and advocacy actions in the full AFN newsletter at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Read MoreThis week, the Office of the Bishop visits congregations, works on year-end projects, and celebrates Thanksgiving.
We are grateful to be Church Together with you.
Read MoreRetired pastor Rev. Richard (Dick) Glover, a member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Phoenix, died earlier this week on Monday, November 17, 2025. Details about services are not yet available. Please keep his wife Alice, his loved ones, and the St. Andrew community in your prayers. We will share service information as soon as it becomes available.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 27–28, 2025, for the Thanksgiving holiday, reopening Monday, December 1. As we enter this season of gratitude, we give thanks for the faithful ministry of our congregations and partners across the Grand Canyon Synod.
Read MorePublic voting is open for the 2025 Partners for Sacred Places Photo Contest through December 5. Help select the People’s Choice winners in four categories—Arts, Education & Service, Open Space, and Community Events. This year’s theme highlights sacred places as community “third spaces,” serving neighborhoods with beauty, care, and hospitality. Vote here: https://sacredplaces.org/photo-voting/
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Carl Sirotzki, Mount Cross, Payson, who celebrates 10 years on November 21.
Rev. Anna Rieke, Christ the Lord, Carefree, who celebrates 11 years on November 22.
Rev. Mari Larson, St. Andrew, Las Vegas, who celebrates 29 years on November 23.
Begin your Advent with intention and peace. From December 1–4, the 4-Day Mindful Advent Challenge offers daily devotionals featuring contemplative artwork by Steve Thomason, a prayer, and a simple spiritual practice. This short, reflective experience invites you to slow down, breathe, and rediscover Advent’s themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. Sign up to receive the daily devotions directly to your inbox.
Read MoreJoin Mount of Olives Lutheran Church on December 7 as Jazz Vespers celebrates its one-year anniversary of the Music for Food ministry, which has supported over 7,000 family units since last December. This month’s concert features Beth Lederman and Sandra Bassett at 5:30 p.m., with a reception at 6:30 p.m. Free admission; offerings support the Olive Branch Community of Hope Food Pantry.
Come for the music and help continue a ministry that feeds both body and spirit.
Read MoreJoin Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix for A Night of Jazz on Wednesday, November 26 at 6:00 p.m. This free community event features musicians Beth Lederman and Typhaine Monique and is hosted by Connections, a ministry centered on belonging and God’s unconditional love. All are welcome for an evening of music, joy, and community at 1124 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix.
Read MoreExperience the fifth annual Musical Advent Calendar from Lutheran Summer Music, November 30–December 24—daily musical meditations to inspire reflection throughout the Advent season. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube, with all videos archived at LSMacademy.org/acal. Sign up to receive each day’s video directly to your inbox by completing this form.
Read MoreJoin Mountain View Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee on Sunday, December 14, 2025, for a German-Language Christmas Service, beginning with caroling at 4:10 p.m. and worship at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy fellowship afterward with coffee, tea, and Christmas cookies (donations welcome). The service will also be livestreamed at bit.ly/weihnachtsgottesdienst2025inphoenix. Learn more at weihnachtsgottesdienstphoenix.com.
Read MoreSpirit in the Desert is offering a daily Advent email devotion written by Sheri Brown, beginning Sunday, November 30 and continuing through Christmas Day. Each short reflection offers a simple daily pause to watch and wait for Christ.
Those who wish to receive these devotions directly in their inbox can register online here. These emails are ideal for personal use and can also be shared with congregations, staff, and small groups across the Grand Canyon Synod.
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