LAMA’s latest newsletter highlights urgent #GivingTuesday news—after surpassing its $5,000 goal, LAMA is aiming for $10,000. It also includes key December advocacy events, volunteer opportunities, ELCA Action Alerts, and updates on issues impacting Arizona communities. Plus: Christmas service opportunities, a save-the-date for Lutheran Day at the Legislature 2026, and the launch of LAMA’s new T-shirt Design Contest. Read the full newsletter here.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod continues to cooperate fully in the ongoing federal investigation involving former synod leader Casey Goslin. As of December 4, there are still no known victims within our synod, and all allegations involve online activity. Acting Bishop Pastor Mike Girlinghouse and the Office of the Bishop remain committed to transparency, pastoral care, and timely communication as we monitor the situation. Pastors and deacons are encouraged to reach out with any pastoral care needs or questions.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop starts the 2026 assembly planning process with our first meeting, prepares for Bishop Hutterer’s brief break in her sabbatical, visits congregations in Mesa and Flagstaff, and works on year-end projects.
Read MorePlease keep Pastor Charles Newman in your prayers following a serious fall at home on November 29. He has undergone an initial surgery on his right leg and faces additional procedures and a long recovery ahead. Pastor Charles and his wife, Jenifer, welcome prayers as they adjust to the early weeks of healing.
Read MoreMark your calendars for the Grand Canyon Synod Spring Gatherings 2026, where we come together under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. Gatherings will be held in Tempe, Sun City, Phoenix, Flagstaff, Tucson, and Las Vegas from February through April. These events offer opportunities for connection, reflection, and renewal across our synod.
Read MoreJoin the synodwide choir for our 2026 MLK Celebration at King of Glory, Tempe. Rehearsals: Jan 3, 10, 15, 17; Service: Sun, Jan 18 at 3:00pm (call 2:00pm). Concert black attire; practice recordings and full service details coming soon. View all the info for our synod’s MLK events at gcsynod.org/mlk.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Joshua Pontious, Community of Grace, Peoria, who celebrates 4 years on December 5.
Rev. Scott Summers, who celebrates 35 years on December 8.
Lutherans and friends from across Arizona are invited to gather at Wesley Bolin Plaza on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. for Lutheran Day at the Legislature. The morning includes meeting legislators, connecting with LAMA leaders, hearing speakers, and praying for justice, with breakfast at 8:30 a.m. and lunch provided.
Held at the Arizona State Capitol in downtown Phoenix, this annual event equips us to live out our baptismal call to strive for justice and peace. Register today.
Read MoreWeek 1 of TENx10’s Advent journey focuses on hunger, inviting us to see Christ in every child standing in a WIC clinic or pantry line. Daily readings (Nov 30–Dec 6) and a weekly prayer guide our reflection on Christ’s presence among families facing uncertain tables. Sign up for the Advent series and learn more about TENx10’s work supporting young people nationwide.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod is developing a new Congregational Security & Preparedness resource page under our Congregation Resources section, at the request of Synod Vice President Mark Myers. This evolving hub will gather practical tools from ELCA churchwide resources, insurers like Brotherhood Mutual and Church Mutual, and federal partners such as the FBI to help congregations review building security, plan for emergencies, and respond wisely to threats or concerning behavior.
Councils, staff, ushers, and safety teams are encouraged to use these materials in conversation with local law enforcement, insurers, and legal counsel, taking simple first steps now while we continue to add and update resources.
Read MoreNew Spirit Lutheran Church in Tucson once again hosts Arizona’s exclusive production of Bending Towards the Light: A Jazz Nativity on December 13 at 7 p.m. and December 14 at 5 p.m. This joyful retelling of the Nativity—written by Anne Phillips and inspired by “The Jazz Pastor” John Garcia Gensel—blends the Christmas story with the expressive beauty of jazz. Tickets and details at jazznativity.org/tucson.
Read MoreBeautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Tucson will host a Vintage Jewelry Sale on Saturday, December 6, from 8 a.m. to noon at 7570 North Thornydale Road. The sale features new, boxed vintage jewelry—rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, charms, and Christmas pieces—with some items containing lab-created gems. All proceeds support charitable causes, and the event is cash only.
Read MoreJoin us for the Ordination and Installation of Wanda K. Frenchman on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, Phoenix. Bishop Deborah Hutterer will preside, and Vance Blackfox will preach. Rostered ministers are invited to vest and process; the color of the day is red. Dinner will follow. The service will be livestreamed via Grace Lutheran Church’s Facebook page, with video later on the Native American Urban Ministry page. All are welcome.
Read MoreMountain View Lutheran Church invites families to Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 6, 8:30–10:30 am. Enjoy a hot breakfast, crafts, games, cookie decorating, and a visit with Santa. Early Bird pricing ends December 2.Register at https://bit.ly/apbws2025 or contact 480-893-2531.
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 MoreMountain View Lutheran Church hosts “I, Joseph,” a free one-man Christmas presentation by Tom Owen, on Friday, December 12, 6–7 pm. Walk with Joseph through the Nativity story in a powerful dramatic experience. Refreshments provided; all are welcome. View the event flyer here.
Read MoreMountain View Lutheran Church will open its 20-year-old time capsule on Sunday, December 7 at 10 am in the Worship Lobby. Attendees are invited to bring items for the next capsule. Cake and refreshments provided—all are welcome!
Read MoreMountain View Lutheran Church invites families to Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 6, 8:30–10:30 am. Enjoy a hot breakfast, crafts, games, cookie decorating, and a visit with Santa. Early Bird pricing ends December 2.Register at https://bit.ly/apbws2025 or contact 480-893-2531.
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. With no new developments this week, the Office of the Bishop remains committed to transparency, pastoral care, and steady communication as the investigation continues.
Read MoreStay up to date with Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona through this week’s newsletter, featuring an urgent Action Alert for World AIDS Day, upcoming December events, new blog posts, and preparations for Lutheran Day at the Legislature. Read the full newsletter to connect with statewide justice efforts, prayer opportunities, and ways your congregation can support LAMA’s ministry.
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