Need something to brighten your day? Here’s a story with video that is sure to bring a smile to your face, which shows the positive impact Mosaic has had in the life of an individual and his family. The post A High-Five and a Hug Are the Norm for Rich appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Dr. Paul Hoffman, author of AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep, joins hosts Terri Elton and Dwight Zscheile to offer a framework for discernment: How might artificial intelligence help or hinder human flourishing?
Read MoreWisdom Keeper Patty Charley’s husband, Wayne, died earlier this week. Wayne died on Monday, December 8, in Albuquerque, NM, where he and Patty have a home. We invite the Grand Canyon Synod to hold Patty and her family in prayer. Patty serves as Primary Wisdom Keeper at the Navajo Lutheran Mission’s House of Prayer, where her leadership and ministry continue to bless the Navajo Nation. Please join us in surrounding Patty with love, support, and prayer during this time of grief.
A traditional Navajo burial service for Wayne will take place on Saturday, December 13 at 10:00 am in Rock Point, Arizona, followed by a family-hosted meal. No RSVP is necessary.
Flowers will be difficult to deliver to Rock Point, but gifts to the House of Prayer in Wayne’s memory would be deeply appreciated. Cards and condolences may be sent to House of Prayer, PO Box 354, Rock Point, AZ 86545.
Read MorePortico Benefit Services is mailing new 2026 Health ID cards and HealthEquity debit cards to ELCA-Primary health benefit members. Most cards arrive in December, though some may be delayed until mid-January. Members can print a temporary card or contact Quantum Health if theirs has not arrived by Jan. 1. HSA/FSA accounts will transition from Further to HealthEquity on Jan. 1, with specific cutoff dates for using current debit cards. New HealthEquity cards should be used starting Jan. 1.
This update outlines key dates, contact information, and steps to ensure uninterrupted access to health benefits in the new year.
Read MoreThe latest AFN newsletter highlights December and January interfaith events, including ecology workshops, clergy gatherings, Monday meditations, and the upcoming Midwinter Peace Gathering. It also features climate-justice sign-on opportunities for faith leaders, Giving Machine charity sites, and partner news from across Arizona’s interfaith community.
Read MoreThis week’s LAMA newsletter features an urgent call for Christmas volunteers with LSS-SW, new advocacy events through mid-January, and the release of LAMA’s 2026 Policy Priorities. You’ll also find updates on H.R. 1’s potential impact in Arizona, resources for congregations, and opportunities to support Lutheran Day at the Legislature. Read the full newsletter to stay connected with the advocacy ministry of the Grand Canyon Synod.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod continues to cooperate fully in the federal investigation involving former synod leader Casey Goslin. As of December 11, there are still no known victims within our synod, and all criminal allegations involve online activity. The Office of the Bishop remains committed to clear communication, pastoral care, and transparency as we support congregations and leaders through this ongoing process. Pastoral care and communications contacts are included for those who may need assistance.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop completes year-end tasks and prepares for some vacations and parental leave.
Read MoreWeek 2 of TENx10’s Advent journey focuses on immigrant children who spend long stretches in shelters or temporary placements while their families navigate vetting and reunification processes. Sign up for the Advent series and learn more about TENx10’s work supporting young people nationwide.
Read MoreFaith Lutheran Church in Yuma raised $954 through its Christmas Bazaar to support Wreaths Across America. The congregation will participate in the wreath-laying ceremony on Saturday, December 13 at noon at Sun Vista Cemetery in Fortuna Foothills, honoring fallen military heroes with evergreen wreaths symbolizing eternal life.
Read MoreJoin Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West on Friday, December 19 at 10:00 AM for a joyful Big Band Christmas Concert featuring festive music, vocalists, and a time of fellowship with holiday treats. All are welcome to gather in the Social Hall for a warm and spirited start to the Christmas season.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Deacon Katie Adelman, who celebrates 40 years on December 15.
Rev. Thomas Stephens, who celebrates 41 years on December 16.
Join Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 3:00–4:00 pm AZ (2:00 pm PST) for a conversation with author Peter Faur about his new novel, The Heretic Hunters: A Parable for Our Time. The book traces a denomination in crisis as authoritarianism, doctrinal purity campaigns, and personal courage collide—raising timely questions about faith, integrity, and the endurance of love.
The discussion will be facilitated by Sheri Brown, and registration is open. Learn more about the book, read early reviews, and sign up to join the conversation here: Read more & register →
Read MoreRev. Dr. James R. Thomas—pastor, scholar, and author of A Rumor of Black Lutherans—will preach at the Colorado River Conference’s MLK Celebration on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at New Song Church in Henderson, NV. Dr. Thomas’ remarkable journey from Seminex to global ministry in Ghana offers powerful insight into Black leadership in Lutheran history. Read more about his story, explore his new book, and join us as we honor Dr. King’s legacy across our synod.
Read MoreJoin Faith Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Saturday, December 13 at 3:00 PM for a candlelit service of Advent Vespers with Lessons and Carols. This cherished annual tradition weaves Scripture, choir anthems, congregational singing, and organ music into a beautiful proclamation of Advent hope. A Dessert Festival follows the service. All are welcome as we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ.
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 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 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 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 MoreLSS-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.
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