This week we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Deacon Mary Jayne Baker, who celebrates 14 years on April 22.
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The Grace and Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship Fund is now in its fourth year, having awarded $16,000 to students across the synod since its launch in 2023. Open to ELCA members pursuing higher education or certification programs, the fund supports both academic goals and faith formation, with recipients highlighting its impact on belonging, purpose, and community connection.
Applications are open to eligible students, and contributions can be made through the Arizona Community Foundation. To learn more, apply, or support the fund, visit azfoundation.org or contact Grace Lutheran Church directly.
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Pastor Brian Weinberger of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mesa continues his recovery following recent surgeries, which overall have gone well. He shares gratitude for the prayers surrounding him and is healing with minimal pain as he returns home. The synod invites continued prayers for Pastor Brian, his family, and the Bethlehem community as his recovery continues in the hope of the Easter season.
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A Sohmer console piano in excellent condition is available at no cost to a congregation in the Grand Canyon Synod. Located near 39th Ave. and Northern in Phoenix, the piano is ready for pickup and could support worship and music ministry.
Interested congregations should contact Richard Haaland directly at richahaa@yahoo.com or 602-300-4605.
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Carly Chamberlain will be ordained to Word and Service at Faith-La Fe Lutheran Church (801 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014), Saturday, April 18 at 10:30 am. She will be installed at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church at a later date. Rostered ministers are invited to robe and process, color of the day is red. Pastor Jonathan Linman will preach, Bishop Hutterer will preside.
A reception will follow immediately in the parish hall. The service will be live streamed on the Faith Lutheran Facebook page.
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Pastor Bill Dowling died March 31, 2026. A service of thanksgiving for his life will be held Friday, April 17 at 2:00 p.m. at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, with a reception to follow and a livestream available.
Those wishing to send condolences may contact the synod office for details. Please keep Pastor Dowling’s family and all who mourn in your prayers, trusting in the promise of resurrection in Christ.
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Portico Benefit Services shares its annual report highlighting the impact of the ELCA’s shared benefits ministry. Serving more than 52,000 members, Portico provides healthcare, retirement, and financial support that strengthens those called to serve across the church.
Explore the report and video to see how a connected community increases access to care, builds resilience, and supports the well-being of those carrying out God’s mission every day.
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In this video report for our 2026 assembly, see how the ELCA Foundation is partnering with Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley and the Grand Canyon Synod to nurture a spirit of generosity that will last for generations. Watch the video Grounded in Grace, Growing in Generosity, featuring Pastor Tim Nybroten, Rev. Dan Potaznick, and ELCA Foundation planner Lisa Marie Higginbotham, and learn how faithful giving strengthens the future of the church.
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Nominations are now open—and the deadline extended—for the Evangelical Lutheran Education Association’s annual awards recognizing outstanding leaders in ELCA schools and early childhood ministries. Awards include the Distinguished Educational Leader of the Year and the Distinguished Rostered Leader of the Year.
Take time to lift up those who have shaped your ministry, supported your community, and inspired students and families. Submit nominations and learn more.
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Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest has shared a recording of its recent refugee services webinar, highlighting how federal policy changes are affecting families in Arizona and outlining ongoing work to support those already here. While new arrivals have paused, efforts continue in housing stability, employment support, ESL programs, and youth services.
Watch the webinar and take action by advocating, volunteering, or giving. In a time of uncertainty, this is an opportunity for our synod’s congregations and leaders to live out our call to accompany our neighbors with compassion and hope.
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In the latest Pivot podcast, why is Christian community so hard to cultivate right now? Dwight Zscheile continues his conversation with Dr. Jennifer Wojciechowski.
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With a special needs trust, you can remember your loved one with a disability in your estate to secure their financial future and protect their ability to continue receiving the Medicaid-funded services they rely on.
The post Plan for Your Child with a Disability’s Financial Security When You’re Gone appeared first on Mosaic.
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Next week, synod staff will be engaged in the Colorado River Conference Spring Gathering in Las Vegas, alongside preaching, First Call Accompaniment, youth leadership, and key meetings with congregations and leaders. Additional work includes anniversary celebrations, stewardship planning, assembly and communications prep, audit and finance tasks, and ongoing administrative responsibilities.
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Every congregation has that one dish—the recipe that shows up at every potluck, from Jell-O salads to funeral potatoes and church basement favorites. The Grand Canyon Synod’s Rooted at the Table project invites you to share the recipe that defines your community.
Submit your potluck classic by May 1, 2026. All recipes will be published online, with a curated selection included in the Synod Assembly cookbook.
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Arizona Faith Network is offering a full slate of April opportunities—from poll chaplain training and immigration advocacy gatherings to interfaith dialogue and community health events. With both online and in-person options, these events equip faith communities to engage in justice, care, and public witness across Arizona.
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LAMA’s latest newsletter highlights an urgent ELCA Action Alert opposing the SAVE America Act, along with upcoming events on immigration, voting rights, and public witness. Additional updates include legislative news, advocacy opportunities, and ways to stay engaged across Arizona.
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As the 2026 Synod Assembly (June 11–13) approaches, congregations and ministry partners across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to participate in multiple ways—whether attending or not. Opportunities include submitting ministry stories (due May 8), contributing recipes for Rooted at the Table (due May 1), proposing Variety Show acts (due April 27), leading workshops (due April 6), and joining the synod-wide offering supporting the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.
Rooted in the theme “Rooted in God’s Story,” these opportunities invite the whole synod to share gifts, tell stories of faith, and participate in God’s work—locally and globally.
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Join the first SYAT Collective gathering on Thursday, April 16 at 6:30 PM to prepare for summer camp. This Zoom session will cover registration, what to expect, how to prepare students and families, and insights from leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod.
Whether you’re new or experienced, this practical session will help you feel confident heading into camp season. Register now and start the summer strong.
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The Grand Canyon Synod’s Synod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT) is launching The SYAT Collective, a new monthly Zoom gathering for those serving in next generation ministry. Open to staff and volunteers working with children, youth, and young adults, the Collective offers practical training, shared wisdom, and meaningful connection.
Meeting monthly on Thursdays at alternating times, each session will focus on real ministry topics like camp preparation, event planning, and supporting young people through life’s challenges. Join this new space to learn, ask questions, and connect—because we are better when we lead together.
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Pastor Bill Dowling died March 31, 2026. A service of thanksgiving for his life will be held Friday, April 17 at 2:00 p.m. at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, with a reception to follow and a livestream available.
Those wishing to send condolences may contact the synod office for details. Please keep Pastor Dowling’s family and all who mourn in your prayers, trusting in the promise of resurrection in Christ.
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