Posts in Grand Canyon Synod
You Are Beloved: Young Adult Leaders Share Global Ministry Stories (May 6)

Young adults are invited to a special Women of the ELCA webinar on Wednesday, May 6 at 4:30 p.m. (AZ/NV time). Hear from three young leaders—Naomi Mbise, Rebeca Amaro Trevino, and Bliss Tungnung—who have launched ministries supporting women and girls around the world through Seed Grants.

Learn how they discerned their call, started their work, and how you can make a difference in the church and world. Register now to join this inspiring conversation.

Read More
Final Call for Nominations for 2026 Synod Assembly Leadership Roles

Nominations are open for leadership roles to be elected at the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, including Synod Secretary, council members, and committee positions. Any member in good standing may nominate themselves or others, with all forms due by May 4, 2026.

This is an invitation to prayerfully discern how God may be calling leaders to serve in the life of the synod. Learn more about open positions and submit nominations today. Learn more and submit a nomination.

Read More
Faithful Stewardship of Space: Introducing the Church Property Resource Hub

The Church Property Resource Hub is a new ELCA initiative offering tools, training, and shared wisdom to help congregations steward buildings and land faithfully. Designed in response to real needs across the church, CPRH equips leaders to reimagine property as a resource for mission. Learn more about CPRH.

Read More
Op-ed: No One Should Have to Fight This Hard for Daily Bread

With SNAP participation in Arizona dropping by nearly half in the past year, Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer calls attention to the real human impact behind the numbers and urges leaders to ensure access to food assistance as budget decisions are made.

Read More
Camp ALOMA Seeks Summer Staff: May 20–July 20 (Housing & Meals Included, Flexible Weeks)

Camp ALOMA in Prescott is hiring Summer 2026 counselors (18+) for May 20–July 20, with flexible scheduling options. Training begins May 20, with camp running seven weeks starting May 31.

Staff receive pay, meals, and lodging while gaining leadership experience, growing in faith, and building lasting relationships. Learn more at campaloma.com or contact Leah, Camp Director, at office@campaloma.com or 928-778-1690.

Read More
Continue the Conversation: Refugee Webinar Part Two with Valentina Restrepo-Montoya

Join Part Two of our refugee webinar on Thursday, April 30 at 10:30 a.m., featuring Valentina Restrepo-Montoya, CEO of Arizona Legal Women and Youth Services. This follow-up session will offer practical insights into immigration and legal challenges impacting refugees and immigrant communities.

Read More
Save the Date: Executive Skills for Church Leaders Returns in 2027

Executive Skills for Church Leaders returns January 4–8, 2027, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree, Arizona. This leadership development experience equips rostered ministers and lay leaders with practical skills for today’s ministry context. Join the interest list now to receive early updates and registration access: bit.ly/ExecSkills27.

Read More
Managing Sensory Overload: Mosaic Provider Shares Advice, What’s Worked for Him

Everyday environments can quickly become overwhelming for people with sensory processing differences. For one Mosaic Home Provider, communication and planning are key to helping the person he supports enjoy church services and community events

The post Managing Sensory Overload: Mosaic Provider Shares Advice, What’s Worked for Him appeared first on Mosaic.

Read More
New Leadership for Fiesta Conference: Thanking Pastor Andrea Cain, Welcoming Pastor Charles Newman

The Grand Canyon Synod gives thanks for Pastor Andrea Cain’s faithful service as Fiesta Conference Dean and welcomes Pastor Charles Newman, who will begin serving in the role on May 1, 2026. Conference Deans play a key role in connecting congregations, supporting leaders, and strengthening collaboration across the synod.

Pastor Newman brings more than 20 years of ministry experience and a deep commitment to the local church. Join us in giving thanks for Pastor Cain’s leadership and welcoming Pastor Newman into this important role.

Read More
Welcome Rev. Cherlyne Beck as Transition Coach in the Grand Canyon Synod

The Grand Canyon Synod welcomes Rev. Cherlyne Beck as a Transition Coach. A former ELCA churchwide staff leader and Director of Candidacy, she brings decades of experience in leadership development, call processes, and congregational ministry.

Now based in Prescott Valley, Rev. Beck will support congregations and leaders in times of transition, continuing the church’s work of discernment and faithful change across the synod.

Read More
Giving Thanks for Pastor Phil Gustafson’s Faithful Leadership as Transition Coach

The Grand Canyon Synod gives thanks for the ministry of Rev. Phil Gustafson as he concludes his role as Transition Coach while continuing interim service in Goodyear through June 30. With decades of experience in congregational leadership, coaching, and transition ministry, Pastor Phil has faithfully guided individuals and congregations through seasons of change.

We celebrate his contributions to the synod and give thanks for his steady leadership, spiritual insight, and commitment to God’s work in times of transition.

Read More
ELCA Action Alert: Protect Employment Authorization for Those Seeking Asylum

LAMA is highlighting an ELCA Action Alert urging action by April 24 against a proposed federal rule that would severely restrict work permits for people seeking asylum. The ELCA is calling on Lutherans to submit a public comment and contact members of Congress in support of protecting asylum seekers’ ability to work and meet their needs safely in our communities. Read the full post for background, theological grounding, and links to take action.

Read More
Sedona Lutherans Raise $111K to Fight Hunger Across Verde Valley

In a recent Verde Independent feature, the Hands Healing Hunger ministry of Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona is recognized for raising $111,000—every dollar supporting 13 food providers across the Verde Valley. Among the gifts, a $10,000 contribution to The Station on 6th helps sustain its Meals on Wheels program, ensuring vulnerable neighbors continue to receive daily meals.

Through auctions, community partnerships, and deep congregational generosity, this ministry embodies our shared calling: God’s work, through our hands, for the sake of our neighbors. Read more in the full news story.

Read More
Last Call to Submit Your Act for the Friday Night Variety Show at the Assembly

The Grand Canyon Synod Assembly will feature a Friday Night Variety Show on June 12, 2026, offering an evening of music, storytelling, humor, and creative performances from across the synod. If you would like to be considered for the Friday Night Variety Show, please submit a brief description of your act using this form by Monday, April 27, 2026.

The planning team is currently inviting 5–7 minute family-friendly acts from individuals, groups, congregations, and families. Interested performers are encouraged to submit a short description of their act using the online form, with selected performers contacted prior to Assembly. If you would like to be considered for the Friday Night Variety Show, please submit a brief description of your act using this form by Monday, April 27, 2026.

Read More
Faith in the Public Square: Events and Trainings from AFN

Arizona Faith Network’s latest newsletter highlights upcoming opportunities for engagement, including Earth Day events, a Doctrine of Discovery teach-in, interfaith dialogue, health and safety trainings, and community care initiatives. The update also includes upcoming media training and openings for the 2026 Heat Relief Program.

Read More
Take Action This Week: LAMA Highlights Advocacy, Events, and Hunger Initiatives

LAMA’s latest update highlights urgent advocacy opportunities, including a public comment period open through April 24 to support work permits for those seeking asylum. The newsletter also features upcoming events like the Earth Day Vigil at the Capitol, advocacy training, hunger network gatherings, and funding opportunities for ministries.

Read the full newsletter for key actions, events, and resources—and find your place in this week’s work for justice.

Read More
Office of the Bishop Updates

Next week, the Office of the Bishop is engaged in worship leadership across Tucson and Phoenix, supporting congregations through preaching, installations, and vitality conversations, while also preparing reports and continuing mission support and leadership development work. At the same time, staff are advancing preparations for Synod Assembly—including communications, storytelling, logistics, and financial oversight—ensuring the synod is ready for the work ahead.

Read More