God is at work across the Grand Canyon Synod—and we want to help tell that story. From events and service projects to ministry opportunities and milestones, your congregation’s news strengthens our shared life together. Rooted in God’s story and guided by the truth that we are one body with many members (1 Corinthians 12), we invite you to submit your updates at gcsynod.org/share and help us celebrate what God is doing among us.
Read MoreReady for summer? Lutheran congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod are offering Vacation Bible Schools and children’s camps filled with faith, fun, and fellowship. Explore the growing list of programs, and help us share your church’s summer offerings by emailing Deacon Laura Book at lbook@gcsynod.org.
Read MoreGrace Lutheran Church and First United Church of Christ are partnering once again to provide Heat Relief ministry from June 1–August 24, offering cooling space, water, snacks, and hospitality for vulnerable neighbors during the hottest months of the year. Congregations are invited to support the effort through donations of water, snacks, pet food, cooling supplies, and frozen burritos. Read a letter from Pastor David Sivecz here.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, Dr. Kristofer Phan Coffman discusses what the early church can teach us about forming Christian community today.
Read MoreMosaic nurses value the long-term relationships they build with the people they support and find it rewarding. During Nurses Week, three Mosaic nurses share what their workday looks like—flexibility is a must.
Read MoreAs America approaches its 250th anniversary, Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty is inviting people to share stories of faith, community, and civic engagement through its new “Founders Wall” project. Participants can submit written reflections, photos, audio, or short videos describing how they are helping build stronger neighborhoods, congregations, schools, and communities. Share your story here.
The project emphasizes the idea that “every generation is the founding generation” and invites people of faith to reflect on vocation, public witness, and care for neighbor. Read more and learn how to participate through the BJC campaign website.
Read MoreFaith-La Fe Evangelical Lutheran Church in Phoenix will host a rare Vigil of Pentecost worship service on Saturday, May 23 at 10:30 a.m. Featuring scripture, global Pentecost music, candle lighting, and prayerful reflection, the service invites worshipers to prepare for Pentecost in hope and anticipation of the Holy Spirit.
The liturgy will take place at 801 E. Camelback Road in Phoenix and is open to all.
Read MorePastor Tim Wright’s wife, Jan Wright, died May 3, 2026. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at Community of Grace Lutheran Church.
The Grand Canyon Synod invites the community to hold Pastor Tim Wright and his family in prayer during this time. Additional details will be shared as they become available.
Read MoreBishop Deborah K. Hutterer accompanies visits with Iglesia Mexicana Luterana, AMEXTRA, and Young Adults in Global Mission partners while continuing meetings and preparations for the upcoming Synod Assembly.
Synod staff will continue supporting candidacy and faith formation work, preparing Assembly communications and storytelling projects, assisting congregations and ministry partners, managing administrative and financial responsibilities, and coordinating upcoming meetings and events across the Grand Canyon Synod.
Read MoreThe FY2025–2026 Annual Report from Rev. Dan Potaznick, Director of Generosity & Strategic Development, highlights a year of storytelling, stewardship, donor engagement, and mission support across the Grand Canyon Synod. From celebrating seven ordinations and launching the synod’s first-ever Giving Tuesday campaign to granting $363,100 through the Mission & Ministry Fund, the report reflects how shared generosity continues to strengthen ministries across Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and the Navajo Nation.
The report also highlights new storytelling initiatives, congregation visits, leadership coaching, and expanded tools for mission support engagement, all rooted in the synod’s shared calling to communicate Jesus, connect people, and create possibilities.
Read MoreThe FY2027 State of Arizona Nonprofit Security Grant Program is now accepting applications from eligible nonprofits, including faith-based organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their beliefs, mission, or identity. Applications are due Friday, June 12, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Eligible organizations are encouraged to review application materials at azdohs.gov/az-nsgp and attend one of two information webinars on May 7 or May 12.
Read MoreArizona Faith Network’s newest newsletter features interfaith dialogue opportunities, prophetic witness media training, immigration advocacy updates, security webinars, and recruitment for its 2026 Heat Relief Program. Upcoming events include visits to the Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors’ Center, online justice trainings, and creation care gatherings across Arizona.
Read MoreLAMA’s newest newsletter highlights the ELCA’s observance of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Awareness Day, upcoming advocacy and hunger ministry events, Arizona budget updates, voting rights engagement, and new nonprofit security grant information.
Read MoreThe May 8 deadline is here for discounted lodging at Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly in Mesa. Limited rooms remain available at special group rates, and several nearby hotel options are also listed for attendees planning their stay.
Assembly participants are encouraged to book early as availability may become limited closer to the June 11–13 gathering.
Read MoreThis Mother’s Day (beginning May 7, 2026), Lutherans across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to join a cross-border effort delivering yellow flowers to detention centers and migrant shelters as a sign of compassion and solidarity. Participants can donate flowers or serve as Volunteer Site Leaders, helping coordinate local actions that lift up the dignity of those separated from their families.
Organized by partners including International Friendship Park and Border Church, this campaign reflects our Lutheran call to love our neighbor and seek justice. Learn how your congregation can take part in this meaningful witness of hope and shared humanity. View a PDF flyer here.
Read MoreCreating or updating a simple emergency plan is a key step in congregational preparedness. This article outlines three essential elements—evacuation, shelter, and communication—and encourages congregations to develop a clear, usable plan that can guide response in a crisis.
Part of the Grand Canyon Synod’s 2026 security series, this reflection offers practical next steps to help congregations respond calmly and effectively when it matters most.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Mary Louise Frenchman, Native American Urban Ministry, Phoenix, who celebrates 26 years on May 9.
Rev. Timothy Perlick, Mount of Olives, Phoenix, who celebrates 3 years on May 13.
Rev. Christine Stoxen, Holy Trinity, Chandler, who celebrates 26 years on May 14.
Registration is now open for Ministry Partner Tables at the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly. Exhibitor space ($80, includes non-voting visitor access) is available to ELCA-related and approved ministries, with registration due by May 18, 2026. Learn more and register today to share your ministry’s story with voting members and leaders from across our synod.
Read MoreCommunications in the Grand Canyon Synod is about more than sharing information—it’s about telling the story of God’s work among us. In this year’s report, Brian Flatgard reflects on how a steady rhythm of communication builds connection, trust, and clarity across the synod, and how those systems support the church in both everyday ministry and critical moments.
Read MoreELEA invites congregations and synods to share a short, two-minute video introducing its work across the ELCA. The video highlights the Nurturing Faith Study Series—a resource designed for all congregations—and offers a simple way to connect with tools and support for faith formation. Watch and share to learn more.
Read More
