In his annual report, Rev. David Pavesic reflects on a year and a half of ministry as Director for Evangelical Mission, highlighting congregational collaboration, vitality efforts, new ministry developments, and opportunities to be “church together” across our large and diverse synod.
Read MorePlanning for the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering is already underway. A recent webinar from Gathering leadership helps congregations discern whether MYLE (Multicultural Youth Leadership Event) or the tAble may be the right fit for young people in their group, offering guidance, context, and practical next steps.
Whether you missed the live webinar or want to revisit the conversation, the recording offers helpful insight for leaders preparing youth for a meaningful and welcoming Gathering experience. Watch the webinar.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, why is Christian community so hard? Jeff Galley & Phil Smith have answers.
Read MoreFor many Direct Support Professionals, the opportunity to touch someone else’s life is what calls them to the job. But many wonder if they can grow professionally while making a meaningful difference. At Mosaic, they can.
Read MorePacific Lutheran Theological Seminary shares their video 2026 Annual Report. Watch here.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Norene Smith, who celebrates 43 years on May 29.
Rev. Leroy Rehrer, who celebrates 49 years on May 29.
Rev. Ronald Glusenkamp, who celebrates 45 years on May 29.
The latest Arizona Faith Network newsletter features security and preparedness training, interfaith dialogue, justice and voting initiatives, creation care opportunities, Sacred Peaks advocacy, heat relief volunteering, and family food assistance resources. Read the full newsletter for events, registration links, and ways to get involved.
Read MoreThe latest LAMA newsletter includes advocacy opportunities, immigration and racial justice events, hunger action alerts, election-year guidance for congregations, heat relief resources, and upcoming grant opportunities. Read the full update to discover practical ways to put faith into action across Arizona.
Read MoreAs Synod Assembly approaches, synod staff are preparing for key meetings, mission plan conversations, congregational partnerships, candidacy and youth ministry work, financial stewardship, and the ongoing communication and administration that support ministry across the Grand Canyon Synod.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Benjamin Bergren, Community, Las Vegas, who celebrates 28 years on May 28.
Read MoreMichelle Reaban shares a treasured Kringla recipe passed down through years of care packages and Christmas baking traditions.
Read MoreVolunteers are needed to help prepare and reset spaces for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly. Opportunities include a Decorating Team on Wednesday, June 10 (11:00 AM–1:00 PM) and a Tear Down Team on Saturday, June 13 (12:00–1:00 PM). To volunteer, contact Kathye Hamm at khamm@gcsynod.org.
Read MoreThe 2026 Synod Assembly Reference and Counsel Committee report is now available for review, including Resolution 26.01 related to a possible year of discernment regarding Reconciling in Christ (RIC). If adopted, the resolution would begin a year of listening and education—not an immediate decision—with congregational autonomy remaining intact. Learn more and participate at gcsynod.org/ric.
Read MoreFrom candidacy and first-call accompaniment to youth leadership, campus ministry, and Synodical Authorized Ministry, Rev. Jacqui Pagel’s annual report highlights a year of equipping leaders and strengthening ministry across the Grand Canyon Synod. Five new pastors were ordained, youth initiatives expanded, and congregations continued to be supported in faithful leadership development.
Read MorePlease note that the Office of the Bishop will be closed Monday, June 15, 2026, following Synod Assembly to allow staff time for rest after the gathering. The office will also be closed Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Read MoreFor the upcoming Assembly week, the Grand Canyon Synod homepage will transform into a comprehensive digital hub. Just visit gcsynod.org and you’re there! This enhanced homepage will feature quick access links and real-time updates to keep you informed throughout the event. Accessible on any device, our goal is to make your Assembly experience as seamless and engaging as possible. Stay connected with us and check back regularly for the latest news!
Read MoreFor our 2026 assembly, we are reposting a great symposium on Parliamentary Procedure and Robert’s Rules of Order by David Swartling. View the PDF handout here, and the presentation is available for viewing here with passcode: TQgC5E!7
Special thanks to our amazing guest, David Swartling, for providing this valuable information.
Read MoreJoin the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly online! Tune in live on June 12, 2026, via the Love of Christ Lutheran Church’s Facebook Page. This livestreaming opportunity ensures all our members, from across Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation, can partake in our assembly’s key moments. Don’t miss out on this chance to stay connected and involved in our community’s important decisions and celebrations. Watch here.
Read MorePacific Lutheran Theological Seminary and California Lutheran University are sponsoring childcare for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, helping make participation more accessible for families across the synod. Their support reflects a shared Lutheran commitment to hospitality, leadership development, and strengthening the church across generations.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Jon Clutz, who celebrates 62 years on May 27.
The Rev. Donald Bebber, St. Raphael, Benson, who celebrates 3 years on May 27.
Rev. George Karres, who celebrates 47 years on May 27.
