Mexico is one of the Grand Canyon Synod’s global ministry partners, and a growing relationship with the Mexican Lutheran Church is opening new opportunities for shared ministry, learning, and accompaniment. Watch this Synod Assembly video update to hear how a May visit to Mexico City is already shaping future exchanges, friendships, and ministry across borders.
Read MoreIn the ELCA's 2026 Synod Assembly video (with Spanish captions) from Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, he shares three stories from across the ELCA, including a story about a feeding program from South Carolina, a journey to the Holy Land for Bishop Imad Haddad's installation at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, and a pastor's calling by his congregation in Washington State.
Read MoreAs the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly concludes, Bishop Deborah Hutterer reflects on a gathering rooted in worship, discernment, service, and shared ministry. Read her message of gratitude, hope, and invitation as we continue to communicate Jesus, connect people, and create possibilities together.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. James Vadis, who celebrates 58 years on June 16.
Rev. Corrine Chilstrom, who celebrates 41 years on June 16.
Esperanza Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee is seeking a part-time Director of Chancel Choir (Promesa de Esperanza) to lead the congregation’s choir ministry and help enrich worship through music. The position includes choir direction, worship planning, cantatas, and seasonal services, with compensation ranging from $12,000–$18,000 annually.
Applicants should have a heart for worship, experience in choral leadership, and familiarity with Lutheran and liturgical traditions. Learn more and apply through Esperanza Lutheran Church.
Read MoreLutheran Church of the Foothills in Tucson is seeking a Part-Time Music Ministry Leader to support worship, choir leadership, and congregational music ministry. The flexible position is envisioned at approximately 20 hours per week, with compensation around $30,000 annually, and applicants with strengths in organ, piano, or choir direction are encouraged to apply. Applications will be reviewed as received until the position is filled.
Read MoreDesert Cross Lutheran Church in Gilbert is seeking a part-time Worship Leader to help lead Christ-centered Sunday worship and mentor youth and emerging musicians. The role includes vocal and instrumental leadership, volunteer coordination, and helping shape worship rooted in Lutheran tradition at the congregation’s growing Gilbert campus. View job description here.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Timothy Swanson, who celebrates 53 years on June 15.
Rev. Dennis Morreim, who celebrates 57 years on June 15.
The Office of the Bishop will be closed Friday, June 19, for Juneteenth. We give thanks for liberation and recommit to the ongoing work of racial justice and freedom.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Charles Wilfong, who celebrates 62 years on June 14.
Rev. Dana Reardon, Shepherd of the Hills, Flagstaff, who celebrates 28 years on June 14.
Rev. Tom Shelly, who celebrates 45 years on June 14.
Rev. Ronald Tellefson, who celebrates 62 years on June 14.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Harold Aasland, who celebrates 72 years on June 13.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, hosts Dwight Zscheile and Alicia Granholm reflect on a full season of conversations.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Jacqueline Pagel, Office of the Bishop, Phoenix, who celebrates 16 years on June 12.
Rev. Bernard Carl, who celebrates 49 years on June 12.
Rev. Scott Klimke, American, Sun City, who celebrates 22 years on June 12.
New photos and a heartfelt message from Pastor Latyr Diouf of the Lutheran Church in Senegal show the impact of the Grand Canyon Synod’s partnership with Martin Luther School in Fatick. Thanks to synod support for books and school supplies, the school served 144 students this year, with growth expected next year.
The update highlights how our shared ministry continues to make a difference—equipping students for learning while strengthening relationships with Lutheran siblings across the globe.
Read MoreArizona Faith Network’s latest newsletter features Election Protection volunteer opportunities, extreme heat advocacy, interfaith dialogue events, meditation gatherings, and summer service opportunities. Explore the full newsletter for upcoming events, trainings, and practical ways to live out faith in public life.
Read MoreThis week’s LAMA newsletter includes voter registration reminders ahead of Arizona’s July primary, hunger and immigration advocacy opportunities, poll chaplain training, and new ways Lutherans can engage faithful public witness. Read the full newsletter for upcoming events, action alerts, and resources for advocacy across the synod.
Read MorePastor Lester Hoffmann will celebrate 70 years of ordained ministry on Saturday, June 13 at 1 p.m. with a special presentation and worship service, “70 Years of Ministry: Called and Sent!”, at the Vi at Silverstone in North Scottsdale. Following reflections on seven decades of ministry and mission, attendees are invited to a reception with light refreshments.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Carl Jensen, who celebrates 54 years on June 11.
Rev. James Slater, who celebrates 48 years on June 11.
Rev. Karl Guhn, Trinity, Phoenix, who celebrates 44 years on June 11.
Last week’s SYAT Collective gathering with Pastor Kimberly Knowle-Zeller offered practical, hope-filled ideas for supporting young families in faith. From blessings for expectant parents and meal trains to mentor pairings, family service projects, and devotional resources, participants explored how congregations can help faith take root through presence, creativity, and community. Read more and revisit the Zoom recording.
Read MoreIt’s a week of reflection, follow-up, and faithful momentum at the Office of the Bishop as staff attend and then wrap up the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, continue preaching, ministry support, and administrative work, and begin preparing for the months ahead. From donor and ministry follow-up to communications planning, financial reporting, and regional gatherings, the synod staff continues walking alongside congregations and leaders across our territory.
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