The 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly was made possible by hundreds of faithful hands. From volunteers, planners, and worship leaders to host congregation members, exhibitors, technical teams, childcare sponsors, and voting members, we offer deep gratitude to all who helped bring this year’s gathering to life.
Read our full thank-you and celebration of the many people whose hospitality, leadership, generosity, and faithful service helped root this year’s assembly in God’s story.
Read MoreMore than 50 images from the 2026 Synod Assembly theme “Rooted in God’s Story” are now available to explore and download. Inspired by sacred desert landscapes and the story of faith unfolding through time, these visuals are available for congregations and ministries to use in worship, communications, and storytelling.
Read MoreMissed part of the 2026 Synod Assembly—or want to revisit it? Thanks to Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, livestream recordings from Friday and Saturday are available to watch online, including worship, reports, Assembly business, and recognitions.
Read MoreAs part of our 2026 Synod Assembly, we created Rooted at the Table—a community recipe book filled with recipes and stories from across the Grand Canyon Synod. Thank you to everyone who contributed; explore the collection and celebrate the memories, culture, and faith shared around our tables. View all recipes here.
Read MoreMexico 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.
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