As summer ministry continues, Grand Canyon Synod staff are focused on congregational support, leadership development, stewardship initiatives, and preparations for a busy fall season. This week’s work includes preaching, planning, financial administration, grant development, and strengthening partnerships that support the synod’s mission across the region.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Joshua Auchenbach, Tanque Verde, Tucson, who celebrates 20 years on July 9.
Rev. Timothy Nybroten, Resurrection, Oro Valley, who celebrates 26 years on July 9.
Rev. Daniel Hodgson, who celebrates 59 years on July 9.
Rev. Jeff Hackler will be installed Sunday, 7/12/2026, during the 9am worship service at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church (918 S Litchfield Rd, Goodyear, AZ. 85338). Rev. Cherlyne Beck, Grand Canyon Synod Transition Coach will preside and install. Pastor Lisa Hackler, Pastor Jeff’s wife, will preach.
All are welcome and will be seated as part of the congregation. No procession or robes required for clergy. Reception immediately following the service, no RSVP required.
The installation service is available at either the church YouTube channel or christgoodyear.org.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Arlyn Norris, who celebrates 51 years on July 6.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Deacon Bernice Johnson, who celebrates 67 years on July 5.
Read MoreAs the nation marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer reflects on this milestone through the lens of faith—holding together gratitude, honesty, hope, and concern while reminding us that, through every season of uncertainty, we remain rooted in God’s enduring story.
Read MoreThis week, Grand Canyon Synod staff remain engaged in leadership development, stewardship planning, camp ministry, and ongoing support for congregations and ministry partners. Bishop Hutterer joins colleagues from across the church at the ELCA Rostered Ministers Gathering, while synod staff continue preparations for future ministry initiatives, events, and financial operations.
Read MoreMount of Olives Lutheran Church invites you to Jazz Vespers on July 12 at 5:30 PM, featuring Beth Lederman and guest musicians. As the congregation continues serving nearly 300 families weekly, this “Music for Food” ministry remains a vital response to rising food insecurity.
Join for worship, music, and fellowship—and be part of sustaining this ongoing ministry of compassion.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Glenn Zorb, who celebrates 47 years on July 1.
Rev. Jan Flaaten, who celebrates 53 years on July 1.
Rev. Robert Hutson Jr., who celebrates 53 years on July 1.
Rev. Robert Rod, who celebrates 53 years on July 1.
Rev. James Dew, who celebrates 36 years on July 1.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Randy Winsand, Lord of Grace, Tucson, who celebrates 13 years on June 30.
Rev. Myron Nysether, who celebrates 52 years on June 30.
Rev. John Williams, who celebrates 53 years on June 30.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Gayle Bintliff, who celebrates 25 years on June 29.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Craig Corbin, Mount Olive, Lake Havasu City, who celebrates 39 years on June 28.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. David Towers, who celebrates 50 years on June 27.
Read MoreWe give thanks for Pastor Nanette Christofferson’s successful surgery and invite the Grand Canyon Synod to continue holding her in prayer as she recovers in the weeks ahead.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. John Geske, Mayo, Scottsdale, who celebrates 38 years on June 26.
Read MoreKing of Glory Preschool in Tempe is hiring an Assistant Teacher for its Pre-K classroom. The preschool is seeking a compassionate individual with experience working with young children who is passionate about helping them learn and grow in a caring Christian environment. Interested applicants can contact preschool@kogaz.org for more information. View PDF job description here.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Scott Hove, Good Samaritan, Las Vegas, Good Sam at The Lakes, Las Vegas, who celebrates 31 years on June 25.
Rev. Dennis Hagstrom, who celebrates 49 years on June 25.
Rev. Stephen J. Nelson, who celebrates 48 years on June 25.
Mount of Olives Lutheran Church invites you to Jazz Vespers on July 12 at 5:30 PM, featuring Beth Lederman and guest musicians. As the congregation continues serving nearly 300 families weekly, this “Music for Food” ministry remains a vital response to rising food insecurity.
Join for worship, music, and fellowship—and be part of sustaining this ongoing ministry of compassion.
Read MoreFocus groups for the ELCA’s Rooted + Rising storytelling initiative begin June 26, and organizers are seeking participants now. The project is especially interested in hearing from people who are not currently connected to a church but are willing to share their experiences of faith, spirituality, belonging, or Christianity. Selected participants will receive a $100 stipend for a two-hour virtual conversation.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod staff continues its ministry across the synod this week, with Bishop Hutterer participating in Diakonia graduation and new bishop formation, while staff members engage in leadership development, congregational visits, stewardship conversations, event planning, and ongoing support for congregations and ministry partners. Two staff members are also on sabbatical as the work of the synod continues through collaboration and shared leadership.
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