Join Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center this summer for a four-session film series exploring the spiritual significance of America’s national parks. Featuring stunning clips from Ken Burns’s film, each session will delve into our deep connections with the Divine and the Earth. Sessions are held on the 4th Thursday of May, June, July, and August at 4:00 PM AZ (MST). Register now to deepen your spiritual connection with nature.
Read MoreIn her message addressing mental health, Bishop Eaton stresses that “telling someone they aren’t doing enough to be happy creates a stigma that they are not living correctly… it’s important that we, as the body of Christ, provide compassionate support for those in our families and in our communities who are living with mental illness. God loves us all; no matter how we are coping, we are not alone, God is with us.”
Read MoreExplore your spiritual gifts at our online retreat led by Rev. Stewart McDonald. Held on the first three Saturdays in August, this $35 Zoom retreat will help you discern your gifts and understand how to serve God. Register now at the Diakonia website.
Read MoreCalling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported!
Read MoreJoin us at the Synod Assembly on June 13, 2024, to help pack Hygiene Kits for Grace in the City, Phoenix. Participate in our service project by purchasing items from our Amazon Gift List by June 1. Your involvement will directly support those in need and enhance our community outreach efforts.
Read MoreSupport the Grand Canyon Synod Youth Gathering by donating snacks or gift cards to fuel 165 attendees as they join 26,000 peers in worship and learning. Drop off contributions at the Synod office or donate online or via Amazon.
Read MoreSecure your spot for an unforgettable faith-filled adventure at Campformation 2024 in Prescott, AZ. With the registration deadline on May 31, 2024, don’t miss out on this opportunity for spiritual growth and fun in nature. Ideal for 6th to 9th graders, with programs for older GAP campers and counselors too. For more details, view this PDF or visit Lutheran Campformation.
Read MoreTo be a successful ministry leader, it’s essential to have a working knowledge of finances, team management, facilities, planning, board relationships, and systems. FULLER Equip and Fuller Seminary's Church Leadership Institute have partnered with consultant and Executive Pastor Mike Bonem to create the Business of Ministry Certificate—designed to enhance your skills in these areas to help you feel more prepared and confident in your ministry leadership. Learn more and purchase here.
Read MoreJoin ELCA coaching on May 22 for a transformative Zoom session on lament with Rev. Brenda Smith and Deacon Tammy Devine, part of the ELCA Coaching's Courageous Leadership series. Explore personal and corporate lament and learn how to integrate it into your ministry. Discover how faith communities can lead in promoting care and respect amidst societal challenges. Register now to participate in this enriching conversation.
Read MoreWorship Resources for the Commemoration of the Emanuel Nine (June 17) (PDF and Word formats) and Juneteenth (June 19) resources
All Creation Sings resources for Day of Pentecost, Holy Trinity, and summer
Additional product and resource suggestions from the publishing ministry of the ELCA are available on the ELCA Worship blog.
The May, 2024 issue of Seeds Monthly highlights Living Lutheran’s insightful interview with Michael Osterholm, a Lutheran epidemiologist, discussing his public health journey and faith. The Spanish-language study guide for Faith, Sexism, and Justice is now available, offering flexible sessions for discussions on gender justice. Join the Generation Zero-Hunger fundraising challenge at the ELCA Youth Gathering to double your impact in ending hunger. Plan your legacy with the ELCA Foundation to support the church's mission. Mark your calendars for key events and opportunities within the ELCA, including the ecoAmerica survey and the Domestic Hunger Grants deadline.
Read MoreLutheran Summer Music is pleased to announce its 42nd season, featuring over 30 free and open-to-the-public concerts, recitals, and worship services. All events will take place at Valparaiso University from July 1 to July 28. The majority will also be livestreamed, allowing those from around the world to experience LSM’s transformational program.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop travels throughout the synod for preaching and meetings, and picks up the pace before the final sprint to our synod assembly.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Jonathan Heilner, who celebrates 49 years on May 18.
Rev. Greg Hartman, New Spirit, Tucson, who celebrates 5 years on May 18.
Rev. Patricia Reed, who celebrates 23 years on May 19.
Rev. Richard Glover, who celebrates 65 years on May 20.
Rev. Phillip Hausknecht, who celebrates 61 years on May 20.
Rev. Mel Soderberg, who celebrates 57 years on May 21.
Deacon Laura Book, who celebrates 14 years on May 21.
Rev. Daniel Olson, who celebrates 61 years on May 22.
Rev. Carl Zimmermann, who celebrates 47 years on May 22.
Rev. Wallace Klandrud, who celebrates 69 years on May 23.
Ahwatukee Preschool, a mission of Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix, AZ, seeks a Preschool Director. The Preschool Director is responsible for the development, operation, management, legal compliance, promotion, and success of the Ahwatukee Preschool, with the goal of maximizing enrollment while maintaining high educational standards within a loving, Christian environment. You can find a more detailed job description and instructions for applying by visiting: mvlutheran.org/jobs.
Read MoreIn addition to addressing the critical issue of HCR2060, the Arizona Faith Network's latest newsletter features a rich lineup of events and educational opportunities. Upcoming sessions include a webinar on American Christian Nationalism, a Resiliency Career/Job Fair, and a series exploring the impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery. There's also a focus on community support with initiatives like the Heat Relief and Resilience efforts, and the MOMS Tour Baby Shower, designed to support maternal health.
Read MoreIssue 93 of Administration Matters, the bimonthly e-newsletter for ELCA congregational and synodical leaders features:
Billions of federal dollars available for churches and nonprofits to go green.
The warning signs of a mental health issue and ELCA mental health benefits and support programs.
The Grand Canyon Synod has received one resolution {S24.01} for the upcoming 2024 Synod Assembly, confirmed by the Reference and Counsel Committee to align with our constitutional guidelines. Submitted by the Stewardship Team before the April 22 deadline, the resolution will be presented without recommendation, ensuring an open discussion among assembly members. Full details and a description of the submitting team are available on our assembly pages.
Read MoreAll members of the Grand Canyon Synod—and especially assembly voting members—are invited to participate in a Q-&-A Zoom presentation of the 2025-2026 Mission Plan, hosted by Erik Rehms, our Synod Treasurer, and Barbara Carl, our Synod Vice-President. Each session is the same, with two dates to choose from.
Tuesday, May 28 at 5:30pm MST/PDT, 6:30pm MDT. Click here to register.
Saturday, June 1 at 9am MST/PDT, 10am MDT. Click here to register.
