Embarking on a Journey of Generosity: ELCA's Fall Cohorts

In collaboration with the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, the ELCA invites congregations to a transformative six-week webinar, “Cultivating Generous Congregations”, starting October 10, 2023. Reimagine stewardship and delve deep into generosity, participating in engaging cohort sessions and meaningful discussions, all aimed at fostering generosity in our faith communities.

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Navigating Congregational Futures: Introducing New Discernment Guidelines

Navigating the future of congregations amidst uncertainties is a substantial task. The Grand Canyon Synod presents “Guidelines For Congregations Discerning Their Future”, a resource blending spiritual support with practical advice for congregations facing crucial decisions about their futures. Discover more about sustaining missions and seeding future ministries at Guidelines For Congregations Discerning Their Future.

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Introducing the Part-Time Ministry Guidelines: A Comprehensive Resource

The Grand Canyon Synod has released new Part-Time Ministry Guidelines to facilitate conversations and agreements between congregations and those seeking part-time ministry roles. These guidelines will assist in setting clear ministry priorities and defining mutual responsibilities. Discover more about this innovative resource at Part-Time Ministry Guidelines.

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Resurrection Lutheran in Oro Valley seeks Operation Manager

Are you experienced in business or project management and looking to serve in a faith-based community? Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley is hiring an Operations Administrator to ensure the smooth running of their administrative functions, oversee property and human resource matters, and work closely with our leadership for the implementation of our long-term goals. Visit orovalley.org to apply and read more in this job description.

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Lutheran World Federation newsletter: 9/22/2023
Global Hunger & Poverty: Rethinking Solutions in Modern Day

The latest blog post from ELCA Hunger reveals alarming trends in global hunger and poverty, with hunger persisting “far above pre-pandemic levels” and 735 million people affected in 2022. It uncovers how issues like urbanization, rising costs, and war significantly impact food security and access.

The post also sheds light on U.S. poverty, emphasizing higher prevalence in rural areas and showcasing the relation between policy choices and poverty levels. Explore the intricate dynamics of hunger, the possibilities of mitigating poverty, and the evolving landscapes of global deprivation in the full post.

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Navigating the Paths of Reconciliation: ELCA’s Informative Sessions on Indian Boarding Schools

Explore the profound history and ongoing implications of U.S. Indian Boarding Schools with ELCA’s Truth and Healing Movement. Attend two crucial online classes: “Introduction to the Truth and Healing Movement” (9/26/2023) and “Indian 101” (9/28/2023); wear or purchase an orange shirt for the 9/30/2023 National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools, and watch a conversation between Vance Blackfox and survivor George McCauley to understand the lived experiences of boarding school survivors, as well as this conversation with descendants of Indian Boarding School survivors. Join us in paving the way for understanding, reconciliation, and collective healing.

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Introducing the Grand Canyon Synod’s “Creating Space for Conversations” resource page

Explore the Grand Canyon Synod's latest initiative, 'Creating Space for Conversations', a dedicated resource hub for fostering understanding and unity in trying times. We’ll be adding to this page in the coming months.

Whether you are seeking guidance on how to approach sensitive topics, or looking for ways to connect with others across divides, we hope this page can help. Have an idea for this page? Let us know!

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Healing Through Conversation: A Journey of Civil Dialogue in Phoenix

Explore the story of Grace Lutheran Church in downtown Phoenix, where the practice of civil dialogue opened doors for deep listening, empathy, and healing. Engaging in intentional conversations about provocative subjects such as race, private prisons, and police relationships, participants found a space to share their experiences and emotions.

Pastor Sarah Stadler writes how these dialogues became a transformative force, revealing how open and respectful conversation can create understanding and even exhaust the hurt. Learn how civil dialogue may be a step towards solving the problems of hearts waiting to be seen and heard.

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Not Lost, Just Exploring: Embracing New Communities and Missions

Join Rev. Mike Girlinghouse as he shares his exploration journey in Flagstaff and at the Northern Arizona University campus in this blog post. Emphasizing the power of 'exploring' over 'being lost', he recalls how Paul embraced new communities in the Bible. Drawing inspiration, he encourages communities to view their surroundings with fresh eyes. Dive into his experiences and don’t miss the insightful resource by Pastor Liz Bell on building a community-centered church.

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From Boomers to Gen Z: Worship Differences Explored with Faith Roberts

Discover the evolving dynamics of worship across generations with Faith Roberts in "From Wedding Rings to Nose Rings." Delve into worship styles, the Covid effect, and more in this enlightening session sponsored by the Lutheran Faith Community Nurse Association. Register here for the event scheduled on October 10, 2023.

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