Embark on a transformative journey with the School for Lay Ministry, starting this October from Luther Seminary’s faith+lead. This unique learning community offers lay leaders a blend of on-demand coursework and live sessions, covering a spectrum of essential topics from sermon crafting to digital age spirituality. Whether you're a new leader or looking to deepen your faith and skills, this program is a gateway to impactful leadership in your faith community.Learn more and register here.
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Elevate your coaching journey with Segment Two Coaching Training, an intensive eight-week program from Luther Seminary’s faith+lead designed to refine coaching expertise and navigate real-world scenarios. Ideal for faith leaders and coaches, this program offers hands-on training, continuous education, and expert guidance to lead profound transformations in ministry and personal growth. Dive deeper into advanced coaching skills, earn ICF-recognized training hours, and make a sustainable impact. Discover more about this opportunity here.
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The Thriving Leadership Formation project invites you to explore a journey of spiritual rejuvenation and contemplative action with the Rural Church Cohort, a haven for church leaders amidst institutional transition and cultural turbulence. This group, meeting every Thursday via Zoom starting October 19, 2023, provides a creative and compassionate space for exploring Christian life and spiritual practices, especially focusing on leaders from rural communities. Discover more about this endeavor of spirituality, care, and friendship, by clicking here.
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Saturday, September 30, 2023, is the National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools. In her video, Bishop Eaton reminds us that this church is committed to understanding our role in the tragic and sinful history of Indian boarding schools so that we can begin to heal together. Visit ELCA.org/IndianBoardingSchools to learn more.
You can participate by wearing an orange shirt and posting a photo of yourself, members of your congregation or community on social media. #ELCA #TruthAndHealing #DayOfRemembrance.
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Experience the vibrancy of faith and community life in Zambia with ELCA Global Missionary Pastor Kristin Engstrom. From notable events like the 2023 ELCZa Church Assembly and Service of Ordination in Zambezi to the joyful moments of the Lusaka District Youth Camp, her September Newsletter is filled with inspiration and divine revelations. Witness how "ti yenda pamozi," or moving together, manifests in this part of the world.
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Explore the essence and joy of autumn stewardship, a tradition rooted in the agrarian cycle of our ancestors, and discover how ELCA’s Congregational Stewardship Support is nurturing this spirit through events, resources, and thoughtful discussions, aiming to cultivate generous congregations and spread kindness and love in the world. Read more in the Where Your Heart is newsletter.
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Join Arizona Faith Network’s upcoming events for profound insights on spirituality, justice, and societal unity. Engage in empowering discussions, experience enriching music and art from various faith traditions, and help in building a compassionate and equitable world. Read more in their weekly newsletter.
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Saint Andrew Lutheran Church in Phoenix, AZ is hiring a Maintenance and Groundskeeping Specialist. This part-time role requires a dedicated individual to perform essential maintenance and groundskeeping tasks to keep the church campus in top condition.
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Embark on a spiritual adventure with the Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center as the Spirited Book Club transitions to the Spirited Examen this fall. Dive deep into reflective practices focusing on strengthening your bonds with God, Creation, and fellow humans. Engage in meaningful online sessions every other Thursday from October 5, 2023. Discover more about this enlightening journey here.
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From September 17 - 20, the LAMA office hosted the State Public Policy Office (SPPO) directors from Ohio, Kansas, Florida, Wisconsin, Washington, California, New Jersey, Minnesota, Washington DC, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and, of course, Arizona, at Spirit in The Desert Retreat Center in Carefree. The faith based offices gathered together to discuss priorities for the upcoming year, fresh advocacy and engagement strategies, attend lectures and discussions led by guest speaker Amanda Tyler, and welcome the 2023-24 Hunger Advocacy Fellows. This year’s theme was on Keeping the Faith in Times of Divisions, with a focus on Christian nationalism. Read more on the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona blog.
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The Gathering Volunteer Corps (GVC) has extended its application deadline to November 1, 2023. GVCs play a crucial role in the Gathering, performing various duties, including ushering and assisting with activities. Applicants should be at least one year past high school and commit to being in New Orleans from July 14 to July 20, 2024. Perks include provided meals and shared lodging accommodations. Don't miss the chance to meet Lutherans from around the world and experience the joy of the ELCA Youth Gathering in the vibrant setting of New Orleans.
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For those in the path of Tropical Storm Ophelia…
For victims of the wedding party fire in northern Iraq…
For Armenian refugees fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh…
For leaders in all levels of government, and especially for their partnership and empathy…
For the victims of the devastating landslide in Guatemala…For scientists and engineers who advance knowledge and learning about God’s creation…
For writers, artists, musicians, and all in creative vocations…
For the community of Lahaina as residents continue to grieve and to assess damage…
For victims of gun violence, especially in Charlotte, NC; Columbia, SC; and Des Moines, IA…
For areas around the world experiencing violence and unrest, including Ukraine, Nagorno-Karabakh, Kosovo, Gaza, and Niger…
Members of the Office of the Bishop travels and preaches, and prepares for upcoming gatherings.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Nanette Christofferson, Love of Christ, Mesa, who celebrates 4 years on October 5.
Rev. Kimberly Sterner, Lord of Life, Sun City West, who celebrates 37 years on October 5.
Support Holden Village with their fourth annual Jubilee Auction, taking place online from October 4th to October 8th, 2023. Holden Village, a remote retreat center in the North Cascade Mountains, relies on donations to support its mission of welcoming all to renew their relationships with God, the earth, and each other. Participate to bid on a range of exciting items and experiences, with proceeds going to daily operations, special projects, and programs at Holden Village. For more information, visit www.holdenvillage.org.
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Explore more convenient and varied ways to contribute to your congregation with Tithe.ly, a preferred vendor of the ELCA known for its online giving platforms. Tithe.ly offers six diverse methods of giving, including text messages, a free church app, and more, all with no monthly fees or upfront costs, just a minimal transaction fee. Discover the ease of giving and special discounted pricing exclusively for ELCA congregations here.
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ELCA's Disabilities Ministry Blog this month illuminates the resilience and imagination encapsulated in Rev. Jessica Harren’s journey as she shares insights on healing and being queer and disabled. The blog also highlights the notable incorporation of American Sign Language services in the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, extending support to those in crisis. A focus on providing more accessible resources is evident with the availability of dyslexia-friendly religious texts, an invaluable aid for those struggling with dyslexia. Read more about these topics and many more inclusive and supportive resources and insights here.
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In the latest Seeds Monthly, delve into insights, remembrances, and learning . From reflecting on the enduring impact of Indian boarding schools to addressing congregational burnout and exploring the facets of civic life and faith, there’s a rich tapestry of resources and events to explore.
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Join us for the Bishop’s Fall Gathering from October 23-25, 2023! While overnight rooms are sold out, commuter spots are still available. Register by October 9, 2023, to delve into enriching discussions, experience uplifting worship sessions, and connect with fellow rostered ministers under the theme “Be Bold In Your Baptism” at the Franciscan Renewal Center, Scottsdale, AZ. Special guests Debie Thomas, Mark Ramsey, and Elizabeth Lynn will grace the event with their insights. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for spiritual growth and fellowship!
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