For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially lifting up Palestine and Israel, Myanmar, Iraq, Haiti, Russia and Ukraine, and South Sudan…

  • For all who recovering, rebuilding, and grieving after severe storms and tornadoes in Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, and Illinois…

  • For those who are starving and injured waiting for aid in Gaza…

  • For our Muslim neighbors as they observe Ramadan…

  • For this Lenten season as we move into Holy Week…

  • For those who have suffered from gun violence especially in Chicago, District of Columbia, Ohio, California, Indiana, Alabama, Tennessee and Florida…

  • For our policy makers as they make important decisions about healthcare, education, safety, and justice…

  • For all those participating in the global Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage….

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ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
The United States, a Chosen Nation?
The United States, a Chosen Nation?

As part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share a PDF of an article by Darrell Jodock, The United States, a Chosen Nation?, from A Chosen Nation?, an issue of Word and World, Luther Seminary’s journal of theology.

There are at least two ways to think about the United States as a “chosen nation”: aspirational and exclusivistic. The danger of the latter, which has gained some currency, is that it assumes that America is (or was) already a divinely chosen nation whose actions are blessed by God, rather than a nation that has decided to hold itself to a higher (yet unrealized) standard. —Darrell Jodock

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardCreating Space for Conversations, Word and World, Luther SeminaryComment
Explore PLTS during Signs Along the Way discernment weekend
Explore PLTS during Signs Along the Way discernment weekend

Have you ever considered seminary? Have you ever felt like God might be calling you into ministry, but you’re not sure how or where to start? Join others in discernment at Signs Along the Way, a visit weekend at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, April 5th-7th, 2024. Learn more and register at plts.edu/signs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, CandidacyComment
A Reflection on the 2024 ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza from Rev. Peter Heide 
A Reflection on the 2024 ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza from Rev. Peter Heide 

Discover the impactful presence of Disability Ministries at the 2024 ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza, highlighted by three insightful workshops, a groundbreaking Thanksgiving for Baptism service utilizing Braille, and enhanced accessibility features. Explore how these firsts in the ELCA community are paving the way for more inclusive worship and participation, marking significant strides towards embracing all members of the church.

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ELCA, News, LettersBrian FlatgardDisability Ministries, ELCA Disability Ministries, Youth and Young Adult, 2024 ELCA Youth GatheringComment
Catch the Early Bird: Register Now for the 2024 Synod Assembly
Catch the Early Bird: Register Now for the 2024 Synod Assembly

Secure your spot at the 2024 Synod Assembly with early bird registration available until April 15, 2024! Don't miss this opportunity for fellowship, worship, and engaging discussions. Visitors and exhibitors are also welcome to join us for this enriching experience. Register now to be part of shaping our community's future together.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment
Week 5: Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar
Week 5: Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar

Week 5 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
Get Ready for New Orleans: Youth Gathering Updates and Key Dates
Get Ready for New Orleans: Youth Gathering Updates and Key Dates

Excitement is building for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans! Remember to update your check-in and checkout dates, reserve your spot for airport shuttle service, and note the venue policies for a seamless experience. Don't miss out on catered meals for your group and invite a friend before registration closes on April 15. Mark your calendar for key dates and get ready for an unforgettable week of faith, worship, and community!

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
Embark on a Reflective Journey This Good Friday at Mountain View Lutheran Church
Embark on a Reflective Journey This Good Friday at Mountain View Lutheran Church

Join Mountain View Lutheran Church this Good Friday for "The Way of the Cross," a meditation and prayer journey through seven stations reflecting on Jesus' path to crucifixion. This event, featuring artworks by Sieger Köder and meditations by Theo Schmidkonz, SJ, offers a deep spiritual reflection on Jesus' suffering and its relevance today. More info in this PDF.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Holy WeekComment
Find Peace Within: A 7-Week Journey to Centering Prayer
Find Peace Within: A 7-Week Journey to Centering Prayer

Join Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center for a transformative 7-week online journey into the practice of Centering Prayer, guided by Sheri Brown. Embrace the power of stillness and union with God through silence and surrender, starting April 1st. Delve into teachings from Father Thomas Keating and discover how less is more when allowing God to work through us. Whether you're an overachiever looking to slow down or someone curious about deepening your spiritual practice, this communal experience offers a path to inner peace and a deeper sense of God’s presence.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Administration Matters: March 2024
Administration Matters: March 2024

Issue 92 of Administration Matters, the bimonthly e-newsletter for ELCA congregational and synodical leaders features: 2024 registration deadline for the 2024 Youth Gathering; Church Mutual Update; How to handle embezzlement; 2023 tax guides are available through Portico and the Tax Filing Information tab on EmployerLink; Writing minutes like a pro; and Tax guide for churches and religious organizations.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdministration MattersComment