Arizona voters will decide on 13 ballot measures this fall. LAMA’s 2024 Voter Guide helps voters navigate these measures through a faith-based lens focused on Hunger, Water, and Civic Engagement. As people of God, ELCA members are encouraged to participate in direct democracy and vote thoughtfully. Download the guide to make informed decisions on critical issues impacting our state. Read LAMA's blog post introducing the guide here.
Read MoreELCA bishops in Pennsylvania are leading a movement for peace in the face of growing political tension, sparked by a violent incident at a rally. Working with Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa), they issued a joint statement calling for dialogue and dignity. The statement has garnered over 380 signatures from faith leaders and remains open for more to join. Read the original article at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreThe Northeast Valley Consortium wrapped up its 2024 lunch packing series for Arizona Faith Network’s heat respite centers, providing over 2,600 lunches and vital supplies for vulnerable communities in Phoenix. Supported by local churches, grants, and donations, NEVC’s collaborative efforts exemplify the power of working together to save lives in extreme heat.
Read MoreFacing financial challenges in your congregation? Grace Pomroy’s Funding Forward offers practical strategies to align your mission with your finances. Download a free chapter to explore innovative ways to foster sustainable growth and discover inspiring stories of churches overcoming financial obstacles.
Read MoreThe 2024 Africa Lutheran Church Leadership Consultation is taking place in Abuja, Nigeria, from September 18 to 22, under the theme “We, who are many, are one body.” This gathering of 90 African Lutheran leaders aims to strengthen unity within the church while exploring how diversity enhances their collective mission. Leaders from various church sectors are participating in dialogues and reflections to empower their ministries across the African Lutheran communion.
Read MoreWe are excited to announce that Rev. David Pavesic will be joining the Office of the Bishop as our new Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM), beginning his service on November 1, 2024. As DEM, Rev. Pavesic will play a vital role in leading and supporting the mission and outreach efforts across our synod, fostering growth in congregational vitality and nurturing new ministries.
Read MoreLutherans Restoring Creation share their latest Good Green News, noting that over 600 ELCA congregations have shared insights into their creation care efforts. Join them on September 24th for a virtual celebration with One Home One Future and make your voice heard by advocating for the protection of old-growth forests. Discover the full survey results, register for events, and learn more about upcoming opportunities to care for creation.
Read MoreELCA Coaching offers personalized support to church leaders, helping them grow in their roles and strengthen their ministries. Explore how coaching can empower your leadership and ministry by visiting ELCA Coaching’s website, and don't miss their weekly Wednesday noon Zoom events.
Read MoreCoaching provides essential support for rostered leaders in the Grand Canyon Synod, helping them grow as spiritual leaders while managing the emotional and administrative demands of ministry. With trained coaches available through Rev. Phil Gustafson, leaders can strengthen their leadership skills, manage stress, and set goals to foster thriving congregational communities. Contact Pr. Phil, Coordinator of Coaches in the Grand Canyon Synod, at pngustafson01@gmail.com to get matched with your coach.
Read MoreFor peace in our world, especially in Gaza and Israel, Ukraine and Russia, Syria, Sudan, Myanmar, and all areas of conflict…
For Shanghai and all in the path of Typhoon Bebinca…
For those affected by the Houston pipleline explosion…
For the safety of political leaders amidst threats of violence…
For the Haitian community of Springfield, OH; for Wittenberg University and all schools and institutions under threat…
For those affected by flooding in Central Europe and in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States…
The Office of the Bishop staff attends the Synod Council Retreat, and travels for work and vacation.
We also share photos from the Ordination of Daniel Volkmann in Shiner, Texas, on Sep 13, 2024, and the Installation of Rev. Doug Dill at Mountain View Lutheran, on Sep 15, 2024.
Read MoreJoin us on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 5 p.m. PDT/MST (6 p.m. MDT) for a screening of Suppressed and Sabotaged: The Fight to Vote, followed by a panel discussion on combating Christian nationalism and voter suppression. This online event, hosted by the BJC Center for Faith, Justice and Reconciliation, will offer insights and action steps to protect democracy and voter rights. Register today and help spread the word!
Read MoreWe’re in Direct Support Professional Recognition Week. DSPs are the backbone of our workforce, and without them we could not accomplish our mission to love and serve others. The post The Backbone of the Mosaic Workforce appeared first on Mosaic.
Read MoreTanque Verde Lutheran Church celebrates its 50th anniversary this fall with a special worship service on Sunday, September 29 at 10:00 AM, followed by a banquet. Join the TVLC community in reflecting on five decades of ministry and celebrating the continued work of God’s grace. For more information, visit TVLC’s event page.
Read MoreThe latest "Administration Matters" issue from the ELCA covers vital church administration topics including:
Portico will offer value copay and Roth in 20258 ways to get the most from outsourced accounting services
In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month which is celebrated in the United States September 15- October 15, ELCA Racial Justice shares an article which is cross-posted from Living Lutheran. The original post can be found here.
Read MoreThe ELCA Disability Ministries blog post for this month is a sermon preached by Pastor Mack Patrick at the opening worship at the tAble, a pre-event to the 2024 Youth Gathering. Based on Psalm 139, it grounded attendees and staff in their time together, exploring “how we are created to be wHoly”.
Read MoreThis week, our Synod Spotlight highlights California Lutheran University (Cal Lutheran). Cal Lutheran, a Hispanic-Serving Institution since 2016, fosters personal and academic growth for students from around the world, with six schools and colleges dedicated to transformative education.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Judith Rainforth, Christ the Lord, Carefree, who celebrates 21 years on September 21.
Rev. Gary Ulrich, who celebrates 45 years on September 24.
Join the Vital Congregations journey with ELCA and Kindling Faith! This six-month coaching program, starting on September 21, provides congregational teams with the tools to develop strategic plans for thriving ministries. Each monthly session includes practical resources and the support of a trained coach, helping congregations thrive in faith and outreach. Register here or download a flyer here.
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