All Church Open House: Rehoming Resources from Gloria Christi Federated Church
All Church Open House: Rehoming Resources from Gloria Christi Federated Church

On November 20-22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Gloria Christi Federated Church in Paradise Valley will hold an All Church Open House to rehome its ministry items as it closes its doors. Churches in need of supplies—ranging from office chairs and file cabinets to altar paraments, banners, and even an organ—are invited to attend and collect resources to support their ministry work. Cash donations are welcome, and attendees should bring their own boxes or bags. This event offers a meaningful way to continue Gloria Christi’s legacy throughout our synod.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGloria Christi Federated Church - Paradise Valley, ClassifiedsComment
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
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News, Global Church, SpotlightBrian FlatgardLutheran World FederationComment
“Finding Our Place in Creation”: Climate Study and Action with Lutherans Restoring Creation
“Finding Our Place in Creation”: Climate Study and Action with Lutherans Restoring Creation

Explore Our Kairos Moment, the ELCA’s new climate study guide, in a four-month series led by Lutherans Restoring Creation starting November 19. Dive into themes of stewardship and interdependence while preparing to implement the guide in your congregation. Plus, register for Saturday’s Creation Care training and other upcoming events! Learn more and get involved here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutherans Restoring Creation, Climate ChangeComment
Blessed Tomorrow Grants: Empowering Faith Communities for Creation Care
Blessed Tomorrow Grants: Empowering Faith Communities for Creation Care

Nineteen faith organizations across 13 states received grants through Blessed Tomorrow’s Getting Outside the Walls initiative, funding projects from community gardens to solar energy. Join the celebration on December 12 at 4 PM ET to learn more about these inspiring projects. Interested in leading a local effort? Host the 2025 National Faith + Climate Forum and apply for a grant to support climate action in your community. Let us live out our faith boldly and work toward a thriving, just future. Learn more on the Blessed Tomorrow website.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBlessed Tomorrow, Grants, Climate ChangeComment
Missional Leadership Reimagined: JR Woodward’s Four Spaces of Belonging
Missional Leadership Reimagined: JR Woodward’s Four Spaces of Belonging

Discover a revolutionary approach to church leadership with Dr. JR Woodward in this eye-opening episode of the Pivot Podcast. Author of “The Scandal of Leadership,” Woodward unpacks the crisis of discipleship facing the church today and offers practical solutions for creating a culture of authentic spiritual growth.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Fresh Expressions of Church and the Mixed Ecology
Fresh Expressions of Church and the Mixed Ecology

In this groundbreaking episode of the Pivot podcast, we turn the tables on our regular host, the Rev. Dr. Dwight Zscheile, to explore the revolutionary concept of Fresh Expressions of Church. Dwight, co-author of the forthcoming book “Embracing the Mixed Ecology,” offers an exclusive preview of his research on innovative approaches to ministry in our rapidly changing world.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Faith Lens: The Impact of Loss
Faith Lens: The Impact of Loss

After a fire displaced ministries and residents at Christ Lutheran Church in Baltimore, the congregation is working to restore critical community services, including a shelter for women and children. Drawing from Jesus’ reflections on the Jerusalem Temple’s fall, we reflect on how loss shapes faith and new beginnings. Join us in prayer and support for the resilient community at Christ Lutheran.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For ongoing wars in Gaza, Ukraine, Lebanon, and for an end to the violence…

  • For the nation of Haiti in the midst of rising violence…

  • For the families of those killed in Zhuhai China…

  • For those affected by wildfires on both the east and west coasts of the United States…

  • For Tuskegee University and those affected by the shooting on campus…

  • For vision, integrity, and humility for all elected leaders…

  • For collaboration and dedication to the common good in our national politics…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Ready to Preach Peace? Festival of Homiletics Registration Begins Nov. 15
Ready to Preach Peace? Festival of Homiletics Registration Begins Nov. 15

Registration for the 2025 Festival of Homiletics opens November 15! Join us in Atlanta or online from May 12-15 for a journey of healing and unity through the power of preaching. This year’s theme, Preaching to Heal the Divide, responds to the pressing need for reconciliation in our polarized world. Early bird rates are available until November 30—don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation!

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFestival of HomileticsComment
Serving Democracy: A Lutheran Poll Worker’s Story from the 2024 Election
Serving Democracy: A Lutheran Poll Worker’s Story from the 2024 Election

In the polarized climate of the 2024 Presidential Election, University Lutheran’s Paul Westermann shares his experiences as a poll worker in Maricopa County, where voters and poll workers alike upheld a neutral, civil atmosphere. Amid concerns about ballot security, Paul and his colleagues reassured voters, providing resources and ensuring every voice was heard. His story underscores the Lutheran commitment to serving our neighbors and the importance of civic duty in safeguarding democracy. Read more to learn how Paul’s work exemplifies faith in action at the polls in the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona blog post.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, University Tempe, Fiesta Conference, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), AdvocacyComment
November 2024 Mission Support Memo: Mission Support Connects Digitally Near and Far
November 2024 Mission Support Memo: Mission Support Connects Digitally Near and Far

In our November 2024 Mission Support Memo we share a story about how the Accident-Friendsville Parish, in our West Virginia - Western Maryland Synod, was able to equip their rural congregations with digital technology and stream to reach out to member near and far. Plus consider attending a webinar on November 18th on “Theology and Practicality of Space Usage” (it will also be recorded so feel free to register to get the link).

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardMission Support, ELCA Mission Support Team, StewardshipComment
Support Our Synod’s Trip to Senegal with Pastoral Collars & Stoles
Support Our Synod’s Trip to Senegal with Pastoral Collars & Stoles

Bishop Hutterer and a Grand Canyon Synod delegation are traveling to Senegal to strengthen ties with The Lutheran Church of Senegal. The church’s President, Rev. Latyr Diouf, has requested donations of pastoral collars and stoles in black, violet, or white to support their ministry. Please bring donations to the synod office by November 21, 2024, at 1819 East Morten Avenue, Suite 110, Phoenix, AZ 85020. Please contact the synod office to let us know when you’ll be bringing items. Your support will help equip our global Lutheran community for worship and service.

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Bishop Hutterer, Global Church, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Church of Senegal, SenegalComment
Guiding Congregations Through the Post-Election Season: A Toolkit for Church Leaders
Guiding Congregations Through the Post-Election Season: A Toolkit for Church Leaders

Equip your congregation to navigate the post-election season with Faith+Lead’s free 2024 Election Toolkit. Filled with resources for fostering empathy, addressing complex issues, and promoting Gospel values over partisanship, this toolkit offers practical guidance for preaching, teaching, and living out justice and faith. Access these tools to help diffuse tension and encourage understanding as we walk together through challenging times. Learn more

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Church and Society, Elections and Voting Rights, Luther SeminaryComment
The Grace in Giving a Hand: Reflections from the Altar Steps
The Grace in Giving a Hand: Reflections from the Altar Steps

Assisting congregants up to the communion rail may seem like a small task, but it has brought unexpected blessings and a deeper sense of faith and fellowship. Through these weekly encounters, I’ve come to understand the beauty of shared vulnerability and compassion. Our journey together reveals resilience, humor, and connection that reinforce our faith and bring me closer to my church community. Read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Finding Sacred Moments in the School Pickup Line: A Guide to Daily Prayers
Finding Sacred Moments in the School Pickup Line: A Guide to Daily Prayers

In the quiet moments of waiting—whether in the school pickup line, at a red light, or as coffee brews—we can turn to prayer, finding peace and connection in these small pauses. This November, let’s embrace gratitude and prayer in our daily routines, teaching ourselves and our families to recognize God’s presence throughout our busy days. Explore daily prayer ideas and ways to serve as a family, making room for God even in our most ordinary moments. Read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, News, PrayersBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment