Fresh Reads for Faith Formation: New Books for Spring 2025
Fresh Reads for Faith Formation: New Books for Spring 2025

From picture books that walk children through Holy Week to sharp theological insights on race, care, and church life, these seven new titles offer something for every ministry context. Featuring ELCA voices like Bishop Brenda Bos, Pastor Angela Denker, and Pastor Yolanda Denson-Byers, this spring’s must-reads can deepen discipleship, enrich congregational conversations, and offer rest to the weary.

Explore all the recommended titles and how they might shape your ministry—click here for the full article in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Lent, Living LutheranComment
I’m a Lutheran: Hannah Limbong
I’m a Lutheran: Hannah Limbong

Hannah Limbong, a public health major and lifelong Lutheran, shares how her faith journey—from youth leadership in the ELCA to climate advocacy and nonprofit mentorship—shapes every aspect of her life. A member of Christ Lutheran in Jeffersontown, KY, Hannah lives out her call through music, policymaking, and care for creation.

Read how this emerging leader combines service, justice, and joy in her walk with Christ—click here for the full article in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Faith Lens: Joy Amidst the Sorrow
Faith Lens: Joy Amidst the Sorrow

As Lent nears its end, this season reminds us that even in long, sorrowful journeys—whether personal or global—there is space for joy. Just as a woman anointed Jesus in love on his road to the cross, we too are invited to celebrate sacred moments, even in hardship. This reflection calls us to live intentionally, walk with those who suffer, and embrace joy as resistance and renewal during life’s most difficult seasons.

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Worship Resources, ELCA, ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young Adult, 2025 LentComment
Send a Young Leader to Synod Assembly for Free with Code YOUTH2025
Send a Young Leader to Synod Assembly for Free with Code YOUTH2025

Thanks to the Bishop’s Leadership Fund, congregations can now register one youth or young adult voting member for free for the 2025 Synod Assembly, June 12–13 in Las Vegas. Just use the code YOUTH2025 at checkout to waive the fee for one confirmed youth (up to age 17) or young adult (age 18–30). One free registration per congregation. Let’s raise up the next generation of leaders in our synod!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, 2025 Synod AssemblyComment
Skip the Strip—Experience a Soul-Stirring Concert at Community Lutheran
Skip the Strip—Experience a Soul-Stirring Concert at Community Lutheran

Why battle the noise and crowds of the Vegas Strip when you can experience a professionally produced, high-energy concert right at Synod Assembly? On Thursday, June 12 at 7 PM, our host congregation, Community Lutheran in Las Vegas, is delivering a stunning musical performance that promises to inspire and uplift. Make plans now to stay on-site—this is one show you don’t want to miss!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Synod Assembly, Community Las Vegas, Colorado River Conference Comment
Half a Century of Ministry: Mountain View Lutheran’s 50th Anniversary Festivities
Half a Century of Ministry: Mountain View Lutheran’s 50th Anniversary Festivities

Mountain View Lutheran Church is celebrating 50 years of ministry with a special anniversary weekend on April 5-6! Join the Anniversary Dinner and Worship Service on Saturday (tickets available through this weekend), followed by a special 9:00 AM worship service on Sunday, presided over by Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer. After worship, enjoy Sunday Funday with bounce houses, food trucks, games, and more! Visit www.mvlutheran.org/mvlc50th for full details.

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Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMountain View Phoenix, Fiesta ConferenceComment
Lenten Practices for a Hurting Planet
Lenten Practices for a Hurting Planet

Lent isn’t just about giving up sweets — it’s a season of reflection, service, and drawing closer to God through meaningful action. This year, consider expanding your Lenten practice to include caring for creation. From reducing waste and plastic use to joining Earth Day clean-up events and advocating for environmental policies, your faithful service can help renew not only your spirit, but also the world around you. Let these final weeks of Lent reflect Christ’s love for all creation. Click here to read the full article from Blessed Tomorrow.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBlessed Tomorrow, Climate Change, 2025 LentComment
Why Medicaid Matters: A Q&A with Mosaic’s Cheryl Wicks
Why Medicaid Matters: A Q&A with Mosaic’s Cheryl Wicks

Medicaid is the lifeline for thousands supported by Mosaic, a Lutheran-affiliated organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In this inaugural Q&A of their “Medicaid Matters” series, Vice President Cheryl Wicks outlines why advocacy is urgent, what’s at stake, and how you can take action—starting with sharing your story and contacting legislators.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Disability Ministries, MosaicComment
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
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News, Global Church, SpotlightBrian FlatgardLutheran World FederationComment
Help Us Show What Church Looks Like—Artwork Needed from Children & Youth
Help Us Show What Church Looks Like—Artwork Needed from Children & Youth

Children and youth across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to submit original artwork for the 2025 Synod Assembly! This year’s theme is “Build Up the Body” (Ephesians 4:12–13), and selected artwork will be displayed at the Assembly, featured online, and printed as postcards. All submissions are due by Friday, May 9, 2025, and every participant will be entered into a drawing for art supplies. Visit gcsynod.org/2025/assembly/art to learn more and upload artwork.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Synod AssemblyComment
Showcase Your Ministry at the 2025 Synod Assembly—Register by May 19
Showcase Your Ministry at the 2025 Synod Assembly—Register by May 19

The 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly invites ELCA-affiliated ministries, task forces, and partners to reserve a Ministry Partner Table by Monday, May 19. Hosted at Community Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, these interactive displays offer a meaningful way to share your mission with assembly participants. Learn more and register today at gcsynod.org/assembly.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Synod AssemblyComment
Leading with Purpose: Women of the ELCA’s 2025 Leadership Gathering
Leading with Purpose: Women of the ELCA’s 2025 Leadership Gathering

Join Women of the ELCA for the 2025 Leadership Event on Saturday, April 5, from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm MST/PDT(12:00–4:00 pm MDT), held on Zoom. Centered on the theme “Yes! What’s Next?” this virtual gathering invites servant leaders to reflect on calling and mission with dynamic speakers, small group discussion, and a digital toolbox. Registration is open—come be inspired, challenged, and renewed.

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Grand Canyon Synod, ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
From Enemies to Peacemakers: Film Screening Explores Radical Reconciliation
From Enemies to Peacemakers: Film Screening Explores Radical Reconciliation

Join Casa Peace Ministry Friday, April 4 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale for a screening of Disturbing the Peace, a powerful documentary about Israelis and Palestinians who chose nonviolence and reconciliation. The evening includes pizza, prayer, film, and conversation. Space is limited—register by April 2 at 7:00 pm.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Israel and Palestine, Franciscan Renewal CenterComment
¡Bienvenidos! Regresa la Traducción al Español con Nuevo Equipo en la Asamblea
¡Bienvenidos! Regresa la Traducción al Español con Nuevo Equipo en la Asamblea

El Sínodo del Gran Cañón está invirtiendo en accesibilidad con un nuevo sistema de traducción al español que debutará en la Asamblea del Sínodo 2025. Anabel Estrada será la traductora, utilizando equipos actualizados para garantizar una participación más clara e inclusiva para los asistentes hispanohablantes.

The Grand Canyon Synod is investing in accessibility with a new Spanish translation system debuting at the 2025 Synod Assembly. Anabel Estrada will serve as translator, using updated equipment to ensure clearer, more inclusive participation for Spanish-speaking attendees.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Synod Assembly, EspañolComment