Grand Canyon Synod Leaders Join Global Gathering to End Hunger
Grand Canyon Synod Leaders Join Global Gathering to End Hunger

Representatives from the Grand Canyon Synod joined hunger leaders from across the church at the ELCA World Hunger Leadership Gathering in Columbus, OH, September 18–21. The event featured worship, experiential learning, and equipping sessions focused on building partnerships, engaging future generations, and connecting hunger ministry with issues such as climate justice, housing, and equity. Synod participants included Kristine Bartanen, Adrienne Kaye, Rev. Greg Mannel, Melanie Hobden, Solveig Muus, and Vicar Wanda Frenchman. Read the full recap on the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) site.

Read More
Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), Hunger, AdvocacyComment
Register Now: AFN’s 2025 Annual Gathering, “United We Rise”
Register Now: AFN’s 2025 Annual Gathering, “United We Rise”

Arizona Faith Network invites you to the 2025 Annual Gathering, “United We Rise,” on December 2 in Scottsdale, with keynote speaker Gen Kelsang Chenma. The latest AFN newsletter also highlights weekly Monday Meditation, trainings on elder abuse and LDS 101, and calls to action on peace and protecting sacred lands. Read the full AFN newsletter here.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For an end to war and conflict, especially in Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Ukraine

  • For all victims of gun violence, especially in Dallas, TX, and other acts of violence, including Pittsburgh, PA…

  • For all in the path of Typhoon Ragasa…

  • For the work of the United Nations as they meet in assembly…

  • For political transition in Malawi…

  • For those managing brush fires in Hawaii…

  • In gratitude for the diversity of human gifts, experiences, and abilities that all reflect God’s image…

Read More
ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Faith Lens: Living as the Rich Man’s Brothers
Faith Lens: Living as the Rich Man’s Brothers

In Luke 16:19–31, Jesus tells the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, urging his listeners to heed “Moses and the prophets” rather than wait for extraordinary signs. As Lutherans, we trust that salvation comes by grace alone, yet this story challenges us to consider where we act like the rich man, Lazarus, or the brothers—and how repentance calls us back to God’s Word. The parable reminds us that we already have what we need to live faithfully: Scripture, community, and the gift of Christ.

Read More
ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith LensComment
Six Creative Ways to Pray Beyond Words
Six Creative Ways to Pray Beyond Words

Prayer is more than spoken words—it’s relationship with God. In this Café article, Sarah Carson explores varied approaches to prayer, from silent meditation to journaling, from walking in nature to creative expression. Each practice offers new ways to listen, respond, and rest in God’s presence. Prayer is less about performance and more about authenticity. Read more in Café →

Read More
ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardCafé, Women of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
What Does It Mean to Pray Without Ceasing?
What Does It Mean to Pray Without Ceasing?

Prayer doesn’t always require words. In A Prayer without End, Sarah Carson explores how prayer can flow through music, art, daily habits, and even silence. Drawing on Scripture and Lutheran teaching, she reminds us that prayer changes us—helping us see God in all things. Could our actions, creativity, and relationships also be forms of ceaseless prayer? Read more in Café →

Read More
ELCA, PrayersBrian FlatgardCafé, Women of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
More than Politics: Theological Roots of ELCA Social Teaching
More than Politics: Theological Roots of ELCA Social Teaching

The ELCA’s social statements are not political add-ons, but expressions of Lutheran faith lived in the world. Kristin Johnston Largen explores the statement The Church and Criminal Justice: Hearing the Cries, highlighting its call for dignity, equity, and a transformed mindset. As Lutherans, we are invited to move beyond vengeance and violence, embodying God’s mercy in criminal justice and in all relationships. Largen, who is also one of the featured speakers at our 2025 Bishop’s Fall Gathering, brings these insights into conversation with our synod life. Read more in Living Lutheran →

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Social Statements, Social JusticeComment
Wondering with God: What We Don’t Know Still Matters
Wondering with God: What We Don’t Know Still Matters

From the ocean depths to the farthest galaxies, creation invites us to marvel at mysteries we cannot solve. Writer Elise Seyfried reflects on faith, humility, and wonder in an age of scientific discovery. She reminds us that while our striving for knowledge is good, God also calls us to rest in questions that remain unanswered. We are cradled, like children, in the vast love of the Creator who holds both ocean and sky. Read more in Living Lutheran →

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Choosing Mary’s Better Part: Prayer as the Heart of Ministry
Choosing Mary’s Better Part: Prayer as the Heart of Ministry

Pastors are often pulled in many directions, juggling meetings, preaching, teaching, and community care. But what if the most essential task of ministry is prayer itself? Pastor Mindy Roll reflects on the biblical story of Mary and Martha, the neuroscience of prayer, and her own renewal through contemplative practice. She invites congregations to support their leaders in rhythms of prayer—so that ministry flows not from busyness, but from Jesus’ presence. Read more in Living Lutheran →

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Strengthen Your Leadership at Scottsdale’s 2026 Leading Well Gathering
Strengthen Your Leadership at Scottsdale’s 2026 Leading Well Gathering

Renew your leadership and spirit at Leading Well: A Learning Retreat, January 6–9, 2026, at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale. Designed for all who serve in faith-based ministry, this ecumenical event blends sabbath rest, collegial support, and practical learning. Participants will leave refreshed, connected, and equipped with a tailored Leadership Formation Plan. Learn more and register: surfacetosoul.org/2026-lwr

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFranciscan Renewal CenterComment
Accessibility for All: Practical Tools for Congregations
Accessibility for All: Practical Tools for Congregations

ELCA Disability Ministries has released its Fall 2025 updates, including a free Nov. 17 webinar on creating accessible church spaces on a budget. You’ll also find a recap from the Churchwide Assembly, reflections on mental health and disability, new teaching tools, and upcoming awareness events. Learn how your congregation can take faithful, practical steps toward greater inclusion and hospitality. Read the full newsletter here.

Read More
Leader Resources, ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardDisability Ministries, ELCA Disability MinistriesComment
ELCA Calls for Urgent Bipartisan Action to Prevent Shutdown
ELCA Calls for Urgent Bipartisan Action to Prevent Shutdown

The ELCA is urging Congress and the White House to return to bipartisan negotiations immediately as the U.S. faces a potential government shutdown on October 1, 2025. In a statement released Sept. 24, the ELCA stressed that government is a gift from God meant to serve the common good—especially the hungry, sick, and poor—and warned that both a shutdown and rising healthcare costs will harm the most vulnerable first and worst. Read the full statement from the ELCA’s Witness in Society team by clicking here.

Read More
ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Warm Wishes, SHE CARES, and More: How LSSN Serves Southern Nevada
Warm Wishes, SHE CARES, and More: How LSSN Serves Southern Nevada

In August, Lutheran Social Services of Nevada distributed a record 199,654 pounds of food to 1,875 households, yet demand continues to exceed supply. With fall approaching, LSSN is preparing for the Warm Wishes Project (Oct. 22) and expanding the SHE CARES initiative to serve both women and men with dignity. We also celebrate the faithful service of our truck driver, Enier, whose daily work ensures our community is cared for. Learn how you can support this vital ministry.

Read More
Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLutheran Social Services of Nevada, Colorado River ConferenceComment
Songs of Restoration: Watoto Choir at Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria
Songs of Restoration: Watoto Choir at Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria

Join Peace Lutheran Church in Peoria on Saturday, Nov. 15, at 5:30 p.m. for a powerful evening with the Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda. Their new production, Better Days—There is Hope, features vibrant music, dance, and testimonies of God’s love. Come be inspired by their message of hope and restoration.

Read More
Global Church, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPeace Peoria, Fiesta ConferenceComment
Remembering the Children: Sept. 30 National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools
Remembering the Children: Sept. 30 National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools

Sept. 30 marks the National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools, honoring the children impacted by these institutions and acknowledging the church’s role in their harm. Congregations are encouraged to participate by offering prayer, wearing orange, and engaging in ELCA resources. Join us Sunday, Sept. 28 or nearby, as we remember, repent, and commit to healing. Resources and suggested liturgy available at elca.org/IndianBoardingSchools.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardAmerican Indian and Alaska Native, ELCA Indigenous Ministries and Tribal RelationsComment