Grand Canyon Synod

News

February Mission Support Memo: The World Goes On

February Mission Support Memo: The World Goes On

Our February 2026 Mission Support memo persuades us to realize how closing a congregation can develop a new ministry, just as Memorial Lutheran let go to become Riverside Commons in Nashville, TN. Explore how Riverside Commons will be a “neighborhood space for the sake of the world,” aiming to serve as a spiritual, artistic and social hub for East Nashville. Also learn how to join an important ELCA Town Hall: "Introducing The Church Property Resource Hub" with three days and times in March. Remember here is a pdf version of the memo too!

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Mission Support, ELCA Mission Support Team, StewardshipComment

The Timbre of Black Joy: A Sacred Breath That Heals and Sustains

The Timbre of Black Joy: A Sacred Breath That Heals and Sustains

As we observe Black History Month, we invite you to read “The Timbre of Black Joy” by the Rev. Ralen M. Robinson, pastor of Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kan. In this powerful Voices of Faith reflection, Robinson names Black joy as sacred, transformative, and healing—“a balm of Gilead” that refuses to let pain have the final word.

In a world marked by struggle and injustice, Black joy is not denial but defiance—an embodied, communal witness to hope, resilience, and God’s sustaining love. We encourage you to read and reflect on this timely essay and consider how joy strengthens, protects, and renews our shared life in Christ.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Living Lutheran, 2026 Black History Month, Racial JusticeComment

Three Organists Return to Faith Lutheran in Phoenix for Historic Organ Benefit on March 7

Three Organists Return to Faith Lutheran in Phoenix for Historic Organ Benefit on March 7

Faith Lutheran Church in Phoenix will host a Three Organists Benefit Concert on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. featuring former organists Gary Rutherford, Jim Sage, and Craig Westendorf. Admission is free, with donations supporting the restoration of Faith’s historic pipe organ. The afternoon includes solos, duets, trios, guest musicians, and a reception. Learn more at faithalive.com/programs/music-ministry.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Faith Phoenix, Capital ConferenceComment

Tuesdays at 9 AM PT | 10 AM AZ: Join Lectio Divina with Thriving Leadership Formation

Tuesdays at 9 AM PT | 10 AM AZ: Join Lectio Divina with Thriving Leadership Formation

Thriving Leadership Formation (ELCA Region 2) invites synod leaders to join a weekly online Lectio Divina practice every Tuesday from 9–10 am Pacific / 10–11 am Arizona MST. Participants reflect on the upcoming Sunday lectionary text in a simple, spacious community setting. Registration is required to receive the Zoom link.

This hour can nurture your personal faith and support sermon preparation. Come as you are and join as your schedule allows.

Leader Resources, Region 2Brian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Thriving Leadership Formation ProgramComment

Preventing Doxxing and Digital Threats: A Practical Workshop for Faith Leaders

Preventing Doxxing and Digital Threats: A Practical Workshop for Faith Leaders

The Safe Communities Coalition will host a Zoom workshop on March 2 at 12:00 p.m. (Arizona) featuring Praveen Sinha of Equality Labs. This interactive training will equip clergy and congregational leaders with practical tools to prevent doxxing, strengthen online security, and respond to digital threats during a time of heightened polarization. Registration is required—sign up now to receive the Zoom link.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Security, Arizona Faith NetworkComment

Ordination celebrations

Ordination celebrations

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. Christopher Heller, Esperanza, Phoenix, who celebrates 16 years on February 28.
Rev. Jeremy Nausin, Holy Spirit, Las Vegas, who celebrates 11 years on March 1.
Rev. Elaine Watskey, who celebrates 23 years on March 1.
Rev. Timothy Wright, who celebrates 42 years on March 4.
Rev. Jonathan Linman, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 37 years on March 4.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardFebruary 25, 2026Ordination AnniversariesComment

Bishop Hutterer Invites You to the 2026 Lenten Challenge

Bishop Hutterer Invites You to the 2026 Lenten Challenge

Bishop Deborah Hutterer invites you to join the 2026 ELCA Region 2 Lenten Challenge, beginning February 22. Rooted in Matthew 25:37–40, this six-week journey focuses on spiritual practices that strengthen our learning, care, and advocacy on behalf of neighbors who are hungry, thirsty, strangers, sick, imprisoned, or in need of clothing. Each week centers on one portion of the Gospel text and calls us to reflect on how serving others is serving Christ.

Watch Bishop Hutterer’s invitation video and consider registering today. Let’s make this year’s Lenten Challenge the most impactful yet as we grow together as a church for the sake of the world.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 20262026 Lenten Challenge, 2026 Lent and Easter, Bishop Hutterer LettersComment

LWF Calls Lutherans to Stand Against Indifference This Lent

LWF Calls Lutherans to Stand Against Indifference This Lent

On Ash Wednesday, LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt issued a powerful Lenten letter urging Lutheran churches worldwide not to remain indifferent when human dignity is ignored or ranked by status, ethnicity, or gender. Grounded in Scripture and Luther’s teaching on the Eighth Commandment, she calls the church to bear gentle yet firm witness to the God-given dignity of every person and to preach the liberating gospel in opposition to fear-based and prosperity-driven theologies.

Burghardt invites churches to use Lent as a season of prayer, discernment, and courageous action—supporting justice, truth, and global cooperation while embodying Christ’s love across dividing lines. Read her full Lenten message as PDF here and read more about the letter on the LWF site.

Global Church, LettersBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 20262026 Lent and Easter, Lutheran World FederationComment

Federal Court Blocks ICE Raids at Houses of Worship, Affirming Religious Freedom

Federal Court Blocks ICE Raids at Houses of Worship, Affirming Religious Freedom

A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking ICE from conducting enforcement actions at or around houses of worship for five ELCA synods and their ecumenical partners. Region 2 synods — Sierra Pacific and Southwest California — were among the plaintiffs. The ruling restores long-standing protections for sensitive locations and affirms religious freedom under the Constitution. Read more about this significant step forward for sacred spaces and immigrant communities.

ELCA, Region 2Brian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Immigration and Refugees, Church and SocietyComment

ELCA Voices Profound Concern Over EPA Repeal of Climate “Endangerment Finding”

ELCA Voices Profound Concern Over EPA Repeal of Climate “Endangerment Finding”

On February 12, 2026, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it would rescind the 2009 “Endangerment Finding,” the legal foundation for regulating greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. The ELCA, which previously testified in support of upholding the finding, has expressed profound concern and disappointment, calling this a “Kairos moment” for urgent climate action grounded in faith and science.

In its official statement, the ELCA affirms that caring for creation is a sacred responsibility and urges the EPA to restore protections that safeguard public health and future generations. Read the full ELCA statement and learn more about the church’s advocacy response here.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Church and Society, Climate Change, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know

Annual Congregation Report Due March 1: What Every ELCA Community Needs to Know

The Annual Congregation Report is due March 1 for all ELCA congregations, new starts, and synod-authorized worshiping communities. This report provides essential data about people, finances, and resources and ensures your congregation is included in synod and churchwide planning and reporting.

Congregations should submit the report online at elca.org/congregationreport using the ID and password mailed in mid-January. Instructions, Form A, and support resources are available at elca.org/reportinstructions. If you are not receiving ELCA emails, be sure to update your contact information to stay informed.

ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Comment

Rooted in God’s Story: Mission Support Intent Forms Due March 1, 2026

Rooted in God’s Story: Mission Support Intent Forms Due March 1, 2026

Mission Support Statements of Intent for 2026–2027 are due March 1, 2026. Congregations are asked to submit their completed form to office@gcsynod.org to support faithful planning and shared ministry across the Grand Canyon Synod, the wider ELCA, and the world.

Rooted in the 2026 synod theme, Rooted in God’s Story, Mission Support is a theological practice grounded in abundance, partnership, and hope. Resources—including the Mission Support Letter, fillable form, and Bishop Hutterer’s Thank You Video—are available now.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Mission Support, StewardshipComment

Enter Lent in Stillness: A Silent Prayer Retreat at All Saints in Phoenix, Feb. 28

Enter Lent in Stillness: A Silent Prayer Retreat at All Saints in Phoenix, Feb. 28

All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix invites you to begin Lent with a half-day Silent Prayer Retreat on Saturday, February 28, from 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Rooted in monastic tradition, the retreat includes silent and communal prayer, worship, a shared meal, and service projects.

Space is limited. Contact the church office at 602-866-9191 or email Pastor Daniel Volkmann at dvolkmann@allsaintsphoenix.org to register or learn more.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026All Saints Phoenix, Capital ConferenceComment

You Are Precious in God’s Sight: A Hymn Sing of Hope and Joy at Desert Cross in Gilbert

You Are Precious in God’s Sight: A Hymn Sing of Hope and Joy at Desert Cross in Gilbert

Desert Cross Lutheran Church invites the community to “You Are Precious in His Sight,” a free hymn sing on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from 4:00–5:15 p.m. in Gilbert. Featuring choirs from both Desert Cross locations, instrumental music, congregational singing, and a short drama about hymn writer Fanny Crosby, the event offers an afternoon of hope and joy rooted in faith.

A free taco dinner will follow in the fellowship hall. All are welcome—invite a friend and come sing.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Desert Cross Tempe, Fiesta ConferenceComment

Wartburg College’s Castle Singers & Kammerstreicher to Perform at Lord of Life on March 5

Wartburg College’s Castle Singers & Kammerstreicher to Perform at Lord of Life on March 5

The Wartburg College Castle Singers and Kammerstreicher will perform at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 7 PM. Featuring a 28-voice choir and a 16-member chamber string ensemble, the concert highlights Wartburg’s renowned Lutheran musical tradition. Tickets are $20 and available through the church office or at the door.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 23, 2026Lord of Life Sun City West, Cactus ConferenceComment

Now Hiring: Collaborative Musician at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Tucson

Now Hiring: Collaborative Musician at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Tucson

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church (ELCA), 1200 N. Campbell Ave., Tucson, is seeking a part-time Collaborative Musician (keyboardist) to help lead joyful, meaningful worship. Responsibilities include Sunday worship leadership, choir accompaniment, and collaboration on liturgy. Applications are due March 31, with a flexible start date (no later than June 1). Learn more at lutherantucson.org or apply at Oslc@lutherantucson.org.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Help Wanted, Our Saviour's Tucson, Kino ConferenceComment

Mosaic: Why the Re-Introduction of the Recognizing the Role of a DSP Act Matters

Mosaic: Why the Re-Introduction of the Recognizing the Role of a DSP Act Matters

For too long, Direct Support Professionals have shared a Standard Occupational Classification with roles that have some of the same responsibilities, but are different. With the re-introduction of the “Recognizing the Role of a Direct Support Professional Act,” there’s an opportunity to change that.

The post Why the Re-Introduction of the Recognizing the Role of a DSP Act Matters appeared first on Mosaic.

Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Mosaic, Disability MinistriesComment

Springing Forward: Faith-Fueled Climate Leadership with Blessed Tomorrow

Springing Forward: Faith-Fueled Climate Leadership with Blessed Tomorrow

Blessed Tomorrow’s March 2026 newsletter highlights major climate leadership opportunities for congregations, including hosting the National Faith + Climate Forum on April 25 (with up to $500 support), a new Faith + Climate Film Series launching in April, Earth Day leadership resources, and national recognition for Lutherans Restoring Creation.

From local hosting to film discussions and interfaith partnerships, the newsletter offers practical, faith-rooted tools for congregations ready to lead boldly in climate action. Read the full newsletter for registration links and resources.

Brian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Climate Change, Blessed TomorrowComment

Taking Flight with DISC: A Leadership Masterclass for ELCA Leaders

Taking Flight with DISC: A Leadership Masterclass for ELCA Leaders

ELCA Coaching is offering Taking Flight with DISC, a four-hour online leadership training designed to strengthen self-awareness, social awareness, and style flexibility. Led by Nathan Swenson-Reinhold, MCC, this practical masterclass equips church leaders to communicate effectively, navigate change, and lead teams with greater insight. Cost is $350 (includes DISC assessment and materials). Space is limited; email guide@summitcbc.com to register.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Coaching, ELCA CoachingComment

A Fast Way to Show Up in Public Life: ELCA Sign-On Letters (Updated)

A Fast Way to Show Up in Public Life: ELCA Sign-On Letters (Updated)

The ELCA’s Witness in Society team has shared an updated overview (Feb. 18, 2026) of sign-on letters—a timely advocacy tool that functions like a petition to members of Congress or other decision makers, often tied to an immediate issue or impending vote. These letters help educate leaders, name shared faith-rooted values, and urge specific action—often alongside ecumenical and interfaith partners.

The update also explains how the ELCA decides to sign on: careful analysis rooted in ELCA social teaching and policy priorities, attention to accuracy and tone (avoiding hyper-partisan language), and discernment about impact. The post includes a running list of recent ELCA-supported sign-on letters (last updated Feb. 12, 2026) with links to read each statement in full. Read more on the ELCA Advocacy blog.

ELCABrian FlatgardFebruary 20, 2026Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment