Justice as Lived Reality: Advocating for Women and Girls Worldwide
Justice as Lived Reality: Advocating for Women and Girls Worldwide

At the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70), ELCA advocacy leaders joined global partners to advance justice for women and girls. Through panels, worship, and conversation, participants reflected on how faith communities can help build systems rooted in dignity, equity, and care.

This reflection reminds us that justice is not only policy—it is lived reality. As Lutherans called into public witness, we are invited to participate in this ongoing work locally and globally. Read more about this experience and how it connects to our shared calling.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
New for 2026: ELCA World Hunger Resources for Your Ministry
New for 2026: ELCA World Hunger Resources for Your Ministry

ELCA World Hunger has released a wide range of 2026 resources to support congregations, synods, and ministry leaders—from feeding ministry guides and backpack programs to bilingual VBS curriculum and interactive youth experiences. These tools are designed to help communities better understand and address hunger at its roots.

Whether you’re planning for synod assembly, expanding an existing ministry, or engaging new leaders, these materials offer practical, faith-grounded support for the work of justice. Explore the full list of resources and learn how to access and share them.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World HungerComment
A Place Where We Are Missed: Disability Ministries at the Extravaganza
A Place Where We Are Missed: Disability Ministries at the Extravaganza

At the recent Youth Ministry Extravaganza, ELCA Disability Ministries leaders gathered with ministry partners from across the church to share stories, challenges, and hope. Through conversations, workshops, and resource-sharing, a central question emerged: how do we move from simple inclusion to true belonging in our congregations?

Grounded in our call to care for one another as the body of Christ, this reflection invites us to consider how accessibility, community, and relationships shape faithful ministry for all. Read more about these insights and practical resources for your congregation.

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ELCABrian FlatgardDisability Ministries, ELCA Disability MinistriesComment
You Don’t Have to Lead Alone: Join “Wayfinding in the Commons” This April 1
You Don’t Have to Lead Alone: Join “Wayfinding in the Commons” This April 1

ELCA Coaching invites you to Wayfinding in the Commons, a monthly online gathering beginning April 1 (first Wednesdays around noon). In just 45 minutes, participants experience community grounding, leadership insight, small group conversation, and one actionable step—designed to move from isolation toward clarity and shared purpose. More information and details here.

Open to anyone seeking connection, direction, or encouragement in ministry or life, this gathering reflects a simple truth: hope grows in community, and no one journeys alone.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment
"Belonging: Five Keys to Unlocking Your Potential as a Disciple" with Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis
"Belonging: Five Keys to Unlocking Your Potential as a Disciple" with Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis

Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis will lead Belonging: Five Keys to Unlocking Your Potential as a Disciple on Saturday, April 11 (1:00–4:00 PM) at Living Water Lutheran Church in Scottsdale. Centered on Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman (John 4), this free event invites participants to explore discipleship “from wonder to witness.” Registration is required by April 6 at lwlcaz.org/nevcevent/. Reception to follow. Watch a welcoming video from Karoline Lewis here.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLiving Water Scottsdale, Northeast Valley ConferenceComment
Ordination of Carly Chamberlain
Ordination of Carly Chamberlain

Carly Chamberlain will be ordained to Word and Service at Faith-La Fe Lutheran Church (801 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014), Saturday, April 18 at 10:30 am. She will be installed at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church at a later date. Rostered ministers are invited to robe and process, color of the day is red. Pastor Jonathan Linman will preach, Bishop Hutterer will preside.

A reception will follow immediately in the parish hall. The service will be live streamed on the Faith Lutheran Facebook page.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdinations and Installations Comment
“You Are Worthy”: Apply for a Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship to the 2026 Triennial
“You Are Worthy”: Apply for a Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship to the 2026 Triennial

The Grand Canyon Women of the ELCA are offering four scholarships to attend the Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering, July 16–19, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa. Each scholarship covers registration plus $500 toward travel and lodging.

Applications are due April 1, 2026, with notifications sent by April 15. Congregations are encouraged to share this opportunity widely. Learn more about the Gathering and how to apply today.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA), Grand Canyon WomenComment
Multiply Your Impact: Direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to Ministry That Matters
Multiply Your Impact: Direct Thrivent Choice Dollars to Ministry That Matters

Thrivent members can make a big difference through Thrivent Choice Dollars and Thrivent Action Teams—two benefits that support ministry at no extra cost. Direct your 2025 Choice Dollars by March 31, 2026 to your congregation or the Grand Canyon Synod, and apply anytime for a $250 Action Team grant to fund a service or outreach project. Learn more at Thrivent.com/thriventchoice and Thrivent.com/actionteam.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardThrivent, StewardshipComment
Walk the Way of the Cross: A Holy Week Prayer Experience at Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix
Walk the Way of the Cross: A Holy Week Prayer Experience at Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix

Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix invites all to “The Way of the Cross: A Time of Meditation and Prayer”on Friday, April 3 (7 AM–6 PM, closed 12–1 PM). This self-guided experience features seven stations with artwork, Scripture, meditation, and prayer, inviting participants to walk alongside Jesus while reflecting on both Christ’s suffering and the realities of life today.

Open to all, this Holy Week opportunity offers space to pause, pray, and consider where we find ourselves in God’s story—bringing our burdens before Christ and encountering his presence along the way.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Lent and Easter, Mountain View Phoenix, Fiesta ConferenceComment
Rooted in God’s Story from Tucson to Las Vegas: Join the Remaining 2026 Spring Gatherings
Rooted in God’s Story from Tucson to Las Vegas: Join the Remaining 2026 Spring Gatherings

The Grand Canyon Synod’s Spring Gatherings have begun, and several opportunities remain across the synod. Join us March 28 in Tucson, or April 11 in Las Vegas. All rostered ministers, lay leaders, and members are welcome at any location. Come reconnect, reflect on our shared calling, and remain Rooted in God’s Story together.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Spring GatheringsComment
Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month
Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month

Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Tuesday, 3/31/2026, 6-7pm MST.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgardhunger, Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders NetworkComment
Rostered Ministers: Submit Your Annual Report to the Bishop by March 30, 2026
Rostered Ministers: Submit Your Annual Report to the Bishop by March 30, 2026

The annual Rostered Minister Report to the Bishop is now open and due Monday, March 30, 2026. This report offers rostered ministers an opportunity to reflect on their ministry and connect directly with Bishop Deborah Hutterer as part of our shared life as a synod.

All active (including those on leave or disability) and retired rostered ministers are asked to complete the appropriate online form. Every report is read by the bishop, with care given to each response. Links to both forms are on the synod website.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Stay Alert: Phishing Emails Targeting Congregations Across Our Synod
Stay Alert: Phishing Emails Targeting Congregations Across Our Synod

Congregations across our synod are experiencing a rise in phishing emails that appear to come from trusted contacts and often include shared document links. Leaders and members are urged not to click suspicious links, verify messages directly, and report potential scams.

These emails can look legitimate and may spread through compromised accounts. Staying alert and practicing good digital habits helps protect our congregations and one another.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardComment
Explore Interfaith Opportunities Across Arizona with AFN’s Weekly Newsletter
Explore Interfaith Opportunities Across Arizona with AFN’s Weekly Newsletter

The Arizona Faith Network’s weekly newsletter highlights upcoming interfaith events across Arizona, including dialogue series, sacred site visits, advocacy opportunities, and community gatherings. From a prayer walk at the Capitol to workshops on Indigenous perspectives and shared scripture, these events invite Lutherans and neighbors of all faiths into deeper understanding and public witness.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
Act Now: Voting Bills Move Forward + Key Advocacy Opportunities This Week
Act Now: Voting Bills Move Forward + Key Advocacy Opportunities This Week

This week’s LAMA newsletter highlights Interfaith Day at the Capitol (March 25), upcoming hunger and justice events, and key ELCA action alerts on Dreamers, the Farm Bill, and child protection.

Read the full newsletter to stay informed, take action, and engage in faithful advocacy across Arizona and our synod.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), Advocacy, Church and SocietyComment
Office of the Bishop Updates
Office of the Bishop Updates

The Office of the Bishop staff will gather with leaders and congregations in Tucson for the Kino Conference Spring Gathering while continuing preaching, teaching, and relationship-building across the synod. Alongside these shared ministries, staff will advance key internal work—including assembly planning, financial and audit preparation, leadership development, and ongoing communications—supporting the synod’s mission in both public and behind-the-scenes ways.

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News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment