Submit Your Resolutions for the 2026 Synod Assembly by April 27

Those wishing to submit a resolution for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly must do so by Monday, April 27, 2026, by sending an editable electronic file to Kathye Hamm (khamm@gcsynod.org). Resolutions must comply with the ELCA and Grand Canyon Synod governing documents, Robert’s Rules of Order, and the assembly’s rules and agenda. More info here.

The Reference and Counsel Committee will review submissions and publish a report—including recommendations—on the synod website by May 22, 2026. While all submitted resolutions will appear in the report, the assembly’s agenda and rules determine whether they are discussed or voted on during the gathering.

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Reserve Your Ministry Partner Table for the 2026 Synod Assembly by May 18

Registration is now open for Ministry Partner Tables at the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly. Exhibitor space ($80, includes non-voting visitor access) is available to ELCA-related and approved ministries, with registration due by May 18, 2026. Learn more and register today to share your ministry’s story with voting members and leaders from across our synod.

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Rest. Renewal. Inspiration. Experience CWTA at St. Olaf College

The 2026 Conference on Worship, Theology, and the Arts (CWTA) will be held July 20–22, 2026, at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. Designed for ministry practitioners and by ministry practitioners, this high-quality, affordable conference focuses on nourishing vocation through worship, theology, music, the arts, and spiritual renewal.

With programming centered on “Nourishing Vocation Every Time, Age, and Place,” CWTA offers practical ideas, daily worship, networking, and rest for pastors, deacons, musicians, lay leaders, and ministry partners. Learn more and register at wp.stolaf.edu/cwta/.

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When the World Feels on Fire: A Devotional on Hope and Action

In the face of climate crisis and widespread discouragement, this devotional reflects on how faith calls us not to despair, but to become “the light of the world.” Drawing from experiences at the global COP30 climate conference, it names both the weight of inaction and the hope found in collective advocacy.

As Lutherans, we are reminded that advocacy is part of discipleship—equipping others, illuminating pathways forward, and working toward justice together. Read more for reflection questions and encouragement for faithful action.

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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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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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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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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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"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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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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“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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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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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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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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