Rev. Craig Schweitzer Named ELCA Executive Director for Christian Community and Leadership
Rev. Craig Schweitzer Named ELCA Executive Director for Christian Community and Leadership

The ELCA has appointed the Rev. Craig Schweitzer as executive director for Christian Community and Leadership, beginning September 8. Currently serving as bishop of the Western North Dakota Synod, Schweitzer brings a background in pastoral ministry, music, and leadership development to this churchwide role.

In this call, Schweitzer will help equip leaders and strengthen Christian community across the ELCA, continuing the church’s work of forming disciples and engaging boldly in God’s mission. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCABrian FlatgardComment
Worship Leaders: April Resources, Conferences, and Opportunities from ELCA Partners
Worship Leaders: April Resources, Conferences, and Opportunities from ELCA Partners

ELCA Worship’s April update gathers key opportunities for worship leaders, musicians, and planners across the church. Highlights include the  2026 conference at St. Olaf College, the  annual conference in Princeton (July 19–22), and Lutheran Summer Music’s ongoing formation through faith and music.

Additional opportunities include student awards from the , with deadlines of May 1 and June 1. These resources support the church’s shared calling to nurture worship that is rooted in Word, song, and community. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA WorshipComment
Office of the Bishop Updates
Office of the Bishop Updates

Next week, synod staff will be engaged in the Colorado River Conference Spring Gathering in Las Vegas, alongside preaching, First Call Accompaniment, youth leadership, and key meetings with congregations and leaders. Additional work includes anniversary celebrations, stewardship planning, assembly and communications prep, audit and finance tasks, and ongoing administrative responsibilities.

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News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
The Great Lutheran Potluck: What’s Always on Your Table?
The Great Lutheran Potluck: What’s Always on Your Table?

Every congregation has that one dish—the recipe that shows up at every potluck, from Jell-O salads to funeral potatoes and church basement favorites. The Grand Canyon Synod’s Rooted at the Table project invites you to share the recipe that defines your community.

Submit your potluck classic by May 1, 2026. All recipes will be published online, with a curated selection included in the Synod Assembly cookbook.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Synod Assembly, Rooted at the TableComment
April Opportunities with AFN: Advocacy, Healing, and Interfaith Connection
April Opportunities with AFN: Advocacy, Healing, and Interfaith Connection

Arizona Faith Network is offering a full slate of April opportunities—from poll chaplain training and immigration advocacy gatherings to interfaith dialogue and community health events. With both online and in-person options, these events equip faith communities to engage in justice, care, and public witness across Arizona.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
More Than Attending: Five Ways to Participate in the 2026 Synod Assembly
More Than Attending: Five Ways to Participate in the 2026 Synod Assembly

As the 2026 Synod Assembly (June 11–13) approaches, congregations and ministry partners across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to participate in multiple ways—whether attending or not. Opportunities include submitting ministry stories (due May 8), contributing recipes for Rooted at the Table (due May 1), proposing Variety Show acts (due April 27), leading workshops (due April 6), and joining the synod-wide offering supporting the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land.

Rooted in the theme “Rooted in God’s Story,” these opportunities invite the whole synod to share gifts, tell stories of faith, and participate in God’s work—locally and globally.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Synod AssemblyComment
Faith Lens: Peace Be With You
Faith Lens: Peace Be With You

In this week’s Faith Lens reflection on John 20:19–31, we encounter disciples paralyzed by fear and uncertainty—until the risen Christ appears with a simple but transformative message: “Peace be with you.” Though their circumstances do not immediately change, Jesus’ presence reshapes their fear into purpose, empowering them to move forward in faith.

As we pray for peace in a world marked by violence and division, this reflection reminds us that Christ’s peace is not passive—it sends us out. Grounded in hope and trust in God’s presence, we are called to embody that peace in our congregations, communities, and daily lives: “Let there be peace on earth—and let it begin with us.”

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, 2026 Lent and EasterComment
Start Summer Strong: SYAT Collective Focuses on Camp Preparation April 16
Start Summer Strong: SYAT Collective Focuses on Camp Preparation April 16

Join the first SYAT Collective gathering on Thursday, April 16 at 6:30 PM to prepare for summer camp. This Zoom session will cover registration, what to expect, how to prepare students and families, and insights from leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod.

Whether you’re new or experienced, this practical session will help you feel confident heading into camp season. Register now and start the summer strong.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardSynod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT), Youth and Young Adult, SYAT CollectiveComment
Introducing The SYAT Collective: A New Space for Next Generation Ministry Leaders
Introducing The SYAT Collective: A New Space for Next Generation Ministry Leaders

The Grand Canyon Synod’s Synod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT) is launching The SYAT Collective, a new monthly Zoom gathering for those serving in next generation ministry. Open to staff and volunteers working with children, youth, and young adults, the Collective offers practical training, shared wisdom, and meaningful connection.

Meeting monthly on Thursdays at alternating times, each session will focus on real ministry topics like camp preparation, event planning, and supporting young people through life’s challenges. Join this new space to learn, ask questions, and connect—because we are better when we lead together.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardSynod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT), Youth and Young Adult, SYAT CollectiveComment
In Memoriam: Pastor William "Bill" Dowling
In Memoriam: Pastor William "Bill" Dowling

Pastor Bill Dowling died March 31, 2026. A service of thanksgiving for his life will be held Friday, April 17 at 2:00 p.m. at Lord of Life Lutheran Church, with a reception to follow and a livestream available.

Those wishing to send condolences may contact the synod office for details. Please keep Pastor Dowling’s family and all who mourn in your prayers, trusting in the promise of resurrection in Christ.

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In Memoriam, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLord of Life Sun City West, Cactus ConferenceComment
Thank You, Region 2: 400+ Join Lenten Challenge to Serve Christ in Our Neighbor
Thank You, Region 2: 400+ Join Lenten Challenge to Serve Christ in Our Neighbor

More than 400 participants across ELCA Region 2 joined this year’s 40-40-40 Lenten Challenge, reflecting on Matthew 25 and responding through prayer, devotion, and generosity. The online giving portal for ELCA World Hunger remains open through May 31, offering continued opportunity for individuals and congregations to participate.

Gifts of any size make a meaningful difference. Donate online or give by check using Appeal Code R2LENT2026 as this shared Lenten witness continues beyond the season.

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ELCA, Region 2, Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Lenten Challenge, 2026 Lent and EasterComment
Portico:  I Spy Something Blooming …
Portico:  I Spy Something Blooming …

Spring is a great time to get active, try something new, and build habits that support your well-being. Breathing fresh air, looking for signs of growth, and praying for our planet is a great way to give thanks for creation. Want to go the extra mile? ELCA-Primary health benefit members can explore Burnalong classes designed to help your wellness goals bloom. Check out the April calendar.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardPorticoComment
Quantum Health – Better Search. Better Care
Quantum Health – Better Search. Better Care

Starting April 1, ELCA Health Plan members may notice a refreshed experience on the Quantum Health Care Coordinators website and app — including an enhanced provider search designed to make finding high-quality care easier. Contact a Care Coordinator forhelp navigating care, resolving claims and billing issues, and confirming your provider or clinic are in-network.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardPorticoComment