Lutheran Music and Worship Partners Invite Leaders to Summer Learning and Renewal
Lutheran Music and Worship Partners Invite Leaders to Summer Learning and Renewal

ELCA Worship is highlighting summer opportunities and resources from Lutheran and ecumenical partner organizations that support worship leaders, church musicians and congregational song. Featured events include the Lutheran Summer Music Choral Gathering, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians conference at St. Olaf College, Music that Makes Community workshops focused on justice and Indigenous partnerships, and The Hymn Society’s 2026 Annual Conference in Princeton, N.J.

These gatherings offer opportunities for spiritual renewal, professional growth, skill-building and community among those who lead the church’s worship life. Registration deadlines and event details are now available. Read the full article from ELCA Worship.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardSt. Olaf College, ELCA WorshipComment
Rebuilding Hope: Lutheran Disaster Response Continues Walking with Georgia Communities
Rebuilding Hope: Lutheran Disaster Response Continues Walking with Georgia Communities

Nearly two years after Hurricane Helene devastated large portions of Georgia, the Southeastern Synod’s Disaster Ministry Team and partners continue the long work of rebuilding homes, restoring stability and walking alongside survivors. From Augusta to Georgia’s coastal communities, congregations, volunteers and organizations including Lutheran Disaster Response, UMCOR and Family Promise are helping families navigate recovery and rebuild hope.

The article highlights the growing recovery work centered at Advent Lutheran Church in Augusta, ongoing challenges in coastal communities, and the personal story of a survivor hoping simply for “a place to call home again.” Read the full article from Lutheran Disaster Response.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLutheran Disaster ResponseComment
Bearing Witness Together: Documentary Screening & Dialogue on Indigenous Justice May 28
Bearing Witness Together: Documentary Screening & Dialogue on Indigenous Justice May 28

The Racial Justice Advocacy Network invites you to a Fourth Thursday conversation on May 28 at 5 PM (AZ/Pacific), featuring the documentary “We Ride for Her” and discussion on the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Relatives (MMIWGR).

With over 5,500 Indigenous women and girls reported missing or murdered—and murder a leading cause of death—this gathering offers space for learning, reflection, and faithful action. Register now and join the conversation.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardMMIW, ELCA Indigenous Ministries and Tribal Relations, Women of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
Strengthen Your Church’s Digital Presence: ELCA Offers Free Digital Assessments (Apply Now)
Strengthen Your Church’s Digital Presence: ELCA Offers Free Digital Assessments (Apply Now)

Applications are now open for a limited number of ELCA Digital Ministry Assessments, with 25 slots available through August 2026. Conducted by Evoke Engagement Experts, these assessments provide congregations and ministry organizations with a comprehensive review of their website, social media, and online presence—along with actionable recommendations and a consultation call.

Eligible ELCA congregations and affiliated ministries are encouraged to apply soon, as demand may exceed availability. Additional digital ministry grants—including $3,000 and $30,000 awards—are expected later in 2026, offering further opportunities to strengthen how we share God’s story in a digital world.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardInnovation, ELCA Innovation LabComment
“Do Not Fear”: Bishop Hutterer Reflects on a Year of Change, Hope, and Faithfulness
“Do Not Fear”: Bishop Hutterer Reflects on a Year of Change, Hope, and Faithfulness

In her 2025–2026 Annual Report, Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer reflects on a year marked by transition, resilience, grief, creativity, and hope across the Grand Canyon Synod. Grounded in Isaiah 41:10 — “Do not fear for I am with you” — the report highlights the ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Phoenix, a record number of ordinations, emerging models of ministry, and the faithful work of congregations navigating change with courage and trust in God’s leading.

The report also names difficult realities facing the church and wider community, while celebrating the dedication of synod staff, council leaders, rostered ministers, and lay leaders throughout Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation. Bishop Hutterer invites the synod to continue proclaiming the gospel, supporting one another, and trusting that we are part of God’s unfolding story together.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Bishop HuttererBrian Flatgard2026 Assembly Stories, Bishop Hutterer Letters, Office of the BishopComment
Ordination celebrations
Ordination celebrations

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Jonathan Heilner, who celebrates 51 years on May 18.

  • Rev. Greg Hartman, New Spirit, Tucson, who celebrates 7 years on May 18.

  • Rev. Patricia Reed, who celebrates 25 years on May 19.

  • Rev. Phillip Hausknecht, who celebrates 63 years on May 20.

  • Rev. Mel Soderberg, who celebrates 59 years on May 21.

  • Deacon Laura Book, who celebrates 16 years on May 21.

  • Rev. Roy Olson, who celebrates 58 years on August 22.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
Grand Canyon Synod Releases 2026 External Audit, Reaffirming Commitment to Transparency
Grand Canyon Synod Releases 2026 External Audit, Reaffirming Commitment to Transparency

The Grand Canyon Synod’s 2026 Annual External Audit is now available online as part of the synod’s ongoing commitment to transparency and faithful stewardship. The audit highlights more than $1.75 million in congregational and designated giving, support for ministries across the synod and ELCA, and an independent auditor’s clean opinion on the Synod’s financial statements.

The synod gives thanks for the generosity and trust of congregations and donors whose gifts support ministry throughout Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation. Monthly financial statements are also available upon request.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardOffice of the Bishop, 2026 Synod AssemblyComment
Two More Seats at the Table: Youth and Diverse Voices Needed for 2026 Assembly
Two More Seats at the Table: Youth and Diverse Voices Needed for 2026 Assembly

Congregations are now preparing voting members for the 2026 Synod Assembly (June 11–13 in Mesa). In addition to standard representation, each congregation may elect two additional members: one youth or young adult and one person of color or primary language other than English, helping reflect the diversity of God’s people.

Thanks to the Bishop’s Leadership Fund, congregations can also send one youth or young adult for free using code YOUTH2026. Now is the time to identify leaders, broaden participation, and ensure your congregation’s voice is part of the synod’s shared work.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Synod AssemblyComment
Synod Assembly Registration Closes May 18—No Extensions
Synod Assembly Registration Closes May 18—No Extensions

Registration is open for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly (June 11–13 in Mesa, AZ), with a firm deadline of May 18—no late registrations will be accepted. Voting member registration is now $160. Congregations are encouraged to send full delegations, including youth, young adults, and diverse voices.

Through the Bishop’s Leadership Fund, one young voting member per congregation may attend free using code YOUTH2026. This year’s theme, “Rooted in God’s Story,” invites the whole church into shared discernment and leadership.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2026 Synod AssemblyComment
Loving Someone Through Recovery: Free Webinar with Caroline Beidler on May 27
Loving Someone Through Recovery: Free Webinar with Caroline Beidler on May 27

The Center of Addiction & Faith will host a free Zoom webinar, “How to Love Someone in Recovery,” on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 12:00–1:00 p.m. CT featuring author and recovery advocate Caroline Beidler. The conversation will explore practical ways to support loved ones navigating addiction recovery with compassion and hope.

Participants will hear insights from Beidler’s new book, When You Love Someone in Recovery, and learn from her experience as a speaker, writer, and managing editor at Recovery.com. Registration is free and the webinar will be recorded for later viewing.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardAddiction, The Center of Addiction & FaithComment
Diakonia Continuing Education Courses Open for Summer Registration
Diakonia Continuing Education Courses Open for Summer Registration

Registration is now open for this summer’s online Diakonia continuing education courses, with offerings on baptismal living, First Testament prophets, the Gospel of John and introductory New Testament Greek. Open to current students, graduates, instructors and anyone interested in deeper theological learning, the courses will meet online in five-week formats.

Organizational meetings begin in June, with final schedules determined collaboratively after registration. Learn more and register at Diakonia Education.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardDiakoniaComment
Faith+Lead Summer Resources Equip Leaders for a Changing Ministry Landscape
Faith+Lead Summer Resources Equip Leaders for a Changing Ministry Landscape

Faith+Lead’s latest Monthly Roundup highlights summer ministry resources including courses on communication skills, faith formation, compensation negotiation, lay ministry training, and supervision. Free theology journals, ministry articles, and downloadable leadership resources are also included to support congregations and leaders navigating a changing ministry landscape.

Read the full roundup and explore all the opportunities and resources available for this season of ministry.

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Leader ResourcesBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Rev. Wanda Frenchman and Patterson Yazzie Among First TEIL Graduates at PLTS
Rev. Wanda Frenchman and Patterson Yazzie Among First TEIL Graduates at PLTS

Rev. Wanda K. Frenchman and Patterson Yazzie are among the first graduates of the Theological Education for Indigenous Leaders (TEIL) program at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. The commencement service will be held Saturday, May 23 in Berkeley, California, with a livestream available.

Their graduation marks an important milestone for Indigenous ministries in the ELCA and highlights the growing leadership of Indigenous voices within the church.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2Brian FlatgardNative American Urban Ministry Phoenix, American Indian and Alaska Native, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, ELCA Indigenous Ministries and Tribal Relations, Navajo Evangelical Lutheran MissionComment
ELCA World Hunger Opens 2027 Domestic Hunger Grant Applications
ELCA World Hunger Opens 2027 Domestic Hunger Grant Applications

ELCA World Hunger is now accepting Letters of Inquiry for 2027 Domestic Hunger Grants through July 1, 2026. Grants of up to $10,000 per year for three years are available for ministries and organizations addressing food insecurity, housing, clean water, job access, human rights, and policy change in their communities.

Congregations and ministry leaders are encouraged to explore the opportunity and review eligibility, timelines, and application materials through the ELCA World Hunger program. Read more and apply here.

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ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardGrants, ELCA World Hunger, ELCA World Hunger Domestic Hunger GrantsComment