Rev. Patsy Koeneke will be installed Sunday, 6/7/2025, at 9:30 am at Epiphany of Christ Lutheran (1050 W. Superstition Blvd., Apache Junction, AZ 85120). Bishop Hutterer will preach and preside. The service will be live-streamed on Facebook and on YouTube. Everyone is welcome to stay for fellowship after the service.
Read MorePastor Tim Wright’s wife, Jan Wright, died May 3, 2026. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at Community of Grace Lutheran Church.
The Grand Canyon Synod invites the community to hold Pastor Tim Wright and his family in prayer during this time. Additional details will be shared as they become available.
Read MoreJoin CONNECTIONS for a special Campformation fundraiser on Tuesday, June 9, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix. Reconnect with former campers and staff, sing favorite camp songs, enjoy dinner, and learn how Campformation nurtures faith and lifelong friendships.
A free-will offering will support camp scholarships and housing costs, helping make Campformation accessible to more young people. All are welcome—whether camp is already part of your story or you are curious to learn more.
Read MoreReady for summer? Lutheran congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod are offering Vacation Bible Schools and children’s camps filled with faith, fun, and fellowship. Explore the growing list of programs, and help us share your church’s summer offerings by emailing Deacon Laura Book at lbook@gcsynod.org.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Lawrence Conway, who celebrates 46 years on May 31.
Read MoreLutheran Campus Ministry at University of Arizona shares their 2026 Annual Report as an online slideshow. Click here to view the slideshow and be sure to click the slides to move forward.
Read MoreChrist Lutheran Church in Sedona shares a video about their Day Camp as part of their annual report for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly. Watch here.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Randall Olson, Honor Health, Scottsdale, who celebrates 50 years on May 30.
Rev. Dennis R. Nelson, who celebrates 55 years on May 30.
Rev. Kenneth Miller, Grace, Kingman, who celebrates 22 years on May 30.
From Lutheran Lobby Day in Carson City to advocacy on housing, climate, and care for vulnerable communities, LEAN’s 2025 annual report highlights how Lutherans and partners across Nevada are putting faith into action for the sake of their neighbors.
Read MoreIn his annual report, Rev. David Pavesic reflects on a year and a half of ministry as Director for Evangelical Mission, highlighting congregational collaboration, vitality efforts, new ministry developments, and opportunities to be “church together” across our large and diverse synod.
Read MoreThe ELCA Advocacy office’s May update highlights several major national developments, including voting rights, Farm Bill negotiations, endangered species protections, immigration policy, Cuba, and Middle East peace advocacy. The update also explores why these issues matter through the lens of Lutheran faith and public witness.
For congregational leaders and members seeking to connect faith with civic engagement, this month’s Advocacy Connections offers helpful context and opportunities for action. Read the Update.
Read MoreMore than a year after a devastating earthquake struck Myanmar, communities are rebuilding through clean water access, repaired homes, renewed livelihoods, and safe spaces for children. A new story from Lutheran Disaster Response highlights how local communities, supported by trusted partners, are finding hope amid hardship.
These stories offer a powerful reminder of resilience, dignity, and the church’s shared calling to accompany neighbors in crisis. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreCongress is debating the 2026 Farm Bill, legislation that shapes food assistance, agriculture, conservation, and rural life. ELCA Advocacy is urging lawmakers to support policies that care for hungry neighbors, strengthen rural communities, and protect creation for future generations.
With Senate action expected soon, the ELCA is encouraging Lutherans to stay informed and engaged through advocacy and action alerts. Read the Farm Bill Update.
Read MoreELCA congregations are being encouraged to observe “Creation in Christ” (or “Feast of Creation”) beginning September 1 or the Sunday following. Rooted in ecumenical collaboration and ancient Christian tradition, the observance celebrates Christ’s role in creation while inviting deeper care for the world God has made.
Worship resources, lectionary texts, and planning guidance are beginning to emerge as congregations discern how this observance may fit in their local context. Read More About “Creation in Christ.”
Read MorePlanning for the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering is already underway. A recent webinar from Gathering leadership helps congregations discern whether MYLE (Multicultural Youth Leadership Event) or the tAble may be the right fit for young people in their group, offering guidance, context, and practical next steps.
Whether you missed the live webinar or want to revisit the conversation, the recording offers helpful insight for leaders preparing youth for a meaningful and welcoming Gathering experience. Watch the webinar.
Read MoreIn the latest Pivot podcast, why is Christian community so hard? Jeff Galley & Phil Smith have answers.
Read MoreFor many Direct Support Professionals, the opportunity to touch someone else’s life is what calls them to the job. But many wonder if they can grow professionally while making a meaningful difference. At Mosaic, they can.
Read MorePacific Lutheran Theological Seminary shares their video 2026 Annual Report. Watch here.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Norene Smith, who celebrates 43 years on May 29.
Rev. Leroy Rehrer, who celebrates 49 years on May 29.
Rev. Ronald Glusenkamp, who celebrates 45 years on May 29.
