Supporting Leaders by Supporting Rest: Rev. Jacqui Pagel’s Sabbatical Begins June 14
Supporting Leaders by Supporting Rest: Rev. Jacqui Pagel’s Sabbatical Begins June 14

Rev. Jacqueline Pagel, Associate to the Bishop for Candidacy and Faith Formation, will take a sabbatical from June 14–September 14, 2026, for a season of travel, family time, and renewal. The Office of the Bishop has plans, designated staff, and clear processes in place to ensure candidacy, leadership development, and faith formation ministries continue smoothly during her absence.

As a synod, we give thanks for the gift of sabbath and for leaders who return refreshed for ministry. We look forward to welcoming Pastor Jacqui back this fall, renewed and ready to continue building up leaders for the church.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Faith, Fellowship, and Food: Join June 14 Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives
Faith, Fellowship, and Food: Join June 14 Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives

Join Mount of Olives Lutheran Church on June 14 at 5:30 PM for Jazz Vespers featuring Beth Lederman, Diana Lee, and Steven Powell. As the congregation serves nearly 300 families weekly through its food closet, this “Music for Food” ministry continues to respond to growing hunger across Arizona.

Come for worship, live jazz, and fellowship—and support neighbors in need through this ongoing ministry.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardCapital Conference, Hunger, Mount of Olives PhoenixComment
Heat Relief Ministry Returns This Summer at Grace and First UCC in Phoenix
Heat Relief Ministry Returns This Summer at Grace and First UCC in Phoenix

Grace Lutheran Church and First United Church of Christ are partnering once again to provide Heat Relief ministry from June 1–August 24, offering cooling space, water, snacks, and hospitality for vulnerable neighbors during the hottest months of the year. Congregations are invited to support the effort through donations of water, snacks, pet food, cooling supplies, and frozen burritos. Read a letter from Pastor David Sivecz here.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardHeat Relief, Hunger, Grace Phoenix, Capital Conference, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations Comment
Reconnect, Sing, and Support Campformation at June 9 Fundraiser
Reconnect, Sing, and Support Campformation at June 9 Fundraiser

Join 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.

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Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardCampformation, Grace Phoenix, Outdoor MinistryComment
ELCA Advocacy Updates for May 2026
ELCA Advocacy Updates for May 2026

The 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.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Hope Rising in Myanmar: Lutheran Disaster Response Shares Stories of Renewal
Hope Rising in Myanmar: Lutheran Disaster Response Shares Stories of Renewal

More 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.

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ELCABrian FlatgardLutheran Disaster ResponseComment
Why the Farm Bill Matters: An ELCA Advocacy Update
Why the Farm Bill Matters: An ELCA Advocacy Update

Congress 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.

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ELCABrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
A New Ecumenical Feast Day: “Creation in Christ” Comes to the Church Year
A New Ecumenical Feast Day: “Creation in Christ” Comes to the Church Year

ELCA 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.”

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ELCABrian FlatgardClimate Change, ELCA WorshipComment
Is MYLE or the tAble Right for Your Group? Watch the 2027 Gathering Webinar
Is MYLE or the tAble Right for Your Group? Watch the 2027 Gathering Webinar

Planning 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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, ELCABrian Flatgard2027 ELCA Youth Gathering, MYLE, the tAble, Youth and Young Adult, Disability MinistriesComment