As the nation marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer reflects on this milestone through the lens of faith—holding together gratitude, honesty, hope, and concern while reminding us that, through every season of uncertainty, we remain rooted in God’s enduring story.
Read MoreThis week, Grand Canyon Synod staff remain engaged in leadership development, stewardship planning, camp ministry, and ongoing support for congregations and ministry partners. Bishop Hutterer joins colleagues from across the church at the ELCA Rostered Ministers Gathering, while synod staff continue preparations for future ministry initiatives, events, and financial operations.
Read MoreMount of Olives Lutheran Church invites you to Jazz Vespers on July 12 at 5:30 PM, featuring Beth Lederman and guest musicians. As the congregation continues serving nearly 300 families weekly, this “Music for Food” ministry remains a vital response to rising food insecurity.
Join for worship, music, and fellowship—and be part of sustaining this ongoing ministry of compassion.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Glenn Zorb, who celebrates 47 years on July 1.
Rev. Jan Flaaten, who celebrates 53 years on July 1.
Rev. Robert Hutson Jr., who celebrates 53 years on July 1.
Rev. Robert Rod, who celebrates 53 years on July 1.
Rev. James Dew, who celebrates 36 years on July 1.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Randy Winsand, Lord of Grace, Tucson, who celebrates 13 years on June 30.
Rev. Myron Nysether, who celebrates 52 years on June 30.
Rev. John Williams, who celebrates 53 years on June 30.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Gayle Bintliff, who celebrates 25 years on June 29.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Craig Corbin, Mount Olive, Lake Havasu City, who celebrates 39 years on June 28.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. David Towers, who celebrates 50 years on June 27.
Read MoreWe give thanks for Pastor Nanette Christofferson’s successful surgery and invite the Grand Canyon Synod to continue holding her in prayer as she recovers in the weeks ahead.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. John Geske, Mayo, Scottsdale, who celebrates 38 years on June 26.
Read MoreKing of Glory Preschool in Tempe is hiring an Assistant Teacher for its Pre-K classroom. The preschool is seeking a compassionate individual with experience working with young children who is passionate about helping them learn and grow in a caring Christian environment. Interested applicants can contact preschool@kogaz.org for more information. View PDF job description here.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Scott Hove, Good Samaritan, Las Vegas, Good Sam at The Lakes, Las Vegas, who celebrates 31 years on June 25.
Rev. Dennis Hagstrom, who celebrates 49 years on June 25.
Rev. Stephen J. Nelson, who celebrates 48 years on June 25.
Mount of Olives Lutheran Church invites you to Jazz Vespers on July 12 at 5:30 PM, featuring Beth Lederman and guest musicians. As the congregation continues serving nearly 300 families weekly, this “Music for Food” ministry remains a vital response to rising food insecurity.
Join for worship, music, and fellowship—and be part of sustaining this ongoing ministry of compassion.
Read MoreAs the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry invites Lutherans to hold both gratitude and humility. In the latest installment of his All Together in One Place series, Curry reflects on the nation’s aspirations, its failures to live fully into those ideals, and the Christian call to repentance, justice, and service rooted in Christ’s resurrection.
Drawing on Scripture and the ELCA’s social teaching, Curry encourages the church to remember its baptismal unity, name sin honestly, and work for the common good while trusting in God’s ever-unfolding grace. Read Presiding Bishop Curry’s full reflection.
Read MoreFocus groups for the ELCA’s Rooted + Rising storytelling initiative begin June 26, and organizers are seeking participants now. The project is especially interested in hearing from people who are not currently connected to a church but are willing to share their experiences of faith, spirituality, belonging, or Christianity. Selected participants will receive a $100 stipend for a two-hour virtual conversation.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod staff continues its ministry across the synod this week, with Bishop Hutterer participating in Diakonia graduation and new bishop formation, while staff members engage in leadership development, congregational visits, stewardship conversations, event planning, and ongoing support for congregations and ministry partners. Two staff members are also on sabbatical as the work of the synod continues through collaboration and shared leadership.
Read MoreSt. John’s Lutheran Church in Glendale is seeking a half-time Outreach Coordinator (20 hours/week) to develop new outreach strategies, equip leaders, and build relationships with people beyond the congregation—especially young adults and those without a faith tradition. Compensation ranges from $18,000–$26,000 annually.
View the job description as PDF here. Interested candidates should send resumes and inquiries to pastor@stjchurchaz.org.
Read MoreMission Investment Fund is offering updated online and mobile tools that help congregations and individuals manage savings while supporting ministry across the ELCA. Demand Investments currently earn up to 2.50% APY, while Fixed-Rate Term Investments offer returns up to 4.10% APY. Learn how your financial stewardship can help fund ministry-focused loans throughout the church.
Read MoreThe presentations shared by Rev. Tim Brown at the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly are now available to view and download. Explore his keynote on generosity and discipleship, Bible study on stewardship in Scripture, and ELCA churchwide report highlighting the impact of our connected ministry together.
Download PDF and PowerPoint versions, revisit key insights, and share these resources with your congregation.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod raised $3,702.84 during the 2026 Synod Assembly to support the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. Now, following an urgent appeal from Bishop Imad Haddad, the need is even greater as the church faces a serious financial crisis affecting schools, congregations, and core ministries.
Learn how your congregation or household can continue supporting our Lutheran siblings in the Holy Land through prayer, solidarity, and financial gifts.
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