The Phoenix VA Health Care System invites pastors, deacons, and other faith leaders to a Faith Leader Forum on Friday, Sept. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix. Participants will learn how to help veterans in their congregations connect with VA health care services and benefits. RSVP by Sept. 1 to Chaplain Joel Larson at joel.larson2@va.gov.
Read MoreA new study from the Lutheran World Federation examines the human realities of climate-induced displacement in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia, where droughts, floods, and other climate shocks are forcing families from their homes and livelihoods. Based on interviews and focus groups with displaced communities, the report highlights challenges including access to land, water, healthcare, education, and legal recognition—and the resilience and solidarity communities demonstrate in response.
Climate-Induced Displacement: A Human Journey calls for stronger early-warning systems, rights-based and inclusive policies, and meaningful participation by displaced people themselves. It also highlights the important role churches and faith-based organizations can play in fostering care, solidarity, resilience, and climate justice. Read the LWF report and explore its findings.
Read MoreThe latest LAMA newsletter invites congregations to add faithful advocacy to their September 13 “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday activities. Also inside: upcoming digital security, elder abuse, election engagement, hunger and creation-care events; new advocacy articles; and a reminder that Grand Canyon Synod Grant applications are due September 25. Read the full LAMA newsletter
Read MoreBlessed Tomorrow has released a new Worship + Sermon Kit designed to help faith communities connect worship, Scripture, and care for creation. The resource includes suggested Scripture passages, exegetical reflections, prayers, poems, images, children’s moment ideas, and materials that can be used individually or as part of a six-week series.
In Lead on Climate, Start with Worship, the Rev. Carol Devine explores why bringing creation and climate into worship matters—and how faith leaders can help communities see climate action as an expression of our calling to tend and care for God’s creation. Read the full article and explore the resources from Blessed Tomorrow.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Michael Sager, Desert Hills, Green Valley, who celebrates 32 years on August 28.
Rev. Paul Ninnemann, who celebrates 50 years on August 29.
Rev. Carol George, Resurrection, Oro Valley, who celebrates 27 years on August 29.
Deacon Barbara Sikkink, who celebrates 34 years on August 30.
Rev. Renee Geiger, who celebrates 38 years on September 1.
Rev. John Schaumburg, who celebrates 54 years on September 2.
Rev. Kirk Anderson, who celebrates 54 years on September 3.
Registration is now open for the 2026 Bishop’s Fall Gathering, October 12–14 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale. Register by Friday, September 18. Pastors, deacons, and Synod Authorized Ministers are invited for three days of worship, learning, renewal, and connection, featuring theologian, pastor, and author Rev. Dr. Carmelo Santos, PhD.
Rooted in God’s Story, this year’s gathering will explore faithful leadership, healing, identity, human flourishing, and emerging questions facing ministry today.
Read MoreLutheran Social Services of the Southwest has new opportunities to serve in Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria, Scottsdale and Tucson, including refugee youth mentoring, English tutoring, childcare, food distribution, and sewing and jewelry instruction. Metro Phoenix volunteers building relationships with refugee neighbors may also apply for new micro-grants to support shared activities and deepen connection.
Read MoreWhere in the world is your congregation connected? The Grand Canyon Synod Global Engagement Team invites congregations and faith communities to complete a brief 3–5 minute survey about their international ministries and outreach—and learn more about our companion church relationships in Senegal and Mexico. Please respond by September 30.
Read MoreGrand Canyon Synod staff members Theresa Thornburgh and Amy Birchard are sharing their administrative and financial expertise with the Rocky Mountain Synod during a season of staff transition. The new partnership offers a tangible example of synods working together and sharing gifts in service to the wider church.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod has received new reports of fraudulent emails impersonating Bishop Deborah Hutterer, this time using a fake Gmail address. These messages are not from Bishop Hutterer. Learn how to recognize impersonation attempts, verify suspicious communications, and protect yourself and your congregation as AI makes online scams increasingly convincing.
Read More“God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday is Sept. 13, 2026. Watch ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry’s invitation and begin planning how your congregation can join Lutherans across the church in serving neighbors and putting our faith into action.
Read MorePlanning for the 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering? Watch the new webinar introducing SERVE, an all-day experience combining hands-on service in the Twin Cities with reflection, Lutheran accompaniment and planning for continued service back home. SERVE space is limited, and priority Gathering registration opens Oct. 21.
Read MoreEpisode 3 of ELCA Sumud’s five-part “Stolen Stories” series explores the Intifadas and Oslo Accords through Palestinian Christian voices. Hear pastors, bishops, and scholars offer historical and theological context while sharing the lived experiences of Palestinians in their own words.
Read MoreDesert Hills Lutheran Church in Green Valley, Arizona is excited to begin the search for our next Director of Worship. This key leadership position will work closely with our pastors, staff, musicians, and volunteers to help shape meaningful worship experiences that inspire faith, build community, and glorify God. View PDF job description here.
Read MoreExecutive Skills for Church Leaders returns January 4–8, 2027, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree, Arizona. This leadership development experience equips rostered ministers and lay leaders with practical skills for today’s ministry context. Join the interest list now to receive early updates and registration access: bit.ly/ExecSkills27.
Read MoreGuy Ilunga will be ordained and installed Saturday, 8/29/2026, 10 am, at Trinity Lutheran (9424 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021). Bishop Hutterer will preach and preside. Color of the day is red. Rostered ministers are invited to process, robes are optional.
Read MoreRev. Jenn Luong, called to serve University of Arizona Lutheran Campus Ministry, will be installed Sunday, 10/4/2026 at 4 pm at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church (1200 North Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719).
Please check the calendar listing or lutherantucson.org for this event for up-to-date info and details.
Read MoreRev. Jose Valenzuela, called to serve University Lutheran and ASU Lutheran Campus Ministry, will be installed Sunday, 9/20/2026, during 10 am worship at University Lutheran Church (340 E. 15th Street, Tempe, AZ 85281).
Please check the calendar listing or ulctempe.org for this event for up-to-date info and details.
Read MoreAmateur and professional photographers are invited to celebrate the role of sacred places in American life through the 2026 “250 Years of Religious Diversity” Photo Contest. Submit photos of spiritual moments, community, the arts, architecture, and open space by Oct. 6, with prizes of up to $500.
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