
Featured News
The Synod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT) met Oct 10–11 at Camp Pinerock, Prescott to review first-year goals, plan budgets and collaboration, welcome Pr. Amy Janssen (Tucson), and pray together for the work ahead. In the coming weeks and months, SYAT expects to announce scholarships and new resources for children’s, youth, and young adult ministry and will reach out to every congregation to learn more about local needs.
Celebrate 80 years of ministry with Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Tucson during a History Walk on Saturday, October 25, at 10:00 a.m. Walk through key spaces on campus as congregation members reenact moments from the church’s story, followed by a celebratory luncheon. Free and open to the public. For details or luncheon RSVPs, contact 520-327-6521 or oslc@lutherantucson.org.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America celebrated the installation of Bishop Yehiel Curry as its new presiding bishop on October 5, 2025, at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. The service—led by former Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton—featured a diverse assembly of leaders, choirs, and guests from across the ELCA and beyond. Rooted in joy and call, the celebration emphasized God’s invitation to serve in every context. Curry, formerly bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, succeeds Bishop Eaton in a six-year term.
Read the full story and watch highlights of the installation on Living Lutheran: Answering the Call.
Bishop Deborah Hutterer shares her gratitude for the people and ministries of the Grand Canyon Synod as she prepares for a sabbatical in November and continuing through January 2026. During this time of prayer and renewal, Rev. Mike Girlinghouse will serve as Acting Bishop, working closely with synod staff to ensure continuity. Bishop Hutterer invites prayers for renewal and guidance as our synod enters this season of reflection and preparation for the work ahead.
Synod Spotlight
This section is dedicated to celebrating and lifting up the everyday work of our congregations, ministries, and partners at various levels—from local to global. Join us in gratitude and prayer for these people and organizations. View all our spotlight posts here.

From congregational visits and grant consultations to teaching and preaching, our team is actively supporting ministries across the synod, as Bishop Hutterer and Theresa take well-deserved time for rest and renewal.
Celebrate community, creation, and the “Superpower of Love” with October’s Good Green News from Lutherans Restoring Creation. This month’s update features a virtual Blessing of the Animals (Oct. 21), early registration for the Multiply! gathering at Lutheridge (Jan. 23–25, 2026), and upcoming opportunities like Coffee with Christine and the Connections Call. Read the full Good Green News here.
The ELCA Conference of Bishops gathered in Minneapolis Oct. 5–7, following the installation of Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry. Bishop Curry announced that his first-year focus will be on building “a connected church,” drawing from the image of Christ as the vine and the church as the branches. During the meeting, Bishop Hutterer began her term as chair of the conference. Bishops discussed communication and unity amid political polarization, received updates on task forces and global partnerships, and reflected on how to live faithfully as a connected, sustainable church.
Read the full ELCA news release here: ELCA Conference of Bishops Gathers in Minneapolis ›
For an end to war and conflict, and for places of political unrest or contention, especially Gaza, South Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, Pakistan/Afghanistan, and Madagascar…
For transformations of heart toward lasting peace and freedom…
For safety and protection for all immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers…
For those grieving victims of a factory explosion in McEwen, Tennessee and a factory fire in Bangladesh…
For all affected by the government shutdown, both federal workers and those who rely on federal offices and systems…
For journalists, educators, librarians, publishers, and all who contribute to the flow of information…
For victims of storms and flooding in Alaska and Mexico, and for flood threats in Colorado…
For healthcare workers…
For the flourishing of indigenous nations and communities and for the work of ELCA Indigenous Ministries and Tribal Relations…
Nearly every ELCA bishop—including Bishop Deborah Hutterer—has signed a letter calling Lutherans to be a public witness of love and justice in a time of fear and division. The letter affirms that Christian Nationalism distorts the gospel and urges faithful action grounded in God’s inclusive love.
Advocacy is more than policy—it’s a faithful response to God’s grace. The Southeastern Synod models a Lutheran approach grounded in Scripture and accompaniment: engaging congregations in justice work, equipping them with tools to act, and empowering leaders to advocate for the vulnerable. Their work embodies the call to love our neighbors through advocacy rooted in baptismal vocation. Read the full story at LAMA.
A new proposal could restrict voter registration by requiring costly and hard-to-access documents like passports—potentially excluding 21 million eligible Americans. The Election Assistance Commission is taking public comments until October 20. Add your voice as a person of faith who believes every vote is sacred. Read the full post and submit your comment today.
Critical programs that protect clean air, water, soil, and wildlife are facing deep federal budget cuts. As people of faith, we’re called to safeguard creation so that all life may flourish. Join ELCA Advocacy and Lutherans across the country in urging Congress to maintain funding for essential environmental programs like the EPA, Clean Water State Revolving Funds, and Superfund cleanups. Read the full Action Alert and contact your members of Congress.
Celebrate bridge-builders at the Arizona Faith Network 2025 Annual Gathering: United We Rise, happening Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at the Baháʼí Faith Community Center in Scottsdale. This year’s event honors Billie K. Fidlin with AFN’s first-ever Legacy Award. Register to attend in-person or online, and explore AFN’s full lineup of fall events and interfaith opportunities — from meditation and justice trainings to faith education and environmental action — at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Prepare your congregation for Advent with Vero Communications’ Advent Bundle—a set of customized postcards, flyers, banners, and social media graphics designed to help you invite your community to worship. With a two-week turnaround, Vero creates professional, ready-to-use materials based on your church’s Advent theme. Learn more →
This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Douglas Dill, Mountain View, Phoenix, who celebrates 10 years on October 17.
Rev. Julia Sprenkle, American, Sun City, who celebrates 15 years on October 17.
Rev. Paul Gregory, Hospice Family Care, Mesa, who celebrates 39 years on October 19.
Rev. Susanne Havlic, who celebrates 29 years on October 20.
Rev. David Swan, who celebrates 52 years on October 21.
Rev. Mitchell Eickmann, who celebrates 41 years on October 22.
Rev. Linda Brown, who celebrates 14 years on October 22.
Rev. Glenn Schrader, Our Saviour’s, Tucson, who celebrates 2 years on October 22.
Psalm 121 has long been a song for those on the move—pilgrims, travelers, and anyone facing life’s uphill climbs. In this week’s Faith Lens reflection, Pastor Lindsay Batesmith explores how this psalm teaches us to lift our eyes to God for help and assurance, trusting that God keeps us in our “going out and coming in.” Whether through song, prayer, or quiet courage, we are reminded that God’s presence remains with us through every fear and uncertainty, turning today’s steep hills into tomorrow’s stories of grace.
Faith+Lead’s Coaching for Spirit-Led Leadership course begins January 26, 2026, guiding pastors, deacons, and lay leaders to lead with trust, curiosity, and collaboration. This nine-week online cohort, taught by the Rev. Dr. Dawn Alitz, helps participants listen deeply, ask powerful questions, and empower others to discern their callings. Cost is $375 with scholarships available. Enroll now →
The Synod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT) met Oct 10–11 at Camp Pinerock, Prescott to review first-year goals, plan budgets and collaboration, welcome Pr. Amy Janssen (Tucson), and pray together for the work ahead. In the coming weeks and months, SYAT expects to announce scholarships and new resources for children’s, youth, and young adult ministry and will reach out to every congregation to learn more about local needs.
Fleeing abuse and seeking safety, Magali Sanchez-Hall found healing and purpose through Trinity Lutheran Church in Brooklyn and the guidance of Pastor Hector Carrasquillo. His steadfast support helped her rebuild her life, pursue education, and become a powerful advocate for justice. Today, her journey from survivor to community leader shines as a testimony to the light of faith and the church’s call to see every person as beloved and capable. Read the full story on Living Lutheran.
Born to Honduran parents in Waukegan, Illinois, Carlos Ferrera found strength and belonging through Sagrado Corazon Lutheran Church. After facing isolation abroad and hardship at home, Ferrera returned to his faith community—and to himself—through mentorship from Pastor Hector Carrasquillo. Now leading youth ministry, Ferrera brings joy and connection to young people, showing how faith can turn adversity into purpose.
Featured Events
Join Faith–La Fe Evangelical Lutheran Church in Phoenix for a joyful 80th Anniversary Celebration, October 24–26, 2025. The weekend includes worship, music, fellowship, and food. RSVP by Sept. 14 by phone, email, or online. Contributions are welcome toward the restoration of the pipe organ and church beautification.
Faith–La Fe en Phoenix celebrará su 80.º aniversario del 24 al 26 de octubre con un fin de semana de adoración, música y compañerismo. Confirme su asistencia antes del 14 de septiembre por teléfono, correo electrónico o en línea. Se agradecen donaciones para apoyar proyectos de restauración y embellecimiento del templo. (PDF)
Join us for the 2026 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly as we gather under the theme Rooted in God’s Story. We’ll come together for worship, learning, connection, and the business of the church as we celebrate how God continues to work through our synod.
More information, registration details, and a full schedule will be shared as the date approaches.
Mark your calendar for next year’s Bishop’s Fall Gathering—a time of rest, renewal, and community for rostered ministers and lay leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod. This retreat will continue our 2026 theme, Rooted in God’s Story.
Additional details, registration information, and session themes will be announced in the coming months.

Join the Stephen Ministers at Desert Hills Lutheran Church on Wednesday, October 22, at 1:30 PM for a dementia and Alzheimer’s presentation by Rev. Jerry Haas of United Methodist Church of Green Valley. Learn, share, and support one another in faith. Dessert and coffee will be provided.
Join the Oct. 23 one-day Virtual Addiction & Faith Conference, “Awakening the Church to Address Addiction,” hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith. Open to clergy, laypeople, and all impacted by addiction, this $50 event equips congregations to become safe, recovery-friendly communities. Register now and share the flyer to spread the word across our synod.
Join the Spirited Book Club at Spirit in the Desert on Thursday, October 23 (3:00–4:00 p.m. AZ/PDT) for a discussion of Active Hope by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone. The book invites readers to face global challenges with courage and creativity, offering a framework for resilience rooted in faith, gratitude, and community action. Facilitated by Sheri Brown, this conversation explores how Christians can live out “active hope” amid uncertainty. Register here: spiritinthedesert.org/events/spirited-book-club-active-hope.
Join Faith–La Fe Evangelical Lutheran Church in Phoenix for a joyful 80th Anniversary Celebration, October 24–26, 2025. The weekend includes worship, music, fellowship, and food. RSVP by Sept. 14 by phone, email, or online. Contributions are welcome toward the restoration of the pipe organ and church beautification.
Faith–La Fe en Phoenix celebrará su 80.º aniversario del 24 al 26 de octubre con un fin de semana de adoración, música y compañerismo. Confirme su asistencia antes del 14 de septiembre por teléfono, correo electrónico o en línea. Se agradecen donaciones para apoyar proyectos de restauración y embellecimiento del templo. (PDF)
Celebrate 80 years of ministry with Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Tucson during a History Walk on Saturday, October 25, at 10:00 a.m. Walk through key spaces on campus as congregation members reenact moments from the church’s story, followed by a celebratory luncheon. Free and open to the public. For details or luncheon RSVPs, contact 520-327-6521 or oslc@lutherantucson.org.
Rev. Ryan Marsh will be installed at Crossroads Lutheran (2769 E Combs Rd, Building D, San Tan Valley, AZ 85140) on Sunday, 10/26/2025 at 2pm. Rev. Tina Mills will preach and preside. View live-stream on the Crossroads YouTube channel.
Following the installation service, there will be an angel food cake dessert celebration.
Join ELCA youth from across the valley for Youth Night of Connection, Sunday, Oct. 26, 4–7 PM at Love of Christ Lutheran in Mesa. The evening includes games, small group discussions, a youth-led message on connection, and a shared spaghetti dinner. Leaders are asked to share headcounts of youth and parents attending.
Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Click here to access the meeting, at 6pm on the last Tuesday of every month.
Are you wondering if seminary might be right for you? Consider joining Signs Along the Way at PLTS in Berkeley, California to connect with others in discernment, get to know PLTS faculty, and explore what it’s like to be an online student in the MDiv, MA in Spirituality and Social Change, or Lutheran Year programs.
PLTS is transitioning to only offer online study with in-person intensives, so this weekend is designed for those interested in online learning. PLTS covers lodging and meals during the event and can offer travel assistance for those who need it. Visit plts.edu/signs to learn more and sign up.
Find handmade gifts that give back! Join Desert Hills Lutheran Church in Green Valley on Saturday, November 8, from 8 AM to 1 PM for the Sewing Bee’s annual Fall Boutique, featuring quilts, jewelry, décor, purses, baked goods, and more. All proceeds support local charitable organizations.
Church & Society
Nearly every ELCA bishop—including Bishop Deborah Hutterer—has signed a letter calling Lutherans to be a public witness of love and justice in a time of fear and division. The letter affirms that Christian Nationalism distorts the gospel and urges faithful action grounded in God’s inclusive love.
Advocacy is more than policy—it’s a faithful response to God’s grace. The Southeastern Synod models a Lutheran approach grounded in Scripture and accompaniment: engaging congregations in justice work, equipping them with tools to act, and empowering leaders to advocate for the vulnerable. Their work embodies the call to love our neighbors through advocacy rooted in baptismal vocation. Read the full story at LAMA.
A new proposal could restrict voter registration by requiring costly and hard-to-access documents like passports—potentially excluding 21 million eligible Americans. The Election Assistance Commission is taking public comments until October 20. Add your voice as a person of faith who believes every vote is sacred. Read the full post and submit your comment today.
Critical programs that protect clean air, water, soil, and wildlife are facing deep federal budget cuts. As people of faith, we’re called to safeguard creation so that all life may flourish. Join ELCA Advocacy and Lutherans across the country in urging Congress to maintain funding for essential environmental programs like the EPA, Clean Water State Revolving Funds, and Superfund cleanups. Read the full Action Alert and contact your members of Congress.
As the 2024 Farm Bill expires, critical hunger and rural support programs face uncertainty. ELCA Advocacy urges lawmakers to pass a new bill that strengthens food security, supports farmers, and upholds faith-based commitments to caring for creation. From SNAP benefits to global food aid, the Farm Bill affects ministries that serve vulnerable communities daily. Learn how Lutheran voices are advocating for policies that ensure all are fed—in body and spirit.
This week’s BJC newsletter highlights advocacy against Texas’s new Bible-infused school curriculum, previews the October 21–23 Shurden Lectures on sanctuary and migrant justice, and covers an upcoming Supreme Court case on religious freedom in prisons. Readers will also meet Rabbi David Segal, BJC’s new Policy Counsel, and find the latest Report from the Capital addressing how threats to religious freedom are becoming reality. Read the full issue for details and ways to engage.
This week’s BJC newsletter highlights advocacy against Texas’s new Bible-infused school curriculum, previews the October 21–23 Shurden Lectures on sanctuary and migrant justice, and covers an upcoming Supreme Court case on religious freedom in prisons. Readers will also meet Rabbi David Segal, BJC’s new Policy Counsel, and find the latest Report from the Capital addressing how threats to religious freedom are becoming reality. Read the full issue for details and ways to engage.
This 4-part video course from ELCA World Hunger introduces the role of a “Hunger Leader”—a person who builds bridges between need and abundance in our communities. Open to everyone, this module offers inspiration and practical steps to step deeper into anti-poverty ministry rooted in Jesus’ call to love and serve. Click here to take the course.
In moments of political violence or misinformation, faith leaders play a vital role in calming tensions and promoting safety. This guide from the Safe Communities Coalition (of which GCS is a member) offers best practices for communication that de-escalates harm, respects victims, and strengthens democratic norms. Click here to read the full guide.
Faith leaders across Arizona are invited to sign a public letter denouncing political violence and affirming peaceful civic engagement. The Arizona Faith Network will publish signatures alongside the statement on the International Day of Peace, Sept. 21. All clergy and faith leaders are encouraged to sign. Click here to read and sign the statement.
Rev. Christine Stoxen of Holy Trinity Lutheran in Chandler calls for humane immigration reform and oversight of Arizona’s ICE detention centers, where inhumane conditions continue to be documented. Rooted in Scripture and ELCA social teaching, she urges people of faith to advocate for justice, care for the imprisoned, and welcome the stranger in our midst. Click here to read more.
Autumn Byars, member of University Lutheran in Tempe and former LAMA Hunger Advocacy Fellow, reflects on joining Creation Justice Ministries’ Witness for Creation press conference and worship at the Desert Botanical Garden. Held during the Season of Creation, this interfaith gathering lifted up urgent issues such as water justice, sacred lands, and support for the unhoused amid intensifying Arizona heat. It was a powerful call to care for creation—and one another—as an act of faith. Click here to read more.

Land Acknowledgment
We acknowledge and honor the original inhabitants of the various regions of our synod. The Grand Canyon Synod is spread across lands in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, which are currently home to over two dozen tribal nations.
We acknowledge and honor these communities, their elders both past and present, as well as future generations. We give thanks to our Indigenous siblings who have cared and continue to care for this place — this land — and call it their home.
Learn more about ELCA Indigenous Ministries, land acknowledgments, and Native American and Indigenous education resources.
Grounded in Grace, Growing in Generosity
How the ELCA Foundation and our synod are cultivating faithful giving that endures.
Generosity has the power to transform ministries and communities. Watch this short video to see how Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley, the Grand Canyon Synod, and the ELCA Foundation are partnering to build a legacy of faith for generations to come.
Read the full story to learn more about this ministry partnership and how generosity grows the church.
To explore endowment or planned giving for your congregation, contact Lisa Marie Higginbotham, ELCA Foundation Gift Planner, here »

The ELCA Conference of Bishops gathered in Minneapolis Oct. 5–7, following the installation of Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry. Bishop Curry announced that his first-year focus will be on building “a connected church,” drawing from the image of Christ as the vine and the church as the branches. During the meeting, Bishop Hutterer began her term as chair of the conference. Bishops discussed communication and unity amid political polarization, received updates on task forces and global partnerships, and reflected on how to live faithfully as a connected, sustainable church.
Read the full ELCA news release here: ELCA Conference of Bishops Gathers in Minneapolis ›