Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest seeks Christmas gifts for 1,000 children and towel sets for 500 older adults, with donations due December 14 by 1 p.m. Volunteers are also needed in Phoenix and Tucson. Discover ways to serve and watch The Ripple Effect, a new video series celebrating the lasting impact of kindness. Contact volunteers@lss-sw.org to get involved.

Spirit in the Desert shares a season of gratitude and upcoming opportunities for worship, healing, and fellowship, including the Healing of Memories Workshop for veterans, ThanksLiving Music Fest, Chanukah in Carefree, and GivingTuesday. Read the full November newsletter for event details, registration links, and ways to support Spirit's ministry.

The Grand Canyon Synod welcomes Keila and Kelian Reyes from Guadalajara, Mexico, December 7–15, 2026, strengthening our partnership with the Iglesia Luterana Mexicana. Congregations, especially in the Phoenix area, are invited to host or include these young Lutheran visitors in upcoming events. Contact Pastor Shari Bernau at pastorshari@lwlcaz.org.

Mosaic's latest newsletter highlights stories of hope, entrepreneurship, and inclusive employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Discover how individualized support changes lives and how businesses can create more inclusive workplaces. Read the full newsletter for these inspiring stories and more.

ELCA World Hunger's 2026 Advent devotional, Filled With Good Things, invites congregations and families to explore Scripture, generosity, advocacy, and caring for neighbors. Featuring weekly reflections, children's activities, and the hands-on "Stocking the Streets" project, this resource helps put faith into action throughout Advent, beginning November 29. Download the free devotional | Order printed copies

Join the Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin and Pastor Ron Glusenkamp for Filled with Good Things, a four-session online Advent series exploring faith, hunger, belonging, advocacy, and community action. Sessions meet November 18 and December 2, 9, and 16, from 8–9 a.m. Arizona time / 7–8 a.m. Nevada Pacific time. All are invited to reflect, connect, and put faith into action. Learn more and register.

The ELCA's The Joy of Generosity offers congregations a customizable four-week stewardship program focused on joyful giving, community, and God's work together. Explore ready-to-use sermon resources, worship materials, commitment cards, and planning tools to inspire generosity and strengthen congregational ministry. Download the program guide | Get customizable materials

Newly installed Metropolitan Chicago Synod Bishop Erik Christensen shares his vision for a church rooted in authentic relationships, mutual support, and meaningful community. Reflecting on his journey from exclusion as an LGBTQIA+ pastor to serving as bishop, Christensen explores how listening, reconciliation, and reaching beyond church walls can help congregations embody the gospel of God's love and liberation. Read the full interview in Living Lutheran.

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. R. Stewart McDonald, who celebrates 40 years on November 12.

Our Learn and Discern series concludes with a 27-minute conversation about empathy, faithful dialogue, and the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Listen, then consider using the ELCA’s Conscience and Conversation study to continue thoughtful discussion in your congregation or small group.

Celebrate being beloved children of God at “We Are Worthy,” November 14, 2026, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., at Love of Christ Lutheran’s Compassion Center in Mesa. Enjoy Bible study, music, a keynote, painting, and worship with Communion. All women are welcome. Complimentary registration is available for synod rostered women, with scholarships for lay women of color. Register and bring a friend.

What do charitable giving trends mean for your ministry? Join the ELCA Foundation’s November 11 webinar, 11 a.m.–noon Arizona/Utah time or 10–11 a.m. Nevada time, for insights from Giving USA 2026 and practical fundraising guidance. Pastors, stewardship teams, and ministry leaders are encouraged to register.

Enjoy free Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Sunday, November 8, at 5:30 p.m., featuring Beth Lederman, Joe Corral, and Felix Sainz. Part of the Music for Food series, the concert supports the Olive Branch Community of Hope Food Pantry, serving more than 300 families weekly. All are welcome!

Support Lutheran Campus Ministry at ASU with tamales and football! Order red chile pork tamales by November 12 for $37.50 per dozen—only 50 orders are available—or reserve $25 tickets for the November 28 ASU–UofA watch party, including food and soft drinks. Tamale pickup and the party are at University Lutheran Church in Tempe; times will be announced. Read more for ordering instructions and select the correct LCM fund when paying.

Join Gather Valley of the Sun for a Heard Museum visit on Sunday, November 8, at noon, guided by ELCA Young Adults’ Taína Diaz-Reyes in recognition of Native American Heritage Month. Optional lunch is at 11 a.m., with carpooling from University Lutheran Church in Tempe. The first 10 attendees receive free admission. RSVP through @gathervalleyofthesun on Instagram.