Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA

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Thanks to all who made our 2023 Assembly possible

It's essential to acknowledge the many individuals who have contributed their time, talent, and energy to the planning and execution of this year's Synod Assembly. From committees and task forces to volunteers on the ground, the collective efforts of these dedicated individuals have been nothing short of extraordinary, turning our vision into a reality.

We also extend a heartfelt thank you to all our voting members. Your commitment to travel, engage, and participate in the intricate business of the church is deeply appreciated. It is your willingness to serve, your discerning voices, and your passion for our mission that drives the course of our church. This Assembly would not have been successful without your meaningful contributions and active participation. Thank you for embodying the spirit of our faith in action and being bold in your baptism.

Special Guests

Assembly Planning Team

A hearty thank you goes out to our dedicated assembly planning team. Your hard work transformed our collective vision into a reality, crafting an enriching and inspiring experience for all attendees.

  • Pr. Rebecca Boardman, Pr. Erin Morris, Pr. Mike Sager

  • Roger Bailey, Kristina Randolph, Janis Richert

  • Brian Flatgard, Kathye Hamm, and Theresa Thornburgh from the Office of the Bishop

  • Barbara Carl, Synod Vice President

  • Pr. Stephen Springer, Synod Secretary

  • Mary Beth Baron: Chair of reference and resolutions

  • Laura Musfeldt: Chair of the nominating committee

  • Annette Chavez, our Spanish translator

  • Pastor Tina Mills, coordinating our ministry partner tables

  • Our stage managers: Deacon Janice Zimbelman and Laura Musfeldt

Committees

We also thank Erik Rehms, Synod Treasurer, for his work as Chair of the Credentials Committee and presenting our reports and mission spending plan.

Thanks to Laura Musfeldt, Chair of the Nominating Committee, as well as Barbara Carl, Rev. David Brandfass, Janis Richert, Glenn Austad, and Mark Myers who served on the committee.

Pastor Mike Sager led our worship committee and planning.

Food and décor was planned by Kathye Hamm and Kristina Randolph.

We thank Pastor Steve Springer, Pastor David Brandfass, and Barbara Carl for their attention to detail as they oversaw our agenda , resolutions, and constitutional items.

Resurrection Lutheran Church

Our deepest appreciation is extended to Resurrection Lutheran Church, our gracious host for this year's assembly. Your generous hospitality provided a warm, welcoming environment for worship, fellowship, and important conversations. Thank you for opening your doors and hearts to us, and for your invaluable contributions to the success of this event. Your commitment to our community is sincerely appreciated.

  • Pastor Timothy Nybroten

  • Kristina Randolph

  • Music: Tanya Elias, Larry Kuipers, Ann Paulson, Jamee Haddorff, and the bell choir

  • Media Tech: Luke Amble, Isaiah Nicholson, Eli Nicholson, Mayson Meyners

  • Custodian: Mike Nolen, Paul Galloway, Michael Fimbres

  • Hospitality: Sandy Seppala, Nova Hinrichs

  • Altar Guild: Johnine Vette, Jacque Thames

  • Ushers: Ron and Jacque Thames, Wally and Johnnie Vette

A photographic record of the assembly was captured by Pastor Lars Hammar of Lord of Grace Lutheran Church in Tucson. Our thanks to everyone behind the scenes or anyone we missed who helped make this Assembly amazing!

We also thank Amber Norgaard and Sabre for their wonderful musical contributions.

Night at the Museum Planning Team

Thank you to the Night at the Museum Planning Team!

  • Rev. Rebecca Boardman, Lutheran Campus Ministry at U of A

  • Sue Jensen, Tanque Verde

  • Olga Ryan, Our Saviour's

  • Erica Tollefson Clark, Beautiful Savior 

  • Rev. Naomi Hartman, Lutheran Church of the Foothills

  • Amelia Proudfoot, Lutheran Campus Ministry at U of A

  • Danielle Brown, Lutheran Campus Ministry at U of A

  • Rev. Erin Morris, Resurrection

  • Kristina Randolph, Resurrection

We also thank the ELCA Federal Credit Union for financial support.