Be Bold in Your Baptism

The theme of our 2023 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, "Be Bold in Your Baptism," serves as a powerful reminder of the vibrant faith we have been gifted through our baptism into Jesus Christ. It's a call to let go of the old and open ourselves to God's transformative power, enabling us to boldly embody our true purpose as individuals and as the Body of Christ.

We understand that the call to boldness can be challenging, especially in a time when societal issues such as immigration, water shortages, gun control, economic concerns, and diversity, equity, and inclusion tend to divide our communities. How can we, as a church, engage in these discussions with an open heart, eager to truly hear one another, find common ground, and work towards solutions that respect and honor all of God's creation? Some days, the task can feel overwhelming. Yet, as disciples of Jesus, we are called to live with optimism and courage, not resignation. We are Easter people. We are the church, together for the sake of the world, believing that God continues to create anew — including us.

With experience in linking scripture to living faithfully in our baptism, our assembly keynote speakers — Rev. Dr. Anthony Bateza, Rev. Sara Cutter, and Sister Lika Macias — will inspire us to remain hopeful as we delve deeper into our baptismal journey, creating a table where all are genuinely welcomed.

Our Future: From Worry to Wonder

It's heartening to see that despite the disruptions caused by COVID-19, many congregations in the synod are bouncing back with renewed commitment to their communities and a revitalized engagement. The world is changing, and so is the life of religious institutions. Our assets may look different from 2019, but rather than being a reaction to the pandemic, these are signals of opportunities arising in a post-Christendom Western world.

In the face of these changes, we're invited to wonder instead of worry. We're not the first generation tasked with rebuilding the church amidst cultural shifts, but we are the first to do so in the context of 21st-century realities. The church belongs to God, who is far from finished with inspiring and leading us. I trust that you share my enthusiasm for the discoveries that lie ahead.

So, how do we best fulfill our mission as a synod in such a world? We have experienced the global church through our relationships with the Lutheran Church of Senegal, the Mexican Lutheran Church, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land. We've seen conflict and peace through the eyes of U of A Lutheran Campus Ministry students and Pastor Rebecca Boardman during our visit to Corrymeela in Ireland.

We are living out our mission as a synod through ministry explorations that include the West Valley Young Adult Ministry, which gets support from Churchwide, our synod, and the Cactus Conference. There are plans to launch the new Arabic and Armenian congregation in Las Vegas (interviews are underway!) Other ministry explorations include: the merger of Good Samaritan and The Lakes; Holy Trinity in Chandler is anchoring with First Evangelical; Crossroads has launched The Station coffeehouse in Florence; Holy Spirit in Las Vegas invited Lutheran Social Services of Nevada into their congregation space; the Wisdom Keepers at House of Prayer in Rock Point continue to move forward; and the list goes on. We are learning and growing together.

We're also committed to embracing intentional diversity. Our leadership—including the synod council, conference deans, and Office of the Bishop staff—has completed the IDI (Interculture Development Inventory) and gained insights into our understanding of diversity and how we can expand our self-knowledge. This knowledge will help us understand where we are and how the Grand Canyon Synod can grow to reflect God's rich diversity.

We've seen churches close with confidence in God's ongoing mission, like Alleluia, Phoenix. We've seen two congregations vote to disaffiliate — Resurrection in Scottsdale and La Sagrada Familia in Phoenix. Yet, we believe that ministry will continue in new forms. I envision a future where disciples intentionally invite others to join a life with Christ. We trust that God will guide us to be a church that breaks down divides and fosters conversation and action.

Stewards of our Synod

We're committed to strategically investing the resources we steward as a synod. This strategic investment mainly focuses on three areas: synod staff, developing future leaders, and fostering congregational vitality. These priorities, as you'll see in the 2024-2025 synod mission plan, are designed to lead our synod into a future inspired by the Holy Spirit.

In terms of The Growing Generosity Appeal, launched in 2021, we're making great progress. We've received $700,245 towards our stretch goal of $750,000. Many of the funds have been disbursed and supported numerous initiatives. This includes $300,000 as part of our shared Lilly 3E grants with the Rocky Mountain Synod, which funds Stewardship for All Seasons, Beginning a Culture of Generosity, Best Skills-Best Churches training and debt relief for pastors. Disbursed funds also include $100,000 for advocacy ministries, LAMA and LEAN; $50,000 towards U of A Lutheran Campus Ministry; and $150,000 has been allocated toward the mission and ministry for new starts and ethnic specific ministries. I am hopeful we will complete the appeal this year, with your generosity.

Remembering Rev. Howie Wennes

Our church community experienced a profound loss this past year, with the passing of Rev. Howie Wennes, the first bishop of our synod. Rev. Wennes was a man of deep faith, a compassionate leader, and a friend to many. His tireless dedication to the church and the gospel was a source of inspiration to many.

He was supportive of me, and when I’d ask for advice, he would respond, “the church is so different from when I served. You are doing a fantastic job.” He would sign each email, “old friend in faith, Howie,” a signature that spoke of his humility, his camaraderie, and his deep-rooted faith.

Thank You

I want to express my gratitude for your trust in us, which allows the Grand Canyon Synod to make a significant impact. Your generous support has enabled us to accomplish more together than we could have individually.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank the dedicated synod staff who make a significant contribution to our work. They serve with a deep sense of purpose and commitment, offering invaluable support to the Office of the Bishop.

Our Synod Council has been extraordinary, always ready to engage with the work that lies ahead. I'm particularly grateful for the executive committee, who make our conversations not just productive but enjoyable.

I'd also like to thank and recognize Rev Dr. Mari Larson, who has been serving as the co-president of the Lutheran Ecumenical & Inter-Religious Representatives Network (LEIRN). Her commitment to fostering understanding, dialogue, and cooperation among diverse faith communities is invaluable. In an increasingly interconnected world, ecumenical relations are more essential than ever.

The GCS will have a bishop election in 2024. I am discerning if the Holy Spirit is calling me to put my name forward for another term. I will let the synod know by September. I am energized by this call. I’ve said it before and say it again—the call to serve as bishop is strange, beautiful, hard, surprisingly difficult, joyful, and complex. I have never been bored and I look forward to most days. I am grateful for the confidence you have placed in me to do this work.

To all of you — lay leaders, rostered ministers, prayer partners — thank you for your commitment to the synod's work, which forms part of God's redeeming activity in our world. It continues to be my privilege to serve alongside you as the bishop of this synod. As we move forward, let us remain bold in our faith, trusting in God's guidance and love.

Grateful for how God uses you to live boldly in your baptism,

The Rev. Deborah K. Hutterer
Bishop
Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA