This year, journeying through Lent as well as the spring gatherings around our synod, I was heartened by the joy of our most basic calling: sharing the Good News.

At gatherings of conferences in Las Vegas, Tucson, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Sedona, a portion of our time was dedicated to simple open mic sessions, introduced by conference deans, where leaders of our congregations and ministries proclaimed the wonders of God's work in their communities. The feedback we received was clear: we live in a world desperate to hear any kind of good news.

The Good News of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate this Holy Week, is a story of love, sacrifice, and triumph over death. It is the story that continues to revive hearts and instill hope. The empty tomb tells us that Christ is alive in our world. Similarly, our spring gatherings are a testament to the living and active body of Christ in our midst.

Each story shared at our gatherings was a thread in the common mission of our synod that weaves us together. We heard of innovative programs taking root and long-held ministries finding new branches. Our congregations are busy feeding a hungry world with box lunches, youth programs, music ministries, and community outreach.

We heard that our congregations are manifestations of the Gospel alive in our world—a world that is weary yet also ripe for the renewal that only Christ can give. The Good News we bear is not only of Christ's triumph but also of the daily resurrections we witness: reconciliations within communities, the comforting of those who grieve, and the acts of kindness that reflect God's love.

In this Holy Week, as we walk from the somber reflections of the cross to jubilant alleluias, let us joyously carry with us the stories of transformation and redemption that we've heard and lived. I encourage you to communicate Jesus. Be simple and bold as you continue to share the Good News of Jesus—His life, His death, His resurrection—and also the good news of our congregations and ministries.

As we proclaim, “He is Risen,” may we also be mindful to look for the resurrection light in all corners of our weary world, to listen for the good news of Christ's peace and renewing grace, and to add our voices to the chorus.

Risen Lord, as we journey through Holy Week into the joy of Easter morning, help us to be bearers of your Good News in all that we say and do. Strengthen our voices to share the stories of your transformative love and embolden our hearts to be messengers of hope to a world yearning for your renewal. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

May the joy of the Risen Christ be with you this Easter and always,

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