Posts in Grand Canyon Synod
A Legacy of Learning: First Scholarships Awarded by Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix
A Legacy of Learning: First Scholarships Awarded by Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix

Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix has awarded its first scholarships through the Grace and Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship Fund, established in 2023 to help ELCA members pursue higher education and professional growth. This fund honors Martin Luther’s legacy of learning, providing financial aid and community support. With matching funds available at many faith-based institutions, a single gift can make a significant impact. To learn about eligibility or contribute to the fund, contact Arizona Community Foundation at azfoundation.org or Grace Lutheran’s team at Treasurer@graceinthecity.com.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGrace Phoenix, Capital Conference, Grants, Youth and Young AdultComment
Make a Difference Before 2024 Ends: Tax-Savvy Giving Options for Lutherans
Make a Difference Before 2024 Ends: Tax-Savvy Giving Options for Lutherans

Looking to make a difference and save on taxes before 2024 ends? Discover smart ways to give that benefit both you and the ELCA ministries you care about. From simple cash donations to leveraging appreciated securities, gift annuities, and IRA contributions, these giving options can maximize your impact. Contact Lisa Marie Higginbotham, our Regional Gift Planner, to explore how you can contribute meaningfully this holiday season.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Foundation, StewardshipComment
Walk Where Paul Walked: A 2025 Pilgrimage to Greece with Bishop Hutterer
Walk Where Paul Walked: A 2025 Pilgrimage to Greece with Bishop Hutterer

Join Bishop Deborah Hutterer and the Grand Canyon Synod from October 15–26, 2025, for a pilgrimage through Greece and the Greek Islands, retracing the footsteps of the Apostle Paul. Visit historic biblical sites, renew your baptism at Lydia’s river, and embark on a 4-day cruise to the island of Patmos where the Book of Revelation was written. With limited space available, register today to secure your spot! For full details and registration, visit Elias Tours.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Greece TourComment
Uniting Lutheran and Episcopal Voices: Advent Service of Hope and Peace
Uniting Lutheran and Episcopal Voices: Advent Service of Hope and Peace

Join churches in Chandler and Mesa for “Anticipation, Hope & Peace: Advent Lessons and Carols” on December 8 at 5:00 PM at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Chandler. This collaborative service, uniting Lutheran and Episcopal congregations, offers an evening of scripture, music, and reflection. All are welcome to experience the Advent season through both traditions, celebrating the hope and peace that unite us.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFirst Evangelical Mesa, Holy Trinity Chandler, Fiesta Conference, Episcopal Diocese of Arizona, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, 2024 Advent and ChristmasComment
Young Adults Invited to Winter Retreat in Prescott: Sign Up Today
Young Adults Invited to Winter Retreat in Prescott: Sign Up Today

Young adults across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to join the upcoming Winter Retreat at Camp ALOMA in Prescott, January 17-20. Enjoy faith-based learning, fellowship, and fun activities like Laser Tag, s’mores around the fire, and hiking. Connect with other young adults in a beautiful outdoor setting and grow in your faith. Spaces are limited—register today!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardWest Valley Young Adults, Youth and Young Adult, Camp ALOMA, Outdoor MinistryComment
Advent Mondays: Restore Our Hope with Spirit in the Desert
Advent Mondays: Restore Our Hope with Spirit in the Desert

This Advent, join Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center for Restore Our Hope: Advent Centering Prayer, a free online program led by Sheri Brown. Every Monday in December, spend 30 minutes in song, guided meditation, and communal prayer as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming. Sessions are at 12:00 PM AZ/MST. Register now at Spirit in the Desert’s website.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Resources, Worship ResourcesBrian Flatgard2024 Advent and Christmas, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Worship ResourcesComment
Celebrate Faith and Culture with AFN: Highlights for December 2024
Celebrate Faith and Culture with AFN: Highlights for December 2024

Join the Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering on December 9 at the Franciscan Renewal Center for a morning of connection and inspiration, featuring keynote speaker Rev. Eugene Cho. Don’t miss weekly guided meditations, an urgent call to protect the sacred Great Bend of the Gila, and the 6th Annual Turkish Festival on December 7-8 in Chandler. Plus, support Arizona Jews for Justice’s Winter Clothing Drive to aid the unsheltered community. Explore these events and more in the full AFN Newsletter.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
LAMA 2025 Priorities: A Commitment to Justice, Education, and Dignity
LAMA 2025 Priorities: A Commitment to Justice, Education, and Dignity

The Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) Policy Council convened November 17–18 to discern priorities for the coming year. Their 2025 focus includes food insecurity, civic engagement, public schools, immigration, housing, and informed Christian engagement. Guided by Lutheran teachings, LAMA is committed to addressing critical issues affecting Arizona communities. Interested in joining the Policy Council? Read the full post on the LAMA site for more info.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), AdvocacyComment
Next Steps for Creation Care and Climate Justice Post-Election
Next Steps for Creation Care and Climate Justice Post-Election

Reflecting on the election, Blessed Tomorrow’s December newsletter highlights faith-driven climate action, from sustainable holiday practices to sparking meaningful family conversations with the “Climate at the Dinner Table” Skit Kit. Learn about opportunities like the 2025 American Climate Leadership Awards and the National Council of Churches’ renewed call for environmental justice. Read more.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBlessed Tomorrow, Climate ChangeComment
Festival of Homiletics Early Bird Registration ends 11/30
Festival of Homiletics Early Bird Registration ends 11/30

Registration for the 2025 Festival of Homiletics is open! Join us in Atlanta or online from May 12-15 for a journey of healing and unity through the power of preaching. This year’s theme, Preaching to Heal the Divide, responds to the pressing need for reconciliation in our polarized world. Early bird rates are available until November 30—don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation!

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Leadership Resources, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFestival of HomileticsComment
God’s Presence in Mental Health Challenges: Enroll in a Free Course by November 28
God’s Presence in Mental Health Challenges: Enroll in a Free Course by November 28

Equip yourself with faith-based tools to navigate mental health challenges in our communities. God and Mental Health Challenges, a free Faith+Lead course available through November 28, explores how faith shapes our response to mental health struggles, offers practical caregiving strategies, and helps break down stigmas. Learn more and register today: faithlead.org/course-lp/god-and-mental-health-challenges.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther Seminary, Mental HealthComment
Shepherd of the Hills in Flagstaff Seeks Choir Leader
Shepherd of the Hills in Flagstaff Seeks Choir Leader

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Flagstaff seeks a part-time Choir Director or Choral Intern to guide their vibrant choir in worship and growth. Ideal for experienced choral leaders or those starting in church music ministry, this position offers flexibility and a welcoming community. Contact the church for application details, read the job description here, and take the next step in your musical ministry journey!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardShepherd of the Hills Flagstaff, High Country Conference, Help WantedComment
Latine Ministry Competency Workshop, December 12-14, 2024 | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino, 12-14 de diciembre de 2024
Latine Ministry Competency Workshop, December 12-14, 2024 | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino, 12-14 de diciembre de 2024

Únase al Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino este diciembre para profundizar las habilidades de alcance cultural y comunitario de su ministerio. Este evento virtual de tres días, organizado por el CTLM del Seminario Teológico de Wartburg, ofrece a los líderes de la ELCA estrategias prácticas y modelos de ministerio inspiradores de expertos en ministerio latino. Las sesiones se llevarán a cabo del 12 al 14 de diciembre, con un enfoque en el fortalecimiento de comunidades de adoración multiétnicas y bilingües. La inscripción está abierta en wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, con opciones para individuos y congregaciones. Descargue o vea el PDF aquí.

Join the Latine Ministry Competency Workshop this December to deepen your ministry’s cultural and community outreach skills. This three-day virtual event, hosted by Wartburg Theological Seminary’s CTLM, offers ELCA leaders practical strategies and inspiring ministry models from experts in Latine ministry. Sessions will be held December 12-14, with a focus on strengthening multi-ethnic and bilingual worshipping communities. Registration is open at wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, with options for individuals and congregations. Download or view PDF here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardEspañol, Wartburg SeminaryComment
Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month
Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month

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! Tuesday, 11/26/2024, 6-7pm MST/PDT.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgardhunger, Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders NetworkComment