Posts in News
Ordination celebrations: July 5-11, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Deacon Bernice Johnson, who celebrates 65 years on July 5.

  • Rev. Arlyn Norris, who celebrates 49 years on July 6.

  • Rev. Joshua Auchenbach, Tanque Verde, Tucson, who celebrates 18 years on July 9.

  • Rev. Timothy Nybroten, Resurrection, Oro Valley, who celebrates 24 years on July 9.

  • Rev. Daniel Hodgson, who celebrates 57 years on July 9.

  • Rev. Richard Staats, who celebrates 58 years on July 10.

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Peanut Butter Wars: A Friendly Battle Against Food Insecurity in Las Vegas

Join the 2024 Peanut Butter Wars to help fight food insecurity in Las Vegas! From July 1 to August 5, 2024, groups across the community are competing to donate the most peanut butter and raise funds. The event aims to collect $25,000 and 10,000 pounds of peanut butter for Lutheran Social Services of Nevada.

Participate or donate to make a significant impact—every jar counts towards battling hunger. Get involved by emailing martin@lssnv.org and help spread the word using #peanutbutterwars!

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Ordination and Installation of Louis Liss

Louis Liss will be ordained and installed at Mount Zion Lutheran Church (4520 West Ajo Way, Tucson, AZ 85746-9706) on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at 11 am. Bishop Hutterer will preach. A livestream link will be provided.

Rostered leaders are encouraged to vest and process, color of the day is red. There will be a reception following in the Fellowship Hall.

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Faith-Based Civic Engagement: Join NCC Freedom Summer 2024

Join the NCC Freedom Summer 2024, a faith-based campaign inspired by the 1964 Freedom Summer, focusing on voter education, registration, and mobilization in five key states. The campaign begins the week of Juneteenth and includes the Virtual Freedom Summer Academy and a five-city Freedom Ride, culminating in a Freedom Summit on August 17, 2024. Discover how you can participate and make a difference in communities across the nation by engaging with this pivotal initiative. Visit their sign-up page to get involved and help bring about social change through faith and action.

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Explore Key Faith-Based Initiatives This Summer with the Arizona Faith Network

Join the Arizona Faith Network this summer for a series of impactful events and learning opportunities. Highlights include discussions on recent Supreme Court decisions, voting rights initiatives, and educational webinars on American Christian Nationalism and process theology. Participate in our advocacy workshops to learn about critical issues like hunger and housing. Mark your calendars and RSVP to contribute to these vital community discussions and actions. Learn more and get involved.

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Lutheran Advocacy: A Global and Local Update for June/July 2024

In the June and July 2024 updates from the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices, significant advocacy efforts were highlighted from the UN Civil Society Conference in Nairobi to state-level legislative actions in the U.S. Key issues include global reforms, electoral measures in Colorado, advocacy in Pennsylvania, and ongoing legislative concerns in Texas and Wisconsin. These updates showcase the Lutheran commitment to shaping public policies and advocating for justice both globally and locally.

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Benefits reExamined Survey Reminder

Through an initiative called Benefits reExamined, Portico seeks input as we discern and design potential benefit changes to continue to meet the evolving needs of this church. Portico plan members and registered EmployerLink users, if you received an email invitation to take the survey, we strongly encourage you to take a few minutes before the survey closes July 12 and add your voice to the conversation.

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Empowering Civic Participation: Introducing the ELCA Election Activator Network

Join the #ELCAElectionActivator network to support and equip ELCA members for nonpartisan participation in the electoral process through monthly virtual gatherings and regular updates. Participate in activities that foster civic engagement. Sign up now to join the next meeting on July 23, 2024 and contribute to a just and peaceful society. Sign up here.

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A Testament to Service: Campus Ministry Leaders Awarded for Outstanding Contributions

We celebrate the remarkable achievements of Pastor Rebecca Boardman and Pastor Mike Girlinghouse of the Grand Canyon Synod, recipients of the James R. Carr Distinguished Service Award and the Sue E. Rothmeyer Advocacy for Campus Ministry Award, respectively. Their outstanding service and leadership in campus ministry have not only enriched our community but also set a high standard for dedication and excellence within the ELCA. Join us in honoring their contributions and learn more about their impactful work in our latest blog post.

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Embrace the Journey of Retirement at the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Retirees Retreat

Join the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Retirees Retreat from October 28-30 at the Spirit in the Desert Retteat Center in Carefree, AZ. This year’s theme, “Signs of Hope in Turbulent Times,” features sessions with Rev. Mark Hanson and newly re-elected Bishop Deborah Hutterer. The retreat offers a rich program of fellowship, worship, and reflection. Secure your spot now and find renewal in the company of peers. View this PDF for registration and scholarship information, or contact Jan Fosen at (602-758-0875) or via email at fosen1215@gmail.com with questions.

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Debate and Discovery: How ‘The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory’ Reflects on Evangelical Challenges

Join Pastor Steve Holm and Sheri Brown for a thoughtful discussion on The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism by Tim Alberta, exploring the evangelical identity within the ELCA. This book club event, hosted by Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, is set for Thursday, July 11 from 12:00 to 1:00 PM AZ (MST). Dive deep into the complexities of American evangelicalism and its impact on our faith. Register and learn more about the event.

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A Sound Investment: Timpani available at Ascension Lutheran Church

Ascension Lutheran Church in Paradise Valley is selling a four-piece timpani set, appraised at $8,000, for just $4,000 as they continue their move to a new location. This offers a fantastic opportunity for congregations and music directors to enhance their worship services with high-quality instruments at a fraction of the cost. For more details and to explore this unique offer, contact them through Ascension’s website.

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Discover the Power of Story: Connect Deeply with God and Others

What could we learn from Jesus as the master storyteller? His parables never carry a single meaning but reveal more about ourselves and God every time we revisit them. He told stories to bind his followers to those they never intended to care about, and to define their mission.

Isn’t this the kind of connection we need right now, with God and one another—especially as we confront crises of trust, loneliness, and divisions in our communities? This is why Faith+Lead is hosting Story Bridge: Using Story to Connect with God and Others.

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Revitalizing Faith: Yolanda Solomon’s Fresh Take on Discipleship in Today’s Skeptical World

Explore transformative strategies for authentic discipleship in faith+lead’s latest Pivot podcast episode featuring Yolanda Solomon. Discover how to make discipleship relevant and delightful in today’s challenging cultural landscape. Solomon offers insights into creating genuine communities and reframing discipleship as an invitation to beauty. An essential listen for church leaders seeking practical guidance in fostering sincere faith amidst disillusionment. Listen to the full episode here.

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Elevate Your Leadership: Enroll in ‘Stepping Up to Supervision’ This August

Join Luther Seminary’s “Stepping Up to Supervision” course, led by Susan Beaumont, this August 2024. This three-session course offers comprehensive training in effective supervision within the church context, covering everything from performance management to progressive discipline. Sessions are on August 13, 20, and 27 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM CT. Equip yourself with the skills needed for effective church leadership. Enroll now for $195 with access to recorded sessions for a year. Visit faithlead.org for more details and registration.

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Empower Your Ministry: Enroll in the Basic Skills Coach Training for Faith Leaders

Enhance your leadership skills with Basic Skills Coach Training from Luther Seminary’s faith+lead, starting July 8th, 2024. This course offers nine online sessions under the guidance of Rev. Dr. Dawn Alitz, focusing on empowering techniques like active listening and powerful questioning. Available at just $375 with scholarship options, this training also counts towards your ICF credential. Don’t miss out—enroll now to transform how you support and empower your community.

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