The spirit of generosity was clearly demonstrated during this year’s Synod Assembly. 314 pastors, deacons, and lay leaders gathered at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley, AZ to connect with one another, communicate Jesus, and create possibilities.  

United in mission, offering from our assembly worship services totaled $4,906.85 equally divided between two powerful ministries: ELCA World Hunger and First Call Theological Education. ELCA World Hunger partners with churches, social ministry organizations, development organizations, and advocacy organizations to reach communities most in need in 63 countries, including 34 projects in the United States and territories.

 First Call Theological Education connects & empowers new pastors and deacons in the Grand Canyon Synod to lead the communities in which God has called them to serve. This past session we gathered 9 first call pastors at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, a new record for the GCS.

Our assembly contributions were not just monetary. Answering the call to action, our attendees arrived at the assembly with arms full of rice, beans, and flour to donate to La Casa de la Misericordia y de Todas las Naciones in Nogales, Mexico. The sheer volume of donations was a sight to behold, filling the back of a pickup and passenger van.

Sister Lika, with La Casa de la Misericordia, was thrilled and grateful by the response. The donations will go a long way in supporting the food security of those served by the ministry, a compelling reminder of the difference we can make when we work as church together.

Thank you to the entire Grand Canyon Synod Assembly for your generous offering, impacting the church & the world through these three amazing ministries!