Save the Date for "Bearing Worthy Fruit," A Retreat for Rostered Ministers with Rev. Karoline Lewis

How do we lead, teach, and preach in ways that embody who God calls us to be? This fall, the Grand Canyon Synod invites all rostered and synodically authorized ministers—and ministry candidates—to join Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis for a transformative retreat exploring faithful leadership and gender justice.

“Bearing Worthy Fruit” takes place Monday, October 13, at 1:00 PM through Wednesday, October 15, at 11:00 AM, at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. Together, we’ll examine how enduring systems of sexism, patriarchy, and misogyny distort the Body of Christ—and how we as leaders can resist and transform these systems through theology, preaching, and embodied presence.

The retreat includes theological and practical presentations from Rev. Lewis, worship, small group discussion, personal reflection, and spacious downtime. This is a unique opportunity for rest, renewal, and deeper engagement with a community of peers committed to integrity in leadership.

Space is limited to 25 participants, and registration opens May 1. Fees include lodging, meals, and programming, supported by an ELCA Quality of Call Grant.

  • Early registration (May 1–31, 2025): $325

  • Regular registration (June 1–August 31, 2025): $375

  • Late registration (September 1–15, 2025): $400

Rev. Dr. Karoline M. Lewis is the Marbury E. Anderson Chair in Biblical Preaching at Luther Seminary and a widely respected voice in the church. She is the author of Embody, SHE, Preaching the Word, and Belonging, among others, and is known for her work with Working Preacher and the Sermon Brainwave podcast.

This retreat is distinct from the Bishop’s Fall Gathering (October 29–November 1). Please help spread the word to eligible leaders who may benefit from this opportunity.

>> Registration opens May 1. Save the date and plan to join us.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardComment