Help Us Welcome the ELCA to Phoenix: Volunteer for Churchwide Assembly 2025

  • July 28–August 2, 2025 • Phoenix Convention Center

The Grand Canyon Synod is honored to host the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly—an event that brings together representatives from across the country for worship, discernment, and decisions that will shape the future of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

As host synod, we have the unique opportunity to extend radical hospitality—and we need your help to do it.

We’re seeking up to 100 volunteers to help everything run smoothly. Whether you can greet guests at Sky Harbor, usher during worship, assist with registration, or offer tech support in plenary sessions, your time and gifts are deeply needed and appreciated.

💻 Sign up today: Volunteer at Churchwide Assembly »

🧾 Watch the Info Webinar: If you missed our volunteer information session, you can watch the recording here(Passcode: 5N3M!&sW). Mary Beth Baron, our Volunteer Coordinator, walks through each role and answers frequently asked questions.

🔧 Volunteer Roles Include:

  • Airport & Hotel Greeters

  • Registration and Check-In

  • Worship Support (Ushers, Communion help)

  • Tech & Distribution Assistance

  • Door Monitors and Microphone Pages

  • Dining Hosts and General Volunteers

Volunteers will serve at various downtown Phoenix locations, including the Phoenix Convention Center, nearby hotels, and the airport. Shifts range from a few hours to full days. Dates begin Saturday, July 26, with roles continuing through Saturday, August 2.

🌙 New Role Highlight: Prayer Vigil Support

A special Prayer Vigil will take place outside the Phoenix Convention Center on Wednesday, July 30 at 9:00 PM. We’re seeking 15–20 volunteers to be present at this outdoor event to distribute water and provide assistance to anyone who may need help managing the evening heat. Many guests may not be used to our desert climate—even after sunset. If you’re available that evening, your quiet presence and care can make a powerful difference.

✅ Quick Details:

  • Volunteer Check-In: 3rd floor of the Convention Center North Building. Arrive 15 minutes early.

  • Transportation: Use the Phoenix Light Rail if possible. Parking is covered for volunteers.

  • Hotel Info: Discounted rates available at the Hilton Garden Inn through June 13 (volunteers cover their own lodging).

  • Dress Code: Business casual. Plan for both Phoenix heat and strong convention center A/C.

  • Meals: Bring or purchase your own meals; light snacks and water stations will be available.

  • Storage: No secure storage—bring only what you can keep on you.

🙏 Your presence will make this important gathering possible. Churchwide Assembly only happens every three years—and in 2025, it happens here.

📬 Questions? Contact Volunteer Coordinator Mary Beth Baron at mbbaron@gcsynod.org

Let’s show our ELCA siblings what Grand Canyon Synod hospitality looks like!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Churchwide AssemblyComment