March is National Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Month which promotes inclusion for all. Learn how you can help Mosaic further its campaign, “Inclusion Inspires.” Read more at Mosaic.
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The Office of the Bishop travels to various congregations and ministries, prepares for synod assembly, and maintains day to day operations.
We also share photos of the Installation of Pastor Chris Heller at Esperanza Lutheran in Phoenix.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Stephen Talmage, Love of Christ, Mesa, who celebrates 39 years on March 10.
Rev. Patsy Koeneke, who celebrates 17 years on March 11.
Rev. Bruce Ayers, who celebrates 62 years on March 11.
Rev. Steven Crittenden, Epiphany of Christ, Apache Junction, who celebrates 15 years on March 12.
Rev. Beth Gallen, New Journey, Fountain Hills, who celebrates 3 years on March 13.
Arizona Faith Network (AFN) shares a diverse range of upcoming events and initiatives in their latest newsletter. From legislative updates on Arizona's Social Justice Commission and Voting Rights Committee to a crucial land acknowledgement workshop, AFN is driving meaningful conversations and actions. Additionally, explore opportunities for deepening your meditation practice, addressing American Christian Nationalism, and protecting election integrity in 2024.
Don't miss out on contributing your voice to opposing legislation impacting immigrant communities and enriching your understanding through interfaith events and workshops dedicated to sustainability, social justice, and the healing of women veterans.
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Join the Grand Canyon Synod for the concluding Spring Gatherings, themed "Embody the Word." Engage in Bible study, discuss the bishop election process, and be inspired by stories from our ministries. Don’t miss these opportunities for spiritual growth and community connection on March 17th in Phoenix and March 23rd in Sedona.
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HB2815, known as the 'Yes In God’s Back Yard' bill, received significant support from faith leaders and passed the Arizona House with a 38-21 vote. Advocacy by the religious community, including Bishop Deborah Hutterer, played a pivotal role in raising awareness and influencing lawmakers. Read more on the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) site.
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The 2024 Synod Assembly nominating committee is calling for nominations for synod council members, committee positions, and Churchwide Assembly voting members. Embrace this opportunity to serve and lead within the Grand Canyon Synod by submitting your nominations by April 22, 2024. Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our church. View our nominations page for full info.
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Looking for fresh inspiration of ways to care for your body – through movement, nutrition, or meditation? Portico reminds us that Burnalong’s daily calendar links to a different short online course each day. March features fun recipes and kitchen tips, just in time for National Nutrition Month.
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Just as every Sunday is a “little Easter,” every night offers a chance to take a “little sabbath” and restore your body through healing rest. If you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling like you’re getting a good night’s sleep, Portico members with ELCA-Primary health coverage have a wealth of resources to help. Since March is National Sleep Awareness month, why not check out Learn to Live’s course on insomnia (use the access PORTICO to register), or the Being Academy’s course on sleep.
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Two helpful tax guides are now available for church personnel. Portico provides rostered ministers and congregations participating in the ELCA benefit program with access to no-cost tax guides available on myPortico and EmployerLink.
The Clergy Tax Return Preparation Guide by Richard R. Hammar gives special attention to tax-related topics most relevant to ministers. Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches helps congregations understand their federal tax-reporting requirements.
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Diakonia recently hosted a webinar on Christian Nationalism in America at Peace Lutheran Church, which is available for viewing here. The event, structured in three informative sessions, explored its definition, history, theological aspects, and practical responses. Experts guided attendees through understanding this phenomenon in the context of faith and national identity.
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As part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share this video from the ELCA’s "Study Curriculum on Civic Life and Faith." Watch the video as a standalone resource, or explore the full set of the curriculum, including leader’s guides.
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Join us as an exhibitor at the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly! Engage with assembly participants through interactive displays that highlight the vital work of your ministry. Register by May 20, 2024, to secure your spot and be a part of our mission-driven community.
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The 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly is now accepting resolutions from members. Ensure your voice is heard by submitting your resolutions in line with the required guidelines by April 22, 2024.
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Week 3 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: Week 3: Belovedness in the Wilderness with Rev. Fursan Zu'mot.
Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: https://www.bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at https://www.ELCA.org/sumud.
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Join the Lutheran Faith Community Nurse Association's event on March 14, 2024, for an insightful session on "How Loneliness Influences Health and What Nurses Can Do to Help," led by Dr. Laurie Theeke. Learn about loneliness as a unique health stressor and explore interventions to support those feeling isolated within our communities. View this PDF for more info or visit their website.
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As we continue our 2024 Lenten Challenge, let’s explore the intersection of Lent and mental health with daily wellness activities. Commit to self-care this Lenten season by incorporating at least one wellness activity into your routine, enhancing your spiritual journey with physical and mental well-being.
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Campformation Summer 2024 offers a transformative week of faith, fun, and fellowship for 6th graders and above in Prescott, AZ. Join for spiritual growth amid nature's splendor! For more details, view this PDF or visit Lutheran Campformation. Register today for this June 23-28, 2024 experience.
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Althea was living in a place with no heat or running water before she came to Living Innovations. She now has redefined her life, is happy and has a great relationship with her host home provider. The post Taking Charge of Her Life, Althea Excels is available on the Mosaic site.
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Wartburg Theological Seminary Alumni from our Grand Canyon Synod are gathering in Tucson for a "Burger Bash" with President Kristin Johnson Largen on Friday, March 8th, 5:00 - 8:00 pm, at the home of Rev. Amalia Vagts ('21) and David Lester. Burgers & brews provided, bring a dish to pass. RSVP or questions: pastoramalia@lutherantucson.org.
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