Posts in Grand Canyon Synod
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 preside, and Pastor Andrew Schlect 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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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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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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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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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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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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Bethany Lutheran Church Announces Opening for Part-Time Administrative Assistant

Bethany Lutheran Church in Scottsdale is looking for a part-time Administrative Assistant. This role requires strong computer, organizational, and communication skills, along with a solid background in administration. Ideal candidates should have a passion for service and effective church office management. Interested? Call us at 480-947-5525 to apply and become a part of our church family’s mission.

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Ordination celebrations: June 28 - July 4, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Craig Corbin, Mount Olive, Lake Havasu City, who celebrates 37 years on June 28.

  • Rev. Gayle Bintliff, who celebrates 23 years on June 29.

  • Rev. Randy Winsand, Ascension, Paradise Valley, who celebrates 11 years on June 30.

  • Rev. Myron Nysether, who celebrates 50 years on June 30.

  • Rev. William Dowling, who celebrates 64 years on June 30.

  • Rev. John Williams, who celebrates 51 years on June 30.

  • Rev. Glenn Zorb, who celebrates 45 years on July 1.

  • Rev. Jan Flaaten, who celebrates 51 years on July 1.

  • Deacon Brenda J. Laukonis, who celebrates 43 years on July 1.

  • Rev. Robert Hutson Jr., who celebrates 51 years on July 1.

  • Rev. Robert Rod, who celebrates 51 years on July 1.

  • Rev. James Dew, who celebrates 34 years on July 1.

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Join Lutheran Summer Music 2024 In Person or Online

Lutheran Summer Music announces its 42nd season, offering over 30 free and open-to-the-public concerts and recitals. All events take place this July at Valparaiso University, and most will be livestreamed. Performances and services are shared by over 250 students, faculty, fellows, worship staff, and guest artists who come together to create a vibrant community of music-makers. The LSM 2024 season will culminate during Festival Week (July 21-28), featuring the LSM Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra, a Festival of Hymns, and closing each day with sung Evening Prayer.

Of special note, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) will join this year’s LSM community and offer an intergenerational performance of J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion. Visit LSMacademy.org/2024 for a complete listing of events and to access the livestream.

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King of Glory Lutheran Seeks New Music Ministry Leaders

King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe is seeking dedicated individuals for three key positions within their Music Department: Director of Music Ministries, Youth Music Leader, and Organist/Accompanist. These roles are integral to their vibrant worship and community engagement. Start dates for all positions are August 4, 2024. For more details and application procedures, visit our website or contact Vicki Hegebush at vickih@kogaz.org.

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Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center Announces Opening for Director of Advancement

Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center is seeking a Director of Advancement to lead and manage its fundraising activities. This role involves developing fundraising goals, managing events, and utilizing CRM systems like Bloomerang for strategic decision-making. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in philanthropy, marketing, and event execution. View the job description as a PDF here. For further details or to apply, contact Executive Director Eric Simonson.

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Powwow 101, with Vicar Wanda Frenchman

One of the social events that Tribal nations and organizations host that welcome non-Indigenous people to attend is a powwow. There are plenty of powwows hosted across the United States and Canada. It is likely there is one planned and hosted somewhere near you. Some of you may have attended a powwow in the past and have enjoyed the drums, singing, dancing, ceremony and food while there!

But whether you have attended a powwow in the past or have yet to attend a powwow, this presentation from the Grand Canyon Synod’s Wanda Frenchman will provide you with information and instructions on how to be a respectful and successful visitor/guest. For more information: http://elca.org/indigenous

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