Join the ELCA’s online workshop series through October to delve into how our faith informs our actions and voting on critical social issues. August’s focus is Corporate Social Responsibility with Rev. Kaari Reierson. View a PDF flyer and register now to engage deeply with our social teachings and lead community discussions.
Read MoreThe FBI has reached out to the Office of the Bishop with vital resources to combat the rise in hate crimes during election years, offering support and emphasizing community safety and civil rights protection.
Read MoreIn the month of September, the Season of Creation is celebrated in churches around the world. The first Season of Creation was celebrated in 2000, under Norman Habel’s leadership at St Stephen’s Lutheran Church, Adelaide, South Australia. Habel wrote, “For four weeks we relived the great creation stories in the Bible. The children loved it. We also confessed what we have done to creation and how God is working to renew creation. It was an exciting beginning!”
Join One Home One Future for a Season of Creation resource kit plus access to a robust resource hub, connections to over 100,000 people of faith, events, programs, and ongoing support.
Read MoreSoreo, a service of Mosaic, has doubled its service capacity in Arizona, expanding its in-home care for aging individuals and people with disabilities to nearly 950 people. This growth through the acquisition of Prileo reflects Mosaic’s commitment to expanding its mission and ensuring high-quality care across the state.
Read MoreThe Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA is a dynamic network of Lutheran congregations across Arizona, Southern Nevada, and St. George, Utah, dedicated to doing together what we cannot do alone. This spotlight highlights our synod’s vital role in connecting and supporting congregations, fostering collaboration, and empowering our communities to live out their faith.
Read MoreIntroducing Synod Spotlight, a new feature in our blog and newsletter dedicated to celebrating the everyday work of our congregations, ministries, and partners. Join us in highlighting the diverse and vibrant activities within our synod, Region 2, ELCA, and the global church.
Read MoreEsperanza Lutheran Church (2601 E Thunderhill Pl, Phoenix, AZ 85048) is seeking a part time choir director to supplement our worship experience and partner with the congregation in giving glory to God. For more information, please contact the church office at esperanza@myesperanza.org and view this job description (PDF).
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop travels for work and vacation, and keeps the day-to-day and week-to-week operations flowing.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Mark Powell, who celebrates 44 years on August 17.
Bishop Deborah Hutterer, Office of the Bishop, Phoenix, who celebrates 20 years on August 18.
Rev. Brent Maxwell, who celebrates 17 years on August 19.
Rev. Kurt Fangmeier, Sierra Evangelical, Sierra Vista, who celebrates 23 years on August 19.
Rev. Marilyn Ascarza, who celebrates 34 years on August 19.
Rev. Scott Hackler, Spirit of Grace, Surprise, who celebrates 35 years on August 20.
Michael Purcell, who celebrates 46 years on August 20.
Rev. Barbara Rapp, who celebrates 31 years on August 21.
Rev. Martha Neff Stum, who celebrates 14 years on August 21.
Rev. Loren Swanson, who celebrates 53 years on August 22.
Rev. Gary Garvey, who celebrates 42 years on August 22.
United Church of Christ presents a Community Safety Training Series via Zoom on August 19, September 9, 23, and 30, 5:00 - 7:00 pm. Register for Zoom info here.
How can congregations build an ecology of community safety that is rooted in care, investing in each other, believing in each other, and trusting each other and the rhythms and cycles around/within us? What community safety practices can we engage in now that also help us build the world we long for? Our experienced trainers will expand on our “Ecology of Community Safety” guide to offer practical skills, psycho-social care practices, planning tools, and analysis of current conditions.
Read MoreExplore the complex relationship between faith and politics with Luther scholar, the Rev. Dr. Anthony Bateza in this enlightening episode of the Pivot Podcast.
Read MoreJoin Deaconess Cheryl Plummer on August 22, 2024, for “Spiritual Care of the Dying,” a vital Zoom workshop. Learn to address the spiritual and emotional needs of the dying through effective assessment tools and the Death Cafe dialogue model. This session, running from 5 to 7 PM MT, is essential for those involved in ministry and end-of-life care. Register now to deepen your understanding and care capabilities at this significant event. More info & registration on their site, or view this PDF flyer .
Read MoreJoin the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona Liaison Roundtable on Monday, August 19, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM via Zoom. This monthly discussion offers a platform for congregational leaders and members to explore topics like civic engagement, overcoming reticence about advocacy, and educating members on the importance of advocacy as part of our Lutheran heritage. Participate in shaping future discussions and equipping our congregations for meaningful advocacy. Join via Zoom using Meeting ID: 879 9811 3829.
Read MoreJoin LAMA’s new book club, “Book Time with LAMA,” starting Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at noon. Our first book, I Think You’re Wrong (But I’m Listening) by Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers, explores grace-filled political conversations. Monthly meetings will provide a safe space for discussions on social justice. Register now to join the conversation! Register for Book Time: ‘I Think You’re Wrong’
Read MoreJoin us in lifting up Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Arizona, where Rev. Rebecca Boardman and her team provide a welcoming and inclusive space for students of all backgrounds. Discover how this vibrant community fosters radical hospitality, spiritual growth, and a deep sense of belonging for young adults.
Read MoreAs the new academic year begins, we lift up in prayer Rev. Michael Girlinghouse and The Episcopal and Lutheran Young Adult and Campus Ministries in Flagstaff. This inclusive ministry serves Northern Arizona University and the broader Flagstaff community, offering a welcoming space for all. Services resume on August 25th. Learn more at www.lcmcanterbury.org.
Read MoreAs Arizona State University welcomes students for a new academic year, we lift up Rev. Arhiana Shek-Dill and the ASU Lutheran Campus Ministry in Tempe. This inclusive community provides spiritual growth, fellowship, and service opportunities, offering weekly Bible studies, worship services, and free meals for students. With retreats, community outreach, and a range of activities, this ministry creates a safe, welcoming space for all. Join us in praying for their continued impact on students’ lives as they begin this new academic journey. Visit ulctempe.org/campus-ministry to learn more.
Read MoreJoin us for the Bishop’s Fall Gathering from October 21-23, 2024, at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center. The highlight of this event is Elder Perci Ami, a Hopi/Tewa grandmother, storyteller, and healer. Experience her wisdom on October 22. Registration includes meals, and scholarships are available. Register by September 13 to secure your spot!
Read MoreIn this article from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona, learn how Santa Cruz Lutheran Church in Tucson partners with Project AZUL to bring essential resources to the community. With the help of Sahuarita Food Bank, the mobile project offers education, health services, and job assistance, enhancing our food ministry. As new homes are built nearby, they aim to expand their services to include GED, resume writing, and ESL classes. Support and prayers are welcomed as they strive to fulfill our “God’s Work, Our Hands” vision.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop spends a day volunteering with staff at West Valley Lutheran Thrift Store this week, as well as regularly scheduled activities.
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