Lifeline of Care: $20M from USAID to Support Augusta Victoria Hospital’s Cancer and Kidney Services

Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem has received $20 million from USAID, enabling it to sustain vital cancer and kidney care for Palestinians. As the sole specialized healthcare provider in the region, AVH faces financial challenges but continues serving over 5 million people with international support. In light of recent escalations, AVH seeks additional donations to help accommodate patients and staff from Gaza and the West Bank and to secure medical supplies for those impacted by ongoing conflicts. This collaboration exemplifies the power of partnership in sustaining life-saving care. Read the full article at Lutheran World Federation.

Experience Christmas in German Tradition at Mountain View Lutheran in Ahwatukee

Join Mountain View Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee on Sunday, December 15, for a German-language Christmas service and carol sing-along! Starting at 4:10 pm, this special gathering will celebrate Advent with traditional German carols and worship, offering a beautiful experience of faith and community. For more details, visit weihnachtsgottesdienstphoenix.com.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 30, 20242024 Advent and ChristmasComment

37 Arizona Lutheran Congregations Answer the Call to Serve as Voting Centers

This election season, 37 Lutheran congregations across Arizona, including 24 ELCA churches, have stepped up to serve as voting centers. From Chandler to Prescott, these congregations provide accessible voting locations, embodying the Lutheran tradition of community service and civic engagement. Read the full article from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona.

Exploring the Intersection of Faith and Politics: Dr. John Compton’s Shurden Lectures

How does secularization shape democracy and civil liberties in America? Join the 20th Annual Shurden Lectures with Dr. John Compton on November 13-14, either online or at Mercer University, as he explores the impact of diminished religious authority on democratic values and political extremism. Three thought-provoking lectures over two days provide a deep dive into these pressing questions. Register now to watch live or attend in person.

Prayers for Lutheran Church of the Foothills in Tucson

We uplift and pray for Rev. Naomi Hartman and the people of Lutheran Church of the Foothills in Tucson, part of the Kino Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOctober 30, 2024Lutheran Church of the Foothills Tucson, Kino ConferenceComment

Prayers for Emmanuel Sudanese Lutheran Church in Glendale

We uplift and pray for Solomon Machar Kuch and the people of Emmanuel Sudanese Lutheran Church in Glendale, part of the Cactus Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOctober 30, 2024Cactus Conference, Emmanuel Sudanese PhoenixComment

Lutheran Culture Through Indigenous Eyes: A Call for Genuine Inclusion

In her compelling reflection in Women of the ELCA’s Café blog post, Wanda Frenchman shares her journey from a non-Christian Indigenous upbringing to embracing Lutheran faith. Raised in a Lakota household, she highlights the significance of community, food, and genuine welcome in her transition to Grace Lutheran Church.

As a leader in Native American Urban Ministry, Wanda emphasizes the need for authentic inclusion in the church, encouraging congregations to embrace newcomers’ diverse traditions and identities. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the love of Christ and the importance of welcoming all people into our faith communities.

11/4/2024: Prayer Vigil for Peace During the 2024 Election Season in Sun City

Join ecumenical prayer vigils across Arizona as Christian leaders from various denominations unite to pray for peace and unity during the 2024 election season. The last vigil will be held on November 4th at Sun City Christian Church. All are welcome to come together in faith to seek God’s guidance and peace for our nation. View a PDF flyer here.

Interfaith Event: Exploring Hope Across Faiths with Gita Saraydarian

Join Deacon Kate Adelman on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 for “From Darkness to Light: Interfaith Dialog”, a one-day event featuring Gita Saraydarian, guest speakers, music, and connection. Explore how spirituality across different faiths leads to hope and unity in difficult times. Enjoy a day filled with learning, fellowship, a buffet lunch, and a mini concert. Register by October 27th to secure your spot!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 29, 2024Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment

Share Your Congregation’s News and Events with the Grand Canyon Synod

Have news, events, or opportunities to share? The Grand Canyon Synod invites all congregations to submit their stories, job openings, and volunteer opportunities. Keep our community informed and connected by contributing to our news blog, events calendar, and weekly email newsletter. Share your updates today at gcsynod.org/share.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 29, 2024Comment

Ordination celebrations: November 1-7, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. Thaddeus Book, Desert Cross, Tempe, who celebrates 15 years on November 1.
Deacon Anada Guse, who celebrates 34 years on November 4.
Rev. Conrad Braaten, who celebrates 52 years on November 5.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOctober 29, 2024Ordination AnniversariesComment

Living into a New Story: Explore Earth-Based Wisdom and Theology at Spirit in the Desert

Join the “Living into a New Story” retreat at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, January 23–26, 2025, to explore the intersection of Christian theology, Earth-based wisdom, and the natural sciences. Led by Pastor Ron Rude and Sharon Reinbott, this retreat offers a unique blend of worship, reflection, and learning in the serene surroundings of Carefree, Arizona. Register now to secure your spot and discover a reimagined Christian faith grounded in science and nature.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 28, 2024Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment

Early voting ends in Arizona, Nevada and Utah on Friday, November 1, 2024

Early voting for the 2024 General Election is here! Early voting ends on 11/1/2024 for all three states on our synod.

We also encourage you to look into the pros and cons of early voting in this post from LAMA.

Find out key early voting dates, locations, and how to sign up for mail ballots in our latest blog post, and be sure to make your voice heard before Election Day!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 28, 2024Elections and Voting Rights, Church and SocietyComment

Installation of Rev. Lisa Hackler

Rev. Lisa Hackler will be installed Thursday, 11/7/2024, at 3 pm, at American Lutheran Church, (17200 N Del Web Blvd, Sun City, AZ 85373). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside. Clergy are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is green. A reception will follow.

RSVP to d.bautista@alcsuncity.org if one is a rostered minister planning to process, otherwise no RSVP needed. Visit www.alcsuncity.org for streaming information.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 28, 2024Ordinations and InstallationsComment

Mark Your Calendars: 2025 Bishop’s Fall Gathering at the Franciscan Renewal Center

The 2025 Bishop’s Fall Gathering will take place from September 29 through October 1 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale. This annual event offers a time of spiritual renewal, theological reflection, and fellowship for all within the Grand Canyon Synod. Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more details!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 28, 20242025 Bishop's Fall GatheringComment

Can Faith Influence Politics? Lutheran Perspectives on the 2024 Election

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) has released a new video series featuring people of faith reflecting on the upcoming election. These short clips, filmed at the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans, explore the connections between faith and voting. Key voices include Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and youth leaders like Taina Diaz-Reyes. Watch and share these videos on LAMA’s Facebook and YouTube channels to spark conversations in your congregation about the importance of voting as an act of faith and service.

Installation of Rev. Joshua Pontious

Rev. Joshua Pontious will be installed Sunday, 10/27/2024, at 9am and 10:30 am at Community of Grace in Peoria (10561 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Peoria, AZ 85383). Pastors Josh Pontious and Tim Wright will preach.

Rostered ministers are welcome, we will not process. No liturgical attire necessary. The installation will be recorded and posted.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 24, 2024Ordinations and InstallationsComment

Early voting ends in Arizona, Nevada and Utah on Friday, November 1, 2024

Early voting for the 2024 General Election is here! Early voting ends on 11/1/2024 for all three states on our synod.

We also encourage you to look into the pros and cons of early voting in this post from LAMA.

Find out key early voting dates, locations, and how to sign up for mail ballots in our latest blog post, and be sure to make your voice heard before Election Day!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 24, 2024Elections and Voting Rights, Church and SocietyComment

11/4/2024: Prayer Vigil for Peace During the 2024 Election Season in Sun City

Join ecumenical prayer vigils across Arizona as Christian leaders from various denominations unite to pray for peace and unity during the 2024 election season. The last vigil will be held on November 4th at Sun City Christian Church. All are welcome to come together in faith to seek God’s guidance and peace for our nation. View a PDF flyer here.

Ordination celebrations: October 25–31, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. John Lillie, who celebrates 44 years on October 26.
Rev. Daniel Valasakos, Mount Zion, Tucson, who celebrates 28 years on October 26.
Rev. Kari Williamson, St. Andrew, Phoenix, who celebrates 21 years on October 26.
Rev. Verónica Alvarez, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 2 years on October 30.
Rev. Brian Ward, Community, Las Vegas, who celebrates 14 years on October 31.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOctober 24, 2024Ordination AnniversariesComment

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