Reimagining Contemplative Practices for Modern Life: From Wall Street to Renewal with Westina Matthews

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the transformative power of contemplative practices with Westina Matthews, a former Wall Street executive turned spiritual director.

On September 11, 2001, Dr. Westina Matthews found herself running for her life down 34 flights of stairs in the World Financial Center, adjacent to the World Trade Center. This harrowing experience became a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey, leading her from the corporate world of Wall Street to a life dedicated to contemplative practices and spiritual direction.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardNovember 1, 2024Luther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment

Nominate Students for Lutheran Summer Music 2025

You’re invited to nominate a student for LSM 2025! Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) is a faith-based residential music academy for high school students (grades 8-12) who come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build an intentional, supportive, and FUN community.

LSM 2025 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 22-July 20 (Full Session) or June 22-July 6 (Half Session). Priority Enrollment is open now through December 1. Nominate students at LSMacademy.org/nominate, and watch and share this LSM Experience Video to learn more!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardNovember 1, 2024Youth and Young Adult, Lutheran Summer MusicComment

Finding God’s Peace Amid Election Stress: Free Course on Faith and Mental Health

Feeling the stress of election week? Reconnect with God’s peace through Faith+Lead’s free course, God and Mental Health Challenges, available now. This self-paced course offers a faith-based approach to mental health, practical tips on supporting others, and ways to integrate God’s presence amid life’s stresses. Read a letter introducing the course from Dr. Alicia Granholm, Faith+Lead Senior Director.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 31, 2024faith+lead, Luther Seminary, Church and SocietyComment

Voices of Faith, Votes for Justice: Coming Together in Prayer

In the spirit of unity and peace, join us in two interfaith gatherings to pray for a just election. The Arizona Faith Network invites everyone to a Statewide Prayer Vigil on Monday, November 4, and an Interfaith Meditation on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. These events offer a chance for collective reflection, peacekeeping, and prayer as we exercise our democratic rights. View info on these gatherings and more at Arizona Faith Network’s weekly newsletter.

What are your hopes post-election?

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona drops another voter engagement video. Filmed on location at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “What are your hopes post-election?” Find the whole series of videos here.

Reformation Day Wisdom for the 21st Century Church

This Reformation Day, join hosts Dwight Zscheile and Terri Elton in the Pivot Podcast for a transformative conversation with the Rev. Dr. Mark Tranvik, professor of Reformation history and theology at Luther Seminary. Explore how Martin Luther’s revolutionary insights from the Protestant Reformation can breathe new life into 21st-century ministry and address the challenges facing today’s church.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 31, 2024Luther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment

Lutherans: Your Vote Matters! Discover Essential Resources for Election Day

Election day is just around the corner! Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) offers essential resources for informed voting, including a voter guide, tips for choosing judges, and ballot tracking. With these tools, make sure your vote counts and aligns with your values.

Office of the Bishop Updates: 10/31/2024

The Office of the Bishop gathers for an in-person staff meeting. We also share photos from the Installation of Rev. Joshua Pontious at Community of Grace in Peoria.

News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOctober 31, 2024Office of the BishopComment

Blessed Tomorrow's November Update: Vote, Advocate, and Train for Creation Care

This month, the Blessed Tomorrow newsletter highlights key actions for climate care: voting on November 5, joining ecoAmerica’s Climate Leadership Awards, training to become a Climate Ambassador, and celebrating the One Home One Future coalition’s first anniversary. Explore all the ways to engage, advocate, and act in their November newsletter.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 30, 2024Blessed Tomorrow, Climate ChangeComment

Join the Interfaith Vigil for Peace and Unity on Election Eve

On November 4th at 6:30 pm MST, join Arizona’s diverse faith communities in an Interfaith Prayer Vigil for a Safe and Secure Election. This online gathering, organized by the Arizona Faith Network, will include blessings, prayers for peace, and reflections on civic engagement, uniting us in prayer for a peaceful election. Spanish and ASL interpretation provided. Register here.

Donna and Ashley Aren’t Just Living, They’re Thriving

Before, Donna and Ashley were struggling and just living. Now they live the lives they choose and are thriving. Here, they share their stories. The post Donna and Ashley Aren’t Just Living, They’re Thriving appeared first on Mosaic.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOctober 30, 2024Disability Ministries, MosaicComment

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.

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

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