Ordination and Installation of Wendi Van Beek at Our Saviour's Lutheran in Tucson

After a synod council vote to affirm her call with Lutheran Campus Ministry, Wendi Van Beek will be ordained and installed Wednesday, 2/19/2025, at 6 pm, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, (1200 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719). Pastor Amalia Vagts will preach. Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preside.

Ordained and consecrated ministers of all affiliations, current seminary students and those awaiting first call, and former and current Lutheran Campus Ministry students are invited to process. The color of the day is red. A reception will follow. Email wendi.lcmuofa@gmail.com to RSVP.

Faith in the Unknown: Gracious Uncertainty in a Digital Age

How can the church lead in a time of “gracious uncertainty”? In his latest Ministry in a Digital Age newsletter, Ryan Panzer explores how faith communities can navigate a year of radical change and emerging technology. Drawing from Oswald Chambers’ words, Panzer emphasizes the church’s role in fostering hope and connection amid uncertainty, with digital ministry as a key opportunity. Read more for practical insights and inspiring examples of faith in action.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 28, 2025Ryan PanzerComment

Ordination celebrations: February 1-6, 2025

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. Katie Langston, New Promise, St. George, who celebrates 3 years on February 4.
Rev. Shari Bernau, Living Water, Scottsdale, who celebrates 20 years on February 5.
Rev. Pam A. Reynolds, Lord of Life, Sun City West, who celebrates 4 years on February 6.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardJanuary 28, 2025Ordination AnniversariesComment

Interfaith Dialogue: Free February Workshop on Mourning Rituals and Traditions

Join the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Arizona for Living Our Faith, a free virtual event on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. MST. Discover how Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions navigate mourning rituals and customs, with insights from Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman, Pastor Judith Rainforth, and Imam Shahir Safi. Register now at www.isb-az.org/trifaith to participate in this inspiring evening of interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Know Your Rights: Essential Resources for Immigrant Neighbors

Amid heightened uncertainty, knowing your rights is vital for immigrants and their advocates. ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative and the Archdiocese of Dubuque offer multilingual tools like Red Cards, family safety plans, and legal support directories to help communities stay prepared. View these pages for a comprehensive list of resources and how to share them in your congregation.

ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 27, 2025Church and Society, Immigration and RefugeesComment

“We Survived the End of the World”: A Book Club on Apocalypse and Hope

Join the Spirited Book Club this February to discuss Steven Charleston’s We Survived the End of the World, a compelling exploration of Native American resilience amid apocalyptic challenges. Learn from Indigenous prophets and sacred stories as we delve into strategies for courage and hope in times of crisis. Discussions are on February 6 and 20, from 3:00–4:00 PM AZ (MST). Register today to be part of this engaging conversation on faith, community, and survival.

Your Generosity Fuels Ministry: 2025 Mission Support Intent

The Grand Canyon Synod invites your congregation to submit its 2025 Mission Support Statement of Intent by February 1, 2025. Your gifts empower local, national, and global ministries, equipping leaders, transforming lives, and advancing God’s mission. Visit gcsynod.org/intent for forms and details. Together, we live into God’s vision of abundance and equality.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 27, 2025Mission SupportComment

Prayers for Lord of Grace Lutheran Church in Tucson

We uplift and pray for Rev. Lars Hammar and the people of Lord of Grace Lutheran Church in Tucson, part of the Kino Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Spotlight, PrayersBrian FlatgardJanuary 27, 2025Kino Conference, Lord of Grace TucsonComment

Prayers for New Covenant Lutheran Church in Scottsdale

We uplift and pray for Rev. Steven Kruse and the people of New Covenant Lutheran Church in Scottsdale, part of the Northeast Valley Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Spotlight, PrayersBrian FlatgardJanuary 26, 2025New Covenant Scottsdale, Northeast Valley ConferenceComment

Once Institutionalized, Mark is Now Using His Voice

Once institutionalized and nonverbal, Mark has found his voice to express his needs and wants. The post Once Institutionalized, Mark is Now Using His Voice appeared first on Mosaic.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 24, 2025Mosaic, Disability MinistriesComment

Learn and Fail Like a Skateboarder: Building a Missional Church in Post-Christian America

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, we ask, “Is innovation a helpful category for churches seeking to thrive in changing times?”

Are conventional church growth strategies falling short in today’s changing religious landscape? In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of “innovation” in church contexts, exploring whether it’s a helpful framework for ministry or a potential distraction from our core mission.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardJanuary 24, 2025Pivot Podcast, Luther SeminaryComment

Join the Movement to Dismantle Christian Nationalism in Your Community

Christian nationalism threatens both the gospel and democracy, distorting faith and undermining religious liberty for all. The Christians Against Christian Nationalism campaign, led by BJC, is mobilizing local action to resist harmful policies nationwide. Join the movement to protect democracy and uphold true religious freedom in your community.

Blessed Tomorrow Newsletter: February 2025

As wildfires devastate Los Angeles, faith communities are stepping up with compassion and support. ecoAmerica’s latest research reveals rising climate concern across political divides, and President Jimmy Carter’s legacy inspires faith-rooted action. Explore how worship facilities can improve energy efficiency, join the 2025 National Faith + Climate Forum, and learn about powerful climate ambassador initiatives. Read more in Blessed Tomorrow’s February newsletter: Read Here.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 24, 2025Climate Change, Blessed TomorrowComment

From Prayer Services to Climate Advocacy: AFN Events to Unite and Empower

This week, join events like a conversation on peacemaking with Rev. Dr. Gary Mason, and advocacy opportunities like Environmental Day at the Capitol. Discover ways to deepen your faith and engage in justice. Learn more and register for events in the AFN newsletter.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 23, 2025Arizona Faith Network, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment

Beyond Binaries: Upholding God’s Diversity in Humanity

This week, ELCA Region 2 leaders respond to a recent presidential declaration limiting gender identity to a binary framework. Reflecting on Galatians 3:28 and the ELCA’s 2019 social statement, they affirm the inherent diversity of God’s creation, celebrate all gender expressions, and call for advocacy against discrimination. This letter underscores our shared identity in Christ and invites prayer for those affected by these harmful statements. Read the full letter and join us in standing for justice and inclusion.

Ordination celebrations: January 24-31, 2025

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. Tina Mills, Our Savior’s, Mesa, who celebrates 14 years on January 25.
Rev. David Sivecz, Grace, Phoenix, who celebrates 7 years on January 27.
Deacon Carol Arnold, who celebrates 43 years on January 27.
Rev. Janice Von Rappard, who celebrates 20 years on January 30.
Rev. Paul Nordeen, who celebrates 48 years on January 30.
Rev. Jose Valenzuela, Community of Grace, Peoria, who celebrates 16 years on January 31.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardJanuary 23, 2025Ordination AnniversariesComment

Office of the Bishop Updates

The Office of the Bishop Staff strides into 2025 with synod assembly planning and reaching out to leaders and congregations across the synod.

News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, SpotlightBrian FlatgardJanuary 23, 2025Office of the BishopComment

Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month

Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Tuesday, 1/28/2025, 6-7pm MST.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 22, 2025hunger, Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders NetworkComment

Interfaith Dialogue: Free February Workshop on Mourning Rituals and Traditions

Join the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Arizona for Living Our Faith, a free virtual event on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. MST. Discover how Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions navigate mourning rituals and customs, with insights from Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman, Pastor Judith Rainforth, and Imam Shahir Safi. Register now at www.isb-az.org/trifaith to participate in this inspiring evening of interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Connect and Inspire: Share Your Congregation’s News with the Synod

Have exciting news or upcoming events? Share them with the Grand Canyon Synod! Congregations across Arizona, southern Nevada, St. George, Utah, and the Navajo Nation are encouraged to submit stories, job openings, and volunteer opportunities to foster connection and inspiration. Visit gcsynod.org/share to submit your updates today and help us celebrate the work of God through our community of faith.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardJanuary 22, 2025Office of the BishopComment

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