Members of the Office of the Bishop travels and preaches, and prepares for upcoming gatherings.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Nanette Christofferson, Love of Christ, Mesa, who celebrates 4 years on October 5.
Rev. Kimberly Sterner, Lord of Life, Sun City West, who celebrates 37 years on October 5.
Support Holden Village with their fourth annual Jubilee Auction, taking place online from October 4th to October 8th, 2023. Holden Village, a remote retreat center in the North Cascade Mountains, relies on donations to support its mission of welcoming all to renew their relationships with God, the earth, and each other. Participate to bid on a range of exciting items and experiences, with proceeds going to daily operations, special projects, and programs at Holden Village. For more information, visit www.holdenvillage.org.
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Explore more convenient and varied ways to contribute to your congregation with Tithe.ly, a preferred vendor of the ELCA known for its online giving platforms. Tithe.ly offers six diverse methods of giving, including text messages, a free church app, and more, all with no monthly fees or upfront costs, just a minimal transaction fee. Discover the ease of giving and special discounted pricing exclusively for ELCA congregations here.
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ELCA's Disabilities Ministry Blog this month illuminates the resilience and imagination encapsulated in Rev. Jessica Harren’s journey as she shares insights on healing and being queer and disabled. The blog also highlights the notable incorporation of American Sign Language services in the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, extending support to those in crisis. A focus on providing more accessible resources is evident with the availability of dyslexia-friendly religious texts, an invaluable aid for those struggling with dyslexia. Read more about these topics and many more inclusive and supportive resources and insights here.
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In the latest Seeds Monthly, delve into insights, remembrances, and learning . From reflecting on the enduring impact of Indian boarding schools to addressing congregational burnout and exploring the facets of civic life and faith, there’s a rich tapestry of resources and events to explore.
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Reflecting on the devastating impact of U.S. Indian Boarding Schools, the ELCA invites you to join a journey toward collective truth and healing. On September 30, 2023, participate in the National Day of Remembrance by wearing an orange shirt and sharing your support on social media.
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Join the October Intensive to deepen your understanding of Latine Ministry Competency. Led by Rev. Dr. Ruben Duran, explore the principles and practices of building stronger cross-cultural connections in the church. For more info on this October 5-7 2023 online event, view this PDF flyer.
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To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we present a thoughtful conversation with Rev. Alejandro Mejía from the Delaware-Maryland Synod, exploring his connection with the ELCA and his reflections on the representation and inclusion of the Latiné community within the church. Rev. Mejía emphasizes the importance of amplifying Latiné voices, fostering diversity, and promoting bilingualism, and he shares his hopes and prayers for the future. Read the full post at ELCA.org here.
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We share an article from the Fountain Hills Times Independent featuring the churches of the Northeast Valley Consortium (Ascension, Christ the Lord, Living Water, New Covenant, and New Journey) and Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest and other partners. They helped pack over 200 welcome bags for refugees in Phoenix, offering essential items and a beacon of hope to those arriving from strife-torn regions.
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In collaboration with the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, the ELCA invites congregations to a transformative six-week webinar, “Cultivating Generous Congregations”, starting October 10, 2023. Reimagine stewardship and delve deep into generosity, participating in engaging cohort sessions and meaningful discussions, all aimed at fostering generosity in our faith communities.
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Navigating the future of congregations amidst uncertainties is a substantial task. The Grand Canyon Synod presents “Guidelines For Congregations Discerning Their Future”, a resource blending spiritual support with practical advice for congregations facing crucial decisions about their futures. Discover more about sustaining missions and seeding future ministries at Guidelines For Congregations Discerning Their Future.
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The Grand Canyon Synod has released new Part-Time Ministry Guidelines to facilitate conversations and agreements between congregations and those seeking part-time ministry roles. These guidelines will assist in setting clear ministry priorities and defining mutual responsibilities. Discover more about this innovative resource at Part-Time Ministry Guidelines.
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Are you experienced in business or project management and looking to serve in a faith-based community? Resurrection Lutheran Church in Oro Valley is hiring an Operations Administrator to ensure the smooth running of their administrative functions, oversee property and human resource matters, and work closely with our leadership for the implementation of our long-term goals. Visit orovalley.org to apply and read more in this job description.
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The latest blog post from ELCA Hunger reveals alarming trends in global hunger and poverty, with hunger persisting “far above pre-pandemic levels” and 735 million people affected in 2022. It uncovers how issues like urbanization, rising costs, and war significantly impact food security and access.
The post also sheds light on U.S. poverty, emphasizing higher prevalence in rural areas and showcasing the relation between policy choices and poverty levels. Explore the intricate dynamics of hunger, the possibilities of mitigating poverty, and the evolving landscapes of global deprivation in the full post.
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Explore the profound history and ongoing implications of U.S. Indian Boarding Schools with ELCA’s Truth and Healing Movement. Attend two crucial online classes: “Introduction to the Truth and Healing Movement” (9/26/2023) and “Indian 101” (9/28/2023); wear or purchase an orange shirt for the 9/30/2023 National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools, and watch a conversation between Vance Blackfox and survivor George McCauley to understand the lived experiences of boarding school survivors, as well as this conversation with descendants of Indian Boarding School survivors. Join us in paving the way for understanding, reconciliation, and collective healing.
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Explore the Grand Canyon Synod's latest initiative, 'Creating Space for Conversations', a dedicated resource hub for fostering understanding and unity in trying times. We’ll be adding to this page in the coming months.
Whether you are seeking guidance on how to approach sensitive topics, or looking for ways to connect with others across divides, we hope this page can help. Have an idea for this page? Let us know!
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Explore the story of Grace Lutheran Church in downtown Phoenix, where the practice of civil dialogue opened doors for deep listening, empathy, and healing. Engaging in intentional conversations about provocative subjects such as race, private prisons, and police relationships, participants found a space to share their experiences and emotions.
Pastor Sarah Stadler writes how these dialogues became a transformative force, revealing how open and respectful conversation can create understanding and even exhaust the hurt. Learn how civil dialogue may be a step towards solving the problems of hearts waiting to be seen and heard.
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