Posts in News
Boundless Compassion: A 4-Day Retreat at Spirit in the Desert
Boundless Compassion: A 4-Day Retreat at Spirit in the Desert

Experience the profound journey of self-discovery and compassion at the Boundless Compassion 4-Day Retreat, led by renowned coach Tammy Devine. Engage in quiet reflections, group dialogues, and practical learning centered around compassion's multi-layered facets. Grow in trust, lessen suffering, and discover how compassion can change the world. Don't miss this transformative opportunity from October 22-25, 2023, at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center. Read more and learn how to register here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
A Call for Global Unity: The ELCA's Advocacy in the Central African Republic's Turmoil
A Call for Global Unity: The ELCA's Advocacy in the Central African Republic's Turmoil

Amidst the Central African Republic's deepening crisis, ELCA Advocacy underscores the urgent need for global solidarity and action. Highlighting the turmoil and human rights infractions in CAR, the ELCA calls for robust support for humanitarian efforts and peace initiatives, advocating for a holistic peace that encompasses safety, dignity, and wellbeing for all affected populations.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Update about Young Adults in Global Mission in the Holy Land
Update about Young Adults in Global Mission in the Holy Land

In consultation with partners on the ground, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) made a very tough but prudent decision to evacuate YAGM personnel, including the 5 Young Adults in Global Mission from the Holy Land and the country coordinators. We are relieved to share that everyone is safe.

The images coming out of the news are heartbreaking and we extend our prayers to the Palestinian and Israeli people who have lost loved ones and are living in fear and uncertainty.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, Young Adults in Global Mission, Israel and Palestine, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy LandComment
LWF statements on Israel and Palestine
LWF statements on Israel and Palestine

Lutheran World Federation shares two statements on Israel and Palestine.

LWF is deeply concerned about escalating violence and conflict in the Holy Land and calls on leaders in Israel and Palestine to exercise restraint, ensure the safety and security of civilians, and work urgently for peaceful solutions.

LWF condemns all attacks by all parties on civilians in Israel and Palestine, expresses grave concerns about the targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure, calls for a release of hostages, and urges all parties to uphold International Humanitarian Law. 

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Global Church, News, LettersBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, Lutheran World FederationComment
Introducing our synod’s Spiritual Directors: A valuable resource for rostered ministers
Introducing our synod’s Spiritual Directors: A valuable resource for rostered ministers

Explore the spiritual depths of your ministry with our new list of Spiritual Directors in the Grand Canyon Synod. Designed to nurture your journey, these professionals offer wisdom and guidance, helping you discern the Holy Spirit's movements in your life. Embrace this opportunity for spiritual growth and enrichment.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardCoaching, Spiritual DirectorsComment
Apply for Grand Canyon Synod's Project Support and ACTS Grants by 10/30/2023
Apply for Grand Canyon Synod's Project Support and ACTS Grants by 10/30/2023

The Grand Canyon Synod invites applications for Project Support Grants and ACTS Grants for 2024. With $218,000 available for supporting congregations and strategic ministries, these grants align with the Synod's goals and visions. Don't miss this opportunity to fund projects ranging from educational materials to outreach efforts. Check the eligibility, apply by October 30, 2023, and make your ministry's vision a reality.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGrants, GCS Grants ProgramComment
Statement from Bishop Eaton on current situation in Israel and Palestine
Statement from Bishop Eaton on current situation in Israel and Palestine

“As Lutherans, we are accustomed to holding tension between two truths. Thus the ELCA denounces the egregious acts of Hamas, acts that have led to unspeakable loss of life and hope. At the same time the ELCA denounces the indiscriminate retaliation of Israel against the Palestinian people, both Christian and Muslim.”

Things you can do:

  • Find updated resources and statements from the ELCA here.

  • Join our partner Churches for Middle East Peace for prayer every Wednesday from 12:30 to 1 p.m. Eastern time. Register here.

  • Call your lawmakers today through the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 and urge them to take action to deescalate the conflict and uphold unrestricted humanitarian aid to Gaza. Find your member of Congress at govtrak.

  • Support Lutheran Disaster Response here.

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardEvangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, Israel and Palestine, Bishop Eaton LettersComment
Bishop Eaton's letter to Bishop Dr. Sani Ibrahim-Azar
Bishop Eaton's letter to Bishop Dr. Sani Ibrahim-Azar

In a letter to Bishop Dr. Sani Ibrahim-Azar of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton offers the support, prayers and advocacy efforts of the ELCA. Read Bishop Eaton’s full letter here, as well as Bishop Dr. Azar’s statement.

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ELCA, News, LettersBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, Israel and PalestineComment
ELCA Coaching's Courageous Leadership: What happens when Autism and Faith intersect?
ELCA Coaching's Courageous Leadership: What happens when Autism and Faith intersect?

We talk about Autism as being a spectrum. Some folks talk about Faith as being a spectrum. What happens when Autism and Faith intersect? Join us via Zoom on Wednesday, October 18, as we hear from Rev. Anna K. Gordy, Pastor for Pláticas de Santa Sofia, a ministry of the ELCA.

Join ELCA Coaching every Wednesday at 11am MST/PDT, 12pm MDT, as we practice Courageous Leadership. Log in info is on the ELCA Coaching website.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment
Last Call for Inspirers: ELCA Youth Gathering Volunteer Deadline Extended
Last Call for Inspirers: ELCA Youth Gathering Volunteer Deadline Extended

The ELCA Youth Gathering has extended the volunteer application deadline to November 1, 2023. Don't miss this renewed chance to serve and inspire our youth in New Orleans next summer. Check your registration details, note down key dates, and remember, the Gathering team is here to answer any questions. Read more in the latest updates.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
Nurturing Creation: October’s Call to Action with LRC
Nurturing Creation: October’s Call to Action with LRC

This October, Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) offers enriching opportunities to intertwine faith with environmental stewardship in their October newsletter. From the upcoming Ecumenical Training to their newly announced Young Adult Vocational Fellowship, they’re empowering voices and actions that care for our planet. Dive into our resource hub, attend upcoming events, and let your faith-filled actions resonate. Read more to join them in these vital steps for Earth's care.

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ELCA, News, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLutherans Restoring Creation, Climate ChangeComment
Ecumenical Bonds Strengthened: A Celebratory September for ELCA
Ecumenical Bonds Strengthened: A Celebratory September for ELCA

This September, ELCA celebrated profound ecumenical unity, highlighted by Bishop Gohl's participation in Bishop Schofield-Broadbent's ordination. Our new Congregation and Synod Support Team and the successful "God's work. Our hands" Sunday reflect our ongoing commitment to shared mission and service. Read more in the September 2023 ELCA Mission Support Memo, available at ELCA.org, as a PDF, or a Word doc.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardMission Support, ELCA Mission Support TeamComment
2023 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers
2023 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering: Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers

Join a celebration of unity at AFN’s 2023 Annual Gathering, "Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers," on October 24, 2023! With a stellar lineup of artists, musicians, and speakers from diverse faiths, this event promises inspiration and interfaith dialogue. Register today and be part of this transformative experience.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardArizona Faith Network, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Harmonizing Worship: October Highlights from ELCA Partners
Harmonizing Worship: October Highlights from ELCA Partners

Each month ELCA Worship highlights resources and events from other organizations and institutions. These Lutheran and ecumenical partner organizations work alongside the ELCA to support worship leaders, worship planners, musicians, and all who care about the worship of the church. From communal song-sharing workshops with Music that Makes Community to the Calvin Institute's worship grants, and insightful reads from Augsburg Fortress, there's something to inspire everyone.

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ELCA, News, Resources, Worship ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA WorshipComment
Ordination celebrations: October 13-19, 2023
Ordination celebrations: October 13-19, 2023

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Steven Kruse, New Covenant, Scottsdale, who celebrates 38 years on October 13.

  • Deacon Gloria Owens, who celebrates 36 years on October 13.

  • Rev. Daniel Hoeger, All Saints, Phoenix, who celebrates 34 years on October 15.

  • Rev. Douglas Dill, Central, Arizona City, who celebrates 8 years on October 17.

  • Rev. Julia Sprenkle, who celebrates 13 years on October 17.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdination Anniversaries Comment
Advocacy Meets Spirituality: Unveiling Paths to Change at the LAMA Summit 2023
Advocacy Meets Spirituality: Unveiling Paths to Change at the LAMA Summit 2023

Join fellow advocates at the 4th Annual LAMA Summit, November 4, 2023, for a transformative exploration of 'Advocacy as a Spiritual Practice.' Connect with passionate Lutherans, engage in vital discussions, and participate in hands-on service projects. Lunch provided, special youth programs available. Don't miss this inspiring convergence of faith and action. Read more at lamaz.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment