Discover how the ELCA's Congregations Lead Initiative is revolutionizing ministry for today's world. Watch their latest video for an inspiring glimpse into the future of faith, and join with congregations on an innovative journey to connect with more diverse communities.
Read MoreExplore comprehensive resources from the ELCA on the current Israel-Hamas conflict, including official statements, global perspectives, and avenues for aid and advocacy. Their dedicated page provides insights, updates, and actionable steps for those seeking deeper understanding and avenues to peace. View at elca.org/Israel-Hamas%20War.
Read MoreJoin ELCA in a holistic journey from global crisis response to enriching local community experiences in the latest Seeds Monthly. Discover crucial insights on Israel-Hamas tensions, participate in shaping our message on gun violence, and immerse in spiritual enrichment with Advent resources. Stay informed on upcoming events and initiatives designed for communal growth and proactive engagement.
Read MoreEmbark on a journey of spiritual enrichment and communal strength with Thriving Leadership Formation Cohorts. Dive into specialized groups catering to diverse leaders, all grounded in nurturing practices and collective growth. No cost, just community. Discover your cohort, especially the Grand Canyon Synod cohort led by Pastor Lourdes Olson.
Read MoreJoin the Jubilation: Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center celebrates 30 years of spiritual guidance and community bonds. Don't miss the festivities, reflections, and forward visions on October 21, 2023. Learn more on their event page.
Read MoreDiscover the critical intersection of youth mental health and climate action in Blessed Tomorrow’s latest newsletter. They explore the profound effects of climate change on young minds, highlight innovative solutions from faith communities, and share resources and programs designed to foster both planetary healing and youth empowerment. Read more and join them in understanding and advocating for a cause that not only secures our children's future but heals our world.
Read MoreDive into unity and action with the Arizona Faith Network's latest newsletter, highlighting crucial interfaith events, from their barrier-breaking Annual Gathering to opportunities for advocacy and spiritual growth. Join community efforts in meditation, social justice book discussions, and awareness walks, all detailed in AFN’s call to communal engagement.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop prepares for and attends a number of events, including: the Ordination and Installation of Glenn Schrader, Oct 22, 2023, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: 2023 Bishop's Fall Gathering, Oct 23, 2023 – Oct 25, 2023 ; and First Call Theological Education following the gathering.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Susanne Havlic, who celebrates 27 years on October 20.
Rev. David Swan, who celebrates 50 years on October 21.
Rev. Mitchell Eickmann, Pan de Vida, El Mirage, who celebrates 39 years on October 22.
Rev. Linda Brown, who celebrates 12 years on October 22.
Rev. Amalia Vagts, Our Saviour’s, Tucson, who celebrates 2 years on October 23.
Rev. Sarah Stadler, Esperanza, Phoenix, who celebrates 17 years on October 25.
Rev. John Lillie, who celebrates 43 years on October 26.
Rev. Daniel Valasakos, Mount Zion, Tucson, who celebrates 27 years on October 26.
Rev. Kari Williamson, St. Andrew, Phoenix, who celebrates 20 years on October 26.
Discover the inspiring story of Bishop-elect Jeff Johnson, a man shaped by adversity, community, and an unwavering belief in God's unconditional love. In an era craving genuine connection and hope, Johnson stands as a testament to resilience and inclusivity.
Read about his profound commitment to social justice, his vision for a church that embraces all, and his upcoming installation as bishop in the Sierra Pacific Synod in Living Lutheran's latest feature. Dive into a narrative of transformation and hope for a future where love knows no bounds.
Read MoreDiscover "Gateways to Joy," a soul-nurturing workshop on Thursday, 11/2/2023, led by Rev. Dr. Angela Williams Gorrell, designed to unlock God’s deep gladness amidst life’s complexities. This holiday season, explore joy's true essence, learn practical joy-cultivating strategies, and connect with a supportive faith community, all guided by Dr. Gorrell's wisdom and compassion. Enroll now for a transformative journey toward enduring spiritual joy.
Read MoreRecently, LAMA's Policy Council outlined its pivotal 2024 priorities, emphasizing action on food insecurity, voting and civic engagement, the water crisis, and housing and homelessness. Rooted in ELCA's teachings, LAMA commits to being a publicly engaged church, advocating for foundational societal changes that echo throughout hunger prevention, voter participation, sustainable water use, and housing access.
Join us in these pressing endeavors that seek to uplift our community and address the root causes of these social concerns. Interested members are encouraged to contribute to this transformative journey. Read more at lamaz.org.
Read MoreA new school year has begun, and International Women Leaders (IWL) scholarship recipients are studying at ELCA colleges and universities across the country. Watch a video of this virtual gathering on October 11, 2023, where a few current IWL students and an alum spoke about how this program has impacted their lives. For more information, or to support IWL, visit http://ELCA.org/IWL.
Read MoreYou are cordially invited to the Installation and Celebration of a New Ministry for The Reverend Donald Bebber as Vicar of St. Raphael in the Valley (730 S. Hwy 80, Benson, AZ 85602) on Saturday, 11/11/2023 at 11 am. View online at facebook.com/straphaelinthevalley.
Your prayers and presence are requested. Clergy please vest in red. A reception will follow. Please RSVP by emailing straphaelchurchbenson@gmail.com.
Read MoreIn their latest newsletter, Lutheran Social Services of Nevada shares how they’ve reached out with compassion, serving diverse community members from all walks of life. Among those they've helped is Darlene, courageously facing colon cancer, who's chosen to honor LSSN in her final will — a testament to the profound impact of their work.
They're also excited to invite everyone to the Grand Opening of their new satellite pantry at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church and to save the date for "An Evening of Gratitude" on Nov. 28, 2023. Additionally, they're launching the "Seven Days of Gratitude" initiative and would love to feature your stories and expressions of thanks related to LSSN.
Read MorePastor Dan Potaznick, your GCS Director of Generosity & Strategic Development, shares: “All October, Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church in Sun City has been lifting highlighting the Grand Canyon Synod as their ‘Mission of the Month.’ To help celebrate, I invited by Pastor John Maroni to preach and give thanks to the congregation. A huge thank you to Pastor John & the community of Shepherd of the Desert for their warm welcome, hospitality, and generosity to the mission of being church together! Click here to join in the recorded worship.”
Read MoreMark your calendars for the 10/24/2023 launch of 'All Ages Becoming: Intergenerational Practice in the Formation of God's People,' a groundbreaking book that reaffirms intergenerational practice as the heart of our Christian identity. With insights from 17 diverse authors, including Linda Staats with the GCS Stewardship team, this book promises a global perspective on nurturing faith across generations.
Join the virtual celebration with authors and experts worldwide on October 24, 2023 (register here for one of two time slots). Pre-order the book now and secure your invitation to a journey of communal spiritual growth.
Read MoreELCA Advocacy is excited to introduce the 2023-2024 Hunger Advocacy Fellows, including our very own Autumn Byars with LAMA. Supported by ELCA World Hunger, these dynamic young leaders are poised to make significant impacts in communities locally and globally. With placements across various advocacy offices, each Fellow brings unique insights and passions, uniting in their commitment to a just world where all are fed. Meet these inspiring individuals in a post at ELCA.org.
Read MoreJoin the Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Arizona for their 1st Annual 'Gather at the Garden' event on October 28, 2023, 4-6pm. Enjoy festive treats, a silent auction, student musicians, and engaging talks by naturalists.
Read MoreDiscover the art of tending to congregational finances! Join the Southeastern Synod's free training session on 10/26/2023, led by ELCA Treasurer Lori Fedyk, and become a maestro in managing congregation finances. Learn more and register today!
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