Explore Mark K. Smutny’s insightful approach to establishing ground rules in meetings (view as a PDF), a vital tool for enhancing dialogue and understanding in our diverse society. Discover how empathy, respect, and inclusivity can transform group interactions. We share this as part of our Creating Space for Conversations resource page. Mark Smutny is founder of Civic Reinventions.
Read MoreDiscover how the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission program offers young adults a transformative journey of faith, service, and global understanding. Applications are open for an August 2024 start with priority given to those applying by January 15, 2024. Learn more about this incredible opportunity at ELCA.org/YAGM.
Read MoreELCA World Hunger introduces fresh resources for Advent 2023 and Lent 2024, themed "The glory of the Lord shall be revealed." From Advent studies to Lenten devotionals, these tools are designed to actively involve congregations in addressing global hunger. Sample packs are soon to be dispatched, and free versions are accessible on the ELCA website. Your dedication and creativity can further the mission to aid those in dire need.
Read MoreExplore the art of spiritual caregiving with Luther Seminary's course for community members and leaders, "Embodying Thoughts and Prayers." Equip yourself with tools for meaningful care visits, empathetic listening, and self-care techniques to strengthen your ministry and community bonds. Dive into this enriching 6.5-hour course to uplift and empower your spiritual care practice.
Read MoreFind enriching resources for church leaders in this edition of Faith + Lead's Resource Roundup. Explore pivotal insights from the latest Pivot Podcast episode, delve into the powerful practice of storytelling, and download the essential ebook on "Pivots and Pitfalls for Church Leaders."
Plus, learn about upcoming events designed to enhance your spiritual grounding and leadership skills. Use these transformative tools and insights for guiding your congregation in these changing times.
Read MoreIn the latest news from the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, we learn regular registration is in full swing!, with the regular registration fee of $425 per person until February 14, 2024. Discover five easy steps to kickstart your planning, from holding an information meeting to exploring the Getting Ready Materials. Plus, learn about the upcoming registration deadlines and the chance to experience the city before the Gathering at the ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza in January.
Read MoreIn her article for Living Lutheran, discover Maria K. Miller's journey of self-exploration and healing at the "Living Water" retreat in Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp. Drawing parallels from Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, Miller's powerful story of emotional release and finding faith in the midst of grief is a testament to the transformative power of spiritual surrender and the healing properties of nature.
Read MoreLiving Lutheran magazine is transitioning to a digital future, continuing its legacy of sharing faith stories and church news in a new, more accessible format. In this Living Lutheran article, discover how this change reflects their enduring commitment to embracing new ways of connecting and communicating within our faith community.
Read MoreMaximize the impact of your year-end charitable giving with Thrivent Choice. Contribute to the Grand Canyon Synod or choose from over 40,000 organizations, and Thrivent will cover all processing fees, ensuring your entire donation benefits your chosen cause. Visit the GCS page to give through Thrivent Choice to make your contribution count.
Read MoreThe ELCA Foundation's recent Insights newsletter highlights the importance of generosity during this season of thankfulness. It offers smart ways to give before 2023 ends, critical factors to consider when giving, a recorded webinar on estate planning and charitable giving, and information about the Ministry Growth Fund for ELCA congregations and affiliates. Additionally, it spotlights ELCA Good Gifts, offering unique charitable gifts to honor loved ones while making a difference globally.
Read MoreELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton will be on a 4-to-6-month leave of absence starting November 17, 2023. During this period, former Southeastern Iowa Synod Bishop, Rev. Michael Burk, will serve as Presiding Bishop Pro Tem. We are grateful for Bishop Eaton's dedication and leadership and keep her in our prayers as she takes this time for rest and rejuvenation.
Read MoreJoin us in celebrating the unity and diversity of our faith at the “Blessed Together” All Saints Sunday event. Members from Emmanuel Sudanese Lutheran Fellowship, St. John’s Lutheran Church, and Vida Nueva Iglesia Luterana gathered in a vibrant worship and picnic, sharing cultures, traditions, and the spirit of stewardship. We share photos and reflections on the blessing of community, from the joy of baptism to the honored memory of those we've lost.
Read MoreWelcome our new Transition Coach, Pastor Phil Gustafson, an experienced leader and Coordinator of ELCA Coaches in the Grand Canyon Synod, and join us in thanking Pastor Glenn Zimbelman for his exceptional service. Pastor Phil is set to continue guiding our community through transformative times.
Read MorePotencia tu liderazgo en justicia climática con nuestro programa de certificación en línea transcontinental, disponible de febrero a noviembre de 2024 (PDF). Desarrolla habilidades morales, espirituales y prácticas para impulsar el cambio en tu comunidad. Comprométete solo 2-4 horas semanales para ser parte de un movimiento que fusiona el bienestar ecológico con la justicia social. Aplica antes del 30 de noviembre de 2023.
Empower your leadership in climate justice with our transcontinental online certification program, available February - November 2024 (PDF). Develop moral, spiritual, and practical skills to drive change in your community. Commit just 2-4 hours weekly to become a part of a movement merging ecological wellbeing with social justice. Apply by November 30, 2023.
Read MoreExperience the joyous installation of Pastor Josh Pontius as the Associate Pastor at Community of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria through our shared video. Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion which took place on November 5, 2023.
Read MoreIn addition to synod council and other meetings, the Office of the Bishop staff visit congregations celebrating significant anniversaries: Trinity Lutheran (75 years), Epiphany of Christ Lutheran Church (50 years), and Maricopa Lutheran (10 years).
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. R. Stewart McDonald, who celebrates 37 years on November 12.
Rev. Ruby Myers, Trinity, Phoenix, who celebrates 2 years on November 13.
Rev. David Krueger, who celebrates 47 years on November 14.
St. Andrew Lutheran Church is on the lookout for a Worship and Music Director. If you have a heart for worship and a talent for music direction, your opportunity awaits! Learn more about this part-time, salaried position and how to apply in this PDF job description.
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