Posts in News
ELCA Global Links: Supporting Emerging Women Leaders Through Education and Entrepreneurship
ELCA Global Links: Supporting Emerging Women Leaders Through Education and Entrepreneurship

Discover how ELCA's Global Links celebrates International Women’s Day by uplifting women like Roza Mavlonova in Kyrgyzstan and women leaders worldwide. From entrepreneurial projects in Kyrgyzstan to scholarships for emerging leaders from global companion churches, ELCA is empowering women to transform their communities.

Plus, learn about the historic consecration of Rev. Paulina Hławiczka-Trotman in the Lutheran Church in Great Britain and how you can get involved in ELCA initiatives, including the new Lenten series Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel. Read more in Global Links.

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ELCA, Global Church, NewsBrian FlatgardGlobal LinksComment
Transform Discord into Dialogue: Join 'Leading in an Age of Contempt' Workshop
Transform Discord into Dialogue: Join 'Leading in an Age of Contempt' Workshop

Explore constructive communication and empathy in challenging times with Joy J. Moore at the 'Leading in an Age of Contempt' workshop on March 21st, 9-10:30 am MST/PDT. Gain scriptural insights and practical tools for navigating societal discord and fostering unity within communities.

This interactive session offers a fresh perspective on current conflicts, exploring the diversity of worldviews and the courage required for leaders to engage constructively.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardCreating Space for Conversations, faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
ELCA Bishops Unite for Peace and Migrant Solidarity in Latest Conference
ELCA Bishops Unite for Peace and Migrant Solidarity in Latest Conference

During their recent meeting, the ELCA Conference of Bishops addressed critical international and domestic issues, showing support for a cease-fire in Gaza and solidarity with migrants in Texas. They discussed the role of faith in advocacy, updates on Holy Communion practices, and progress from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church. Other topics included synod diversity goals, tackling white supremacy and patriarchy, AMMPARO's expansion, and roster committee recommendations. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, Conference of BishopsComment
Ordination celebrations: March 8-15, 2024
Ordination celebrations: March 8-15, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Stephen Talmage, Love of Christ, Mesa, who celebrates 39 years on March 10.

  • Rev. Patsy Koeneke, who celebrates 17 years on March 11.

  • Rev. Bruce Ayers, who celebrates 62 years on March 11.

  • Rev. Steven Crittenden, Epiphany of Christ, Apache Junction, who celebrates 15 years on March 12.

  • Rev. Beth Gallen, New Journey, Fountain Hills, who celebrates 3 years on March 13.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
AFN's Packed Agenda: From Legislative Insights to Land Acknowledgement Workshops
AFN's Packed Agenda: From Legislative Insights to Land Acknowledgement Workshops

Arizona Faith Network (AFN) shares a diverse range of upcoming events and initiatives in their latest newsletter. From legislative updates on Arizona's Social Justice Commission and Voting Rights Committee to a crucial land acknowledgement workshop, AFN is driving meaningful conversations and actions. Additionally, explore opportunities for deepening your meditation practice, addressing American Christian Nationalism, and protecting election integrity in 2024.

Don't miss out on contributing your voice to opposing legislation impacting immigrant communities and enriching your understanding through interfaith events and workshops dedicated to sustainability, social justice, and the healing of women veterans.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
Week 4 of ELCA World Hunger Lent Study: Restoring Hope and Community in Ethiopia
Week 4 of ELCA World Hunger Lent Study: Restoring Hope and Community in Ethiopia

Discover the transformative journey of Lalistu's family in Ethiopia through the lens of the ELCA World Hunger Lent Study for Week 4. Explore themes of restoration, the impact of community support, and the fight against stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. Learn how ELCA World Hunger and its partners are investing in futures and changing perceptions to build a world where everyone belongs.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Lent, Hunger, ELCA World HungerComment
HB2815 Update: Faith Advocacy Influences House Passage
HB2815 Update: Faith Advocacy Influences House Passage

HB2815, known as the 'Yes In God’s Back Yard' bill, received significant support from faith leaders and passed the Arizona House with a 38-21 vote. Advocacy by the religious community, including Bishop Deborah Hutterer, played a pivotal role in raising awareness and influencing lawmakers. Read more on the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) site.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHomelessness, Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Living Lutheran: Celebrating Women’s History Month
Living Lutheran: Celebrating Women’s History Month

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Living Lutheran is highlighting a few of the many programs and ministries that support women and promote gender justice. Visit these resources to explore how these programs bring awareness to, serve and equip women, and stay tuned throughout this month to learn more: Women of the ELCA, Justice for Women Resource Page, and 50 Years of Ordained Women.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Your Voice Matters: Join the ELCA Disability Community Listening Session
Your Voice Matters: Join the ELCA Disability Community Listening Session

Join the ELCA's Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) for a critical listening session with the disability community on March 15th, 2024. Share your insights to help guide the ELCA's future, focusing on inclusivity and dismantling racism. Register now to contribute to a more equitable church, and read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardCommission for a Renewed Lutheran Church, ELCA Disability Ministries, Disability MinistriesComment
Legacy of Love: How One ELCA Member’s Estate Planning is Extending Her Husband’s Legacy
Legacy of Love: How One ELCA Member’s Estate Planning is Extending Her Husband’s Legacy

The ELCA Foundation's latest edition of "Insights" brings opportunities and tools for supporters to enhance their contributions to the church's vibrant ministries. Highlighting the rise in charitable gift annuity rates, the introduction of a new estate-planning resource, and inspiring stories of legacy, the newsletter underscores the impact of thoughtful giving.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardStewardship, ELCA FoundationComment
Answer the Call: Nominations Open for 2024 Synod Assembly Elections
Answer the Call: Nominations Open for 2024 Synod Assembly Elections

The 2024 Synod Assembly nominating committee is calling for nominations for synod council members, committee positions, and Churchwide Assembly voting members. Embrace this opportunity to serve and lead within the Grand Canyon Synod by submitting your nominations by April 22, 2024. Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our church. View our nominations page for full info.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment
March Forward with ELCA Young Adult Ministry: Apprenticeships, Surveys, and Gatherings Await
March Forward with ELCA Young Adult Ministry: Apprenticeships, Surveys, and Gatherings Await

In the latest ELCA Young Adult Ministry Updates newsletter, March is bustling with opportunities for young adults in the ELCA! Apply for the Horizon Apprenticeship, share your thoughts with the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church, dive into next year's YAGM cohort, and don't miss registering for the 2024 Young Adult Gathering. Plus, a unique internship at Grace House in Atlanta offers a year of discovery and ministry.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young AdultComment
Horizon Awaits: Transform Your Summer with ELCA's Apprenticeship Program
Horizon Awaits: Transform Your Summer with ELCA's Apprenticeship Program

Seize a transformative summer with the ELCA's Horizon Apprenticeship Program. Designed for young adults of color or those whose primary language is not English, this initiative offers an enriching blend of internships, mentorship, and online learning from June 2 to July 28, 2024. Apply by March 12 to embark on a journey of growth, leadership, and deepened faith engagement.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young AdultComment
Beyond the Booth: Voting as a Testament to Justice and Equality
Beyond the Booth: Voting as a Testament to Justice and Equality

The ELCA Advocacy blog post by William Milner and Alex Parker explores the profound significance of election engagement from a faith-based perspective. Highlighting the enthusiasm for the democratic process and the sacred calling to steward democracy, the authors encourage active civic participation as an act of service to neighbors and a commitment to justice.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardVoting Rights, Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Harness the Power of Rest
Harness the Power of Rest

Just as every Sunday is a “little Easter,” every night offers a chance to take a “little sabbath” and restore your body through healing rest. If you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling like you’re getting a good night’s sleep, Portico members with ELCA-Primary health coverage have a wealth of resources to help. Since March is National Sleep Awareness month, why not check out Learn to Live’s course on insomnia (use the access PORTICO to register), or the Being Academy’s course on sleep.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPorticoComment