Posts in News
March/April Highlights: ELCA Partners Offer Workshops, Conferences, and Musical Enrichment
March/April Highlights: ELCA Partners Offer Workshops, Conferences, and Musical Enrichment

ELCA Worship shines a spotlight on upcoming resources and events from Lutheran and ecumenical partners this March and April. Highlights include the ALCM's confectionary workshop, the Institute of Liturgical Studies' conference on liturgy in consumer culture, and Music That Makes Community's unique Soup Singing event. Additionally, the Lutheran Summer Music Academy offers a transformative experience for high school musicians, while Augsburg Fortress presents a wealth of resources and events to enrich congregational life.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Week 4: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous
Week 4: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous

Week 4 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous.

Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at ELCA.org/sumud.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSumud, Israel and Palestine, 2024 LentComment
When Ethics Kills: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Story of Us
When Ethics Kills: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Story of Us

Join a profound exploration online and at Pacific Lutheran Theological University on March 20, 2024, with Dr. Reggie Williams presenting "When Ethics Kills: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Story of Us." Delve into the complexities of ethical presumptions in society, examining Bonhoeffer's resistance during Germany's crisis and his engagement with the Black Radical Tradition. Discover insights into how ideals and challenges shape our pursuit of the good in community and human flourishing.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2, NewsBrian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Don't miss the final two 2024 Conference Spring Gatherings
Don't miss the final two 2024 Conference Spring Gatherings

We are excited to invite you to our annual Spring Gatherings, themed “Embody the Word.” These gatherings are not just meetings; they are opportunities for spiritual renewal, learning, and community building. Learn more here.

Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley, and Rio Salado Conferences: Mar 17, 2024, 2pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Phoenix

High Country Conference: Mar 23, 2024, 11 am at Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHigh Country Conference, Cactus Conference, Fiesta Conference, Capital Conference, Northeast Valley Conference, Rio Salado Conference, 2024 Spring GatheringsComment
Shape the Future of the ELCA: Join the CRLC Survey by March 15
Shape the Future of the ELCA: Join the CRLC Survey by March 15

Your insights can help shape the future of the ELCA. Participate in the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church survey by March 15, 2024, and contribute to our church's mission of renewal and commitment to justice.

Don't miss your chance to contribute to this significant moment in the ELCA's history. The deadline for survey participation is March 15, 2024. For more details and to complete the survey, visit the official CRLC page: ELCA CRLC Survey. Questions and further inquiries can be directed to crlc@elca.org.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardCommission for a Renewed Lutheran ChurchComment
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
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