Posts in News
Rev. Aimée Appell: Embracing Active Love to Combat Racial Injustice
Rev. Aimée Appell: Embracing Active Love to Combat Racial Injustice

Reflect on the insights shared by Rev. Aimée Appell on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, as she discusses the vital work of the European Descent Lutheran Association for Racial Justice. Appell highlights the transformative power of action-love observed at the George Floyd Global Square and emphasizes the importance of standing in solidarity with marginalized communities. Through personal experiences and scriptural wisdom, she inspires us to embody God's active love in our efforts to dismantle racism and white supremacy.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardRacial Justice, ELCA Racial Justice MinistriesComment
ELCA Advocacy March Update: Budget Wins and Housing Initiatives
ELCA Advocacy March Update: Budget Wins and Housing Initiatives

Explore the ELCA Advocacy's March 2024 updates on pressing legislative matters, including the Federal Budget's impact on hunger and housing, the progress of the Yes In God's Back Yard Act for affordable housing, and the efforts towards wildlife conservation and Uyghur human rights. Discover the ELCA's call for ceasefire and support for UNRWA funding, along with its solidarity with Annunciation House, reflecting its commitment to peace, human rights, and support for the vulnerable.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Celebrate Earth Month with Blessed Tomorrow: From Forums to Leadership Awards
Celebrate Earth Month with Blessed Tomorrow: From Forums to Leadership Awards

Read Blessed Tomorrow's April 2024 newsletter for a comprehensive look at engaging climate action events and initiatives. From celebrating the American Climate Leadership Awards to participating in the National Faith + Climate Forum, this newsletter invites you to contribute to meaningful climate advocacy and resilience efforts. Learn from leaders, join impactful webinars, and take action during Earth Month with Blessed Tomorrow.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardClimate Change, Blessed TomorrowComment
Join AFN for a Week of Spirituality and Social Advocacy: From Meditation to Election Protection
Join AFN for a Week of Spirituality and Social Advocacy: From Meditation to Election Protection

Stay connected with the Arizona Faith Network through their latest newsletter. From meditations and educational webinars on American Christian Nationalism to initiatives for hunger and housing advocacy, as well as a significant focus on faith in elections and environmental care, there's a diverse range of opportunities to deepen your faith and contribute to the community. Strengthen your civic infrastructure, support IRC Phoenix Welcome Center, and participate in creating a just and compassionate world.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardArizona Faith Network Comments
Uncover Ancient Wisdom for Today's Church in 'The Ever-Expanding Church' Course
Uncover Ancient Wisdom for Today's Church in 'The Ever-Expanding Church' Course

From faith+lead, "The Book of Acts: The Ever-Expanding Church" online course rediscovers the early church's vitality and its relevance to our lives today. Through engaging discussions and creative illustrations, participants will explore the Holy Spirit's power, learn to embody Scripture in daily life, and envision a church that continuously expands and embraces diversity, just like the early Christians did.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, faith+leadComment
ELCA Mission Support Memo for March 2024
ELCA Mission Support Memo for March 2024

This month our ELCA Mission Support Memo for March 2024 explores how the Central States Synod is equipping leaders through their Ministry Lab ~ an active place to ask questions, learn new ideas, work with different “tools” or resources, and experiment to see what works. They welcome anyone from anywhere to engage in the lab. Also learn about how congregations can join in a Cultivating Generous Congregations Cohort starting in April. We also share our gratitude for congregations submitting Annual Congregational Reports. Read the memo here! 

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardMission Support, ELCA Mission Support TeamComment
The United States, a Chosen Nation?
The United States, a Chosen Nation?

As part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share a PDF of an article by Darrell Jodock, The United States, a Chosen Nation?, from A Chosen Nation?, an issue of Word and World, Luther Seminary’s journal of theology.

There are at least two ways to think about the United States as a “chosen nation”: aspirational and exclusivistic. The danger of the latter, which has gained some currency, is that it assumes that America is (or was) already a divinely chosen nation whose actions are blessed by God, rather than a nation that has decided to hold itself to a higher (yet unrealized) standard. —Darrell Jodock

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, ResourcesBrian FlatgardCreating Space for Conversations, Word and World, Luther SeminaryComment
Explore PLTS during Signs Along the Way discernment weekend
Explore PLTS during Signs Along the Way discernment weekend

Have you ever considered seminary? Have you ever felt like God might be calling you into ministry, but you’re not sure how or where to start? Join others in discernment at Signs Along the Way, a visit weekend at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, April 5th-7th, 2024. Learn more and register at plts.edu/signs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Region 2Brian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, CandidacyComment
A Reflection on the 2024 ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza from Rev. Peter Heide 
A Reflection on the 2024 ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza from Rev. Peter Heide 

Discover the impactful presence of Disability Ministries at the 2024 ELCA Youth Ministry Network Extravaganza, highlighted by three insightful workshops, a groundbreaking Thanksgiving for Baptism service utilizing Braille, and enhanced accessibility features. Explore how these firsts in the ELCA community are paving the way for more inclusive worship and participation, marking significant strides towards embracing all members of the church.

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ELCA, News, LettersBrian FlatgardDisability Ministries, ELCA Disability Ministries, Youth and Young Adult, 2024 ELCA Youth GatheringComment
Catch the Early Bird: Register Now for the 2024 Synod Assembly
Catch the Early Bird: Register Now for the 2024 Synod Assembly

Secure your spot at the 2024 Synod Assembly with early bird registration available until April 15, 2024! Don't miss this opportunity for fellowship, worship, and engaging discussions. Visitors and exhibitors are also welcome to join us for this enriching experience. Register now to be part of shaping our community's future together.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment
Week 5: Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar
Week 5: Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar

Week 5 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is Things That Make Peace with Rev. Sally Azar.

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
Get Ready for New Orleans: Youth Gathering Updates and Key Dates
Get Ready for New Orleans: Youth Gathering Updates and Key Dates

Excitement is building for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans! Remember to update your check-in and checkout dates, reserve your spot for airport shuttle service, and note the venue policies for a seamless experience. Don't miss out on catered meals for your group and invite a friend before registration closes on April 15. Mark your calendar for key dates and get ready for an unforgettable week of faith, worship, and community!

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment