Posts in News
2024 Synod Assembly Agenda available
2024 Synod Assembly Agenda available

Join us for the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly from June 13-15. This year’s assembly includes the Bishop’s election, starting with registration and a Hymn Festival on Thursday. Friday and Saturday will feature plenary sessions, worship, workshops, and multiple voting rounds. Key events include a Bible study with Rev. Dr. Colleen Windham Hughes and a visit from Chaplain Capt Matthew W. Dobyns. Your attention is crucial as we have a bishop election and conduct essential synod business.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment
California Lutheran University Announces Leadership Transition
California Lutheran University Announces Leadership Transition

The California Lutheran University Board of Regents announced that President Lori Varlotta will step down from her role effective May 31, 2024. Dr. John Nunes, most recently pastor at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Santa Monica, Ca., and former president of Concordia College New York, will serve as interim president for a two-year term beginning on June 1, 2024. 

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Region 2, NewsBrian FlatgardCalifornia Lutheran UniversityComment
Discover the Divine: Spirit in the Desert’s National Parks Film Series
Discover the Divine: Spirit in the Desert’s National Parks Film Series

Join Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center this summer for a four-session film series exploring the spiritual significance of America’s national parks. Featuring stunning clips from Ken Burns’s film, each session will delve into our deep connections with the Divine and the Earth. Sessions are held on the 4th Thursday of May, June, July, and August at 4:00 PM AZ (MST). Register now to deepen your spiritual connection with nature.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Mental Health Awareness: We are the Body of Christ | Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
Mental Health Awareness: We are the Body of Christ | Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton

In her message addressing mental health, Bishop Eaton stresses that “telling someone they aren’t doing enough to be happy creates a stigma that they are not living correctly… it’s important that we, as the body of Christ, provide compassionate support for those in our families and in our communities who are living with mental illness. God loves us all; no matter how we are coping, we are not alone, God is with us.”

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, Mental HealthComment
Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month
Hunger Leaders Network meets 6pm last Tuesday of every month

Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgardhunger, Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders NetworkComment
Fuller Church Leadership Institute announces the Business of Ministry Certificate
Fuller Church Leadership Institute announces the Business of Ministry Certificate

To be a successful ministry leader, it’s essential to have a working knowledge of finances, team management, facilities, planning, board relationships, and systems. FULLER Equip and Fuller Seminary's Church Leadership Institute have partnered with consultant and Executive Pastor Mike Bonem to create the Business of Ministry Certificate—designed to enhance your skills in these areas to help you feel more prepared and confident in your ministry leadership. Learn more and purchase here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFuller Church Leader InstituteComment
Exploring Lament: A Path to Healing with ELCA Coaching
Exploring Lament: A Path to Healing with ELCA Coaching

Join ELCA coaching on May 22 for a transformative Zoom session on lament with Rev. Brenda Smith and Deacon Tammy Devine, part of the ELCA Coaching's Courageous Leadership series. Explore personal and corporate lament and learn how to integrate it into your ministry. Discover how faith communities can lead in promoting care and respect amidst societal challenges. Register now to participate in this enriching conversation.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment
ELCA Worship News: May, 2024
ELCA Worship News: May, 2024
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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA WorshipComment
ELCA's Seeds Monthly: May, 2024
ELCA's Seeds Monthly: May, 2024

The May, 2024 issue of Seeds Monthly highlights Living Lutheran’s insightful interview with Michael Osterholm, a Lutheran epidemiologist, discussing his public health journey and faith. The Spanish-language study guide for Faith, Sexism, and Justice is now available, offering flexible sessions for discussions on gender justice. Join the Generation Zero-Hunger fundraising challenge at the ELCA Youth Gathering to double your impact in ending hunger. Plan your legacy with the ELCA Foundation to support the church's mission. Mark your calendars for key events and opportunities within the ELCA, including the ecoAmerica survey and the Domestic Hunger Grants deadline.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardSeeds MonthlyComment
Ordination celebrations: May 17 – May 23, 2024
Ordination celebrations: May 17 – May 23, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Jonathan Heilner, who celebrates 49 years on May 18.

  • Rev. Greg Hartman, New Spirit, Tucson, who celebrates 5 years on May 18.

  • Rev. Patricia Reed, who celebrates 23 years on May 19.

  • Rev. Richard Glover, who celebrates 65 years on May 20.

  • Rev. Phillip Hausknecht, who celebrates 61 years on May 20.

  • Rev. Mel Soderberg, who celebrates 57 years on May 21.

  • Deacon Laura Book, who celebrates 14 years on May 21.

  • Rev. Daniel Olson, who celebrates 61 years on May 22.

  • Rev. Carl Zimmermann, who celebrates 47 years on May 22.

  • Rev. Wallace Klandrud, who celebrates 69 years on May 23.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
POSITION FILLED: Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix seeks Preschool Director
POSITION FILLED: Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix seeks Preschool Director

Ahwatukee Preschool, a mission of Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix, AZ, seeks a Preschool Director. The Preschool Director is responsible for the development, operation, management, legal compliance, promotion, and success of the Ahwatukee Preschool, with the goal of maximizing enrollment while maintaining high educational standards within a loving, Christian environment. You can find a more detailed job description and instructions for applying by visiting: mvlutheran.org/jobs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMountain View Phoenix, Fiesta Conference, Help WantedComment
Arizona Faith Network Addresses ‘Secure the Border Act’
Arizona Faith Network Addresses ‘Secure the Border Act’

In addition to addressing the critical issue of HCR2060, the Arizona Faith Network's latest newsletter features a rich lineup of events and educational opportunities. Upcoming sessions include a webinar on American Christian Nationalism, a Resiliency Career/Job Fair, and a series exploring the impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery. There's also a focus on community support with initiatives like the Heat Relief and Resilience efforts, and the MOMS Tour Baby Shower, designed to support maternal health.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardImmigration and Refugees, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
Administration Matters: May 2024
Administration Matters: May 2024

Issue 93 of Administration Matters, the bimonthly e-newsletter for ELCA congregational and synodical leaders features:

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdministration MattersComment
2024 Report of the Reference and Counsel Committee is available
2024 Report of the Reference and Counsel Committee is available

The Grand Canyon Synod has received one resolution {S24.01} for the upcoming 2024 Synod Assembly, confirmed by the Reference and Counsel Committee to align with our constitutional guidelines. Submitted by the Stewardship Team before the April 22 deadline, the resolution will be presented without recommendation, ensuring an open discussion among assembly members. Full details and a description of the submitting team are available on our assembly pages.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment