Posts in News
Ordination celebrations: May 24 – May 30, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Richard Jessen, who celebrates 61 years on May 24.

  • Rev. Ronald Koplitz, who celebrates 55 years on May 25.

  • Rev. David Swanson, who celebrates 60 years on May 26.

  • Rev. Jon Clutz, who celebrates 60 years on May 27.

  • The Rev. Donald Bebber, St. Raphael, Benson, who celebrates 1 years on May 27.

  • Rev. Benjamin Bergren, Community, Las Vegas, who celebrates 26 years on May 28.

  • Rev. Nicholas Mays, who celebrates 58 years on May 29.

  • Rev. Norene Smith, who celebrates 41 years on May 29.

  • Rev. Leroy Rehrer, who celebrates 47 years on May 29.

  • Rev. Ronald Glusenkamp, who celebrates 43 years on May 29.

  • Rev. Randall Olson, Honor Health, Scottsdale, who celebrates 48 years on May 30.

  • Rev. Dennis R. Nelson, who celebrates 53 years on May 30.

  • Rev. Kenneth Miller, Grace, Kingman, who celebrates 20 years on May 30.

Read More
2024 Assembly Guide: Schedule, Registration, and What to Bring

Prepare for the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly from June 13-15 at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, AZ with our Attendee Vital Information page, which we’ll keep updating as we receive info. This year’s assembly features a Bishop’s election, requiring pre-registered voting members to check in on Thursday or Friday morning. Free childcare is available with advance registration. Join us as we “Embody the Word”!

Read More
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.

Read More
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. 

Read More
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.

Read More
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.”

Read More
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!

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
ELCA Worship News: 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.

Read More