Posts in News
Discover the Power of Story: Connect Deeply with God and Others
Discover the Power of Story: Connect Deeply with God and Others

What could we learn from Jesus as the master storyteller? His parables never carry a single meaning but reveal more about ourselves and God every time we revisit them. He told stories to bind his followers to those they never intended to care about, and to define their mission.

Isn’t this the kind of connection we need right now, with God and one another—especially as we confront crises of trust, loneliness, and divisions in our communities? This is why Faith+Lead is hosting Story Bridge: Using Story to Connect with God and Others.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther Seminary, Lay LeadershipoComment
Revitalizing Faith: Yolanda Solomon’s Fresh Take on Discipleship in Today’s Skeptical World
Revitalizing Faith: Yolanda Solomon’s Fresh Take on Discipleship in Today’s Skeptical World

Explore transformative strategies for authentic discipleship in faith+lead’s latest Pivot podcast episode featuring Yolanda Solomon. Discover how to make discipleship relevant and delightful in today’s challenging cultural landscape. Solomon offers insights into creating genuine communities and reframing discipleship as an invitation to beauty. An essential listen for church leaders seeking practical guidance in fostering sincere faith amidst disillusionment. Listen to the full episode here.

Read More
ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPivot Podcast, faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Empower Your Ministry: Enroll in the Basic Skills Coach Training for Faith Leaders
Empower Your Ministry: Enroll in the Basic Skills Coach Training for Faith Leaders

Enhance your leadership skills with Basic Skills Coach Training from Luther Seminary’s faith+lead, starting July 8th, 2024. This course offers nine online sessions under the guidance of Rev. Dr. Dawn Alitz, focusing on empowering techniques like active listening and powerful questioning. Available at just $375 with scholarship options, this training also counts towards your ICF credential. Don’t miss out—enroll now to transform how you support and empower your community.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLay Leadershipo, faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Urgent Call to Action: Advocate for a Just 2024 Farm Bill
Urgent Call to Action: Advocate for a Just 2024 Farm Bill

The 2024 Farm Bill is at a critical juncture, and the ELCA is calling for a fair legislation that aligns with our Lutheran values of feeding the hungry and caring for creation. As Congress debates significant issues like SNAP benefits and conservation funding, Lutheran leaders are actively engaging with lawmakers to promote justice and sustainability. Learn how you can join our advocacy efforts and make a difference in shaping a just Farm Bill that supports vulnerable communities and environmental stewardship.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Global Mission in Focus: Rev. Soliette Lopez Shares Her Journey with YAGM Mexico
Global Mission in Focus: Rev. Soliette Lopez Shares Her Journey with YAGM Mexico

Rev. Soliette Lopez, ELCA missionary and YAGM Mexico Country Coordinator, highlights her recent activities and the impactful stories from the Young Adults in Global Mission program in her latest newsletter for March-May 2024. She shares experiences from the Discernment Interview Placement event in Chicago, personal and community life in Mexico, and plans for her upcoming visits to the United States. To read more about her inspiring journey and how you can support their mission, visit her newsletter at Rev. Soliette Lopez’s Newsletter.

She will be visiting the United States this July 2024 and then March 2025 if any congregations are interested in an in-person visit and update.

Read More
ELCA, Global Church, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardGlobal Mission, Young Adults in Global Mission, Mexican Lutheran ChurchComment
World Refugee Day: A Call to Lutheran Solidarity and Action
World Refugee Day: A Call to Lutheran Solidarity and Action

Giovana Oaxaca shares a blog on ELCA.org observing World Refugee Day, as we celebrate the Lutheran heritage of hospitality and advocacy for refugees. The ELCA continues to lead with its AMMPARO strategy, welcoming congregations nationwide and advocating for fair and generous immigration policies. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Johnson-Reed Act, reminding us of the enduring importance of solidarity.

Read More
ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardImmigration and Refugees, Advocacy, AMMPAROComment
Lutheran Voices Rising: A Month of Impactful Advocacy from New York to California
Lutheran Voices Rising: A Month of Impactful Advocacy from New York to California

The ELCA Advocacy Network was active across various platforms in the last few months, from the UN in New York to state legislatures, focusing on crucial issues like sustainable development, justice, and climate change. Highlights include the ECOSOC Youth Forum’s focus on poverty and climate action, successful advocacy days in California and Pennsylvania, and legislative achievements in Colorado. These efforts reflect the ELCA’s commitment to embodying faith through active engagement and advocacy in critical societal issues.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Bishop Eaton Expresses Disappointment in Grants Pass Supreme Court Decision
Bishop Eaton Expresses Disappointment in Grants Pass Supreme Court Decision

In her letter responding to recent Grants Pass Supreme Court decision, Bishop Eaton encourages us as a church to:

  • Learn and Engage: Let us educate ourselves about housing insecurity and about justice for the homeless. Visit the ELCA Homeless and Justice Network for more information. 

  • Pray: Let us use the ELCA's Homeless and Justice Ministries dedicated devotional guide to pray for those affected by this decision and for our ministries that work to secure shelter for those in need. 

  • Speak Out: Let us review the ELCA World Hunger resource on housing and engage in activities to support effective policies, such as writing a letter to a local news outlet or speaking out at a town hall. 

“Criminalizing homelessness is an injustice we must reject. We remain committed to advocating for our unhoused neighbors.”

Read More
ELCA, News, Letters, Bishop EatonBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, HomelessnessComment
Lutheran World Federation newsletter: 6/21/2024
Lutheran World Federation newsletter: 6/21/2024
Read More
News, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardLutheran World FederationComment
Bethany Lutheran Church Announces Opening for Part-Time Administrative Assistant
Bethany Lutheran Church Announces Opening for Part-Time Administrative Assistant

Bethany Lutheran Church in Scottsdale is looking for a part-time Administrative Assistant. This role requires strong computer, organizational, and communication skills, along with a solid background in administration. Ideal candidates should have a passion for service and effective church office management. Interested? Call us at 480-947-5525 to apply and become a part of our church family’s mission.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp Wanted, Northeast Valley Conference, Bethany ScottsdaleComment
Ordination celebrations: June 28 - July 4, 2024
Ordination celebrations: June 28 - July 4, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Craig Corbin, Mount Olive, Lake Havasu City, who celebrates 37 years on June 28.

  • Rev. Gayle Bintliff, who celebrates 23 years on June 29.

  • Rev. Randy Winsand, Ascension, Paradise Valley, who celebrates 11 years on June 30.

  • Rev. Myron Nysether, who celebrates 50 years on June 30.

  • Rev. William Dowling, who celebrates 64 years on June 30.

  • Rev. John Williams, who celebrates 51 years on June 30.

  • Rev. Glenn Zorb, who celebrates 45 years on July 1.

  • Rev. Jan Flaaten, who celebrates 51 years on July 1.

  • Deacon Brenda J. Laukonis, who celebrates 43 years on July 1.

  • Rev. Robert Hutson Jr., who celebrates 51 years on July 1.

  • Rev. Robert Rod, who celebrates 51 years on July 1.

  • Rev. James Dew, who celebrates 34 years on July 1.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
Join Lutheran Summer Music 2024 In Person or Online
Join Lutheran Summer Music 2024 In Person or Online

Lutheran Summer Music announces its 42nd season, offering over 30 free and open-to-the-public concerts and recitals. All events take place this July at Valparaiso University, and most will be livestreamed. Performances and services are shared by over 250 students, faculty, fellows, worship staff, and guest artists who come together to create a vibrant community of music-makers. The LSM 2024 season will culminate during Festival Week (July 21-28), featuring the LSM Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra, a Festival of Hymns, and closing each day with sung Evening Prayer.

Of special note, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM) will join this year’s LSM community and offer an intergenerational performance of J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion. Visit LSMacademy.org/2024 for a complete listing of events and to access the livestream.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Summer MusicComment
King of Glory Lutheran Seeks New Music Ministry Leaders
King of Glory Lutheran Seeks New Music Ministry Leaders

King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe is seeking dedicated individuals for three key positions within their Music Department: Director of Music Ministries, Youth Music Leader, and Organist/Accompanist. These roles are integral to their vibrant worship and community engagement. Start dates for all positions are August 4, 2024. For more details and application procedures, visit our website or contact Vicki Hegebush at vickih@kogaz.org.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardKing of Glory Tempe, Fiesta Conference, Help WantedComment
Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center Announces Opening for Director of Advancement
Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center Announces Opening for Director of Advancement

Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center is seeking a Director of Advancement to lead and manage its fundraising activities. This role involves developing fundraising goals, managing events, and utilizing CRM systems like Bloomerang for strategic decision-making. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in philanthropy, marketing, and event execution. View the job description as a PDF here. For further details or to apply, contact Executive Director Eric Simonson.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Help WantedComment