Posts in News
Recharge and Lead: The Importance of Regular Rest for Church Leaders
Recharge and Lead: The Importance of Regular Rest for Church Leaders

In the July 2024 issue of the Crucible Newsletter from Fuller Church Leadership Institute, Embrace resilience in church leadership by integrating regular rest and renewal into your routine, as inspired by legendary coach Bill Bowerman’s stress-recovery-improve principle. This summer, recharge with vacations or sabbaticals, and consider the ongoing rhythm of restoration for effective leadership.

Additionally, explore the Business of Ministry Cohort this September to enhance your administrative skills, and listen to the latest episode of the Spiritual Life and Leadership Podcast for insights on multi-inclusivity in church communities.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFuller Church Leader InstituteComment
Lead with Purpose: Grand Canyon Synod Seeks Director for Evangelical Mission
Lead with Purpose: Grand Canyon Synod Seeks Director for Evangelical Mission

The Grand Canyon Synod is seeking a Director for Evangelical Mission, based in Phoenix, AZ. This vital role focuses on enhancing congregational vitality and leadership, aligning with our mission to nurture transformative relationships within communities. Responsibilities include educational strategy, team coordination, and leadership training. This full-time, contract position offers a competitive salary and benefits. Apply now and join us in shaping our spiritual and communal future. Apply here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp WantedComment
Connect & Rejoice: Join Grace Lutheran’s Campformation Reunion and Youth Gathering
Connect & Rejoice: Join Grace Lutheran’s Campformation Reunion and Youth Gathering

Grace Lutheran Church invites you to the Campformation Reunion and Youth Gathering on July 31, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM at 1124 N 3rd Street, Phoenix. Enjoy an evening filled with inspiring music, a brief message, and light meals, followed by games and prizes. Whether you’re a youth, parent, or adult from the Grand Canyon Synod, come for a night of faith, fun, and fellowship. View this PDF flyer for info.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGrace Phoenix, Capital Conference, Campformation, Outdoor Ministry, Youth and Young AdultComment
Youth Gathering 2024: Transformative Encounters in New Orleans
Youth Gathering 2024: Transformative Encounters in New Orleans

The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans has transformed participants through deep conversations, community engagement, and inspiring worship. Highlighted by Bishop Eaton’s powerful closing message and a living Good Samaritan story, the week exemplified discipleship and the call to see Jesus in every neighbor. As we return home, we embrace the Spirit of courage and authenticity, ready to serve and love as disciples of Christ.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
Accompaniment Day: Building Bridges in New Orleans
Accompaniment Day: Building Bridges in New Orleans

On July 18, over 5,000 participants at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans took part in “Accompaniment Day,” engaging in community service and building meaningful relationships. Despite torrential rain, the day concluded with an inspiring Mass Gathering. Highlights included powerful speeches on justice and freedom, emphasizing the theme “Created to Be Free.”

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
Double Your Gift: ELCA World Hunger’s Match at the Youth Gathering
Double Your Gift: ELCA World Hunger’s Match at the Youth Gathering

Join us at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans to support ELCA World Hunger in a significant way. Dive into an immersive role-playing experience in the Interactive Learning Space and learn about the daily challenges of those living in poverty. Take part in a special offering where your donation will be matched up to $250,000, doubling your impact. Donate via ELCA.org/GiveGZH or bring your contributions to the Gathering, and share your journey on social media with #GenZeroHunger. Together, we can strive for a world without hunger.

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ELCA, News, Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Hunger, ELCA World HungerComment
Lutherans Restoring Creation at the 2024 Youth Gathering
Lutherans Restoring Creation at the 2024 Youth Gathering

We are here at ELCA's Youth Gathering 2024 where we're learning, lamenting, listening, and loving along with 16,000 young people from across the country! Lutherans Restoring Creation was asked to help support ELCA's World Hunger's area in the Interactive Center as we make the connections between climate, natural disaster, hunger and migration.

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ELCA, News, Grand Canyon SynodBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Lutherans Restoring Creation, Climate ChangeComment
‘Created to Be Authentic’: A Day of Unity and Discovery at the ELCA Youth Gathering
‘Created to Be Authentic’: A Day of Unity and Discovery at the ELCA Youth Gathering

During the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans on July 17, 2024, participants explored the city’s rich culture through a scavenger hunt, engaging in activities that highlighted local history and embraced the theme “Created to Be Authentic.” Highlights included Bishop Eaton’s interactions with youth, powerful worship led by Bishop Regina Hassanally, and vibrant discussions on identity and faith. The day ended with an uplifting Mass Gathering, reinforcing the call to authenticity and inclusion within the church.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment
16,000 Youth Ignite New Orleans with Spirit of Bravery at 2024 ELCA Gathering
16,000 Youth Ignite New Orleans with Spirit of Bravery at 2024 ELCA Gathering

The 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans brings together over 16,000 Lutheran youth and leaders, transforming the city into a vibrant scene of worship, play, and community. As the Gathering kicked off for the first time this week, the event featured engaging activities, powerful Mass Gatherings, and inspirational speeches from church leaders and speakers.

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ELCA, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young Adult Comment
Ordination celebrations: July 19-25, 2024
Ordination celebrations: July 19-25, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Deacon Lana Neighbors, Honor Health, Scottsdale, who celebrates 27 years on July 20.

  • Rev. Joaquin Garcia, Vida Nueva, Glendale, who celebrates 41 years on July 20.

  • Rev. Dennis D. Nelson, who celebrates 50 years on July 21.

  • Rev. Harold Kriesel, who celebrates 56 years on July 21.

  • Rev. Richard Miller, who celebrates 56 years on July 21.

  • Rev. Doug Heskin, who celebrates 56 years on July 21.

  • Rev. Janice Brosen, who celebrates 40 years on July 22.

  • Rev. Paul Scheitlin, who celebrates 45 years on July 22.

  • Rev. Robert Jones, Santa Cruz, Tucson, who celebrates 41 years on July 24.

  • Rev. Colin Melby, who celebrates 41 years on July 24.

  • Rev. Craig Larson, Desert Hills, Green Valley, who celebrates 36 years on July 24.

  • Rev. Jeffery Gallen, Christ Evangelical, Goodyear, who celebrates 42 years on July 25.

  • Rev. Matthew Metevelis, Nathan Adelson Hospice, Las Vegas, who celebrates 14 years on July 25.

  • Rev. David Tiede, who celebrates 53 years on July 25.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
Navigating Nationalism: Exploring the Impact of Christian Nationalism on U.S. Democracy
Navigating Nationalism: Exploring the Impact of Christian Nationalism on U.S. Democracy

This summer, the Arizona Faith Network is spearheading critical initiatives to combat the devastating effects of extreme heat and foster interfaith dialogue. Participate in our relief efforts by donating essential supplies, and engage in our educational webinars to learn about issues like Christian Nationalism and interfaith leadership. Your involvement is crucial in supporting our vulnerable neighbors and enriching our community dialogue. Join us to make a significant impact! Click here to learn more and participate.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChristian Nationalism, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith Network, Church and SocietyComment
Music Majors Take Note: J.W. Pepper’s 150th Anniversary Scholarship Program Launches
Music Majors Take Note: J.W. Pepper’s 150th Anniversary Scholarship Program Launches

J.W. Pepper is celebrating its 150th anniversary by launching a nationwide scholarship program, awarding 52 scholarships to future music educators. With $3,000 for each state’s recipient and an additional $10,000 for the top scholar, this initiative supports students entering college as music education majors in fall 2025. Applications open in October 2024—learn more and sign up for updates on this extraordinary educational opportunity.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardComment
Bishop Eaton Addresses Political Violence
Bishop Eaton Addresses Political Violence

Just a few weeks ago in my June column for Living Lutheran I wrote, "I can't think of an election cycle more fraught and divisive than this one. People all across the political spectrum claim that life as we know it is on the line. It's not possible to agree to disagree—one must decide and put a stake in the ground. There is the potential for violence." That potential is now a reality after last weekend's shooting at a Trump campaign rally that killed Corey D. Comperatore and injured other attendees. I am thankful that former President Trump's injury was minor and pray for his recovery alongside those affected. 

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton LettersComment
The Spirit Moves in New Orleans: Closing Moments of MYLE and the tAble
The Spirit Moves in New Orleans: Closing Moments of MYLE and the tAble

The 2024 MYLE and the tAble events concluded on a high note in New Orleans, marking an impactful four days of spiritual growth and community building. Bishop Felix Malpica inspired the youth with messages of inclusion and God’s miraculous disruptions. Participants explored diversity and acceptance, with activities like building Lego figures reflecting their unique identities. As these events wrapped up, the connections formed promise to inspire further gatherings and continued faith journeys. Let’s carry the spirit of these moments forward as we step into the broader 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering. Be sure to watch the MYLE 2024 Recap Video the tAble 2024 Recap Video.

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