Posts in News
Nourishing Body and Spirit: How Lutheran Social Services of Nevada is Expanding Senior Meal Support
Nourishing Body and Spirit: How Lutheran Social Services of Nevada is Expanding Senior Meal Support

Lutheran Social Services of Nevada is expanding its impact with a new Senior Meals to You (SMTY) program, bringing hot meals to homebound seniors—made possible by donations, including vehicle contributions. Chef Dominic has already won the hearts of seniors with his gourmet, home-style cooking. Meanwhile, LSSN’s pantry served a record-breaking 2,200 individuals in January, and BINGO is back, offering seniors joy and connection. Finally, we celebrate Dre Green, Employee of the Month, for his outstanding service. Learn more about how you can help at LSSNV.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Social Services of Nevada, Colorado River ConferenceComment
A Dream Eclipsed: Lowell G. Almen’s Memoir of the ELCA’s Founding Years
A Dream Eclipsed: Lowell G. Almen’s Memoir of the ELCA’s Founding Years

Discover the story of the ELCA’s founding and its quest for Christian unity in A Dream Eclipsed by former Bishop Lowell G. Almen. From his unique vantage point as the church’s first secretary, Almen reflects on the ELCA’s formative years, the triumphs and challenges of its early days, and its ongoing mission to embody faith, fellowship, and service. Order your copy today through Augsburg Fortress or major booksellers.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Lowell G. AlmenComment
From Crisis to Community: The Enduring Lutheran Commitment to Refugees
From Crisis to Community: The Enduring Lutheran Commitment to Refugees

For 85 years, Lutherans have been at the forefront of refugee resettlement, welcoming those fleeing war, persecution, and hardship. What began in 1939 as a small initiative has grown into Global Refuge, continuing the church’s mission of providing safety, empowerment, and new beginnings. From World War II to today, this work embodies our faith in action. Learn more about how you can be part of this ongoing mission at globalrefuge.org/get-involved.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), Global Refuge, Immigration and RefugeesComment
Smart Giving in 2024: Tax-Savvy Ways to Support ELCA Ministries
Smart Giving in 2024: Tax-Savvy Ways to Support ELCA Ministries

Want to make the most of your generosity this year? The ELCA Foundation offers smart, tax-advantaged giving strategies to maximize your impact while providing financial benefits. From stock donations to charitable trusts, there are creative ways to give that align with your financial goals. Learn more and connect with Lisa Higginbotham for personalized guidance.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Foundation, StewardshipComment
Hands and Feet of Christ: Meal Packing Event in Fountain Hills
Hands and Feet of Christ: Meal Packing Event in Fountain Hills

Join us February 26, 2025, at the Fountain Hills Community Center for a family-friendly food packing event hosted by New Journey Lutheran. From 5:30–7:30 PM, volunteers will pack thousands of meals for those in need locally and globally. Registration is required—sign up today at njlc-fh.org/food-4-kidz. View a PDF flyer here. Be the church in action!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHunger, Northeast Valley Conference, New Journey Fountain HillsComment
Connect with Bishop Hutterer: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025
Connect with Bishop Hutterer: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025

Rostered ministers, it’s time to complete your annual Report to the Bishop! Reports are due by March 1, 2025 and are an opportunity to connect directly with Bishop Hutterer. All submissions will be carefully reviewed, and each minister will receive a personal response. Forms are available online or as downloadable Word documents. Visit gcsynod.org/rostered-minister-report for full details.

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Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Time to Report: Submit Your Congregation’s Annual Report by March 1
Time to Report: Submit Your Congregation’s Annual Report by March 1

The Annual Congregation Report (Form A) portal is now open, and all congregations are asked to complete their reports by March 1, 2025. This year’s updated system makes reporting easier, with previous year data displayed, built-in instructions, and forms available in English and Spanish. To access the portal, visit ELCA.org/congregationreport using your congregation’s ID and password. If you didn’t receive this information, contact the Office of the Bishop. Your participation helps shape the future of our synod and the wider church—thank you for being part of this important work!

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
In Memoriam: Rev. Jack Neimi
In Memoriam: Rev. Jack Neimi

We pray for the family and friends of Rev. Jack Raymond Neimi, who passed peacefully at home on January 15, 2025. The primary memorial service for Pastor Niemi will be held in California, with a smaller local service at Lord of Life Lutheran in Sun City West on March 20, 2025, at 11 am.

Pastor Niemi was born in Two Harbors MN, and lived in Surprise, Arizona. He was a member of Lord of Life in Sun City West. He served many churches in the Grand Canyon Synod.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardLord of Life Sun City West, Cactus ConferenceComment
Reignite Your Ministry: Join the Missional Leadership Cohort (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert)
Reignite Your Ministry: Join the Missional Leadership Cohort (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert)

Discover new ways to lead in changing times! The Missional Leadership Cohort is a nine-month journey beginning March 2025 to equip clergy with tools for transformative leadership. With retreats (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert), coaching, and peer support, this program offers practical insights and theological grounding to help you move from “fixing” to faithful discernment. Scholarships available! Learn more today!

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther Seminary, Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Join Shane Claiborne at New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson: Addressing Poverty Through Faith
Join Shane Claiborne at New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson: Addressing Poverty Through Faith

Join New Spirit Lutheran Church in Tucson on February 16th to hear Shane Claiborne, renowned author, speaker, and activist. Worship begins at 10:00 AM, followed by fellowship, a bring-your-own lunch, and Shane’s presentation, “What to Do About Poverty,” at 1:00 PM. View PDF flyer here. Together, let’s explore how faith can inspire action against poverty.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardNew Spirit Tucson, Kino Conference, PovertyComment
“We Survived the End of the World”: A Book Club on Apocalypse and Hope
“We Survived the End of the World”: A Book Club on Apocalypse and Hope

Join the Spirited Book Club this February to discuss Steven Charleston’s We Survived the End of the World, a compelling exploration of Native American resilience amid apocalyptic challenges. Learn from Indigenous prophets and sacred stories as we delve into strategies for courage and hope in times of crisis. Discussions are on February 6 and 20, from 3:00–4:00 PM AZ (MST). Register today to be part of this engaging conversation on faith, community, and survival.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirited Book Club, American Indian and Alaska Native, Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Faith, Fun, and Friendship Await at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat
Faith, Fun, and Friendship Await at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat

Give your child a weekend to remember at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat in Prescott, Arizona. Designed for grades 1 through 6, this faith-filled weekend includes Bible study, archery, campfires, and outdoor exploration. Happening March 14–16 for $100, it’s the perfect blend of fun and faith! Register now at campaloma.com or call 928-778-1690.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOutdoor Ministry, Camp ALOMA, High Country Conference, Youth and Young AdultComment
Faith & Wellness: A Lutheran Approach to Navigating Anxiety
Faith & Wellness: A Lutheran Approach to Navigating Anxiety

Anxiety can be more than an obstacle—it can be an opportunity for growth. Join us on February 20, 2025, for a 90-minute webinar led by Kim Feld, MS, RN, Faith Community Nurse, exploring faith-based responses to anxiety, mindfulness practices, and insights from The Anxiety Opportunity by Curtis Chang. Hosted via Zoom and offering 1.5 ANCC contact hours for nursing professionals. Register today: https://lutheranfcna.org/event-5959385. View PDF flyer here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Faith Community Nurse Association (LFCNA)Comment
Join the 2025 Lenten Challenge: Be a Watered Garden This Lent
Join the 2025 Lenten Challenge: Be a Watered Garden This Lent

Join the Region 2 synods for the 2025 Lenten Challenge, focusing on hunger and water justice through daily devotions, water conservation, community engagement, and donations to support the Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission (NELM). Sign up your family and congregation today at lentenchallenge.org!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Lent, 2025 Lenten Challenge, Navajo Evangelical Lutheran MissionComment
Holy Trinity Lutheran in Chandler Seeks a Part-Time Communications & Social Media Associate
Holy Trinity Lutheran in Chandler Seeks a Part-Time Communications & Social Media Associate

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Chandler, AZ, is hiring a Part-Time Communication & Social Media Associate to lead engagement across digital and print platforms. This role is an opportunity to use creativity in sharing the church’s mission of “Worship, Grow & Serve” with the community. The first review of applications is February 17, 2025, and the position remains open until filled. Learn more and apply at www.htlutheran.com/job-opportunities.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHoly Trinity Chandler, Help Wanted, Fiesta ConferenceComment
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
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News, Global Church, SpotlightBrian FlatgardLutheran World FederationComment