Posts in News
United Lutheran Seminary Moves $100M Endowment to ELCA Foundation for Mission Growth
United Lutheran Seminary Moves $100M Endowment to ELCA Foundation for Mission Growth

United Lutheran Seminary (ULS) has transferred its $100 million endowment to the ELCA Foundation’s Ministry Growth Fund, aligning its financial resources with the church’s mission and socially responsible investment principles. This strategic move ensures long-term, stable support for theological education and leadership formation. The partnership empowers ULS to sustain and expand its mission while benefiting from the ELCA’s proven financial stewardship. Read more in this ELCA News Release.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardUnited Lutheran Seminary, ELCA FoundationComment
Bishop Eaton Responds to Jerusalem Patriarchs’ Call for Justice in Gaza
Bishop Eaton Responds to Jerusalem Patriarchs’ Call for Justice in Gaza

The ELCA joins church leaders in Jerusalem in a humanitarian plea for Gaza, standing against the proposed forced displacement of millions. Bishop Eaton calls on Lutherans to respond through prayer, advocacy, and learning, lifting up the voices of our Palestinian siblings in faith. Read more and take action: Click here.

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardIsrael and Palestine, Church and Society, Bishop Eaton LettersComment
Inside Out Network: Empowering Second Chances in Arizona and Beyond
Inside Out Network: Empowering Second Chances in Arizona and Beyond

The Winter 2025 Inside Out Network Newsletter is here, packed with inspiring stories of transformation, reentry partnerships, and ways congregations can support returning citizens. Highlights include the Men in Orange program, the Color Me Yellow fundraising campaign, and exciting reentry ministry models for churches. Read more and explore how you can be part of this work: Read the full newsletter or download the PDF.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardInside Out Network, PrisonComment
In Memoriam: Rev. Daniel Olson and Barbara Olson
In Memoriam: Rev. Daniel Olson and Barbara Olson

We offer our heartfelt prayers for the friends and family of Pastor Dan Olson and his beloved wife, Barbara Olson. May God’s comforting presence be with all who mourn their passing and celebrate their faithful lives.

Pastor Dan Olson passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025. His wife, Barbara, preceded him in death just a couple of months earlier, on December 30, 2024. Their lives of faith and service will be honored in a joint memorial service at Spirit of Grace Lutheran Church (15820 W. Clearview Blvd., Surprise, AZ 85374) on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. Pastor Dan’s brother, Paul Olson, a retired ELCA pastor, will join in leading this service of remembrance and thanksgiving.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardCactus Conference, Spirit of Grace Surprise Comment
Installation of Luis Ochoa at First Evangelical Lutheran in Mesa
Installation of Luis Ochoa at First Evangelical Lutheran in Mesa

Rev. Luis Ochoa will be installed at First Evangelical Lutheran (142 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201) on Saturday, 3/15/2025 at 2pm. Pastor Chris Stoxen will preach, with Bishop Hutterer presiding. Rostered ministers are invited to attend; no robes. Color of the day is purple. Livestream on YouTube here.

After the service, we will celebrate! To assist us in planning food, please RSVP by calling (480-969-7221) or emailing the office: felc@firstevlutheran.com with the number of people in your group.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdinations and Installations, Colorado River Conference, St. Andrew Las VegasComment
Protecting Rights, Strengthening Communities: AFN’s Weekly Updates
Protecting Rights, Strengthening Communities: AFN’s Weekly Updates

This week, Arizona Faith Network highlights key events and advocacy actions to engage our interfaith community. Stand up for voting rights at the Crossover Week 2025 Press Conference, participate in a Know Your Rights training on immigration, and reflect with AFN’s Monday Meditation. Plus, get updates from AFN’s solidarity work at Oak Flatand stay engaged with the Arizona Faith Forum for real-time legislative tracking. Read the full newsletter and take action today: arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardArizona Faith Network, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Celebrate Bold Women’s Day and Women’s History Month with Women of the ELCA
Celebrate Bold Women’s Day and Women’s History Month with Women of the ELCA

Celebrate Bold Women’s Day on Sunday, March 2 and Women’s History Month with special events, worship, and reflections! Attend the Bold Women’s Day service on February 28 at Augsburg University (in-person or via Zoom), follow the Women of Faith blog series, and join the Boldcafe Monthly Dinner on March 6 to explore the theme of worthiness. Lent also begins March 5—check out Lenten resources, stewardship devotions, and Daily Grace reflections to guide your spiritual journey.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
Join the 2025 Lenten Challenge: Be a Watered Garden This Lent
Join the 2025 Lenten Challenge: Be a Watered Garden This Lent

Ash Wednesday is March 5! 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
Standing for Justice: Pastor Christine Stoxen Advocates for YIGBY Bill
Standing for Justice: Pastor Christine Stoxen Advocates for YIGBY Bill

Pastor Christine Stoxen of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chandler, testified before the Arizona House Appropriations Committee in support of HB2191, the “Yes In God’s Back Yard” (YIGBY) bill. Representing Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) and Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), she spoke on the critical role faith communities play in addressing Arizona’s housing crisis. While the bill advances, significant challenges remain, and continued advocacy is essential. Click here to read the full story on the LAMA site and see how you can help keep up the momentum!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), Advocacy, Homelessness, Church and SocietyComment
Global Hunger & U.S. Policy: A Conversation with Rick Steves & Rev. Eugene Cho
Global Hunger & U.S. Policy: A Conversation with Rick Steves & Rev. Eugene Cho

Hunger affects 10% of the world, and as people of faith, we are called to respond. On Monday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. MT, Bread for the World President Rev. Eugene Cho joins travel writer and advocate Rick Steves for an online discussion about global hunger, the impact of U.S. foreign aid, and how we can advocate for change. Register now for this free event and learn how you can make a difference. Register here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Hunger, Bread for the World, Rick Steves, Eugene ChoComment
Installation of Rev. Mari Larson at St. Andrew Lutheran in Las Vegas
Installation of Rev. Mari Larson at St. Andrew Lutheran in Las Vegas

Rev. Mari Larson will be installed Sunday, 3/9/2025, at 3 pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (8901 Del Webb Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89134). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.

Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is purple. A light reception will follow. Livestream will be available on the church’s YouTube channel.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdinations and Installations, Colorado River Conference, St. Andrew Las VegasComment
Five Ways to Support Refugees and Immigrants in 2025
Five Ways to Support Refugees and Immigrants in 2025

Thousands of refugees and immigrants are seeking safety and stability in our communities. As people of faith, we are called to welcome them with love and action. From sharing accurate information to volunteering, advocating, giving, and supporting employment, there are many ways to help. Read more about how you can make a difference in 2025 with tips from Global Refuge. 

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Global Refuge, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), Immigration and RefugeesComment
POSITION FILLED: Full-Time Parish Administrator Position Open at All Saints Lutheran in Phoenix
POSITION FILLED: Full-Time Parish Administrator Position Open at All Saints Lutheran in Phoenix

All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix is hiring a full-time Parish Administrator to oversee administration, communications, and church property. This leadership role supports the congregation’s mission, ensuring a well-organized and welcoming environment. Applicants should have administrative experience, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to faith-driven service. For more details or to apply, visit allsaintsphoenix.org or contact Pastor Dan Hoeger at 602-866-9191.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp Wanted, All Saints Phoenix, Capital ConferenceComment
Three Years of War: How ELCA Support is Bringing Refugees Hope and Stability
Three Years of War: How ELCA Support is Bringing Refugees Hope and Stability

Three years into the Russia-Ukraine war, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) continues to walk alongside refugees and those impacted by the conflict. From helping families find safety in Romania and Hungary to equipping Roma children in Ukraine with coding skills for a brighter future, LDR’s presence is making a difference. Read about the resilience of those receiving support and how ELCA congregations are part of this ongoing mission. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Lutheran Disaster Response, Russia and Ukraine WarComment
Advocacy as an Act of Hope: ELCA Leaders Share Wisdom
Advocacy as an Act of Hope: ELCA Leaders Share Wisdom

Faith-based advocacy is a powerful way ELCA members live out their calling to love God and neighbor. Former state public policy office (SPPO) directors share their insights, emphasizing the persistence, faith, and courage it takes to work for justice. Whether advocating for climate action, hunger relief, or racial equity, Lutherans across the country are making a difference—one conversation, prayer vigil, and legislative meeting at a time. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Living LutheranComment
Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care
Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care

ELCA state public policy offices nationwide are actively advocating for justice, equity, and compassion. Recent highlights include Arizona's Lutheran Day at the Legislature, Minnesota's housing and environmental initiatives, New Mexico's broad social justice agenda, Pennsylvania's defense of vulnerable communities, Texas's robust advocacy teams, and Virginia's focus on healthcare and criminal justice reform. Explore how Lutherans across the U.S. continue to make a difference. Read the full update here.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Ordination celebrations: March 1-7, 2025
Ordination celebrations: March 1-7, 2025

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Jeremy Nausin, Holy Spirit, Las Vegas, who celebrates 10 years on March 1.

  • Rev. Elaine Watskey, who celebrates 22 years on March 1.

  • Rev. Timothy Wright, Community of Grace, Peoria, who celebrates 41 years on March 4.

  • Rev. Jonathan Linman, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 36 years on March 4.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
Bishop Eaton: Faith, fear, and the call to community
Bishop Eaton: Faith, fear, and the call to community

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton speaks to the church about the need to check in on one another during this time of great anxiety and fear for so many members. "We may not know what tomorrow brings, but we have each other. And we have the promise of a God who meets us in our fear, who walks with us in our struggles, and who calls us to be bearers of hope.”

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ELCA, Bishop Eaton, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Bishop Eaton LettersComment