Posts in News
Lutheran Adventurer & National Parks Expert Brings Inspiring Film to Arizona
Lutheran Adventurer & National Parks Expert Brings Inspiring Film to Arizona

Lutheran guest preacher and National Parks record-setter Mikah Meyer is bringing his short film Canyon Chorus to Tempe on March 14 as part of the Banff World Tour. Meyer, who shared his story and music at Emmanuel Lutheran in Prescott Valley, visited 113 ELCA congregations while completing his 400+ National Park journey. Don’t miss the chance to see his inspiring film and meet him in person at Pollack Tempe Cinemas at 7 PM. Can’t attend? Watch Canyon Chorus for free on YouTube! Get tickets here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardEmmanuel Prescott Valley, High Country ConferenceComment
Celebrating 40 Years of Faithful Service: Pastor Steve Talmage’s Ordination Anniversary
Celebrating 40 Years of Faithful Service: Pastor Steve Talmage’s Ordination Anniversary

Join us on Sunday, March 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, Arizona, to celebrate Pastor Stephen Talmage’s 40th anniversary of ordination! From his early ministry in Tucson to his time as Bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod, and now as Senior Pastor at Love of Christ, Pastor Talmage has faithfully served with passion and dedication. This special gathering will honor his four decades of ministry. All are welcome! For more details, contact Pastor Nanette Christofferson at nanette@loclc.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLove of Christ MesaComment
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
Festival of Homiletics 2025: A Unique Gathering in Atlanta and Online
Festival of Homiletics 2025: A Unique Gathering in Atlanta and Online

The Festival of Homiletics 2025 is set for May 12-15 in Atlanta, GA, and online, offering preachers a time of renewal and learning under the theme “Preaching to Heal the Divide.” This year’s gathering takes place at Peachtree Road UMC, a church celebrating 100 years of ministry. Attendees can explore the church’s rich history and experience the Doves of Peachtree Road, a stunning Centennial art installation. Can’t attend in person? Join online! Register today: festivalofhomiletics.com.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardFestival of Homiletics, Luther SeminaryComment
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
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