The Arizona Faith Network invites participation in several meaningful events this week, including a Healing Circle at the U.S./Mexico border (April 13), a community Tree Planting in Glendale (April 14), weekly Monday meditations, and applications for summer heat relief staff and volunteers. Learn more and explore the full AFN newsletter at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Read MoreResolutions for the 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly are due by the close of business on Monday, April 28, 2025. All submissions must follow synod and ELCA guidelines and be sent as editable files to Kathye Hamm at khamm@gcsynod.org. The Reference and Counsel Committee will review all resolutions for procedural compliance and publish its report—including submitted resolutions and recommendations—by May 23. Visit gcsynod.org/2025/assembly/resolutions for full instructions.
Read MoreJoin the Phoenix Holocaust Association and the Phoenix Symphony for the 2025 Yom HaShoah Holocaust Remembrance Commemoration on Sunday, April 27 at Phoenix Symphony Hall. This year’s program marks 80 years since the end of WWII and features a 5:00 PM memorial program with survivor testimonies, music, and prayers. Prior to the commemoration, a Phoenix Symphony concert begins at 2:00 PM. The memorial is free but requires registration at PHXHA.com/remembrance. View PDF flyer here.
Read MoreHow we read John’s Passion on Good Friday matters. We encourage congregations to consider the historical misuse of the phrase “the Jews” in this gospel and to include a contextual note provided by the Consultation on Common Texts. ELCA worship resources are available to guide preachers and worship planners in proclaiming the gospel with care, respect, and theological integrity.
Read MoreIn this video, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande addresses recent letter from the Department of Homeland Security insinuating the diocese's involvement in illegal activities, including human trafficking.
Bishop Hunn outlines the diocese's longstanding ministry efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border, including the operation of a shelter for legal asylum seekers in partnership with Homeland Security's Border Patrol and ICE. He underscores the legality and moral grounding of their work, rooted in Christian teachings and constitutional rights. Despite the scrutiny and funding withdrawal from FEMA, he reaffirms their commitment to borderland ministry and invites support through prayers and donations.
Read MoreNew updates on misconduct reporting and resources: The Grand Canyon Synod and the ELCA have updated their official contact information and resources for reporting clergy sexual misconduct. Learn how to report, review our misconduct policy, and access support at gcsynod.org/misconduct. Together, we are called to be a safe place.
Read MoreJoin thousands of pastors and leaders May 12–15 for the Festival of Homiletics—online or in Atlanta—as we worship, learn, and preach to heal the divide. Experience inspiring sermons, theological lectures, and uplifting worship grounded in Lutheran theology. Register today at festivalofhomiletics.com.
Read MoreMinistry is hard—and full of questions without easy answers. On May 22, join the Rev. Dr. Michael Binder for Faithful Adaptation: Leading Change with Hope, an online workshop that offers tools to move beyond shallow fixes and into deeper, Spirit-led transformation. This 90-minute session is free with a Faith+Lead membership. Learn more and register here: https://lab.faithlead.org/event/faithful-adaptation-leading-change-with-hope/
Read MorePacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) is hiring a new Rector to lead its Berkeley-based seminary community. ELCA rostered ministers with at least seven years of leadership experience are encouraged to apply by April 24, 2025, for this full-time role beginning June 1. The Rector will guide theological education and public witness in the ELCA, steward seminary partnerships, and serve as a key representative of PLTS and California Lutheran University. Apply now.
Read More107 rostered ministers have already submitted their annual Report to the Bishop—thank you! If you haven’t submitted yours yet, there’s still time. Bishop Hutterer personally reads and responds to each report, offering a chance to share your journey, joys, and challenges in ministry. Visit gcsynod.org/rostered-minister-report to get started.
Read MoreLent is often marked by solemnity and sacrifice, but Minister of Word and Service Mindy Holland invites us to approach the season differently—by choosing joy. Whether through dancing, handwritten notes, or praying the Psalms in multiple languages, her Lenten practices highlight joy as a spiritual discipline and a witness to the goodness of God, even in a world of pain. This reflection reminds us that joy is not frivolous—it’s faithful. Find inspiration for your own joyous Lenten intention. Click here to read the full article on Living Lutheran.
Read MoreLutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) is now offering free weekly medical care—including doctor consultations, prescriptions, and lab work—every Wednesday for all clients, regardless of insurance. March brought record-breaking achievements in meals served and families supported. Plus, mark your calendar for the Spring Easter Fest on April 18and check out this week’s featured recipes.
Read MoreThriving Leadership Formation shares their annual report for 2025, view here as a PDF.
Read MoreSt. Olaf College, in Northfield, Minnesota, shares their annual report for 2025.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Charles Newman, King of Glory, Tempe, who celebrates 20 years on April 15.
Read MoreGather magazine is collecting stories of ELCA women, congregations, and ministries who create and sell handmade goods—like soap, candles, clothing, or cards—as a way to support ministry or express faith. Know someone in our synod who fits this description? Send their name, contact info, and a short description to gather@elca.org by Friday, April 11.
Read MoreYouth from the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to Leadership Lab 2025, a weeklong Lutheran leadership experience for grades 8 through age 24, held June 23-28 at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. Rooted in faith and friendship, Leadership Lab helps young people grow as disciples and leaders. Register now at leadershiplab.net.
Read MoreStill need to submit your 2024 ELCA Congregation Report? The deadline is April 11. This year’s new reporting platform has caused challenges for many, but help is available through FAQs and temporary workarounds. Learn more and access the system before it closes.
Read MoreCamp ALOMA in Prescott is hiring three young men for summer staff. This is a unique opportunity to grow in faith, lead youth, and spend the summer outdoors. If you know someone ready for a Christ-centered adventure, invite them to apply today: https://forms.gle/Pu6vL5PzGesvsGUF6. Contact office@campaloma.com or 928-778-1690 for details.
Read MoreRegistration for Camp ALOMA’s 2025 summer sessions is now open! Seven weeks of faith-filled fun await youth in grades 1–12. Enjoy archery, canoeing, worship, and Bible study in the pines of Prescott. Bus transportation is available from Phoenix. Early bird pricing ends April 15 — register today at campdoc.com/register/aloma.
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