Spring Gatherings Continue in Tucson and Scottsdale
Spring Gatherings Continue in Tucson and Scottsdale

The Kino Conference Spring Gathering is at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Tucson, on Saturday, Feb 3, 2024, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM (watch livestream here), and the Spring Gathering for Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley and Rio Salado Conferences will be held at Living Water Lutheran on Sunday, Feb 4, 2024, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM (view the livestream here).

These gatherings are not just meetings, but an opportunity for spiritual growth, learning, and community engagement, centered on the transformative message of John 1:14. Don't miss this chance to deepen your faith and connect with your synod community.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Spring Gatherings, Kino Conference, Cactus Conference, Capital Conference, Northeast Valley Conference, Rio Salado ConferenceComment
Mosaic Sets Forth Advocacy Blueprint for 2024: A Focus on Workforce and Community Services
Mosaic Sets Forth Advocacy Blueprint for 2024: A Focus on Workforce and Community Services

Mosaic's 2024 advocacy agenda continues its commitment to positive legislative influence, focusing on Direct Support Professional recognition, expansion of Home and Community Based Services, updating SSI asset limits, and fostering key partnerships. Building on 2023's successes, Mosaic aims to leverage its strong advocate base to support individuals with I/DD and the workforce dedicated to them. Read more at mosaicinfo.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMosaic, Disability MinistriesComment
Lutheran Men in Mission: Winter Reflections and Spiritual Fortitude
Lutheran Men in Mission: Winter Reflections and Spiritual Fortitude

The Winter 2023-24 edition of "Lutheran Men in Mission" centers on fostering bold followers of Christ. It delves into personal stories of faith and the impact of ministry, reflecting on both loss and communal triumphs. The newsletter outlines upcoming events like "One Year to Live Retreats," aiming to enrich men's spiritual journey. Read the newsletter here, and also explore their latest Ambassador-Gram here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Men in MissionComment
Faith+Lead: What does "wonder" mean to you in this season?
Faith+Lead: What does "wonder" mean to you in this season?

As congregations welcome new leaders and express gratitude to those completing their service, it's a pivotal time to nurture a deep sense of calling in lay leaders. Share Joe Davis' inspiring "BE the Church" spoken-word piece to invigorate this calling. Support the spiritual growth of outgoing leaders with enriching courses like "Following Jesus to Purpose and Meaning." Equip incoming leaders with Faith+Lead's on-demand courses that blend practical tools with spiritual practices, ensuring they're ready to spiritually and effectively guide their churches. Find out more in Faith+Lead’s latest newsletter.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Blessed Tomorrow Newsletter: February, 2024
Blessed Tomorrow Newsletter: February, 2024

Join faith leaders at the National Faith + Climate Forum on April 16th, designed to inspire collaborative climate solutions in congregations and communities. Also, don't miss the chance to turn non-voters into climate voters with ecoAmerica's resources. Celebrate the One Home One Future campaign, and participate in the discussion with filmmaker John Feldman on Feb 27th. Plus, discover more events and resources from our partners to empower your climate advocacy in Blessed Tomorrow’s February 2024 newsletter.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBlessed Tomorrow, Climate ChangeComment
February Fun for Young Adults: West Valley Community’s Packed Calendar
February Fun for Young Adults: West Valley Community’s Packed Calendar

The West Valley Young Adult Community is bustling with activity this February! Packed with diverse and engaging events, the calendar is designed for young adults aged 19-35 to connect, share experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue about life and faith. From the calming ambiance of "Coffee & Conversation" to the competitive fun of "Par Tee" at Popstroke, and the vibrant "2nd Saturdays" street fair, there's something for everyone. The lineup also includes a lively "Mardi Gras" celebration and a "Pizza & Game Night" for those who enjoy a laid-back evening. To cap off the month, test your problem-solving skills at the "Escape Westgate" event.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardYouth and Young Adult, West Valley Young AdultsComment
Empowering Advocacy: 2024 Lutheran Day at the Legislature Recap
Empowering Advocacy: 2024 Lutheran Day at the Legislature Recap

The 2024 Lutheran Day at the Legislature, held on January 18th in Arizona, was a resounding success with 125 advocates from across the state gathering for impactful discussions on policy priorities. The day was marked by engaging with over 30 legislators, insightful speeches from influential leaders, and meaningful networking. Highlights included nonpartisan cooperation talks, strategies for addressing key issues like hunger and housing, and building stronger community relationships through advocacy. View all the photos and info at lamaz.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Maximize Your Ministry's Impact: Five Exciting Stewardship and Leadership Growth Opportunities
Maximize Your Ministry's Impact: Five Exciting Stewardship and Leadership Growth Opportunities

Elevate your church leadership and stewardship skills with ELCA's exciting opportunities. Join webinars, seminars, and learning communities starting February 2024, to enhance donor relations, financial empowerment, and much more.

Register today to transform your ministry's financial and leadership capabilities with one of the five offerings: Cultivating the Craft of Asking; African Descent and African National Financial Empowerment; Deepening Our Relationship with the Spirituality of Fundraising; Financial Best Practices Learning Community, and Financial Empowerment for Missional Leaders.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardStewardshipComment
Japan: An opportunity for new beginnings
Japan: An opportunity for new beginnings

The Japan Lutheran Church (JLC) has been an associate member church of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) since 1999. In 2021, JLC decided to ordain women as pastors.

Rev. Heeme Yang, one of its first two ordained women pastors, shares her journey from fashion design to studying theology, what it means to be church in an ageing society, and ecumenical opportunities in a Christian minority context. From her Korean Buddhist origins, Anglican college life, to becoming a Lutheran church Vice-President, it’s been 20 years since Rev. Heeme Yang “knocked on the seminary door.” Read more at lutheranworld.org.

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News, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardLutheran World Federation, Japan Lutheran ChurchComment
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is becoming Global Refuge
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is becoming Global Refuge

Global Refuge emerges from the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, embodying a renewed commitment to global compassion and support for displaced individuals. Maintaining its core mission and Lutheran heritage, Global Refuge stands as a beacon of hope and sanctuary, embracing all regardless of origin or faith. Learn more at globalrefuge.org.

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Global Church, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), Immigration and RefugeesComment
POSITION FILLED: Seeking Worship Administrative Assistant for Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix
POSITION FILLED: Seeking Worship Administrative Assistant for Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix

POSITION FILLED: Mountain View Lutheran Church is currently seeking a Worship Administrative Assistant.  The Worship Administrative Assistant is responsible for maintaining worship and discipleship-related functions and provides support to the Director of Communications and Office Supervisor. For a more detailed job description and instructions on how to apply, please visit: www.mvlutheran.org/jobs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp Wanted, Mountain View Phoenix, Fiesta ConferenceComment
POSITION FILLED: Seeking Office Assistant for Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix
POSITION FILLED: Seeking Office Assistant for Mountain View Lutheran in Phoenix

Mountain View Lutheran Church is currently seeking an Office Assistant for the Front Office. The Office Assistant helps maintain the smooth functioning of daily operations and provides crucial support to the Office Supervisor. For a more detailed job description and instructions on how to apply, please visit: www.mvlutheran.org/jobs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp Wanted, Mountain View Phoenix, Fiesta ConferenceComment
Navigating with Grace: February Series at Community of Grace
Navigating with Grace: February Series at Community of Grace

Join Community of Grace on February 7th for their first 'Aging with Grace' series. This week, Ms. Nicolle Tannaz, MSW, will delve into the everyday challenges faced by the elderly, offering insights into available resources, advocacy, and referrals. An informative session on self-care is also included. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to navigate aging with grace and dignity.

For a deep dive into each weekly topic and to connect with valuable resources, visit the full series details at Community of Grace or in this PDF.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardCommunity of Grace Peoria, Cactus Conference, Older AdultComment
Mohrenweiser Lecture 2024: Planning for Life’s Unpredictable Turns
Mohrenweiser Lecture 2024: Planning for Life’s Unpredictable Turns

Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary invites you to the insightful 2024 Mohrenweiser Lecture, exploring the intersection of health crises and ethical decision-making. Join online as renowned speakers Rev. Herbert Anderson, Ph.D., and Margaret McLean, Ph.D., delve into these timely topics on February 7th.

To attend in-person, please register at this link. To attend on Zoom, please register at this link.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2, NewsBrian FlatgardCalifornia Lutheran University, Pacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Discover the Divine in Nature with Rev. Sara Olson-Smith
Discover the Divine in Nature with Rev. Sara Olson-Smith

Embrace a day of spiritual growth and eco-conscious learning with Rev. Sara Olson-Smith’s Bible Study, "Scripture and nature: Teachers of faith," on February 3, 2024, 9:30 am, at American Lutheran Church. Dive deep into how weather, creatures, rivers, and food can enhance our faith and kinship with the earth. Register now for a transformative morning followed by fellowship over lunch. For more information and to register, please visit GrandCanyonwomen.org/Events.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardClimate Change, Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Grand Canyon WomenComment
Las Vegas Faiths Unite for Prayer Service at Christ Church Episcopal
Las Vegas Faiths Unite for Prayer Service at Christ Church Episcopal

Experience unity in faith at Christ Church Episcopal in Las Vegas for a prayer service dedicated to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, with Bishop Deborah Hutterer and other leaders. Join us on January 26 at 7:00pm for an evening of ecumenical prayer, followed by a community reception.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardColorado River Conference, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment