You're not late — everyone else is just early! From now until April 15, ELCA Youth Gathering registration is $475. It’s not too late to get your krewe together to attend the Gathering this summer.
Registration will close on April 15. Join us for a week of faith formation, worship, fun, jazz and great food. Please contact Pr. Jacqui JPagel@gcsynod.org if you have any YouthGathering 2024 questions.
Read MoreELCA Worship shines a spotlight on upcoming resources and events from Lutheran and ecumenical partners this March and April. Highlights include the ALCM's confectionary workshop, the Institute of Liturgical Studies' conference on liturgy in consumer culture, and Music That Makes Community's unique Soup Singing event. Additionally, the Lutheran Summer Music Academy offers a transformative experience for high school musicians, while Augsburg Fortress presents a wealth of resources and events to enrich congregational life.
Read MoreAs the Lenten season progresses, we remind you that it's never too late to join the 2024 Lenten Challenge. With a focus on prayer, kindness, scripture, and support for ELCA World Hunger, participants can deepen their faith journey and make a meaningful impact.
Read MoreWeek 4 of “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey” is: A Counter Cultural Message with Rev. Ashraf Tannous.
Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud and upcoming events at: bit.ly/SumudSubscribe You can also learn more at ELCA.org/sumud.
Read MoreJoin a profound exploration online and at Pacific Lutheran Theological University on March 20, 2024, with Dr. Reggie Williams presenting "When Ethics Kills: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Story of Us." Delve into the complexities of ethical presumptions in society, examining Bonhoeffer's resistance during Germany's crisis and his engagement with the Black Radical Tradition. Discover insights into how ideals and challenges shape our pursuit of the good in community and human flourishing.
Read MoreWe are excited to invite you to our annual Spring Gatherings, themed “Embody the Word.” These gatherings are not just meetings; they are opportunities for spiritual renewal, learning, and community building. Learn more here.
Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley, and Rio Salado Conferences: Mar 17, 2024, 2pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Phoenix
High Country Conference: Mar 23, 2024, 11 am at Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona
Read MoreYour insights can help shape the future of the ELCA. Participate in the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church survey by March 15, 2024, and contribute to our church's mission of renewal and commitment to justice.
Don't miss your chance to contribute to this significant moment in the ELCA's history. The deadline for survey participation is March 15, 2024. For more details and to complete the survey, visit the official CRLC page: ELCA CRLC Survey. Questions and further inquiries can be directed to crlc@elca.org.
Read MoreJoin the ELCA's Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC) for a critical listening session with the disability community on March 15th, 2024. Share your insights to help guide the ELCA's future, focusing on inclusivity and dismantling racism. Register now to contribute to a more equitable church, and read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreDiscover how ELCA's Global Links celebrates International Women’s Day by uplifting women like Roza Mavlonova in Kyrgyzstan and women leaders worldwide. From entrepreneurial projects in Kyrgyzstan to scholarships for emerging leaders from global companion churches, ELCA is empowering women to transform their communities.
Plus, learn about the historic consecration of Rev. Paulina Hławiczka-Trotman in the Lutheran Church in Great Britain and how you can get involved in ELCA initiatives, including the new Lenten series Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel. Read more in Global Links.
Read MoreExplore constructive communication and empathy in challenging times with Joy J. Moore at the 'Leading in an Age of Contempt' workshop on March 21st, 9-10:30 am MST/PDT. Gain scriptural insights and practical tools for navigating societal discord and fostering unity within communities.
This interactive session offers a fresh perspective on current conflicts, exploring the diversity of worldviews and the courage required for leaders to engage constructively.
Read MoreMarch is National Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Month which promotes inclusion for all. Learn how you can help Mosaic further its campaign, “Inclusion Inspires.” Read more at Mosaic.
Read MoreDuring their recent meeting, the ELCA Conference of Bishops addressed critical international and domestic issues, showing support for a cease-fire in Gaza and solidarity with migrants in Texas. They discussed the role of faith in advocacy, updates on Holy Communion practices, and progress from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church. Other topics included synod diversity goals, tackling white supremacy and patriarchy, AMMPARO's expansion, and roster committee recommendations. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop travels to various congregations and ministries, prepares for synod assembly, and maintains day to day operations.
We also share photos of the Installation of Pastor Chris Heller at Esperanza Lutheran in Phoenix.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Stephen Talmage, Love of Christ, Mesa, who celebrates 39 years on March 10.
Rev. Patsy Koeneke, who celebrates 17 years on March 11.
Rev. Bruce Ayers, who celebrates 62 years on March 11.
Rev. Steven Crittenden, Epiphany of Christ, Apache Junction, who celebrates 15 years on March 12.
Rev. Beth Gallen, New Journey, Fountain Hills, who celebrates 3 years on March 13.
Arizona Faith Network (AFN) shares a diverse range of upcoming events and initiatives in their latest newsletter. From legislative updates on Arizona's Social Justice Commission and Voting Rights Committee to a crucial land acknowledgement workshop, AFN is driving meaningful conversations and actions. Additionally, explore opportunities for deepening your meditation practice, addressing American Christian Nationalism, and protecting election integrity in 2024.
Don't miss out on contributing your voice to opposing legislation impacting immigrant communities and enriching your understanding through interfaith events and workshops dedicated to sustainability, social justice, and the healing of women veterans.
Read MoreDiscover the transformative journey of Lalistu's family in Ethiopia through the lens of the ELCA World Hunger Lent Study for Week 4. Explore themes of restoration, the impact of community support, and the fight against stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. Learn how ELCA World Hunger and its partners are investing in futures and changing perceptions to build a world where everyone belongs.
Read MoreFor peace among nations where war and violence rage, especially Palestine and Israel, Syria, Myanmar, Russia and Ukraine, and Sudan…
For the restoration of collaboration and compassion among political parties and leaders…
For hunger crises in Gaza, Sudan, and around the world…
For contentions in the South China Sea and the Red Sea…
For victims of the fatal plane crash in West Nashville, TN…
For storm and flood threats in the northeastern and southern United States…
For relief and recovery following wildfires in Texas and Minnesota…
For the continued doctor strike in South Korea…
For all victims of assault and abuse…
For Muslim communities preparing to enter the holy month of Ramadan…
In thanksgiving for the gifts and leadership of women across history and across disciplines…
Join the Grand Canyon Synod for the concluding Spring Gatherings, themed "Embody the Word." Engage in Bible study, discuss the bishop election process, and be inspired by stories from our ministries. Don’t miss these opportunities for spiritual growth and community connection on March 17th in Phoenix and March 23rd in Sedona.
Read MoreHB2815, known as the 'Yes In God’s Back Yard' bill, received significant support from faith leaders and passed the Arizona House with a 38-21 vote. Advocacy by the religious community, including Bishop Deborah Hutterer, played a pivotal role in raising awareness and influencing lawmakers. Read more on the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) site.
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