“Drawn In! Moving Out!” at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering

At the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering where the theme “Created to Be” inspired young people to be their brave, free, authentic, disruptive, and discipling selves, there was a place in the Interactive Learning space that invited them to be “Drawn In! Moving Out!” It was an absolute joy to once again bring the vision of a worship learning experience I brainstormed in 2016 to life for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans. We staffed the booth with an incredible team from the ELCA Worship Staff, Lutheran Summer Music, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians, and the ELCA Spiritual Renewal Team.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 15, 20242024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment

For What Shall We Pray?

For those caught in the midst of warfare and conflict, especially in Gaza, Israel, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Myanmar, Haiti, Russia, Ukraine, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and South Sudan…
For protection for all in the path of Tropical Storm Ernesto…
For those affected by wildfires in Greece…
For safety following the earthquake felt in Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon…
For victims of stabbings in London, England and Eskisehir, Turkey…
For those grieving plane crash victims in Sao Paulo, Brazil…
For the United States and other countries preparing for government elections…
For those beginning or preparing for a new school year…
For those affected by the earthquake in Los Angeles and the wider area…
For the protection of creation, wildlife, and water sources…

ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardAugust 15, 2024ELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment

Office of the Bishop Updates: 8/16/2024

The Office of the Bishop travels for work and vacation, and keeps the day-to-day and week-to-week operations flowing.

News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, SpotlightBrian FlatgardAugust 15, 2024Office of the BishopComment

Ordination celebrations: August 16-22, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. Mark Powell, who celebrates 44 years on August 17.
Bishop Deborah Hutterer, Office of the Bishop, Phoenix, who celebrates 20 years on August 18.
Rev. Brent Maxwell, who celebrates 17 years on August 19.
Rev. Kurt Fangmeier, Sierra Evangelical, Sierra Vista, who celebrates 23 years on August 19.
Rev. Marilyn Ascarza, who celebrates 34 years on August 19.
Rev. Scott Hackler, Spirit of Grace, Surprise, who celebrates 35 years on August 20.
Michael Purcell, who celebrates 46 years on August 20.
Rev. Barbara Rapp, who celebrates 31 years on August 21.
Rev. Martha Neff Stum, who celebrates 14 years on August 21.
Rev. Loren Swanson, who celebrates 53 years on August 22.
Rev. Gary Garvey, who celebrates 42 years on August 22.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardAugust 15, 2024Ordination AnniversariesComment

August Worship Updates: Conferences, Workshops, and New Music Resources

Discover new resources and events for worship leaders and musicians this fall! From workshops hosted by Music that Makes Community to the latest video interviews from the Center for Church Music, explore ways to deepen your worship leadership. Plus, mark your calendars for ALCM’s 2025 Summer Conference and revisit LSM 2024 performances online. Read the full list of resources and events highlighted by ELCA Worship here.

ELCA, News, Worship Resources, ResourcesBrian FlatgardAugust 14, 2024Worship Resources, ELCA WorshipComment

UCC presents Community Safety Training Series

United Church of Christ presents a Community Safety Training Series via Zoom on August 19, September 9, 23, and 30, 5:00 - 7:00 pm. Register for Zoom info here.

How can congregations build an ecology of community safety that is rooted in care, investing in each other, believing in each other, and trusting each other and the rhythms and cycles around/within us? What community safety practices can we engage in now that also help us build the world we long for? Our experienced trainers will expand on our “Ecology of Community Safety” guide to offer practical skills, psycho-social care practices, planning tools, and analysis of current conditions.

Faith and Politics: How to Lead with Wisdom

Explore the complex relationship between faith and politics with Luther scholar, the Rev. Dr. Anthony Bateza in this enlightening episode of the Pivot Podcast.

How to Provide Comfort at the End of Life: A Lutheran Approach

Join Deaconess Cheryl Plummer on August 22, 2024, for “Spiritual Care of the Dying,” a vital Zoom workshop. Learn to address the spiritual and emotional needs of the dying through effective assessment tools and the Death Cafe dialogue model. This session, running from 5 to 7 PM MT, is essential for those involved in ministry and end-of-life care. Register now to deepen your understanding and care capabilities at this significant event. More info & registration on their site, or view this PDF flyer .

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 14, 2024Lutheran Faith Community Nurse Association (LFCNA)Comment

LAMA Liaison Roundtable: Engaging in Advocacy

Join the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona Liaison Roundtable on Monday, August 19, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM via Zoom. This monthly discussion offers a platform for congregational leaders and members to explore topics like civic engagement, overcoming reticence about advocacy, and educating members on the importance of advocacy as part of our Lutheran heritage. Participate in shaping future discussions and equipping our congregations for meaningful advocacy. Join via Zoom using Meeting ID: 879 9811 3829.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 14, 2024Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), AdvocacyComment

Introducing “Book Time with LAMA” - A New Monthly Book Club

Join LAMA’s new book club, “Book Time with LAMA,” starting Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at noon. Our first book, I Think You’re Wrong (But I’m Listening) by Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers, explores grace-filled political conversations. Monthly meetings will provide a safe space for discussions on social justice. Register now to join the conversation! Register for Book Time: ‘I Think You’re Wrong’

Lifting Up Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Arizona

Join us in lifting up Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of Arizona, where Rev. Rebecca Boardman and her team provide a welcoming and inclusive space for students of all backgrounds. Discover how this vibrant community fosters radical hospitality, spiritual growth, and a deep sense of belonging for young adults.

Prayers and Blessings for Flagstaff’s Episcopal and Lutheran Campus Ministry

As the new academic year begins, we lift up in prayer Rev. Michael Girlinghouse and The Episcopal and Lutheran Young Adult and Campus Ministries in Flagstaff. This inclusive ministry serves Northern Arizona University and the broader Flagstaff community, offering a welcoming space for all. Services resume on August 25th. Learn more at www.lcmcanterbury.org.

Prayers for ASU Lutheran Campus Ministry as New Academic Year Begins

As Arizona State University welcomes students for a new academic year, we lift up Rev. Arhiana Shek-Dill and the ASU Lutheran Campus Ministry in Tempe. This inclusive community provides spiritual growth, fellowship, and service opportunities, offering weekly Bible studies, worship services, and free meals for students. With retreats, community outreach, and a range of activities, this ministry creates a safe, welcoming space for all. Join us in praying for their continued impact on students’ lives as they begin this new academic journey. Visit ulctempe.org/campus-ministry to learn more.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardAugust 14, 2024LCM ASU, Youth and Young Adult, Lutheran Campus MinistryComment

Experience the Wisdom of Elder Perci Ami at the Bishop’s Fall Gathering

Join us for the Bishop’s Fall Gathering from October 21-23, 2024, at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center. The highlight of this event is Elder Perci Ami, a Hopi/Tewa grandmother, storyteller, and healer. Experience her wisdom on October 22. Registration includes meals, and scholarships are available. Register by September 13 to secure your spot!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 13, 20242024 Bishop's Fall GatheringComment

Meet Bishop-elect Nathan Pipho: A Vision for Justice and Community

Meet Bishop-elect Nathan Pipho, who has clear priorities for the New England Synod: proclaiming Jesus, building community, and pursuing racial justice. With over 20 years of ministry experience and a master’s from Harvard, Pipho is prepared to lead. His term begins August 1, with installation on September 7. Discover his vision and commitment to embodying God’s healing and love in the world in this Living Lutheran article.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 12, 2024Living LutheranComment

From Coaching to Construction: How Sam Swenson-Reinhold Serves His Community

Service has always been integral to Sam Swenson-Reinhold’s life, growing up as the son of two ELCA pastors. Now, he serves as an ELCA coach and project coordinator for Operation Backyard with the Knoxville Leadership Foundation. Through his roles, he mentors individuals, oversees construction projects for those in need, and finds spiritual nourishment in church and nature. Swenson-Reinhold’s dedication to community and faith exemplifies the Lutheran commitment to service and personal growth. Read more about his inspiring journey and impact in Living Lutheran.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 11, 2024Living LutheranComment

HopeWood Outdoors: Embracing Change with an ELCA Innovation Grant

HopeWood Outdoors, a vibrant ELCA outdoor ministry in Ohio, is redefining how they welcome diverse campers with the help of a $40,000 ELCA Innovation Grant. Under the leadership of Drew Tucker, HopeWood is focusing on accessibility, cultural training, and sustainability. This initiative is part of their mission to connect people with nature and faith, inspiring them to embrace their callings. Discover more about HopeWood’s transformative journey and their commitment to growth and inclusion in this Living Lutheran article.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 10, 2024Living Lutheran, Outdoor MinistryComment

Faith and Politics: Lutheran Legislators Advocate for Respectful Discourse

Washington State Senators Annette Cleveland and Ron Muzzall, both Lutherans, are advocating for civility in politics, inspired by their faith. Emphasizing grace, respect, and love, they aim to foster respectful dialogue across political divides. Their efforts align with the ELCA’s mission to promote healthy civic engagement, highlighted in recent social messages and draft statements. Read about their efforts in Living Lutheran.

Santa Cruz Lutheran Joins Project AZUL to Expand Community Outreach

In this article from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona, learn how Santa Cruz Lutheran Church in Tucson partners with Project AZUL to bring essential resources to the community. With the help of Sahuarita Food Bank, the mobile project offers education, health services, and job assistance, enhancing our food ministry. As new homes are built nearby, they aim to expand their services to include GED, resume writing, and ESL classes. Support and prayers are welcomed as they strive to fulfill our “God’s Work, Our Hands” vision.