J.W. Pepper is celebrating its 150th anniversary by launching a nationwide scholarship program, awarding 52 scholarships to future music educators. With $3,000 for each state’s recipient and an additional $10,000 for the top scholar, this initiative supports students entering college as music education majors in fall 2025. Applications open in October 2024—learn more and sign up for updates on this extraordinary educational opportunity.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Ryan Hersch, Peace, Peoria, who celebrates 21 years on September 27.
Read MoreThe FBI has reached out to the Office of the Bishop with vital resources to combat the rise in hate crimes during election years, offering support and emphasizing community safety and civil rights protection.
Read MoreThe Campaign for Kindness Preaching Series from the Arkansas-Oklahoma Synod is designed to guide congregations through the 2024 election season with messages of kindness, humility, and reconciliation. Starting on a suggested date of October 6, this six-week sermon series encourages pastors to address political anxiety from a faith perspective. Learn more about the resources and join weekly discussions to promote kindness in your faith community.
Read MoreThe ELCA invites members to engage with a draft social statement on civic life and faith, reflecting our relationship with government as individuals and a church body. This statement, currently under review, offers guidance on church teaching and policies, serving as a vital tool for discernment on civic issues. Members can contribute feedback through an online survey or synod hearings until September 30, 2024. Post-feedback, the statement will be considered for official adoption at the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, potentially shaping the church's stance on civic engagement.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Jeffery Gallen and the people of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Goodyear, part of the Cactus Conference. Visit their site at christevangelical.org.
Read MoreJoin ecumenical prayer vigils across Arizona as Christian leaders from various denominations unite to pray for peace and unity during the 2024 election season. The remaining vigils will be held on October 14th at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Tucson, and November 4th at Sun City Christian Church. All are welcome to come together in faith to seek God’s guidance and peace for our nation. View a PDF flyer here.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Patricia Lowe and the people of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Prescott Valley, part of the High Country Conference. Visit their site at elcpvaz.org.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. William Phillips and the people of Christ Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, part of the Colorado River Conference. Visit their site at christlasvegas.org.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop gathers for an in-person staff meeting, and celebrates Tanque Verde Lutheran Church Marking their 50th Anniversary, Sep 29, 2024, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Read MoreThis week’s Faith Lens from Mark 9:30-37 reminds us that true greatness is found in humility and service, not in competition or status. Jesus redefines success by challenging us to care for those often ignored. How can we embody this greatness in our own communities? Explore ways to serve and appreciate the “greatest” in God’s eyes.⬤
Read MoreLutheran Social Services of the Southwest is offering free caregiver training for those caring for children under five in Northwest Maricopa County. Starting October 1, the seven-week program includes CPR certification, self-paced online courses, and weekly in-person sessions at Community of Grace Lutheran Church, 10561 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Peoria, AZ 85383. Register now to gain essential skills in injury prevention, healthy eating, and emotional literacy. Visit LSS-SW Children and Family Services and view this PDF for more details.
Read MoreAnother new voter engagement video from LAMA! Filmed on location at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “Is voting important to you?”
Read MoreVoting by mail is a trusted option for many Arizonans, says this blog post from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona. If you want to vote by mail in the November 5th General Election, be sure to request your ballot soon! Ballots will be mailed out starting October 7th, and the deadline to request yours is 11 days before the election. Act early to ensure your vote is counted!
Read MoreThis October, Thriving Leadership Formation is offering exciting opportunities to grow in faith and leadership through a Lectio Divina series (bit.ly/TLFLectioDivina), Enneagram workshops (bit.ly/TLFEnneagram), and cohort groups (bit.ly/TLFCohortGroupInterest). Sessions begin the first week of October, and all are welcome to participate.
Read MoreArizona voters will decide on 13 ballot measures this fall. LAMA’s 2024 Voter Guide helps voters navigate these measures through a faith-based lens focused on Hunger, Water, and Civic Engagement. As people of God, ELCA members are encouraged to participate in direct democracy and vote thoughtfully. Download the guide to make informed decisions on critical issues impacting our state. Read LAMA's blog post introducing the guide here.
Read MoreELCA bishops in Pennsylvania are leading a movement for peace in the face of growing political tension, sparked by a violent incident at a rally. Working with Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa), they issued a joint statement calling for dialogue and dignity. The statement has garnered over 380 signatures from faith leaders and remains open for more to join. Read the original article at Living Lutheran.
Read MoreThe Northeast Valley Consortium wrapped up its 2024 lunch packing series for Arizona Faith Network’s heat respite centers, providing over 2,600 lunches and vital supplies for vulnerable communities in Phoenix. Supported by local churches, grants, and donations, NEVC’s collaborative efforts exemplify the power of working together to save lives in extreme heat.
Read MoreFacing financial challenges in your congregation? Grace Pomroy’s Funding Forward offers practical strategies to align your mission with your finances. Download a free chapter to explore innovative ways to foster sustainable growth and discover inspiring stories of churches overcoming financial obstacles.
Read MoreThe 2024 Africa Lutheran Church Leadership Consultation is taking place in Abuja, Nigeria, from September 18 to 22, under the theme “We, who are many, are one body.” This gathering of 90 African Lutheran leaders aims to strengthen unity within the church while exploring how diversity enhances their collective mission. Leaders from various church sectors are participating in dialogues and reflections to empower their ministries across the African Lutheran communion.
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