Learn how to inspire generosity and simplify giving in your congregation with the “Inspired to Give” webinar, hosted by Vanco and the ELCA on October 24, 2024 at 10 am PDT/MST, 11 am MDT. You’ll gain insights into storytelling, best practices for giving, and exclusive tips on utilizing Vanco’s tools. Sign up today to join or receive the recording!
Read MoreThe deadline for the Grand Canyon Synod’s $175,000 grant opportunity is fast approaching—applications are due by midnight on October 18, 2024. Funding will support projects aligned with the Synod’s Strategic Plan, with priority given to those collaborating with other ELCA ministries. Make sure to watch the recorded Grants Webinar and review application guidelines before submitting.
Read MoreIt is a question of equality between your present abundance and their need,
so that their abundance may also supply your need, in order that there may be equality.
As it is written,
“The one who had much did not have too much,
and the one who had little did not have too little.”
—2 Corinthians 8:13b-15
The Grand Canyon Synod Council encourages all congregations to faithfully allocate mission support as an intentional commitment to our shared mission as church together. We encourage congregations to be generous and proportionate in their mission support, in accordance with the witness of scripture and the saints who came before us.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Tim Eighmy and the people of Community Lutheran Church in Bullhead City, part of the Colorado River Conference.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Sandy Jones and the people of Bethany Lutheran Church in Scottsdale, part of the Northeast Valley Conference.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Paul Gregory, Hospice Family Care, Mesa, who celebrates 38 years on October 19.
Rev. Susanne Havlic, who celebrates 28 years on October 20.
Rev. David Swan, who celebrates 51 years on October 21.
Rev. Mitchell Eickmann, who celebrates 40 years on October 22.
Rev. Linda Brown, who celebrates 13 years on October 22.
Rev. Glenn Schrader, Our Saviour’s, Tucson, who celebrates 1 years on October 22.
Rev. Amalia Vagts, Our Saviour’s, Tucson, who celebrates 3 years on October 23.
Join the Thriving Leadership Formation series starting October 23, 2024. This weekly online workshop integrates the Enneagram with practical leadership skills to enhance self-awareness, communication, and conflict resolution. Each session is stand-alone, and registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow into a more effective and compassionate leader!
Read MoreJoin the ELCA’s online workshop series through October to delve into how our faith informs our actions and voting on critical social issues. The final discussion is October 22: Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture with Dr. Richard Perry, emeritus faculty at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.. View a PDF flyer and register now to engage deeply with our social teachings and lead community discussions.
Read MorePacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS), located in Berkeley, California, is the only Lutheran seminary in the western United States. As a founding member of the Graduate Theological Union and a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) institution, PLTS prepares leaders for a diverse and changing world through various degree and certificate programs. Learn more about how PLTS can equip you to transform communities and lead with faith at PLTS’s website.
Read MoreOn this Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we highlight the Lutheran World Federation’s commitment to advocating for indigenous rights globally. Through initiatives like the “Pathways to Equality” project in Namibia, their advocacy handbook, and participation in global human rights councils, the LWF continues to work for justice, dignity, and the empowerment of indigenous communities worldwide.
Read MoreThe ELCA’s Truth & Healing Movement calls for the church to confront its colonizing past and move toward healing. With support from the Association of American Indians and Alaska Natives of the ELCA, this movement focuses on advocacy, cultural learning, and spiritual reconciliation. Discover how you can get involved in this important journey of faith and justice at ELCA.org/indigenous.
Read MoreIn celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the Grand Canyon Synod lifts up Native American Urban Ministry in Phoenix and the Navajo Lutheran Mission in Rock Point, AZ. Both ministries serve as powerful examples of faith and service, providing spiritual and material support to Native American communities. We honor their efforts and the Indigenous people whose land we now inhabit.
Read MoreHow to End Christian Nationalism is the essential guidebook for Christians alarmed by the rising tide of Christian nationalism yet unsure how to counter it. Five years into leading the Christians Against Christian Nationalism campaign, Amanda Tyler unpacks key truths we can share with others: Patriotism is not the same as nationalism. Religious freedom means little if it's not for everyone. Christians follow a gospel of love, not the idol of power. Learn more and order the book here.
Read MoreSupport Lutheran World Relief’s 2024 Fall Ingathering by donating quilts and kits at the Phoenix/Glendale collection on October 18-19. Learn more about how to participate and what to donate on the LWR website, lwr.org/pack.
Read MoreJoin the #ELCAElectionActivator network to support and equip ELCA members for nonpartisan participation in the electoral process through monthly virtual gatherings and regular updates. Participate in activities that foster civic engagement. Sign up now to join the next meeting on 10/22/2024 and contribute to a just and peaceful society. Sign up here.
Read MoreStand Against Christian Nationalism: Register for the Forgotten Luther IV Conference on October 25-26, 2024, in Silver Spring, MD. This event will feature key Lutheran leaders and thinkers addressing the threats to democracy. Register now at www.fliv.us. View a PDF ad and poster as well.
Read MoreJoin the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Retirees Retreat from October 28-30 at the Spirit in the Desert Retteat Center in Carefree, AZ. This year’s theme, “Signs of Hope in Turbulent Times,” features sessions with Rev. Mark Hanson. The retreat offers a rich program of fellowship, worship, and reflection. Secure your spot now and find renewal in the company of peers. View this PDF for registration and scholarship information, or contact Jan Fosen at (602-758-0875) or via email at fosen1215@gmail.com with questions.
Read MoreHesitant to preach? Diakonia graduates are invited to a four-week Zoom course titled “Preaching Good News to a World in Shambles,” starting October 19. Led by Reverend Carl Zimmermann, this class will help participants craft and deliver heart-engaging sermons, drawing on resources from Dr. Tom Long and Pastor Barbara Brown Taylor. Register now on Diakonia’s website.
Read MoreEarly voting for the 2024 General Election is here! Arizona voters can start as early as October 9, with early voting starting in Nevada on 10/19/2024 and Utah on 10/22/2024. Early voting ends on 11/1/2024 for all three states.
Find out key early voting dates and be sure to make your voice heard before Election Day!
Read MoreThe 2025 Portico Compensation Guidelines highlight updated health benefits through Portico Benefit Services for rostered ministers and lay employees. Congregations are encouraged to review the available health plan options—Gold+, Value Copay, and Silver+—and engage in conversations with plan members to select the best fit for their needs during annual enrollment. Learn more about the shared responsibility between congregations and plan members and how to support the well-being of those serving in ministry.
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