Rev. Joshua Pontious will be installed Sunday, 10/27/2024, at 9am and 10:30 am at Community of Grace in Peoria (10561 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Peoria, AZ 85383). Pastors Josh Pontious and Tim Wright will preach.
Rostered ministers are welcome, we will not process. No liturgical attire necessary. The installation will be recorded and posted.
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Early voting for the 2024 General Election is here! Early voting ends on 11/1/2024 for all three states on our synod.
We also encourage you to look into the pros and cons of early voting in this post from LAMA.
Find out key early voting dates, locations, and how to sign up for mail ballots in our latest blog post, and be sure to make your voice heard before Election Day!
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Reformation Sunday on October 27 reminds us of the transformative power of justification by grace through faith. As we reflect on Martin Luther’s legacy in this week’s Faith Lens, we are invited to consider how God’s grace continues to reform and shape us today. Join us in worship as we renew our commitment to live by grace, trusting that God’s presence calls us to be lights in the world.
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For peace in our world, especially in Gaza and Israel, Ukraine and Russia, Syria, Sudan, Myanmar, Lebanon, and all areas of conflict…
For renewal in the church and in the hearts of all Christians, as we follow Jesus in ways of healing, compassion, forgiveness, and concrete acts of love for our neighbors…
For victims of extremist attacks in Turkey…
For the safety of those targeted by politically-motivated violence in Arizona…
For all victims of gun violence, especially in Fall City, Washington…
For the United States in this divided political season, for all who are exercising their right to vote, and for safety for all election workers…
For the triumph of truth over falsehood, and for all working diligently to combat misinformation and manipulation in our politics, media, and public discourse…
For continued relief, recovery, and rebuilding efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton…
In gratitude for ELCA partner ministries, who accompany communities around the world in order to alleviate suffering, promote well-being, rebuild after destruction, and work tirelessly for the dignity and flourishing of all…
Join ecumenical prayer vigils across Arizona as Christian leaders from various denominations unite to pray for peace and unity during the 2024 election season. The last vigil will be held on 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.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. John Lillie, who celebrates 44 years on October 26.
Rev. Daniel Valasakos, Mount Zion, Tucson, who celebrates 28 years on October 26.
Rev. Kari Williamson, St. Andrew, Phoenix, who celebrates 21 years on October 26.
Rev. Verónica Alvarez, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 2 years on October 30.
Rev. Brian Ward, Community, Las Vegas, who celebrates 14 years on October 31.
We uplift and pray for Rev. Steven Crittenden and the people of Epiphany of Christ Lutheran Church in Apache Junction, part of the Rio Salado Conference.
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We uplift and pray for Patty Charley and the people of House of Prayer Lutheran Church in Rock Point, part of the High Country Conference.
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The Office of the Bishop celebrates the installation of Rev. Joshua Pontious. We also shares photos from the 2024 Bishop's Fall Gathering at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.
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Join 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.
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Stand 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.
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You can check your voter registration status and find more information on Utah’s election website. Vote411.org also has clear information for Utah.
Utah registration deadlines are 10/25/2024 by mail and online, and Election Day, 11/5/2024 for in-person.
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Join Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for an evening of fall fun at their Fall Festival with Trunk or Treat! Enjoy games, inflatables, glow sticks, food trucks, and more, while special guests like local firefighters and sheriff deputies join the festivities. Sign your car up to hand out candy or just come to enjoy the event with your family. Register online at this link or contact the church at 480-893-2579.
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Join Deacon Kate Adelman on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 for “From Darkness to Light: Interfaith Dialog”, a one-day event featuring Gita Saraydarian, guest speakers, music, and connection. Explore how spirituality across different faiths leads to hope and unity in difficult times. Enjoy a day filled with learning, fellowship, a buffet lunch, and a mini concert. Register by October 27th to secure your spot!
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Rev. Lisa Hackler will be installed Thursday, 11/7/2024, at 3 pm, at American Lutheran Church, (17200 N Del Web Blvd, Sun City, AZ 85373). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside. Clergy are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is green. A reception will follow.
RSVP to d.bautista@alcsuncity.org if one is a rostered minister planning to process, otherwise no RSVP needed. Visit www.alcsuncity.org for streaming information.
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Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Tuesday, 10/29/2024, 6-7pm MST/PDT.
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Thank you to those of you who attended the online World Food Day celebration on Tuesday. What an incredible time we had looking back on the impact of 50 years of ELCA World Hunger and reflecting on how God is calling all of us into the bold pursuit of ending hunger in our world.
If you missed the event or want to rewatch it, you can view it on demand. Share the video with friends and family, host a watch party with your congregation and use it to get inspired for the work ahead.
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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Read about why Marti, Steven and Brandon enjoy their jobs. The post Disability Employment Awareness Month Celebrates Workers with Disabilities appeared first on Mosaic.
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During this election season and as we prepare to vote as part of our civic responsibility and commitment to the Gospel, Bishop Eaton reminds us, "We are not defined by our political affiliations but by our shared baptism and our commitment to the Gospel. As people of faith, we are called to engage in our communities and work for justice and to advocate for the dignity and well-being of all people. One way we do this is by voting, ensuring that our voices are heard, as we shape our society together." To read more, visit https://www.ELCA.org/CivicEngagement.
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