The 2025 Bishop’s Fall Gathering will take place from September 29 through October 1 at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale. This annual event offers a time of spiritual renewal, theological reflection, and fellowship for all within the Grand Canyon Synod. Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more details!
Read MoreMeet the six new ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows for 2024-2025, who will work tirelessly to address issues of hunger and poverty at both state and national levels. Their year-long fellowship combines professional development and faith formation, integrating Lutheran values with public advocacy. Learn more about these passionate advocates and their work to create a more just world at ELCA.org.
Read MoreLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) has released a new video series featuring people of faith reflecting on the upcoming election. These short clips, filmed at the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans, explore the connections between faith and voting. Key voices include Bishop Elizabeth Eaton and youth leaders like Taina Diaz-Reyes. Watch and share these videos on LAMA’s Facebook and YouTube channels to spark conversations in your congregation about the importance of voting as an act of faith and service.
Read MoreThe latest Seeds Monthly from ELCA features: ELCA Conference of Bishops emphasizes the need to speak the truth; Truth & Healing Movement; and Be a good steward of the planet — and your congregation’s bottom line.
You’ll also find a story on the Fort Wayne Food Truck, upcoming calendar events, bulletin blurbs, and featured resources of hurricane response, the full report of “Sexual Boundary Violations in the ELCA,” and ELCA Good Gifts.
Read MoreLutherans are stepping up advocacy efforts across the globe and at home. From shaping discussions at the U.N. Summit of the Future to promoting voter engagement in Arizona and Colorado, the ELCA is making a profound impact. Learn more about the issues we’re tackling and how faith is driving our work for justice and peace. Read the full updates here.
Read MoreIn celebration of the ELCA World Hunger 50th Anniversary, hear special music and a message from singer-songwriter and lifelong Lutheran Peter Mayer.
Read MoreRev. 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.
Read MoreEarly 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!
Read MoreReformation 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.
Read MoreFor 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.
Read MoreThis 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.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Patty Charley and the people of House of Prayer Lutheran Church in Rock Point, part of the High Country Conference.
Read MoreThe 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.
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 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 MoreYou 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.
Read MoreJoin 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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