Exploring Guadalupe: A Lutheran & Latine Perspective
Exploring Guadalupe: A Lutheran & Latine Perspective

Explore the Virgin of Guadalupe’s significance for Lutherans through a Latine lens in a virtual workshop on November 16, 2024. Led by Rev. Jesus Escamilla, this English-language session will delve into cultural and theological insights connecting Guadalupe to Lutheran faith. Register at wartburgseminary.edu/ctlm. View a PDF here.

Explora la importancia de la Virgen de Guadalupe para los luteranos desde una perspectiva latina en nuestro taller virtual el 16 de noviembre de 2024. Dirigido por el Rev. Jesús Escamilla, esta sesión en inglés profundizará en ideas culturales y teológicas que conectan a Guadalupe con la fe luterana. Inscríbete en wartburgseminary.edu/ctlm.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardWartburg Seminary, EspañolComment
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
Lutheran World Federation newsletter
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News, Global Church, SpotlightBrian FlatgardLutheran World FederationComment
Arizona, Oregon, and Beyond: Inside Out Network Expands Support
Arizona, Oregon, and Beyond: Inside Out Network Expands Support

Inside Out Network’s Fall 2024 newsletter highlights significant developments, including expanded access to ION’s platform in Arizona prison libraries and a new fundraising goal to support reentry resources. Discover updates on ION’s outreach in Mississippi and Oregon, impactful community events, and inspiring success stories that showcase ION’s ongoing mission to support returning citizens. View the ION Fall 2024 newsletter online or view/download this PDF.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPrison, Inside Out Network Comment
Church Planting Reimagined: Nick Warnes on Discernment, Adaptability, and Inclusive Leadership
Church Planting Reimagined: Nick Warnes on Discernment, Adaptability, and Inclusive Leadership

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, we dive deep into the world of church planting with Nick Warnes, founder and executive director of Cyclical Incorporated. Nick shares his expertise on developing leaders for new Christian communities, challenging traditional notions of what it means to start a church. From discernment processes to financial sustainability, from adapting to diverse contexts to embracing a truly missional approach, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom for anyone interested in the future of the church.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
The Future of Church Planting: Innovating for God’s Mission with Len Tang
The Future of Church Planting: Innovating for God’s Mission with Len Tang

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the future of church planting with expert Len Tang in this eye-opening episode of the Pivot Podcast.

Dive into the evolving world of church planting with expert Len Tang in this transformative episode of the Pivot Podcast. Len, director of the Fuller Church Planting Initiative, unpacks the latest trends and strategies that are reshaping how we approach ministry in the 21st century.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Political Theology Reimagined: Dr. Joel Lawrence on “Sabbath Politics” in a Polarized World
Political Theology Reimagined: Dr. Joel Lawrence on “Sabbath Politics” in a Polarized World

In this thought-provoking episode of the Pivot Podcast, Dr. Joel Lawrence, president of the Center for Pastor Theologians, offers a fresh perspective on political theology and how churches can navigate our politically polarized landscape. Introducing the concept of “Sabbath politics,” Dr. Lawrence challenges us to reimagine the church’s role in society, shifting from a posture of control to one of trust in God’s rule.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Arizona Faith Network's post-election newsletter
Arizona Faith Network's post-election newsletter

As election results come in, Arizona Faith Network remains steadfast in our mission to bring people of faith together for the common good. Our commitment to building bridges and breaking down barriers endures beyond any single election outcome. We recognize that this moment may stir many emotions within our communities. Yet, our purpose remains clear: to unite, bringing people of faith together to organize and act in the pursuit of justice. Together, we will continue to face challenges with resilience and hope, strengthening our shared commitment to a more just and compassionate world. Read more in the latest Arizona Faith Network's newsletter.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
Join Us in Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy at Our Celebration of Diversity
Join Us in Honoring Dr. King’s Legacy at Our Celebration of Diversity

Save the date for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration of Diversity on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 3-5 pm in each respective time zone. Hosted at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe, with Bishop Yehiel Curry preaching, and Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, this event invites us to come together to honor Dr. King’s legacy of justice, love, and unity. Join us as we celebrate our shared mission for equality and diversity within our faith community. More details coming soon!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardRacial Justice, MLKComment
The Election is Over: What’s Next for Faith and Climate Action?
The Election is Over: What’s Next for Faith and Climate Action?

Blessed Tomorrow reflects on this past election season, giving thanks for the faith and climate communities who worked tirelessly to promote climate-conscious voting. Now, as we pause to recharge, we also look ahead to 2025 with actionable steps for creation care. Join Blessed Tomorrow in leading the way toward climate justice, and read more in their post here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBlessed Tomorrow, Church and Society, Climate ChangeComment
Woven Together: A Post-Election Message from Bishop Eaton
Woven Together: A Post-Election Message from Bishop Eaton

The day after the 2024 presidential election, Bishop Eaton reflects on the many expressions of our church being woven together as strands of a large tapestry, even as individually people are experiencing joy or grief. She reminds us that regardless of who is elected president or to other leadership positions in our country, our call to be Christ in the world doesn’t change. View on YouTube or in this post, or download here.

“As we're moving through these next years, no matter what happens and what befalls … imagine all of us woven together and in Christ, and we will continue to serve the gospel and to serve the world.”

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, Church and Society, Elections and Voting RightsComment
Bishop Hutterer: A Message of Peace and Hope after the Election
Bishop Hutterer: A Message of Peace and Hope after the Election

As I reflect on the election results in our nation and in our swing-states synod, I recognize that emotions across our communities are varied and deeply felt. For some, there is joy and hope; for others, uncertainty and worry. In this moment, we turn our gaze once again toward Jesus, our unchanging source of comfort and strength in uncertain times.

For those who are filled with joy today, I ask for your prayers, support, and compassion toward those who may feel fearful or lost. For those who are anxious, may you know the comfort of a God who holds you close. Jesus sustains us all, inviting us into a spirit of action and healing, no matter the season or the outcome.

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Bishop Hutterer, Letters, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardBishop Hutterer Letters, Elections and Voting Rights, Church and Society Comments
Bridging Divides: How Lutherans Can Foster Peace in Polarized Times
Bridging Divides: How Lutherans Can Foster Peace in Polarized Times

In a time of deep political tension, the ELCA calls on its congregations to be peacemakers. Anxiety around potential violence is high, yet our faith community has a unique role to play. Reflecting on the call to witness peace, truth, and reconciliation, the ELCA provides guidance to equip Lutherans to respond with love, serve as peacemakers, and support civil servants through prayer and action. Learn how we can embody Christ’s peace and advocate for a more just and respectful society in this post from ELCA Advocacy.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Church and Society, Elections and Voting RightsComment
Faith Lens: Give a Little Bit
Faith Lens: Give a Little Bit

This week’s Faith Lens focuses on the power of small acts of faith, inspired by the widow’s humble gift in the Gospel. When challenges feel too big, remember that even small actions—like the widow’s penny—can make a profound difference. We’re called to take one step at a time, trusting that God is at work, even in the smallest of our efforts. Read on to discover how your everyday actions can build toward lasting change.

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Worship Resources, ELCA, ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For ongoing wars in Gaza, Ukraine, Lebanon, and an end to the violence…

  • For elections in the United States and a peaceful transfer of power…

  • For all elected officials as they serve well in their respective positions…

  • For all of those working to rebuild after natural disasters, especially Hurricanes Helene and Milton…

  • For the safety of those in the path of Tropical Storm Rafael…

  • For victims of flooding in Spain, and for those working to rebuild and repair…

  • For the family of Andre Hill and all those affected by police violence…

  • For all those affected by gun violence, especially in Austin, TX…

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ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
See Me, Believe Me: A New Call to Authentic Allyship in Our Congregations
See Me, Believe Me: A New Call to Authentic Allyship in Our Congregations

In See Me, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship With Congregational Leaders of Color, Pastor Yolanda Denson-Byers calls the ELCA community to step into true allyship. Through powerful stories and practical steps, this new book addresses the unique challenges BIPOC leaders face in predominantly white congregations and invites white allies to engage in courageous, anti-racist action. Denson-Byers’s reflections challenge us to go beyond performative support and commit to the “soul work” of allyship. Discover how See Me, Believe Me can be a transformative resource for congregations in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Racial JusticeComment