Faithfulness in our time: a Christmas message from the ELCA bishops and synod vice-presidents of Region 2

In this Christmas message, the bishops and synod vice presidents of Region 2 reflect on Howard Thurman’s poem, “The Work of Christmas,” calling us to embrace God’s grace and live out Christ’s liberating love. Representing over 500 congregations, they invite us to join in justice, service, and joy, embodying the good news of Christ in our communities and the world.

Read More
Office of the Bishop Updates

Happy New Year from the Office of the Bishop! As we step into 2025, we thank you for your faithful service and the countless ways you share Christ’s love throughout the Grand Canyon Synod. We are blessed to journey together and look forward to all that God has in store for us in the year ahead.

This week Bishop Hutterer travels to Puerto Rico for the Bishop’s Academy, and the staff enters 2025 on the ground and running.

Read More
Rev. Paul Larson Named Advocacy Director for LEAN Ahead of Legislative Session

Rev. Paul Larson, lead pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Family in Carson City, NV, has been appointed Advocacy Director for Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN). As the 83rd Nevada Legislative Session approaches, Rev. Larson will represent Lutheran voices on issues like immigration, food insecurity, and environmental care. His leadership promises to strengthen LEAN’s mission of justice and compassion. Learn more about his vision and upcoming initiatives, including February’s “Lobby Day” at the Capitol, at leanforjustice.org.

Read More
From Henderson to Chicago: Kylee Bestenlehner’s Journey of Trust and Service

Kylee Bestenlehner, a member of Christ the Servant Lutheran Church in Henderson, Nevada, shares her inspiring journey from leading ukulele lessons to attending seminary at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC). Drawn by LSTC’s Public Church Curriculum and supported by scholarships, Kylee is following her call to ministry while creating lasting community impact. Learn how trust in God and encouragement from her church community guided her path in an article from LSTC’s Epistle magazine.

Read More
January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month

Seventy-one percent of victims of human trafficking are women and girls. National Human Trafficking Prevention Month is an opportunity to educate others about identifying human trafficking, prevention and supporting victims. This blog post contained articles and resources from Women of the ELCA to raise awareness of human trafficking and engage in advocacy in your congregation and community.

Read More
I’m a Lutheran: Glory Godwin Lekashu

Meet Glory Godwin Lekashu, a medical laboratory technician, student, and Lutheran whose journey spans continents and calls to service. From her youth ministry roots in Tanzania to her studies in biology and public health, Glory integrates faith and science to heal body, soul, and world. In this Living Lutheran article, learn how this International Women Leaders scholar is living her Lutheran values by fostering health care justice, inspiring youth, and shining Christ’s light in her community.

Read More
Trusting Women: Revisiting the ELCA’s Social Statement on Abortion

In a post-Dobbs world, the ELCA’s 1991 social statement on abortion offers a compassionate, theologically grounded response to the complexities of reproductive rights. Rooted in trust, understanding, and a commitment to relationships, the statement calls Lutherans to discernment, advocacy, and accompaniment. Explore how this powerful framework equips us for faithful action today in this Living Lutheran article.

Read More
Living Forgiveness: A Baptismal Journey of Healing and Grace

Baptism gives us all the forgiveness we need to live as followers of Christ, even in the midst of sin and brokenness. Rev. AmyJo Mattheis reflects on her journey through anger and pain, finding healing through the sacraments of baptism and communion. Forgiven by God, we are called to forgive others, break down walls of division, and confront the realities of sin and injustice with Christ’s grace. Read more to explore how living forgiveness transforms us and the world around us in this Café blog post from Women of the ELCA.

Read More
A Fresh Start: Forgiveness as the Heart of Faith in the New Year

Forgiveness is both a spiritual practice and a path to renewal as we begin the new year. Rooted in God’s abundant grace, it frees us to let go of anger, pursue justice with love, and extend compassion to ourselves and others. Explore how forgiveness can transform your life and strengthen your faith in 2024 in this Café blog post from the Women of the ELCA.

Read More
Step Up as a District Coordinator for Lutheran Day at the Legislature

Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona is seeking district coordinators for Lutheran Day at the Legislature on February 10, 2025, at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix. Coordinators will play a critical role in organizing district efforts, securing legislative appointments, and leading conversations with representatives. Training and support are provided. Ready to make a difference? Learn more and register here or email director@lamaz.org.

Read More
Young Adults Invited to Winter Retreat in Prescott: Sign Up Today

Young adults across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to join the upcoming Winter Retreat at Camp ALOMA in Prescott, January 17-20. Enjoy faith-based learning, fellowship, and fun activities like Laser Tag, s’mores around the fire, and hiking. Connect with other young adults in a beautiful outdoor setting and grow in your faith. Spaces are limited—register today!

Read More
Planning for Your Future: Protecting Families in Uncertain Times

What happens to LGBTQIA2S+ families if marriage equality is overturned? Join Central Lutheran Church on January 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM for Planning for Your Future in Uneasy Times. Estate Attorney Aaron Fransua, Esq., will share essential steps to safeguard your family and rights in uncertain times. This vital event is open to all—come and learn how to protect what matters most.

Read More
Person-Centered Care: How Mosaic Transforms Lives with Compassion and Strategy

Mosaic’s mission to empower individuals through whole-person care is transforming lives across communities. The latest issue of Promisemagazine shares inspiring stories of personalized support, celebrates the dedication of Mosaic’s workforce and partners, and outlines a visionary plan for growth. Read more about how Mosaic embodies God’s call to serve: Read Here.

Read More
Nominate Young Musicians for Lutheran Summer Music

Enrollment is filling fast for the LSM 2025! Students come together in an immersive musical community that connects the pursuit of musical growth with the joy of Lutheran church music traditions. Know a young person (grades 8-12) who would benefit from this life-giving and joyful musical community? Nominate them for LSM today at LSMacademy.org/nominate.

LSM 2025 takes place at Valparaiso University from June 22-July 20 (Half Session through July 6). Standard Enrollment is open now through March 1. 

Read More