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We are called not only to personal reflection but also to communal action—to live as people of grace, serving our neighbors and embodying Christ’s love. This Lent, let us consider how our thoughts, words, and deeds shape the world around us. In a time when political and social divisions run deep, may we be mindful of how we use our voices—not to cut each other down, but to build up, to witness to the hope we share in Christ.
Let us be bold and courageous in speaking for justice, compassionate in amplifying voices often unheard, and steadfast in proclaiming God’s grace through actions that heal and reconcile.
Women of the Kino Conference are invited to the annual Spring Gathering on March 8, 2025, at Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church in Tucson around the theme “Women on the Move” (Ruth 1:16). The event features a special program from Teen Challenge of Arizona’s Springboard Home for Girls, a fashion show, and a pop-up boutique from Blessingdales Boutique. Attendees are encouraged to bring in-kind gifts for Sister Jose Women’s Center. Registration ($20) is due by February 28—no walk-ins. View this flyer to learn more and use this PDF to register.
Join us on Sunday, March 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, Arizona, to celebrate Pastor Stephen Talmage’s 40th anniversary of ordination! From his early ministry in Tucson to his time as Bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod, and now as Senior Pastor at Love of Christ, Pastor Talmage has faithfully served with passion and dedication. This special gathering will honor his four decades of ministry. All are welcome! For more details, contact Pastor Nanette Christofferson at nanette@loclc.org.
Rev. Mari Larson will be installed Sunday, 3/9/2025, at 3 pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (8901 Del Webb Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89134). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.
Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is purple. A light reception will follow. Livestream will be available on the church’s YouTube channel.
Featured Events
Featured
Women of the Kino Conference are invited to the annual Spring Gathering on March 8, 2025, at Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church in Tucson around the theme “Women on the Move” (Ruth 1:16). The event features a special program from Teen Challenge of Arizona’s Springboard Home for Girls, a fashion show, and a pop-up boutique from Blessingdales Boutique. Attendees are encouraged to bring in-kind gifts for Sister Jose Women’s Center. Registration ($20) is due by February 28—no walk-ins. View this flyer to learn more and use this PDF to register.
Join us on Sunday, March 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, Arizona, to celebrate Pastor Stephen Talmage’s 40th anniversary of ordination! From his early ministry in Tucson to his time as Bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod, and now as Senior Pastor at Love of Christ, Pastor Talmage has faithfully served with passion and dedication. This special gathering will honor his four decades of ministry. All are welcome! For more details, contact Pastor Nanette Christofferson at nanette@loclc.org.
Rev. Mari Larson will be installed Sunday, 3/9/2025, at 3 pm PST at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (8901 Del Webb Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89134). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.
Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is purple. A light reception will follow. Livestream will be available on the church’s YouTube channel.
Rev. Luis Ochoa will be installed at First Evangelical Lutheran (142 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201) on Saturday, 3/15/2025 at 2pm. Pastor Chris Stoxen will preach, with Bishop Hutterer presiding. Rostered ministers are invited to attend; no robes. Color of the day is purple. Livestream on YouTube here.
After the service, we will celebrate! To assist us in planning food, please RSVP by calling (480-969-7221) or emailing the office: felc@firstevlutheran.com with the number of people in your group.
Join Lutheran women across the Grand Canyon Synod for the Cactus Conference Spring Gathering on March 23 in Yuma, AZ. This year’s theme, “Peace and Unity: Borders and Neighbors,” will feature a keynote by Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls, highlighting the region’s connections with Mexico. The gathering will also support Hunter’s Army, an organization aiding families and children in need. Registration is $15, due by March 17—carpool with friends for a day of fellowship, learning, and faith in action!
We offer our heartfelt prayers for the friends and family of Pastor Dan Olson and his beloved wife, Barbara Olson. May God’s comforting presence be with all who mourn their passing and celebrate their faithful lives.
Pastor Dan Olson passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025. His wife, Barbara, preceded him in death just a couple of months earlier, on December 30, 2024. Their lives of faith and service will be honored in a joint memorial service at Spirit of Grace Lutheran Church (15820 W. Clearview Blvd., Surprise, AZ 85374) on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. Pastor Dan’s brother, Paul Olson, a retired ELCA pastor, will join in leading this service of remembrance and thanksgiving.
Featured
What if Christianity had a love story more radical than we imagined? This March, Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club explores Mary Magdalene Revealed, a rediscovered gospel that challenges traditional views on sin and shame, calling us instead to wholeness and transformation. Join the virtual discussion on March 6 & 20 at 3:00 p.m. AZ MST, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.
Women of the Kino Conference are invited to the annual Spring Gathering on March 8, 2025, at Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church in Tucson around the theme “Women on the Move” (Ruth 1:16). The event features a special program from Teen Challenge of Arizona’s Springboard Home for Girls, a fashion show, and a pop-up boutique from Blessingdales Boutique. Attendees are encouraged to bring in-kind gifts for Sister Jose Women’s Center. Registration ($20) is due by February 28—no walk-ins. View this flyer to learn more and use this PDF to register.
Join us on Sunday, March 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, Arizona, to celebrate Pastor Stephen Talmage’s 40th anniversary of ordination! From his early ministry in Tucson to his time as Bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod, and now as Senior Pastor at Love of Christ, Pastor Talmage has faithfully served with passion and dedication. This special gathering will honor his four decades of ministry. All are welcome! For more details, contact Pastor Nanette Christofferson at nanette@loclc.org.
Rev. Mari Larson will be installed Sunday, 3/9/2025, at 3 pm PST at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (8901 Del Webb Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89134). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.
Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is purple. A light reception will follow. Livestream will be available on the church’s YouTube channel.
Discover new ways to lead in changing times! The Missional Leadership Cohort is a nine-month journey beginning March 2025 to equip clergy with tools for transformative leadership. With retreats (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert), coaching, and peer support, this program offers practical insights and theological grounding to help you move from “fixing” to faithful discernment. Scholarships available! Learn more today!
Give your child a weekend to remember at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat in Prescott, Arizona. Designed for grades 1 through 6, this faith-filled weekend includes Bible study, archery, campfires, and outdoor exploration. Happening March 14–16 for $100, it’s the perfect blend of fun and faith! Register now at campaloma.com or call 928-778-1690.
Lutheran guest preacher and National Parks record-setter Mikah Meyer is bringing his short film Canyon Chorus to Tempe on March 14 as part of the Banff World Tour. Meyer, who shared his story and music at Emmanuel Lutheran in Prescott Valley, visited 113 ELCA congregations while completing his 400+ National Park journey. Don’t miss the chance to see his inspiring film and meet him in person at Pollack Tempe Cinemas at 7 PM. Can’t attend? Watch Canyon Chorus for free on YouTube! Get tickets here.
Rev. Luis Ochoa will be installed at First Evangelical Lutheran (142 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201) on Saturday, 3/15/2025 at 2pm. Pastor Chris Stoxen will preach, with Bishop Hutterer presiding. Rostered ministers are invited to attend; no robes. Color of the day is purple. Livestream on YouTube here.
After the service, we will celebrate! To assist us in planning food, please RSVP by calling (480-969-7221) or emailing the office: felc@firstevlutheran.com with the number of people in your group.
During March 16-20, 2025, experience the perfect blend of faith and baseball at the Desert Sojourn Retreat in Carefree, Arizona. Join Pastor Dave Ellingson for five days of fellowship, worship, and Cactus League Spring Training games. Limited spaces available—reserve your spot today!
Led by Pastor Ron Rude and Sharon Reinbott, this retreat offers thought-provoking sessions on how Earth’s wisdom and scientific breakthroughs reshape Christian beliefs. Register now to secure your place for this transformative experience in faith and ecological wisdom.
What if Christianity had a love story more radical than we imagined? This March, Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club explores Mary Magdalene Revealed, a rediscovered gospel that challenges traditional views on sin and shame, calling us instead to wholeness and transformation. Join the virtual discussion on March 6 & 20 at 3:00 p.m. AZ MST, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.
Church & Society
Featured
We are called not only to personal reflection but also to communal action—to live as people of grace, serving our neighbors and embodying Christ’s love. This Lent, let us consider how our thoughts, words, and deeds shape the world around us. In a time when political and social divisions run deep, may we be mindful of how we use our voices—not to cut each other down, but to build up, to witness to the hope we share in Christ.
Let us be bold and courageous in speaking for justice, compassionate in amplifying voices often unheard, and steadfast in proclaiming God’s grace through actions that heal and reconcile.
The ELCA joins church leaders in Jerusalem in a humanitarian plea for Gaza, standing against the proposed forced displacement of millions. Bishop Eaton calls on Lutherans to respond through prayer, advocacy, and learning, lifting up the voices of our Palestinian siblings in faith. Read more and take action: Click here.
Pastor Christine Stoxen of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chandler, testified before the Arizona House Appropriations Committee in support of HB2191, the “Yes In God’s Back Yard” (YIGBY) bill. Representing Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) and Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), she spoke on the critical role faith communities play in addressing Arizona’s housing crisis. While the bill advances, significant challenges remain, and continued advocacy is essential. Click here to read the full story on the LAMA site and see how you can help keep up the momentum!
Hunger affects 10% of the world, and as people of faith, we are called to respond. On Monday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. MT, Bread for the World President Rev. Eugene Cho joins travel writer and advocate Rick Steves for an online discussion about global hunger, the impact of U.S. foreign aid, and how we can advocate for change. Register now for this free event and learn how you can make a difference. Register here.
Thousands of refugees and immigrants are seeking safety and stability in our communities. As people of faith, we are called to welcome them with love and action. From sharing accurate information to volunteering, advocating, giving, and supporting employment, there are many ways to help. Read more about how you can make a difference in 2025 with tips from Global Refuge.
ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton speaks to the church about the need to check in on one another during this time of great anxiety and fear for so many members. "We may not know what tomorrow brings, but we have each other. And we have the promise of a God who meets us in our fear, who walks with us in our struggles, and who calls us to be bearers of hope.”
A recent funding freeze has halted U.S. foreign aid programs critical to global health, refugee resettlement, and disaster relief—programs already approved by Congress. As Lutherans, we are called to serve our neighbors in need. Contact your congressional representatives today to urge them to restore this lifesaving aid. Take action now: Click here.
Proposed Medicaid cuts in Congress could significantly impact low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—many of whom are served by Lutheran ministries. As people of faith, we are called to protect healthcare access for the most vulnerable. The ELCA is mobilizing action through advocacy alerts, a webinar on March 6, and direct outreach to legislators. Now is the time to act—contact your representatives, sign coalition letters, and learn how your congregation can engage. Click here to read more and take action.
ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton calls on Lutherans to take action following an executive order rolling back immigration protections in places of worship, schools, and hospitals. In a video message, she urges congregations to raise their voices and stand with the most vulnerable. While the ELCA cannot be a plaintiff in lawsuits challenging this policy, affected congregations may have legal standing. Watch the full message here and learn how we can respond as church together.
Proposed Medicaid cuts in Congress threaten millions of low-income children, seniors, and people with disabilities—including many served by Lutheran ministries. As Lutherans, our faith calls us to protect the vulnerable and advocate for just policies. Learn about the proposed changes, why they matter, and how you can take action through advocacy alerts, upcoming webinars, and direct engagement with lawmakers. Read more and find ways to get involved at ELCA.org.
Is your congregation prepared for a crisis? A Seattle church recently experienced a disruption during worship, underscoring the importance of having a crisis communications plan in place before it’s needed. The ELCA Strategic Communications team has released best practices and planning guides to help congregations prepare for emergencies, ensure clear communication, and work with local partners. Read more and download the full crisis planning resources to protect your congregation.
Faith leaders and immigration attorneys gathered last week for a critical Know Your Rights and Congregational Safety training to address urgent challenges posed by new federal policies. The event emphasized legal protections for houses of worship, emergency response planning, and resources for congregations. We’ve attached key materials, including an Emergency Phone Tree for Houses of Worship and training slides, to help congregations prepare. A second training is being planned—stay tuned for details.
Líderes religiosos y abogados de inmigración se reunieron la semana pasada en la capacitación Conozca sus Derechos y Seguridad Congregacional, abordando desafíos urgentes ante nuevas políticas federales. El evento destacó protecciones legales para iglesias, planificación de respuesta de emergencia y recursos para congregaciones. Hemos adjuntado materiales clave, incluido un Árbol de Teléfonos de Emergencia para Lugares de Culto y diapositivas de capacitación. Se está planificando una segunda capacitación—manténgase informado para más detalles.
Latest News
University Lutheran Church’s Lutheran Campus Ministry at ASU is hiring a part-time Campus Ministry Associate to help lead student ministry at the Tempe campus. This flexible role includes worship leadership, Bible study facilitation, and student outreach. The position starts August 13, 2025 (start date flexible) and offers a salary and reduced tuition. To apply, send a resume and cover letter to Pastor Arhiana Shek Dill at info@ulctempe.org.
The 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly is coming to Phoenix, July 28 – August 2, and we need 100 volunteers to help make it happen! Whether you assist with registration, hospitality, worship, or tech support, your time and talents will make a difference. If you missed our Volunteer Information Meetings, you can now watch the recording and learn how to get involved. Sign up today and help us welcome the ELCA to Phoenix! Watch the recording and sign up here.
ELCA Racial Justice share this devotional, created in response to the call of the 2019 Churchwide Assembly to condemn white supremacy and racist rhetoric. As you journey through Lent, this resource will challenge you and bring you closer to the radical neighbor-love that Christ demands in the Gospels.
We are called not only to personal reflection but also to communal action—to live as people of grace, serving our neighbors and embodying Christ’s love. This Lent, let us consider how our thoughts, words, and deeds shape the world around us. In a time when political and social divisions run deep, may we be mindful of how we use our voices—not to cut each other down, but to build up, to witness to the hope we share in Christ.
Let us be bold and courageous in speaking for justice, compassionate in amplifying voices often unheard, and steadfast in proclaiming God’s grace through actions that heal and reconcile.
Campus Ministry Madness is back! Support Lutheran Campus Ministry at ASU (LCM-ASU) from March 3 – April 1in this nationwide “friend-raiser” for ELCA campus ministries. Your donations help fund student meals, retreats, and faith formation, with a chance for LCM-ASU to win bonus prizes! Donate today at www.campusministrymadness.org and follow along on social media with #ministrymadness and #luminelca. View a PDF flyer here.
Join the 2025 Lenten Challenge and support the Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission (NELM) in Rock Point, AZ, where many households lack access to clean water. This friendly competition among ELCA Region 2 synods challenges participants to commit to three Lenten practices while raising awareness and funds for Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) and its water projects at NELM. The synod with the most sign-ups wins—so let’s make Grand Canyon Synod proud! Sign up today:lentenchallenge.org.
To honor and celebrate the contributions of Black Lutherans, Nicolette Peñaranda, ELCA program director for African Descent Ministries, created a quiz that highlights key figures, congregations and milestones in ELCA history. This interactive challenge is an opportunity to test your knowledge and deepen your understanding of the rich legacy of Black Lutherans in the ELCA. How well do you know this history? Take the quiz and find out!
Lent is more than personal sacrifice—it’s an opportunity to refocus our attention on God and others. Inspired by Jesus’ time in the wilderness, fasting can be a practice that transforms not just our habits, but our relationships. This Lent, consider choosing a fast that serves others: share food, spend intentional time with loved ones, or give generously. Read more about how fasting can deepen your faith and community engagement in this week’s Faith Lens. Click here to read more.
John Larson, chief operating officer of Niron Magnetics and longtime member of Bethel Lutheran in Northfield, Minn., shares how his faith shapes both his personal life and professional vocation. From leading high-tech sustainability efforts to nurturing a church community that raised his children, Larson reflects on the deep connection between his Lutheran identity and his work in building culture, innovation, and care for God’s creation. Read more at Living Lutheran.
As we enter the solemn season of Lent, Reverend Deacon Mary Sanders reflects on the connection between the ashes of Ash Wednesday and the mud left behind after a flood. In both, we are reminded of our mortality—and of God’s presence in the physical world. The Kingdom of God is found not only in Heaven but in acts of service, in neighbor helping neighbor, in the messiness of disaster response. Click here to read her full reflection on how we become truly human when we step into the work of love, service, and community.
What does innovation look like in the ELCA? It’s not about rebranding Jesus but about reimagining how we share the unchanging Gospel in a rapidly evolving world. From worship in coffee shops to community-driven ministries, the ELCA Innovation Lab explores new ways to make God’s love tangible and relevant. Read more at the ELCA Innovation Lab blog.
Join the Lutheran Faith Community Nurse Association on March 25, 2025, for This Isn’t Kansas, Toto: Living in the New Digital World, a special Zoom session with Dr. Patricia Fosarelli, MD, DMin. Explore how to navigate online misinformation, protect vulnerable individuals, and apply digital tools to ministry. Open to all, including non-nurses. Earn 2.0 nursing contact hours. View a PDF flyer here. Register now: LFCNA Event Page.
This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Stephen Talmage, Love of Christ, Mesa, who celebrates 40 years on March 10.
Rev. Patsy Koeneke, who celebrates 18 years on March 11.
Rev. Bruce Ayers, who celebrates 63 years on March 11.
Rev. Steven Crittenden, Epiphany of Christ, Apache Junction, who celebrates 16 years on March 12.
Rev. Beth Gallen, New Journey, Fountain Hills, who celebrates 4 years on March 13.
Give your child a weekend to remember at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat in Prescott, Arizona. Designed for grades 1 through 6, this faith-filled weekend includes Bible study, archery, campfires, and outdoor exploration. Happening March 14–16 for $100, it’s the perfect blend of fun and faith! Register now at campaloma.com or call 928-778-1690.
Discover new ways to lead in changing times! The Missional Leadership Cohort is a nine-month journey beginning March 2025 to equip clergy with tools for transformative leadership. With retreats (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert), coaching, and peer support, this program offers practical insights and theological grounding to help you move from “fixing” to faithful discernment. Scholarships available! Learn more today!
Women of the Kino Conference are invited to the annual Spring Gathering on March 8, 2025, at Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church in Tucson around the theme “Women on the Move” (Ruth 1:16). The event features a special program from Teen Challenge of Arizona’s Springboard Home for Girls, a fashion show, and a pop-up boutique from Blessingdales Boutique. Attendees are encouraged to bring in-kind gifts for Sister Jose Women’s Center. Registration ($20) is due by February 28—no walk-ins. View this flyer to learn more and use this PDF to register.
Synod Spotlight
This section is dedicated to celebrating and lifting up the everyday work of our congregations, ministries, and partners at various levels—from local to global. Join us in gratitude and prayer for these people and organizations. View all our spotlight posts here.
Land Acknowledgment
We acknowledge and honor the original inhabitants of the various regions of our synod. The Grand Canyon Synod is spread across lands in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, which are currently home to over two dozen tribal nations.
We acknowledge and honor these communities, their elders both past and present, as well as future generations. We give thanks to our Indigenous siblings who have cared and continue to care for this place — this land — and call it their home.
Learn more about ELCA Indigenous Ministries, land acknowledgments, and Native American and Indigenous education resources.
The 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly is coming to Phoenix, July 28 – August 2, and we need 100 volunteers to help make it happen! Whether you assist with registration, hospitality, worship, or tech support, your time and talents will make a difference. If you missed our Volunteer Information Meetings, you can now watch the recording and learn how to get involved. Sign up today and help us welcome the ELCA to Phoenix! Watch the recording and sign up here.