October 12–13 flooding displaced Rock Point residents on the Navajo Nation. Navajo Lutheran Mission/House of Prayer’s buildings are safe, and staff are providing food, water, clothing, and other support as families face a lengthy recovery. Pray for the community and give to support the Mission’s ongoing care.

What holds the church together amid deep disagreement? This 23-minute Learn and Discern episode explores the roots of differing convictions and our shared grounding in Christ’s Gospel, offering encouragement for honest conversation about the ELCA’s sexuality social statement.

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

• Rev. Verónica Alvarez, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 4 years on October 30.

• Rev. Brian Ward, Community, Las Vegas, who celebrates 16 years on October 31.

• Deacon Katherine Kline, who celebrates 6 years on October 31.

• Rev. Thaddeus Book, Desert Cross, Tempe, who celebrates 17 years on November 1.

  Deacon Anada Guse, who celebrates 36 years on November 4.

  Rev. Conrad Braaten, Spirit of Joy, Clarkdale, who celebrates 54 years on November 5.

As we remember the saints who shaped our lives, consider a gift that honors their influence. Explore ways to celebrate a loved one or mentor while supporting your congregation, the Grand Canyon Synod, or another cherished ELCA ministry.

Lilly Endowment’s Serving Neighbors initiative offers planning grants up to $50,000 and, by invitation, implementation grants up to $5 million to strengthen congregation–community partnerships. Concept papers are due January 19, 2027, with virtual information sessions November 2 and 3. Eligible organizations supporting groups of congregations may apply; individual congregations seeking funds for their own programs are not eligible. Explore the opportunity and registration details.

Veterans are invited to a free Healing of Memories retreat November 20–22 at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree, from Friday at 6 p.m. through Sunday at 2 p.m. The weekend offers reflection, compassionate listening, and support. Space is limited: contact Mike Wold at 651-687-9767 or michael_w_wold@msn.com. Please share with veterans in your congregation and community.

Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend at ThanksLiving Music Fest, beginning November 27 at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree. Enjoy live music, meals, and fellowship while supporting its ministry of renewal and healing. Choose an on-site stay or individual concert-and-meal tickets. Explore options and register.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. Nevada early voting and Navajo Nation in-person absentee voting end October 30. Arizona voters should use an official ballot drop-off location after October 27; Arizona and Utah ballots must arrive by their Election Day deadlines. Read our final nonpartisan guide, confirm your voting plan, and make your voice heard.

Make Your Mark! Students in grades 8–12 are invited to the CRC Fall Retreat November 13–15, 2026, at New Promise Lutheran Church in St. George, Utah. Explore faith through the stories of Esther, Moses, and David and Goliath, with games, service, worship, and friendship. Cost: $50 plus transportation. Register and pay by October 26.

Join Gather Valley of the Sun for a Heard Museum visit on Sunday, November 8, at noon, guided by ELCA Young Adults’ Taína Diaz-Reyes in recognition of Native American Heritage Month. Optional lunch is at 11 a.m., with carpooling from University Lutheran Church in Tempe. The first 10 attendees receive free admission. RSVP through @gathervalleyofthesun on Instagram.

All God’s critters are welcome! Join Deacon Emma for a Blessing of the Pets on Saturday, October 31, at 9 a.m. in Memorial Plaza at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 11575 N. 1st Ave., Oro Valley. Celebrate God’s creation with a special blessing for animals and their human families.

How can an investment support ministry beyond your congregation? Watch and share MIF’s “Together, We Build More” video to see how investments help fund loans for worship spaces, schools, camps, affordable housing and more.

Six ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellows have begun their 2026–2027 placements, advancing state and national public policy and promoting peace and human rights at the United Nations. Their year of service puts love of neighbor into action through advocacy. Meet the fellows and read about their work.