The last 30 events from our calendar. View full calendar here.

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Faith Leaders Unite: ELCA Coaching’s January 29 Gathering
Jan 29
Faith Leaders Unite: ELCA Coaching’s January 29 Gathering

Join the January 29 Beloved Community Gathering hosted by ELCA Coaching to reflect, discern, and take faithful action. This virtual event invites all faith leaders—rostered or not—to move from head to heart to hands in living out their faith. Inspired by Scripture, Martin Luther King Jr., and bell hooks, we’ll explore what it means to build trust and communion in our communities. Details and recordings at ELCA Coaching’s website.

Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Jan 28
Hunger Leaders Network meeting

Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Click here to access the meeting, at 6pm on the last Tuesday of every month.

Fiesta Fun for All Ages: 75th Anniversary Celebration with American Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tucson
Jan 25
Fiesta Fun for All Ages: 75th Anniversary Celebration with American Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tucson

Celebrate 75 years of ministry with American Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tucson! Join the fiesta on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from noon to 3 PM at 115 N. Tucson Boulevard. The event features Parrita’s Mexican Food Truck, live flamenco music by Jon Banuelos, and family fun activities. Tickets are available until noon on January 19, 2025.

Join the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in Tucson
Jan 23
Join the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in Tucson

Join us on January 23, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity! Hosted at the Redemptorist Renewal Center in Tucson, this statewide ecumenical service will feature Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger and Grand Canyon Synod Bishop Deborah Hutterer. Gather with Christians of all traditions to reflect on John 11:26 and pray for unity. Learn more and help spread the word!

Living into a New Story: Explore Earth-Based Wisdom and Theology at Spirit in the Desert
Jan 23
Living into a New Story: Explore Earth-Based Wisdom and Theology at Spirit in the Desert

Deepen your faith and explore the intersection of theology, science, and creation at the “Living into a New Story” retreat from January 23–26, 2025, at Spirit in the Desert in Carefree, Arizona. Scholarships are now available, covering full costs for shared rooms or reducing single-room fees to $100 per person.

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.

A Spirited Book Club on ‘Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies’ (Session 2)
Jan 23
A Spirited Book Club on ‘Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies’ (Session 2)

Explore the power of language to transform our communities in an online two-session Spirited Book Club this January, featuring Marilyn McEntyre’s Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies. Delve into twelve strategies for stewarding truth and grace in an era of dishonesty.

Facilitated by Sheri Brown, discussions will focus on the book’s call to nurture words as we nurture one another. Sessions are January 9 and 23 at 3:00 PM AZ/MST. Learn more and register at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s website.

ELCA’s 2025 National Day of Racial Healing Event
Jan 21
ELCA’s 2025 National Day of Racial Healing Event

On Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, the ELCA will host a free online event from 9am-1pm MST, 8am-noon PST, featuring worship, workshops, music, and guided reflection. Centering the voices of ELCA leaders of color, the event seeks to raise awareness of the need for racial healing and inspire collective action toward justice and equity. Open to all ELCA members and partners, this event aligns with the work of Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation. Visit ELCA.org/NDORH to learn more and register today!

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration of Diversity @ King of Glory, Tempe
Jan 19
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration of Diversity @ King of Glory, Tempe

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 (watch live on King of Glory’s YouTube channel or at kogaz.org/watch), with Bishop Yehiel Curry preaching, and Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Las Vegas with a keynote from Elder Ender Austin, III (COGIC), 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.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration of Diversity @ Holy Spirit, Las Vegas, 3-5pm PT
Jan 19
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration of Diversity @ Holy Spirit, Las Vegas, 3-5pm PT

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 (watch live on King of Glory’s YouTube channel or at kogaz.org/watch), with Bishop Yehiel Curry preaching, and Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Las Vegas with a keynote from Elder Ender Austin, III (COGIC), 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.

Celebration of Life for Love of Christ Lutheran Church Founding Pastor, Donald R. Thompson
Jan 18
Celebration of Life for Love of Christ Lutheran Church Founding Pastor, Donald R. Thompson

We pray for the family and friends of Donald R. Thompson, who died December 9, 2024

The Celebration of Life for Love of Christ Lutheran Church Founding Pastor, Donald R. Thompson, will be Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 10AM in the Center of Compassion (1525 N. Power Road Mesa, AZ 85205).

Transformative Training for Lay Leaders Starts January 2025
Jan 18
Transformative Training for Lay Leaders Starts January 2025

The School for Lay Ministry equips lay leaders with the tools and confidence to serve their congregations faithfully. With live instruction, self-paced learning, and innovative digital ministry training, the year-long program begins January 18, 2025. Scholarships are available. Learn more and register today at faithlead.org.

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025
Jan 18
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025 invites churches worldwide to pray together for unity, inspired by John 11:17-27 and the theme, “Do you believe this?” Marking the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, this year’s reflections highlight shared faith through the Nicene Creed. Download the resources, prepared by the Bose monastic community, at oikoumene.org and join this global movement for Christian unity.

ELCA Young Adults Winter Retreat at Camp ALOMA
Jan 17
ELCA Young Adults Winter Retreat at Camp ALOMA

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!

Walking With: Migrant Accompaniment for Ministry Leaders in 2025 and Beyond
Jan 17
Walking With: Migrant Accompaniment for Ministry Leaders in 2025 and Beyond

Join ELCA AMMPARO and Episcopal Migration Ministries on January 17, 2025, for an essential webinar equipping ministry leaders to support migrants and undocumented individuals. Featuring expert immigration lawyers, the session covers “Know Your Rights” guidance, navigating immigration steps, and preparing for ICE interactions. Register today for this free online event and learn how your ministry can make a difference.

Join Shane Claiborne at New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson: Addressing Poverty Through Faith
Jan 16
Join Shane Claiborne at New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson: Addressing Poverty Through Faith

Join New Spirit Lutheran Church in Tucson on February 16th to hear Shane Claiborne, renowned author, speaker, and activist. Worship begins at 10:00 AM, followed by fellowship, a bring-your-own lunch, and Shane’s presentation, “What to Do About Poverty,” at 1:00 PM. View PDF flyer here. Together, let’s explore how faith can inspire action against poverty.

A Spirited Book Club on ‘Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies’
Jan 9
A Spirited Book Club on ‘Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies’

Explore the power of language to transform our communities in an online two-session Spirited Book Club this January, featuring Marilyn McEntyre’s Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies. Delve into twelve strategies for stewarding truth and grace in an era of dishonesty.

Facilitated by Sheri Brown, discussions will focus on the book’s call to nurture words as we nurture one another. Sessions are January 9 and 23 at 3:00 PM AZ/MST. Learn more and register at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s website.

Executive Skills for Church Leaders retreat at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center
Jan 6
Executive Skills for Church Leaders retreat at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center

Join California Lutheran University’s Thriving Leadership Formation team, January 6-10, 2025, for the Executive Skills for Church Leaders retreat at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center. This transformative event, designed for pastors, deacons, and church leaders, offers expert-led sessions on Conflict Management, Human Resources, Contemporary Leadership, and Congregations in the Digital Age. Register now to enhance your ministry leadership skills and connect with fellow church leaders in a serene Arizona desert setting. Learn more and sign up at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s website or call 480-488-5218. View PDF poster here.

Planning for Your Future: Protecting Families in Uncertain Times
Jan 4
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.

New Year’s Retreat at Camp ALOMA
Dec 29
New Year’s Retreat at Camp ALOMA

Kick off 2025 with Camp ALOMA’s New Year’s Retreat! Jr High and High School students are invited to Prescott from December 29 to January 1 for a faith-filled retreat featuring devotions, worship, campfires, and more. Registration is $110 per camper, with optional transportation. Spots are limited—register today!

Final Week of Advent Centering Prayer: Restore and Prepare
Dec 23
Final Week of Advent Centering Prayer: Restore and Prepare

This Monday, December 23, at 12:00 PM AZ/MST, join the final session of Restore Our Hope: Advent Centering Prayer. As we await the birth of Christ, this week’s focus turns to God’s healing and comfort for a broken world. Come together in song, prayer, and quiet reflection to prepare your heart for Christmas. Register today and share in this closing Advent experience.

Finding Light in the Darkness: A Blue Christmas Worship Service
Dec 19
Finding Light in the Darkness: A Blue Christmas Worship Service

When the holiday season feels heavy, join the Blue Christmas Winter Solstice Worship Service on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, from 6-7 PM MST (5-6 PM PST). This virtual candlelight service, presented by the Center of Addiction & Faith, creates space to acknowledge pain, seek hope, and plead for God’s light amid the darkness. Register now to participate: Click here to register.

Service of Advent, Lessons & Carols at Faith Lutheran in Phoenix
Dec 18
Service of Advent, Lessons & Carols at Faith Lutheran in Phoenix

Take a break from the season’s busyness to reflect on Advent’s hope and anticipation. Faith Lutheran Church in Phoenix invites you to a candlelit Service of Advent Lessons & Carols on Wednesday, December 18th, at 7:00 p.m. Experience scripture, song, and the timeless beauty of this cherished tradition. All are welcome!

Advent Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives in Phoenix: Beth Lederman & Juli Wood
Dec 18
Advent Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives in Phoenix: Beth Lederman & Juli Wood

Join Mount of Olives in Phoenix for Wednesday Evening Jazz Vespers through Advent, featuring live jazz performances, contemplative worship, and fellowship. Free and open to all, each evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with refreshments following. Donations support the church’s Food Pantry, helping over 150 families weekly.

Hunger Leaders Network meeting
Dec 16
Hunger Leaders Network meeting

Calling all hunger champions: join this network of the Grand Canyon Synod! Meet to hear updates on national and local Hunger and Food Insecurity efforts and initiatives, to learn from one another, and to share with the group what's happening in our congregations. Anyone interested in alleviating hunger is welcome. Prepare to be encouraged and supported! Click here to access the meeting, at 6pm on the last Tuesday of every month.

Advent Reflection: New Life Through Centering Prayer
Dec 16
Advent Reflection: New Life Through Centering Prayer

As Advent deepens, join us this Monday, December 16, at 12:00 PM AZ/MST for the third session of Restore Our Hope: Advent Centering Prayer. This week, we reflect on how God brings life from places we often consider dead and hopeless. Experience 30 minutes of meditation, prayer, and renewal as we wait in hope for Christ’s coming. Register here to receive the Zoom link.

German Language Christmas Service at Mountain View Lutheran in Ahwatukee
Dec 15
German Language Christmas Service at Mountain View Lutheran in Ahwatukee

Join Mountain View Lutheran Church in Ahwatukee on Sunday, December 15, for a German-language Christmas service and carol sing-along! Starting at 4:10 pm, this special gathering will celebrate Advent with traditional German carols and worship, offering a beautiful experience of faith and community. For more details, visit weihnachtsgottesdienstphoenix.com.

Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino
Dec 14
Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino

Únase al Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino este diciembre para profundizar las habilidades de alcance cultural y comunitario de su ministerio. Este evento virtual de tres días, organizado por el CTLM del Seminario Teológico de Wartburg, ofrece a los líderes de la ELCA estrategias prácticas y modelos de ministerio inspiradores de expertos en ministerio latino. Las sesiones se llevarán a cabo del 12 al 14 de diciembre, con un enfoque en el fortalecimiento de comunidades de adoración multiétnicas y bilingües. La inscripción está abierta en wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, con opciones para individuos y congregaciones. Descargue o vea el PDF aquí.

Join the Latine Ministry Competency Workshop this December to deepen your ministry’s cultural and community outreach skills. This three-day virtual event, hosted by Wartburg Theological Seminary’s CTLM, offers ELCA leaders practical strategies and inspiring ministry models from experts in Latine ministry. Sessions will be held December 12-14, with a focus on strengthening multi-ethnic and bilingual worshipping communities. Registration is open at wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, with options for individuals and congregations. Download or view PDF here.

Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino
Dec 13
Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino

Únase al Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino este diciembre para profundizar las habilidades de alcance cultural y comunitario de su ministerio. Este evento virtual de tres días, organizado por el CTLM del Seminario Teológico de Wartburg, ofrece a los líderes de la ELCA estrategias prácticas y modelos de ministerio inspiradores de expertos en ministerio latino. Las sesiones se llevarán a cabo del 12 al 14 de diciembre, con un enfoque en el fortalecimiento de comunidades de adoración multiétnicas y bilingües. La inscripción está abierta en wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, con opciones para individuos y congregaciones. Descargue o vea el PDF aquí.

Join the Latine Ministry Competency Workshop this December to deepen your ministry’s cultural and community outreach skills. This three-day virtual event, hosted by Wartburg Theological Seminary’s CTLM, offers ELCA leaders practical strategies and inspiring ministry models from experts in Latine ministry. Sessions will be held December 12-14, with a focus on strengthening multi-ethnic and bilingual worshipping communities. Registration is open at wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, with options for individuals and congregations. Download or view PDF here.

Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino
Dec 12
Latine Ministry Competency Workshop | Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino

Únase al Taller de Competencia en el Ministerio Latino este diciembre para profundizar las habilidades de alcance cultural y comunitario de su ministerio. Este evento virtual de tres días, organizado por el CTLM del Seminario Teológico de Wartburg, ofrece a los líderes de la ELCA estrategias prácticas y modelos de ministerio inspiradores de expertos en ministerio latino. Las sesiones se llevarán a cabo del 12 al 14 de diciembre, con un enfoque en el fortalecimiento de comunidades de adoración multiétnicas y bilingües. La inscripción está abierta en wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, con opciones para individuos y congregaciones. Descargue o vea el PDF aquí.

Join the Latine Ministry Competency Workshop this December to deepen your ministry’s cultural and community outreach skills. This three-day virtual event, hosted by Wartburg Theological Seminary’s CTLM, offers ELCA leaders practical strategies and inspiring ministry models from experts in Latine ministry. Sessions will be held December 12-14, with a focus on strengthening multi-ethnic and bilingual worshipping communities. Registration is open at wartburgseminary.edu/CTLM, with options for individuals and congregations. Download or view PDF here.

Advent Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives in Phoenix: Yudi Zhang & Drew Peterson
Dec 11
Advent Jazz Vespers at Mount of Olives in Phoenix: Yudi Zhang & Drew Peterson

Join Mount of Olives in Phoenix for Wednesday Evening Jazz Vespers through Advent, featuring live jazz performances, contemplative worship, and fellowship. Free and open to all, each evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with refreshments following. Donations support the church’s Food Pantry, helping over 150 families weekly.