Posts in News
Scholarships Available for Transformative Retreat on Faith, Science, and Creation
Scholarships Available for Transformative Retreat on Faith, Science, and Creation

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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
I’m a Lutheran: Glory Godwin Lekashu
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.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Trusting Women: Revisiting the ELCA’s Social Statement on Abortion
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.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAbortion, Living LutheranComment
Living Forgiveness: A Baptismal Journey of Healing and Grace
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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
A Fresh Start: Forgiveness as the Heart of Faith in the New Year
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.

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NewsBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA)Comment
Step Up as a District Coordinator for Lutheran Day at the Legislature
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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Young Adults Invited to Winter Retreat in Prescott: Sign Up Today
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!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardWest Valley Young Adults, Youth and Young Adult, Camp ALOMA, Outdoor MinistryComment
Planning for Your Future: Protecting Families in Uncertain Times
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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardCentral Arizona City, Fiesta Conference, LGBTQIA+Comment
Nourishing Our Life Together: A Spirited Book Club on ‘Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies’ (Copy)
Nourishing Our Life Together: A Spirited Book Club on ‘Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies’ (Copy)

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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Church and SocietyComment
Person-Centered Care: How Mosaic Transforms Lives with Compassion and Strategy
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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardDisability Ministries, MosaicComment
Nominate Young Musicians for Lutheran Summer Music
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. 

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News, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardLutheran Summer Music, Youth and Young AdultComment
Reignite Your Ministry: Join the Missional Leadership Cohort (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert)
Reignite Your Ministry: Join the Missional Leadership Cohort (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert)

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!

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther Seminary, Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Empowering Communities: Lutheran Disaster Response Training in Indonesia
Empowering Communities: Lutheran Disaster Response Training in Indonesia

Lutheran Disaster Response is transforming lives in Indonesia through disaster preparedness training for church members in vulnerable communities. With over 40 participants engaged in November 2024, this ELCA-supported initiative equips churches to act as first responders, spreading God’s love and building resilience in one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions. Read more at ELCA.org.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Disaster ResponseComment
Sing with Us! Vocalists Wanted for Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute in Tempe
Sing with Us! Vocalists Wanted for Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute in Tempe

Join the choir for a special Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration of Diversity event on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 3 PM at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe. Rehearsals begin January 4, and all vocalists are welcome to participate in this inspiring service featuring gospel-style music and a message from Bishop Yehiel Curry. Sign up today to be part of this unforgettable tribute at Sign-Up Genius.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMLK, King of Glory Tempe, Fiesta ConferenceComment
2025 Transition Manual Now Available for Congregations
2025 Transition Manual Now Available for Congregations

We are excited to announce the release of the updated 2025 Congregations in Transition Manual, designed to guide congregations through the four phases of the transition and call process with spiritual focus and practical tools. Now available for download, this resource includes templates, liturgies, and actionable steps to help congregations navigate change with grace. Visit gcsynod.org/transition to access the manual and learn more.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGrand Canyon Synod Transition TeamComment
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 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.

Be Part of the Celebration of Diversity Choir at King of Glory Lutheran Church in Tempe. Rehearsals begin January 4, and all vocalists are welcome to participate in this inspiring service featuring gospel-style music. Sign up today to be part of this unforgettable tribute at Sign-Up Genius.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardRacial Justice, MLKComment
Merry Christmas from Spirit in the Desert: Reflections, Retreats, and Renewal
Merry Christmas from Spirit in the Desert: Reflections, Retreats, and Renewal

Merry Christmas from Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, Arizona! This year, Spirit welcomed diverse groups seeking healing and renewal while continuing to provide exceptional hospitality and spiritual connection. Looking ahead, Spirit offers retreats and programs to deepen faith, including Centering Prayer, contemplative Zoom services, and a Spring Training baseball retreat. Discover how Spirit continues to serve as a haven for peace and renewal.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat Center, 2024 Advent and ChristmasComment
A Year of Advocacy and Blessings: Reflecting on LAMA’s 2024 Impact
A Year of Advocacy and Blessings: Reflecting on LAMA’s 2024 Impact

2024 was a year of remarkable advocacy through the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry of Arizona (LAMA), with record participation at Lutheran Day at the Legislature and impactful work in areas like hunger, housing, and international aid. As we celebrate Christmas, we reflect on the Nativity’s call to care for the vulnerable and recommit to advocacy in 2025. Read more for highlights from LAMA Director Solveig Muus and an inspiring message from Hunger Advocacy Fellow Autumn Byars.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Letters, NewsBrian Flatgard2024 Advent and Christmas, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), AdvocacyComment
Living Lutheran Returns to Print, Plus More Highlights from Seeds Monthly
Living Lutheran Returns to Print, Plus More Highlights from Seeds Monthly

Living Lutheran returns to print in spring 2025, offering quarterly issues filled with inspiring stories and church updates. Subscribe individually or as a congregation today. Plus, explore meaningful holiday gifts with the ELCA Good Gifts catalog, join the National Day of Racial Healing on Jan. 21, and prepare for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity starting Jan. 18. Find these updates and more in this month’s Seeds Monthly.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardSeeds MonthlyComment