Posts in News
A Symphony of Prophetic Voices: Lutherans Advocating for Justice at the UN
A Symphony of Prophetic Voices: Lutherans Advocating for Justice at the UN

Lutherans are raising their prophetic voices for justice at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) this March, where the global church will review progress on the Beijing Declaration’s gender justice commitments. Deacon Erin Brown of the Lutheran Office for World Community reflects on the diverse ways Lutherans advocate for the common good, ensuring that God’s love, compassion, and justice are proclaimed. From pastors to students to international leaders, the Lutheran delegation amplifies stories and solutions that work toward a world free from violence and oppression. Read more about how faith informs advocacy and how you can support this vital mission.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
Still Black. Still Lutheran: Confronting the Challenges of Leadership in the ELCA
Still Black. Still Lutheran: Confronting the Challenges of Leadership in the ELCA

In honor of Black History Month, ELCA Racial Justice Ministries is amplifying the voices of African Descent Lutherans, highlighting the ongoing challenges Black women face in ministry and leadership. In Still Black. Still Lutheran, Nicolette Peñaranda reflects on the systemic barriers that Black women encounter within the ELCA and broader professional spaces. As we celebrate Black history, Peñaranda calls on congregations to move beyond conversation into action—watching Talks at the Desk, engaging with discussion guides, and committing financial support to Black-led ministries. Read more to explore the realities and ways to create lasting change.

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ELCA, News, LettersBrian Flatgard2025 Black History Month, Racial Justice, ELCA Racial Justice MinistriesComment
Office of the Bishop Updates
Office of the Bishop Updates

The Office of the Bishop Staff will be there with you at Lutheran Day at the AZ Legislature 2025, Feb 10, 2025, 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM, and don’t forget about Lutheran Lobby Day: Advocate for Justice in Nevada, Feb 10, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. We’ll also see you at various congregations as we visit and preach. We share photos from Bishop Hutterer’s visit to celebrate the 50th anniversary celebration of American Lutheran Church in Sun City.

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News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Is Seminary Your Calling? Explore Signs Along the Way at PLTS
Is Seminary Your Calling? Explore Signs Along the Way at PLTS

Wondering if seminary is the right next step for you? Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) invites you to Signs Along the Way, a Visit and Discernment Weekend on April 4–6, 2025, in Berkeley, CA. With PLTS moving to fully online programs, this event provides a unique opportunity to connect with faculty, explore theological education, and experience online learning. Lodging and meals are provided, and travel assistance is available. Learn more at plts.edu/signs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
Time to Report: Submit Your Congregation’s Annual Report by March 1
Time to Report: Submit Your Congregation’s Annual Report by March 1

The Annual Congregation Report (Form A) portal is now open, and all congregations are asked to complete their reports by March 1, 2025. This year’s updated system makes reporting easier, with previous year data displayed, built-in instructions, and forms available in English and Spanish. To access the portal, visit ELCA.org/congregationreport using your congregation’s ID and password. If you didn’t receive this information, contact the Office of the Bishop. Your participation helps shape the future of our synod and the wider church—thank you for being part of this important work!

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Hands and Feet of Christ: Meal Packing Event in Fountain Hills
Hands and Feet of Christ: Meal Packing Event in Fountain Hills

Join us February 26, 2025, at the Fountain Hills Community Center for a family-friendly food packing event hosted by New Journey Lutheran. From 5:30–7:30 PM, volunteers will pack thousands of meals for those in need locally and globally. Registration is required—sign up today at njlc-fh.org/food-4-kidz. View a PDF flyer here. Be the church in action!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHunger, Northeast Valley Conference, New Journey Fountain HillsComment
Journey Through Lent: ELCA World Hunger Resources Now Available
Journey Through Lent: ELCA World Hunger Resources Now Available

Prepare your congregation for Lent with free resources from ELCA World Hunger! From an action guide to a Lent devotional calendar and a five-session study, these tools will inspire reflection and action as we journey together to end hunger. Download or order resources today at ELCA.org/hunger/resources and learn how your congregation can make a difference this season.

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ELCA, Leadership Resources, News, ResourcesBrian Flatgard2025 Lent, Hunger, ELCA World HungerComment
Beyond the Walls: Reaching Neighbors with the Gospel in New Ways
Beyond the Walls: Reaching Neighbors with the Gospel in New Ways

Discover new ways to connect with your neighbors in a free webinar on Tuesday, February 25th, led by Dave Male, Director of Evangelism and Discipleship for the Church of England. Explore practical tools and spiritual practices to build genuine relationships and foster discipleship in today’s changing world. Learn more and register: faithlead.org/workshop/beyond-the-walls

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News, Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership ResourcesBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Engage, Connect, and Cool Off: Be a Resident Theologian at Campformation
Engage, Connect, and Cool Off: Be a Resident Theologian at Campformation

Engage with youth, cool off in the pines, and explore stewardship this summer! Campformation at Camp Pinerock, June 30–July 4, 2025, invites three rostered leaders to join for free as Resident Theologians. Travel, room, and board are covered. Apply by March 15, 2025. Contact Pr. Tim Perlick at tim.perlick@gmail.com.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, News, Help WantedBrian FlatgardStewardship of Life Institute (SOLI), Campformation, Camp Pinerock, Youth and Young Adult, Outdoor MinistryComment
Join Shane Claiborne at New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson: Addressing Poverty Through Faith
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.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardNew Spirit Tucson, Kino Conference, PovertyComment
Connect with Bishop Hutterer: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025
Connect with Bishop Hutterer: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025

Rostered ministers, it’s time to complete your annual Report to the Bishop! Reports are due by March 1, 2025 and are an opportunity to connect directly with Bishop Hutterer. All submissions will be carefully reviewed, and each minister will receive a personal response. Forms are available online or as downloadable Word documents. Visit gcsynod.org/rostered-minister-report for full details.

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Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Religious Liberty at Risk: Protecting the Right to Preach Without Political Retribution
Religious Liberty at Risk: Protecting the Right to Preach Without Political Retribution

Religious freedom is under threat. House Resolution 59 seeks to condemn a sermon given by Bishop Mariann Budde, setting a dangerous precedent for government interference in matters of faith. As Lutherans, we believe the church must remain free to speak truth to power. Take action today by urging your representative to oppose H.R. 59 and defend the right to preach without political retribution.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChristian Nationalism, Christians Against Christian Nationalism, The Episcopal Church, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Church and SocietyComment
Make Your Voice Heard: Lutheran Day at the Arizona Legislature 2025
Make Your Voice Heard: Lutheran Day at the Arizona Legislature 2025

Join Lutherans from across Arizona on February 10, 2025, for Lutheran Day at the Legislature. From 9:30 am to 1:30 pm at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix, we’ll advocate for LAMA’s 2025 policy priorities. Prepare with training sessions on January 23, February 6, and February 20. Visit lamaz.org/lutheran-day-2025 to register today!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Misinformation Targets Lutheran Organizations—Here’s the Truth
Misinformation Targets Lutheran Organizations—Here’s the Truth

False claims about Lutheran organizations and federal funding circulated on X on February 1, prompting a strong response from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. In a video statement, Bishop Eaton reaffirmed the ELCA’s commitment to truth and its long-standing mission of serving the vulnerable. Lutheran organizations have responsibly used federal grants for 85 years, and the ELCA calls on political leaders to reject misinformation and uphold integrity. Watch Bishop Eaton’s full response in our blog post.

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardImmigration and Refugees, Global Refuge, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), Bishop Eaton Letters, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious RelationsComment
Join Lutheran Lobby Day: Advocate for Justice in Nevada
Join Lutheran Lobby Day: Advocate for Justice in Nevada

On February 10, 2025, join Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada for a day of faith and action at the Nevada State Capitol. The event begins with worship at St. Paul’s in Carson City and moves to the Capitol for legislative advocacy rooted in Lutheran values of justice and compassion. Registration is required. Click here to learn more and sign up.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN), Colorado River ConferenceComment
What’s Love Got to Do With It? Exploring Beloved Community Together
What’s Love Got to Do With It? Exploring Beloved Community Together

What’s love got to do with it? Everything. Join Creating Beloved Community: Healing Together on Wednesday, February 5, at 12:00 PM Mountain / 1:00 PM Central, hosted by ELCA Coaching. This monthly gathering welcomes all—rostered ministers, lay leaders, and those seeking deeper spiritual connection. Together, we will explore love, faith, and healing in community. Learn more and join us on Zoom: ELCA Coaching Website.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardCoaching, ELCA CoachingComment
Updated Zoom Link for Monday’s Generosity Project Event – Spread the Word!
Updated Zoom Link for Monday’s Generosity Project Event – Spread the Word!

🚨 New Zoom Link! If you’re attending The Generosity of the Generosity Project on February 3, be sure to use the updated Zoom link to join the discussion. This event is for past users, those who have adapted the resource, and anyone curious about its potential. No registration is needed—just click and join the conversation! Monday, February 3, 6:00-7:30 p.m. Central Time. Click here to join.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardStewardship, The Generosity ProjectComment