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! Tuesday, 6/24/2025, 6-7pm MST.
Read MoreJoin Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club for a two-part discussion of How We Learn to Be Brave by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, Thursdays, June 12 and 26 at 12:00 PM AZ time. Explore faithful courage in life’s turning points through a book that blends Scripture, story, and personal reflection. Registration now open.
Read MoreOver 80 youth from across the synod will attend Lutheran Campformation at Pinerock from June 30–July 4, exploring faith through worship, study, and fellowship. This year features a new focus on Creation theology. You can support this ministry by sponsoring meals, camper days, scholarships, or giving to the Gerald Manlove Memorial Camp Fund.
Read MoreNow accepting applications: The 2025 Manna Grant offers up to $20,000 in total funding to Grand Canyon Synod ministries that address hunger and its root causes. Projects must demonstrate a commitment to inclusive leadership. Apply by July 31. Made possible through a legacy gift from Orpha Hoganson of Ascension Lutheran, this grant continues her mission to combat hunger with love and equity.
Read MoreJoin a free, one-hour webinar on June 25, Prepare to Quit: Equipping Others for Readiness to Change, hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith. Author and coach Rose Ann Forte offers a biblically grounded, neuroscience-informed approach to support those exploring recovery from alcohol and substance use. This resource is ideal for ministry leaders, lay leaders, and anyone walking with others through the preparation stage of change. Register now to gain tools that empower without shame.
Read MoreYouth from the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to Leadership Lab 2025, a weeklong Lutheran leadership experience for grades 8 through age 24, held June 23-28 at Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. Rooted in faith and friendship, Leadership Lab helps young people grow as disciples and leaders. Register now at leadershiplab.net.
Read MoreReady for summer? Lutheran congregations across the Grand Canyon Synod are offering Vacation Bible Schools and children’s camps filled with faith, fun, and fellowship. Explore the growing list of programs, and help us share your church’s summer offerings by emailing Deacon Laura Book at lbook@gcsynod.org.
Read MoreToday we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Daniel Megorden, who celebrates 46 years on June 17.
Rev. Richard Bosse, who celebrates 69 years on June 17.
Rev. Daniel Storvick, who celebrates 52 years on June 17.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. James Vadis, who celebrates 57 years on June 16.
Rev. Corrine Chilstrom, who celebrates 40 years on June 16.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Timothy Swanson, who celebrates 52 years on June 15.
Rev. Dennis Morreim, who celebrates 56 years on June 15.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Charles Wilfong, who celebrates 61 years on June 14.
Rev. Dana Reardon, who celebrates 27 years on June 14.
Rev. Tom Shelly, who celebrates 44 years on June 14.
Rev. Ronald Tellefson, who celebrates 61 years on June 14.
Today we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Harold Aasland, who celebrates 71 years on June 13.
Read MoreIn observance of the 10th anniversary of the tragic shooting of nine martyrs at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, Bishop Eaton calls on us to “lament the wounds of the sin of racism that sow seeds of fear, division, and hatred. Remembering the nine murders in Charleston is a commitment that our church must never forget. As the ELCA, our story is forever bound to the story, people, and community of Mother Emanuel AME. They are us, and we are them.” Watch the video here, download: https://bit.ly/4dXdmrx
Read MorePresiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a strong statement condemning the recent attack on Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza, a facility closely linked to the Lutheran World Federation through its partnership with Augusta Victoria Hospital. The ELCA joins its ecumenical partners in calling for accountability, an immediate ceasefire, and protection for all medical facilities under international law. We stand in prayerful solidarity with the injured, the grieving, and all who serve in places of healing. Click here to read the full statement.
Read MoreJoin BJC, Bread for the World, and NETWORK for a live webinar on Monday, June 16 at 2:30 p.m. ET to learn how the “Big Beautiful Bill” could harm education, health care, and food assistance—and how you can take faithful action. This 45-minute event includes expert speakers, Q&A, and practical steps for advocacy. Register now to receive your Zoom link.
Read MoreA full week of interfaith learning and service lies ahead, with online and in-person opportunities from Arizona Faith Network. Highlights include a Bolivian youth-led climate presentation, an Islamic perspective on science and faith, election protection volunteer training, heat relief packing events, and more. Read the full AFN newsletter and RSVP for events at arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter.
Read MoreWorld-class organists will perform across the Phoenix area June 16–19 in a series of free recitals presented by the American Guild of Organists. Several Lutheran churches are among the venues. No tickets required; freewill offerings encouraged. Full schedule at phxago2025.org. View PDF here.
Read MoreCelebrate the 2025 Diakonia graduates (view grads in this PDF) with us on Saturday, June 28 at 11:00 AM MST at Our Saviour’s Lutheran in Tucson, or online via YouTube. This joyful service and luncheon, featuring a message from Bishop Hutterer, honors those completing one or two years of faith formation through the Diakonia program. RSVP by June 15 to tinag963@yahoo.com or watch the livestream.
Read MoreThe 2024–2025 Impact Report highlights how your support empowers ministry across our synod. From guiding congregations in transition to nurturing new leaders, advocating for justice, and forming faith in young people, your generosity fuels a church that walks together. Discover how we Communicate Jesus, Connect People, and Create Possibilities.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop celebrates our synod at the 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, takes a bit of time off, and gets right back to it in the coming days. We also share photos from the Ordination and Installation of Jarrod Iversen at Central Lutheran in Arizona City.
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