Women of the Cactus Conference Gather in Yuma to Learn, Connect, and Serve

Join Lutheran women across the Grand Canyon Synod for the Cactus Conference Spring Gathering on March 22 in Yuma, AZ. This year’s theme, “Peace and Unity: Borders and Neighbors,” will feature a keynote by Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls, highlighting the region’s connections with Mexico. The gathering will also support Hunter’s Army, an organization aiding families and children in need. Registration is $15, due by March 17—carpool with friends for a day of fellowship, learning, and faith in action!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Cactus ConferenceComment

Calling Passionate Leaders: Shape the Next Generation at Community of Grace in Peoria

Community of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria, Arizona, is seeking a part-time Director for Youth Ministries to guide middle and high school students on their faith journey. Help create a grace-based, inclusive community while leading activities, mission trips, and faith-building programs. View the job description as a PDF and contact the church through boldrecklessgrace.org to apply and learn more!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Community of Grace Peoria, Cactus Conference, help wanted, Help WantedComment

Prayers for Covenant Lutheran Church in Quartzsite

We uplift and pray for Rev. Kevin Meyer and the people of Covenant Lutheran Church in Quartzsite, part of the Cactus Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Spotlight, PrayersBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Covenant Quartzsite, Cactus ConferenceComment

In Memoriam: Rev. Jack Neimi

We pray for the family and friends of Rev. Jack Raymond Neimi, who passed peacefully at home on January 15, 2025. The primary memorial service for Pastor Niemi will be held in California, with a smaller local service at Lord of Life Lutheran in Sun City West on March 20, 2025, at 11 am.

Pastor Niemi was born in Two Harbors MN, and lived in Surprise, Arizona. He was a member of Lord of Life in Sun City West. He served many churches in the Grand Canyon Synod.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardFebruary 10, 2025Lord of Life Sun City West, Cactus ConferenceComment

Prayers for West Valley Young Adult Ministry

We uplift and pray for Casey Goslin and the people of West Valley Young Adult Ministry in Glendale, part of the Cactus Conference.

In Memoriam: Pastor Ronald Pechauer

We pray for the friends and family of Rev. Ronald Franklin Pechauer, who died December 4, 2024 in Apple Valley, MN. Pastor Pechauer had served at Shepherd of the Desert in Sun City, as well as many other churches. Obituary is available here.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardDecember 10, 2024Cactus Conference, Shepherd of the Desert Sun CityComment

Prayers for Community of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria

We uplift and pray for Rev. Timothy Wright, Rev. Jose Valenzuela, Rev. Joshua Pontious and the people of Community of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria, part of the Cactus Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardDecember 2, 2024Community of Grace Peoria, Cactus ConferenceComment

Prayers for Emmanuel Sudanese Lutheran Church in Glendale

We uplift and pray for Solomon Machar Kuch and the people of Emmanuel Sudanese Lutheran Church in Glendale, part of the Cactus Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOctober 30, 2024Cactus Conference, Emmanuel Sudanese PhoenixComment

Prayers for Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Goodyear

We uplift and pray for Rev. Jeffery Gallen and the people of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Goodyear, part of the Cactus Conference. Visit their site at christevangelical.org.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardSeptember 22, 2024Christ Evangelical Goodyear, Cactus ConferenceComment

Caregivers in Northwest Maricopa: Free Training & Support Program Launching This October

Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest is offering free caregiver training for those caring for children under five in Northwest Maricopa County. Starting October 1, the seven-week program includes CPR certification, self-paced online courses, and weekly in-person sessions at Community of Grace Lutheran Church, 10561 W Pinnacle Peak Rd, Peoria, AZ 85383. Register now to gain essential skills in injury prevention, healthy eating, and emotional literacy. Visit LSS-SW Children and Family Services and view this PDF for more details.

In Memoriam: Pastor Harold Peterson

We give thanks for the life and ministry of Pastor Harold Peterson, who passed away on Saturday, 9/14/2024. A memorial service will be held September 17, 2024, at 11 a.m. at American Lutheran Church in Sun City, with a luncheon to follow. Please keep Pastor Harold’s family and friends in your prayers.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardSeptember 16, 2024American Sun City, Cactus ConferenceComment

Prepare, Protect, Prevent: Vital Safety Steps for Congregations

In response to the Grand Canyon Synod’s Congregational Safety Webinar, Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West shares critical security resources. These tools include self-assessments, emergency planning guides, and training programs to help churches improve safety and security. Read more to access the full list of resources and strengthen your congregation’s preparedness.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSeptember 13, 2024Church and Society, Cactus Conference, Lord of Life Sun City WestComment

Office of the Bishop Staff Volunteers at West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop

The Office of the Bishop staff spent a morning volunteering at the West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop on August 13, 2024. Our team was inspired by the dedication and community spirit of the shop’s 350+ volunteers, who have helped raise over $10 million for ELCA missions and local non-profits, including our office. The experience deepened our appreciation for this vital ministry, and we look forward to returning soon to continue supporting their incredible work.

Lord of Life has Special Benevolence Grants Available

Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West is offering grants to local non-profit organizations that are doing extraordinary projects, through its Benevolence Fund. The minimum grant amount is $10,000. These funds may be requested through a grant review process for projects not currently supported by the church’s budgeted benevolence, Mission Endowment Fund or monthly Gratitude Gift program. View more info on their website and download a PDF brochure here. Benevolence Requests should be submitted by Monday, 9/9/2024.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardAugust 21, 2024Cactus Conference, Lord of Life Sun City West, GrantsComment

Prayers for American Lutheran Church in Sun City

We uplift and pray for Rev. Scott Klimke, Rev. Lisa Hackler and the people of American Lutheran Church in Sun City, part of the Cactus Conference. Visit their site at alcsuncity.org.

Grand Canyon Synod, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardAugust 20, 2024American Sun City, Cactus ConferenceComment

Community Spotlight: West Valley Community Food Pantry

In an article for Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona, Autumn Byars, GCS Hunger Advocacy Fellow, shares her experience at the West Valley Community Food Pantry, housed at and run by St. John’s Lutheran Church in Glendale. At the invitation of Associate Pastor for Outreach and Synod Director Of Generosity And Strategic Development, Pastor Dan Potaznick, Byars joined director June Kelsey and her team. Read the full article at LAMAZ.org.

Parish Nurse Wanted at Lord of Life Lutheran in Sun City West

Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Sun City West, AZ, is seeking a candidate to fill the part time Parish Nurse position at our church. An RN with community and aging experience is preferred. If you are interested in this position, please forward your resume and references to info@lolaz.org.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 2, 2024Cactus Conference, Help Wanted, Lord of Life Sun City WestComment

Sea of Galilee meets Silicon Valley: Artificial Intelligence, Faith Communities and Faith

Join the Cactus Conference Women’s Gathering to explore the nexus of Artificial Intelligence and faith. Engage with Brian Flatgard, Director of Communications with the Grand Canyon Synod, to discern how emerging technologies are shaping our spiritual communities and personal beliefs.

“Sea of Galilee meets Silicon Valley: Artificial Intelligence, Faith Communities and Faith” will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, 8:30 am – 2:15 pm, at the Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West, Arizona. View a PDF for info and registration here.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMarch 26, 2024Cactus Conference Comments

Don't miss the final two 2024 Conference Spring Gatherings

We are excited to invite you to our annual Spring Gatherings, themed “Embody the Word.” These gatherings are not just meetings; they are opportunities for spiritual renewal, learning, and community building. Learn more here.

Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley, and Rio Salado Conferences: Mar 17, 2024, 2pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Phoenix

High Country Conference: Mar 23, 2024, 11 am at Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona

Don't miss the final two 2024 Conference Spring Gatherings

We are excited to invite you to our annual Spring Gatherings, themed “Embody the Word.” These gatherings are not just meetings; they are opportunities for spiritual renewal, learning, and community building. Learn more here.

Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley, and Rio Salado Conferences: Mar 17, 2024, 2pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Phoenix

High Country Conference: Mar 23, 2024, 11 am at Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona