Arizona Faith Network Addresses ‘Secure the Border Act’

In addition to addressing the critical issue of HCR2060, the Arizona Faith Network's latest newsletter features a rich lineup of events and educational opportunities. Upcoming sessions include a webinar on American Christian Nationalism, a Resiliency Career/Job Fair, and a series exploring the impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery. There's also a focus on community support with initiatives like the Heat Relief and Resilience efforts, and the MOMS Tour Baby Shower, designed to support maternal health.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 15, 2024Immigration and Refugees, Arizona Faith NetworkComment

2024 Report of the Reference and Counsel Committee is available

The Grand Canyon Synod has received one resolution {S24.01} for the upcoming 2024 Synod Assembly, confirmed by the Reference and Counsel Committee to align with our constitutional guidelines. Submitted by the Stewardship Team before the April 22 deadline, the resolution will be presented without recommendation, ensuring an open discussion among assembly members. Full details and a description of the submitting team are available on our assembly pages.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 15, 20242024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment

Wanda K. Frenchman: Strength and dignity are her calling

In a recent blog post for the Women of the ELCA, seminarian Wanda K. Frenchman reflects on what she learned about God and ministry from her mother.

“Where the Kingdoms Are Held Together”: Free Institutions and the American Church’s Political Vocation

As part of our Creating Space for Conversations series, we share a PDF of an article by the Grand Canyon Synod’s very own Rev. Matthew Metevelis, “Where the Kingdoms Are Held Together”: Free Institutions and the American Church’s Political Vocation, an issue of Word and World, Luther Seminary’s journal of theology.

The United States, as any other nation, is considered a political entity that God uses as a means of providing life and happiness for all. The distinct nature of the American national system is heavily reliant on the virtue of its citizens, and Christians are called to engage in this work both as citizens of the nation and as members of God’s church. —Rev. Matthew Metevelis

Deadline Approaching: Register for the Grand Canyon Synod Assembly by May 20

Secure your spot at the 2024 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly by May 20! Participate in vital decisions and the Bishop election at this pivotal gathering. Because we need to prepare all voting members for this election, registrations must be complete by May 20.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 13, 20242024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment

Elevate Your Sermon Skills: Join the Sermon Camp This May

Join Sermon Camp to transform your approach to preaching with a six-week, comprehensive program starting May 19, 2024. Learn to craft impactful sermons through practical strategies that blend spirituality with best preaching practices, supported by expert mentors and a community of peers.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 13, 2024faith+lead, Backstory PreachingComment

The Philadelphia Eleven: Celebrating 50 Years of Women's Ordination with Special Screening in Scottsdale

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of women's ordination in the Episcopal Church with a special screening of "The Philadelphia Eleven" documentary. Join others for this one-day-only event on May 21, 2024, at Harkins Shea 14 in Scottsdale. The screening will include a post-film discussion with The Rt. Rev. Jennifer Reddall and others. Tickets available now.

Lutheran Voices in the 2024 Elections: Engaging Faithfully in Civic Duties

The ELCA Advocacy's latest updates highlight new initiatives and resources to enhance Lutheran participation in the 2024 elections. From a six-session online series exploring Lutheran civic duties to practical training for poll monitors, these opportunities aim to deepen our engagement and understanding of political processes.

Personal experiences from poll monitors and greeters, like Solveig Muus and Autumn Byars from the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona, offer insights into the practical aspects of ensuring fair and accessible voting processes.

Office of the Bishop Updates: 5/10/2024

The Office of the Bishop gathers for a synod council meeting this week, travels and preaches, and continues synod assembly preparation.

News, Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon SynodBrian FlatgardMay 9, 2024Office of the BishopComment

Ordination celebrations: May 10 – May 16, 2024

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

Rev. Timothy Perlick, Mount of Olives, Phoenix, who celebrates 1 years on May 13.
Rev. Christine Stoxen, Holy Trinity, Chandler, who celebrates 24 years on May 14.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 9, 2024Ordination AnniversariesComment

“Low-Cost Communication Tactics for Grand Canyon Synod Leaders” webinar resources available

Our “Low-Cost Communication Tactics for Grand Canyon Synod Leaders” webinar was hosted by Brian Flatgard, Director of Communications on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. View the recording at us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/oabC3r4v_dyRkByuI5kCetkyS1uLnL7tpIHp45zv1KA7MuL15Yir4ymrhr3kMJ93.mvqQhl6tTffxdrUx with the passcode: 1bELj=?h

You can view the text and slides in this blog post, and view a PDF of the bullet points from the slide deck.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 8, 2024Comment

Burden or Blessing? How to Use Your Church Property for Mission

Explore creative ways to use your church's space that align with your church’s mission and your community’s needs in this faith+lead workshop on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, 10 am - 11:30 am PDT/MST.

See how can your church property become a catalyst for mission, a bustling hub for community engagement, and a beacon of hope.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 6, 2024faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment

Resurrection Lutheran Church of Oro Valley is seeking an Organist

This is a part-time position (approximately 15 hours per week). Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references to Tanya Elias, Music and Arts Minister to Adults, at tanyavelias@gmail.com.

Embracing the Full Spectrum of Life with Kate Bowler’s Latest Bestseller at The Spirited Book Club

Explore the depth of human experience with Kate Bowler's Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day!, a devotional that challenges the norm of forced positivity. Join The Spirited Book Club on May 16th for a discussion that promises to enrich your spiritual journey with honesty and resilience.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 6, 2024Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment

Contribute to the Grand Canyon Synod Youth Gathering Snack Drive

Support the Grand Canyon Synod Youth Gathering by donating snacks or gift cards to fuel 165 attendees as they join 26,000 peers in worship and learning. Drop off contributions at the Synod office or donate online or via Amazon.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 6, 20242024 ELCA Youth Gathering, Youth and Young AdultComment

Tell Your Tale: Grand Canyon Synod Seeks Your Stories by 5/17/2024

Don't miss the May 17 deadline to share your story with the Grand Canyon Synod! Whether it’s through writing, photos, or video, let your voice be heard and contribute to our rich tapestry of mission and ministry experiences.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 3, 20242024 Grand Canyon Synod AssemblyComment

Final Call for Campformation 2024: Registration Ends 5/31/2024

Secure your spot for an unforgettable faith-filled adventure at Campformation 2024 in Prescott, AZ. With the registration deadline on May 31, 2024, don’t miss out on this opportunity for spiritual growth and fun in nature. Ideal for 6th to 9th graders, with programs for older GAP campers and counselors too. For more details, view this PDF or visit Lutheran Campformation.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 3, 2024Campformation, Outdoor MinistryComment

Spring Forward: LMM Gears Up for Strategic Plan Completion and New Initiatives

The Spring 2024 edition of the Ambassador-Gram from Lutheran Men in Mission highlights key developments including the nearing completion of the current three-year strategic plan, innovative rebranding efforts, and the launch of an exciting new discipleship training program. Additionally, details for the LMM 2024 Annual Meeting scheduled for June 11 are provided, along with upcoming retreat dates and ongoing weekly Bible and book studies.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 3, 2024Lutheran Men in Mission, Ambassador-GramComment

Gather magazine spotlights mental health

The May/June 2024 issue of Gather magazine spotlights the topic of mental health and wellness through articles, reflections and a free, downloadable devotional called, “Compassionate companions.” Share this resource with members of your congregation or use it in your home or Bible study group in May to observe Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn how to subscribe to Gather here.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardMay 3, 2024Women of the ELCA (WELCA), Gather magazineComment