Blessed Tomorrow reflects on this past election season, giving thanks for the faith and climate communities who worked tirelessly to promote climate-conscious voting. Now, as we pause to recharge, we also look ahead to 2025 with actionable steps for creation care. Join Blessed Tomorrow in leading the way toward climate justice, and read more in their post here.
Read MoreThe Office of the Bishop welcomes Rev. David Pavesic, our new Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM), as he officially begins is work for our synod.
We also share photos from the Bishop’s visit to Gloria de Cristo, Yuma, whose quilting ministry creates and shares over 600 quilts a year.
Read MoreAs I reflect on the election results in our nation and in our swing-states synod, I recognize that emotions across our communities are varied and deeply felt. For some, there is joy and hope; for others, uncertainty and worry. In this moment, we turn our gaze once again toward Jesus, our unchanging source of comfort and strength in uncertain times.
For those who are filled with joy today, I ask for your prayers, support, and compassion toward those who may feel fearful or lost. For those who are anxious, may you know the comfort of a God who holds you close. Jesus sustains us all, inviting us into a spirit of action and healing, no matter the season or the outcome.
Read MoreDavid Bullock, a degreed Spiritual Director with extensive experience, has joined the Grand Canyon Synod’s roster of Spiritual Directors. Now based in Arizona, David offers monthly one-hour sessions for anyone seeking a deeper relationship with God, both in person and via video conference. His inclusive approach is open to all, regardless of faith background, and he invites each participant to make a charitable donation in honor of each session. Discover how David’s guidance can support your spiritual journey and learn more about our synod’s Spiritual Directors.
Read MoreThis October at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center was filled with powerful gatherings, including the Grand Canyon Synod Fall Gathering led by Bishop Hutterer and other retreats that brought faith communities together. Highlights include heartfelt thanks to the Carefree Kiwanis Club for their support, updates on impactful retreats, and invitations to upcoming events. Explore more and see how Spirit in the Desert continues to foster faith, community, and personal renewal. Read more here.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. R. Stewart McDonald, who celebrates 38 years on November 12.
Rev. Ruby Myers, who celebrates 3 years on November 13.
Rev. David Krueger, who celebrates 48 years on November 14.
Facing tighter budgets and attendance shifts? Join us for a free webinar, Funding Forward: Finding Hope and Sustainability Together, on November 12, 2024, 11am MST, 10am PST, with author Grace Pomroy. Discover faith-centered approaches to funding ministry that focus on hope and mission-driven sustainability. Grace will share real-life stories and practical steps that help churches reimagine finances through innovative models that build community. Register today to take part in this hopeful and transformative conversation.
Read MoreJoin us on Saturday, November 9th, at North Scottsdale United Methodist Church for “Intersections of Grace,” an event exploring the shared history of Methodist and Lutheran traditions. Led by Rev. Dr. Colleen Windham-Hughes, this event offers both a 9:30 a.m. brunch and a 1:00 p.m. tea. Engage in meaningful conversations about our common roots and distinctive gifts. Registration is open now! View a PDF flyer here.
Read MoreWondering About Seminary? Attend the PLTS Discernment Retreat! Join Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, CA, from November 8-10, 2024, for Signs Along the Way, a discernment weekend designed to help you reflect on your call. Engage with seminarians, faculty, and staff, explore degree options, and discern your future. Lodging and most meals are provided, with travel assistance available. Visit plts.edu/signs for more information.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Phillip Shuart, Rev. Mari Larson and the people of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, part of the Colorado River Conference.
Read MoreAttend one of a special series of talks from Palestinian Christian human rights lawyer Jonathan Kuttab in Phoenix, Nov. 7-9. Kuttab, co-founder of Al Haq and Executive Director of FOSNA, will discuss “The U.S., Palestine, Israel, and Human Rights.” Each day will feature a different location with presentations centered on peace and justice in the Holy Land. Don’t miss this chance to engage with Kuttab’s faith-rooted perspective on nonviolent advocacy and human rights in a region critical to our faith and world.
Read MoreWe uplift and pray for Rev. Mary Louise Frenchman, Vicar Wanda Frenchman and the people of Native American Urban Ministry in Phoenix, part of the Capital Conference.
Read MoreLutheran Men in Mission (LMM) recently met in Reno to set bold plans in motion for 2025, focusing on rebranding, expanding discipleship coaching, and bringing over 100 new congregations into their network. With new initiatives and the support of men across the country, LMM is inspiring deeper spiritual connections.
Upcoming retreats, including November’s One Year to Live in Iowa, as well as weekly virtual Bible and book studies, offer rich opportunities for growth and fellowship. Don’t miss the full update in LMM’s 2024 Fall Ambasador-Gram.
Read MoreDiscover a groundbreaking approach to missional leadership with Dr. JR Woodward in this thought-provoking episode of the Pivot Podcast.
Read MoreIn this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the transformative power of contemplative practices with Westina Matthews, a former Wall Street executive turned spiritual director.
On September 11, 2001, Dr. Westina Matthews found herself running for her life down 34 flights of stairs in the World Financial Center, adjacent to the World Trade Center. This harrowing experience became a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey, leading her from the corporate world of Wall Street to a life dedicated to contemplative practices and spiritual direction.
Read MoreYou’re invited to nominate a student for LSM 2025! Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) is a faith-based residential music academy for high school students (grades 8-12) who come together from all over the country to immerse themselves in musical excellence and build an intentional, supportive, and FUN community.
LSM 2025 takes place at Valparaiso University in Indiana from June 22-July 20 (Full Session) or June 22-July 6 (Half Session). Priority Enrollment is open now through December 1. Nominate students at LSMacademy.org/nominate, and watch and share this LSM Experience Video to learn more!
Read MoreFeeling the stress of election week? Reconnect with God’s peace through Faith+Lead’s free course, God and Mental Health Challenges, available now. This self-paced course offers a faith-based approach to mental health, practical tips on supporting others, and ways to integrate God’s presence amid life’s stresses. Read a letter introducing the course from Dr. Alicia Granholm, Faith+Lead Senior Director.
Read MoreIn the spirit of unity and peace, join us in two interfaith gatherings to pray for a just election. The Arizona Faith Network invites everyone to a Statewide Prayer Vigil on Monday, November 4, and an Interfaith Meditation on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. These events offer a chance for collective reflection, peacekeeping, and prayer as we exercise our democratic rights. View info on these gatherings and more at Arizona Faith Network’s weekly newsletter.
Read MoreLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona drops another voter engagement video. Filmed on location at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “What are your hopes post-election?” Find the whole series of videos here.
Read MoreThis Reformation Day, join hosts Dwight Zscheile and Terri Elton in the Pivot Podcast for a transformative conversation with the Rev. Dr. Mark Tranvik, professor of Reformation history and theology at Luther Seminary. Explore how Martin Luther’s revolutionary insights from the Protestant Reformation can breathe new life into 21st-century ministry and address the challenges facing today’s church.
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