This Lent, the five synods of Region 2 invite you to join the 40-40-40 Lenten Challenge, inspired by Isaiah 58:11, to reflect on the intersection of hunger and water. Through prayer, action, and learning, we explore Lutheran Disaster Response efforts, the ELCA’s Truth and Healing Movement, and the 70-year ministry of Navajo Evangelical Lutheran Mission (NELM) in Rock Point, AZ. Click here to explore water-themed activity ideas and learn how you can participate.
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The Grand Canyon Synod has awarded over $100,000 in grants to ministries throughout our synod, supporting faith-based initiatives in leadership development, worship expansion, advocacy, and community outreach. These grants—made possible through bequests, congregational gifts, and unrestricted synod funds—empower congregations to expand their reach and deepen their service. Read more to see how your generosity is fueling transformative ministry in our synod.
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The Grand Canyon Synod has once again received Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest recognition for nonprofit accountability. This award highlights our commitment to clear communication, responsible financial stewardship, and mission-driven impact.
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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.
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This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Peter Lai, who celebrates 40 years on March 16.
Rev. Martin Overson, who celebrates 46 years on March 18.
Rev. Daniel Potaznick, Office of the Bishop, Phoenix, St. John’s, Glendale, who celebrates 2 years on March 18.
The Grand Canyon Synod is collecting stories of ministry and faith in preparation for the 2025 Synod Assembly. We invite mission and ministry partners to share stories—whether in writing, photos, audio, or video—by May 9, 2025. All stories will be featured on our blog, social media, and a special assembly page. This year’s theme, “Build Up the Body,” reflects Ephesians 4:12-13, calling us to equip and uplift one another in Christ. Submit your story to bflatgard@gcsynod.org, and visit gcsynod.org/video for storytelling tips!
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Calling all young artists! Children and youth across the Grand Canyon Synod are invited to participate in a special art project for the 2025 Synod Assembly, themed “Build Up the Body” (Ephesians 4:12-13). Submissions will be displayed at the event, featured online, and 25 selected pieces will be printed as postcards! The deadline to submit artwork is May 9, 2025. All participants will be entered into a drawing for a gift card to purchase art supplies. Encourage the young people in your congregation to share their vision of Jesus, Church, and Me through art! Learn more and submit artwork at gcsynod.org/2025/assembly/art.
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Are you a ministry partner looking to share your work at the 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly? Reserve a Ministry Partner Table to engage voting members and visitors with an interactive display! Tables are available for ELCA-affiliated ministries and partners and must be registered by Monday, May 19, 2025. Learn more about display guidelines and how to sign up here.
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Registration is now open for the 2025 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly, taking place June 12-13, 2025. Early bird rates for voting members are available through April 7. Visitors and exhibitors are also welcome to register. Be part of this important gathering of Lutherans across our synod as we worship, discern, and celebrate together. Register today!
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What if Christianity had a love story more radical than we imagined? This March, Spirit in the Desert’s Spirited Book Club explores Mary Magdalene Revealed, a rediscovered gospel that challenges traditional views on sin and shame, calling us instead to wholeness and transformation. Join the virtual discussion on March 6 & 20 at 3:00 p.m. AZ MST, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center.
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How do we provide faithful and ethical care for those at life’s end? The Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS)invites you to the 2025 Mohrenweiser Lecture: “Ethics and Spiritual Care at the End of Life” on Thursday, March 20, at 1:00 p.m. (Pacific Time). Join experts in chaplaincy, medicine, and interfaith ministry as they explore how faith leaders and caregivers accompany the dying with dignity and grace. Attend in person in Berkeley, CA, or via Zoom. Register here.
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During March 16-20, 2025, experience the perfect blend of faith and baseball at the Desert Sojourn Retreat in Carefree, Arizona. Join Pastor Dave Ellingson for five days of fellowship, worship, and Cactus League Spring Training games. Limited spaces available—reserve your spot today!
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Lutheran guest preacher and National Parks record-setter Mikah Meyer is bringing his short film Canyon Chorus to Tempe on March 14 as part of the Banff World Tour. Meyer, who shared his story and music at Emmanuel Lutheran in Prescott Valley, visited 113 ELCA congregations while completing his 400+ National Park journey. Don’t miss the chance to see his inspiring film and meet him in person at Pollack Tempe Cinemas at 7 PM. Can’t attend? Watch Canyon Chorus for free on YouTube! Get tickets here.
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Rev. Luis Ochoa will be installed at First Evangelical Lutheran (142 N Date, Mesa, AZ 85201) on Saturday, 3/15/2025 at 2pm. Pastor Chris Stoxen will preach, with Bishop Hutterer presiding. Rostered ministers are invited to attend; no robes. Color of the day is purple. Livestream on YouTube here.
After the service, we will celebrate! To assist us in planning food, please RSVP by calling (480-969-7221) or emailing the office: felc@firstevlutheran.com with the number of people in your group.
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We uplift and pray for Rev. Tina Mills and the people of Our Savior’s of East Mesa Lutheran Church in Mesa, part of the Rio Salado Conference.
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We uplift and pray for Rev. Amalia Vagts, Rev. Glenn Schrader and the people of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Tucson, part of the Kino Conference.
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Tanque Verde Lutheran Church is seeking a part-time worship leader to guide music for its modern worship service at 10:30 AM on Sundays. This role involves leading congregational singing, recruiting and training volunteer musicians, and planning music in collaboration with the pastoral team. If you are a musician with a passion for worship leadership, apply today! Visit the Indeed job posting for details.
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In this Pivot Podcast, Blair Pogue shares a Lenten reflection for church leaders.
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Belonging Matters: Mosaic empowers people to fully participate in their communities and live their lives in a way that reflects their personal goals and aspirations. The post Belonging Matters: National Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Month appeared first on Mosaic.
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The Grand Canyon Synod Constitution has been updated to reflect the new continuing resolution S12.01.A.25, approved by the Synod Council on January 18, 2025. This replaces the previous S12.01.B22 and includes updated conference listings for our 82 congregations and SAWCs across Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. View the latest version at gcsynod.org/constitution.
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