Our spring gatherings continue with Kino Conference Spring Gathering, Our Savior’s Lutheran, Tucson and the Spring Gathering for Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley and Rio Salado Conferences, Living Water Church in Scottsdale.
We also share photos from the Colorado River Conference Spring Gathering, Las Vegas and Phoenix Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, as well as visits to congregations in the Colorado River Conference.
Read MoreThis week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:
Rev. Katie Langston, New Promise, St. George, who celebrates 2 years on February 4.
Rev. Shari Bernau, Living Water, Scottsdale, who celebrates 19 years on February 5.
Rev. Pam A. Reynolds, Lord of Life, Sun City West, who celebrates 3 years on February 6.
The ELCA's new initiative, Sumud: For Justice in Palestine and Israel, presents “Following the Way of Jesus: A Lenten Holy Land Journey.” This Lenten video series for individuals and congregations consists of six short videos that introduce people to the land, the theology of sumud and its significance through Scripture as the “way of Jesus.” Each video will be available in both English and Arabic.
Sumud is the ELCA’s new name for our church’s engagement in accompaniment, awareness-building and advocacy for justice in Palestine and Israel. Sign up for updates about Sumud here.
Read MoreIn this Living Lutheran article, get introduced to Elizabeth Gilbert, of First Lutheran Church, Cincinnati. Gilbert is a product data scientist withCisco and former co-chair of the Gather Network.
Read MoreWe share this Living Lutheran article, which spotlights the ELCA's 35-year mission alongside Central American Lutheran churches, addressing social and environmental issues. It highlights the Salvadoran Lutheran Synod's educational and advocacy efforts against climate change, the Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras' focus on education, the Augustinian Lutheran Church of Guatemala's women's education program, and the Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith and Hope's work on gender issues and community development.
Read MoreThe Kino Conference Spring Gathering is at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, Tucson, on Saturday, Feb 3, 2024, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM (watch livestream here), and the Spring Gathering for Cactus, Capital, Fiesta, Northeast Valley and Rio Salado Conferences will be held at Living Water Lutheran on Sunday, Feb 4, 2024, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM (view the livestream here).
These gatherings are not just meetings, but an opportunity for spiritual growth, learning, and community engagement, centered on the transformative message of John 1:14. Don't miss this chance to deepen your faith and connect with your synod community.
Read MoreMosaic's 2024 advocacy agenda continues its commitment to positive legislative influence, focusing on Direct Support Professional recognition, expansion of Home and Community Based Services, updating SSI asset limits, and fostering key partnerships. Building on 2023's successes, Mosaic aims to leverage its strong advocate base to support individuals with I/DD and the workforce dedicated to them. Read more at mosaicinfo.org.
Read MoreThe Winter 2023-24 edition of "Lutheran Men in Mission" centers on fostering bold followers of Christ. It delves into personal stories of faith and the impact of ministry, reflecting on both loss and communal triumphs. The newsletter outlines upcoming events like "One Year to Live Retreats," aiming to enrich men's spiritual journey. Read the newsletter here, and also explore their latest Ambassador-Gram here.
Read MoreAs congregations welcome new leaders and express gratitude to those completing their service, it's a pivotal time to nurture a deep sense of calling in lay leaders. Share Joe Davis' inspiring "BE the Church" spoken-word piece to invigorate this calling. Support the spiritual growth of outgoing leaders with enriching courses like "Following Jesus to Purpose and Meaning." Equip incoming leaders with Faith+Lead's on-demand courses that blend practical tools with spiritual practices, ensuring they're ready to spiritually and effectively guide their churches. Find out more in Faith+Lead’s latest newsletter.
Read MoreIntroducing two FREE compositions from Lutheran Summer Music by Anne Krentz Organ: Holy Manna, for .solo instrument with keyboard accompaniment, and Be Thankful, for SATB chorus, descant, keyboard accompaniment, optional: assembly, handbells. Free sheet music download: lsmacademy.org/resources
Read MoreJoin faith leaders at the National Faith + Climate Forum on April 16th, designed to inspire collaborative climate solutions in congregations and communities. Also, don't miss the chance to turn non-voters into climate voters with ecoAmerica's resources. Celebrate the One Home One Future campaign, and participate in the discussion with filmmaker John Feldman on Feb 27th. Plus, discover more events and resources from our partners to empower your climate advocacy in Blessed Tomorrow’s February 2024 newsletter.
Read MoreThe West Valley Young Adult Community is bustling with activity this February! Packed with diverse and engaging events, the calendar is designed for young adults aged 19-35 to connect, share experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue about life and faith. From the calming ambiance of "Coffee & Conversation" to the competitive fun of "Par Tee" at Popstroke, and the vibrant "2nd Saturdays" street fair, there's something for everyone. The lineup also includes a lively "Mardi Gras" celebration and a "Pizza & Game Night" for those who enjoy a laid-back evening. To cap off the month, test your problem-solving skills at the "Escape Westgate" event.
Read MoreThe 2024 Lutheran Day at the Legislature, held on January 18th in Arizona, was a resounding success with 125 advocates from across the state gathering for impactful discussions on policy priorities. The day was marked by engaging with over 30 legislators, insightful speeches from influential leaders, and meaningful networking. Highlights included nonpartisan cooperation talks, strategies for addressing key issues like hunger and housing, and building stronger community relationships through advocacy. View all the photos and info at lamaz.org.
Read MoreElevate your church leadership and stewardship skills with ELCA's exciting opportunities. Join webinars, seminars, and learning communities starting February 2024, to enhance donor relations, financial empowerment, and much more.
Register today to transform your ministry's financial and leadership capabilities with one of the five offerings: Cultivating the Craft of Asking; African Descent and African National Financial Empowerment; Deepening Our Relationship with the Spirituality of Fundraising; Financial Best Practices Learning Community, and Financial Empowerment for Missional Leaders.
Read MoreDiscover the transformative power of a simple hug in the latest ELCA Faith Lens, "Healing Touch." Dive into how Jesus' healing actions and our everyday gestures of compassion can significantly impact our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Read MoreThe Japan Lutheran Church (JLC) has been an associate member church of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) since 1999. In 2021, JLC decided to ordain women as pastors.
Rev. Heeme Yang, one of its first two ordained women pastors, shares her journey from fashion design to studying theology, what it means to be church in an ageing society, and ecumenical opportunities in a Christian minority context. From her Korean Buddhist origins, Anglican college life, to becoming a Lutheran church Vice-President, it’s been 20 years since Rev. Heeme Yang “knocked on the seminary door.” Read more at lutheranworld.org.
Read MoreGlobal Refuge emerges from the Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, embodying a renewed commitment to global compassion and support for displaced individuals. Maintaining its core mission and Lutheran heritage, Global Refuge stands as a beacon of hope and sanctuary, embracing all regardless of origin or faith. Learn more at globalrefuge.org.
Read MorePOSITION FILLED: Mountain View Lutheran Church is currently seeking a Worship Administrative Assistant. The Worship Administrative Assistant is responsible for maintaining worship and discipleship-related functions and provides support to the Director of Communications and Office Supervisor. For a more detailed job description and instructions on how to apply, please visit: www.mvlutheran.org/jobs.
Read MoreMountain View Lutheran Church is currently seeking an Office Assistant for the Front Office. The Office Assistant helps maintain the smooth functioning of daily operations and provides crucial support to the Office Supervisor. For a more detailed job description and instructions on how to apply, please visit: www.mvlutheran.org/jobs.
Read MoreJoin Community of Grace on February 7th for their first 'Aging with Grace' series. This week, Ms. Nicolle Tannaz, MSW, will delve into the everyday challenges faced by the elderly, offering insights into available resources, advocacy, and referrals. An informative session on self-care is also included. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to navigate aging with grace and dignity.
For a deep dive into each weekly topic and to connect with valuable resources, visit the full series details at Community of Grace or in this PDF.
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