A Legacy of Learning: First Scholarships Awarded by Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix
A Legacy of Learning: First Scholarships Awarded by Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix

Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix has awarded its first scholarships through the Grace and Grand Canyon Synod Scholarship Fund, established in 2023 to help ELCA members pursue higher education and professional growth. This fund honors Martin Luther’s legacy of learning, providing financial aid and community support. With matching funds available at many faith-based institutions, a single gift can make a significant impact. To learn about eligibility or contribute to the fund, contact Arizona Community Foundation at azfoundation.org or Grace Lutheran’s team at Treasurer@graceinthecity.com.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGrace Phoenix, Capital Conference, Grants, Youth and Young AdultComment
Fighting Hunger, Seeking Peace, and Elevating Indigenous Voices: ELCA Advocacy Highlights
Fighting Hunger, Seeking Peace, and Elevating Indigenous Voices: ELCA Advocacy Highlights

From fighting child hunger to advocating for bold climate action at COP29, the ELCA continues to embody Christ’s call to justice. Explore updates on global partnerships, featured resources like Bishop Eaton’s post-election message, and dates to mark, including World AIDS Day. Read more to find ways your congregation can take action this season.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
November Advocacy Updates from UN and State Offices
November Advocacy Updates from UN and State Offices

Discover how Lutherans are putting faith into action this November with advocacy updates from the UN and state public policy offices. From amplifying human rights at the United Nations to championing civic engagement and justice in Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin, our church is making an impact globally and locally. Learn more about these efforts and how you can get involved.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment
When Faith Ranks Last: Reimagining How We Pass On Shared Values
When Faith Ranks Last: Reimagining How We Pass On Shared Values

Young adult parents rate religious faith as the least important value to pass on to their children. How can congregations respond? This post in ELCA.org explores ways faith communities can engage parents, support their well-being, and foster connections between faith and shared values like empathy and responsibility. Read more for practical insights and reflection questions to spark creative ministry.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Innovation Lab, Youth and Young AdultComment
ELCA Church Council Considers Legislative Proposals for the 2025 Churchwide Assembly
ELCA Church Council Considers Legislative Proposals for the 2025 Churchwide Assembly

The Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) gathered at the Lutheran Center in Chicago, Nov. 14-17. The council, which serves as the ELCA churchwide organization’s board of directors and interim legislative authority between meetings of a churchwide assembly, focused much of its work on preparations for the ELCA 2025 Churchwide Assembly.

In her report to the council, ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton spoke of God’s Love Made Real as the umbrella for the church’s vision of “a world experiencing the difference God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.” The vision calls for two distinct strategies for the church moving forward: the church that is and the church that is becoming.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Church CouncilComment
Advent Mondays: Restore Our Hope with Spirit in the Desert
Advent Mondays: Restore Our Hope with Spirit in the Desert

This Advent, join Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center for Restore Our Hope: Advent Centering Prayer, a free online program led by Sheri Brown. Every Monday in December, spend 30 minutes in song, guided meditation, and communal prayer as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming. Sessions are at 12:00 PM AZ/MST. Register now at Spirit in the Desert’s website.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Resources, Worship ResourcesBrian Flatgard2024 Advent and Christmas, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Worship ResourcesComment
Celebrate Faith and Culture with AFN: Highlights for December 2024
Celebrate Faith and Culture with AFN: Highlights for December 2024

Join the Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering on December 9 at the Franciscan Renewal Center for a morning of connection and inspiration, featuring keynote speaker Rev. Eugene Cho. Don’t miss weekly guided meditations, an urgent call to protect the sacred Great Bend of the Gila, and the 6th Annual Turkish Festival on December 7-8 in Chandler. Plus, support Arizona Jews for Justice’s Winter Clothing Drive to aid the unsheltered community. Explore these events and more in the full AFN Newsletter.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Arizona Faith NetworkComment
Explore ELCA Worship’s December Highlights: Hymns, Blessings, and More
Explore ELCA Worship’s December Highlights: Hymns, Blessings, and More

This month’s ELCA Worship updates include exciting tools for Advent and Christmas, insights from the recent Pastoral Care survey, and new features like the NRSVue Bible on SundaysandSeasons.com. Discover Ordinary Blessings by Meta Herrick Carlson, join Lutheran Summer Music’s Advent Calendar, and dive into hymn stories with Living Lutheran. Read more for resources to support your ministry this season.

Read More
ELCA, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, Worship Resources, 2024 Advent and ChristmasComment
Bridging Cultures Through Worship: The Impact of Arabic Liturgical Translation
Bridging Cultures Through Worship: The Impact of Arabic Liturgical Translation

Arabic-speaking Christians in the ELCA and The Episcopal Church now have liturgical resources that honor their language and culture. From seasonal bulletins to rites for baptisms, marriages, and funerals, these translations empower communities to worship in their heart language, deepening their connection to faith. Learn more about how this work fosters unity and belonging in the Church at ELCA.org.

Read More
ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, ELCA worshipComment
LAMA 2025 Priorities: A Commitment to Justice, Education, and Dignity
LAMA 2025 Priorities: A Commitment to Justice, Education, and Dignity

The Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) Policy Council convened November 17–18 to discern priorities for the coming year. Their 2025 focus includes food insecurity, civic engagement, public schools, immigration, housing, and informed Christian engagement. Guided by Lutheran teachings, LAMA is committed to addressing critical issues affecting Arizona communities. Interested in joining the Policy Council? Read the full post on the LAMA site for more info.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), AdvocacyComment
Next Steps for Creation Care and Climate Justice Post-Election
Next Steps for Creation Care and Climate Justice Post-Election

Reflecting on the election, Blessed Tomorrow’s December newsletter highlights faith-driven climate action, from sustainable holiday practices to sparking meaningful family conversations with the “Climate at the Dinner Table” Skit Kit. Learn about opportunities like the 2025 American Climate Leadership Awards and the National Council of Churches’ renewed call for environmental justice. Read more.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBlessed Tomorrow, Climate ChangeComment
Festival of Homiletics Early Bird Registration ends 11/30
Festival of Homiletics Early Bird Registration ends 11/30

Registration for the 2025 Festival of Homiletics is open! Join us in Atlanta or online from May 12-15 for a journey of healing and unity through the power of preaching. This year’s theme, Preaching to Heal the Divide, responds to the pressing need for reconciliation in our polarized world. Early bird rates are available until November 30—don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation!

Read More
Leadership Resources, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFestival of HomileticsComment
For What Shall We Pray?
For What Shall We Pray?

  • For elected officials in the United States during the transition of power…

  • For an end to violence and armed conflict in the world, especially in Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon, and Haiti…

  • For Gisele Pelicot and all survivors of sexual assault…

  • For those working for more democratic governments in the world, especially the Hong Kong 47…

  • For the Maori people and all indigenous peoples fighting for their rights…

  • For severe weather threats in the Pacific Northwest…

  • For all who fight against racism, anti-semitism, gender bias, and all forms of inequity and discrimination…

  • For the reign of Christ to prevail, that God’s kingdom come and will be done on earth as in heaven…

Read More
ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment
Protect, Prepare, and Prosper: Insights for ELCA Congregations from Administration Matters
Protect, Prepare, and Prosper: Insights for ELCA Congregations from Administration Matters

The November issue of Administration Matters offers essential resources for ELCA congregations, including guidance on church safety, cybersecurity, financial planning for 2025, and sustainable practices. Discover actionable steps to strengthen your church’s ministry and operations. Read more on the ELCA blog.

Read More
ELCA, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardAdministration MattersComment
Lutheran Disaster Response: Bringing Hope Amid War in the Holy Land and Ukraine
Lutheran Disaster Response: Bringing Hope Amid War in the Holy Land and Ukraine

As wars in the Holy Land and Ukraine continue, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is providing vital aid to refugees and vulnerable communities through partnerships with local and global organizations. From creating safe spaces for people with intellectual disabilities in the West Bank to converting bomb shelters into schools in Ukraine, LDR is bringing hope and healing in the midst of conflict. Read more in Living Lutheran and learn how your support can make a difference at elca.org/ldr.

Read More
ELCA, News, Global ChurchBrian FlatgardRussia and Ukraine War, Israel and Palestine, Lutheran World Federation, Lutheran Disaster Response, Living LutheranComment
Answer God’s Call: Join the ELCA Disability Ministries Advisory Team
Answer God’s Call: Join the ELCA Disability Ministries Advisory Team

ELCA Disability Ministries is seeking 1–2 new advisory team members to help guide this vital work. If you have experience or knowledge of disabilities and a passion for ministry, apply by January 31, 2025. Visit this link to learn more and submit your application. New members will be announced by March 31, 2025! More info in this ELCA blog post.

Read More
ELCA, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardDisability Ministries, ELCA Disability MinistriesComment