Welcoming the Stranger: Bishop Eaton Responds to Immigration Orders
Welcoming the Stranger: Bishop Eaton Responds to Immigration Orders

Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has issued a statement expressing deep concern over recent immigration executive orders, highlighting their impact on families, faith communities, and service organizations. The ELCA reaffirms its long-standing commitment to welcoming immigrants and calls for prayer, learning, personal witness, and public advocacy. Resources, including a webinar on January 30, are available to equip Lutherans to respond faithfully. Read more on how the Grand Canyon Synod can stand in solidarity with immigrants and refugees in these critical times.

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardImmigration and Refugees, Bishop Eaton Letters, AMMPARO, Global Refuge, Church and SocietyComment
In Memoriam: Rev. Doris Nolan
In Memoriam: Rev. Doris Nolan

We pray for the family and friends of Rev. Doris Nolan, who passed away peacefully on January 25, 2025, at her home in Simi Valley, California. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Memorial gifts in Pastor Doris’s honor may be directed to ELCA World Hunger, Lutheran Disaster Response, Global Refuge, or Lutheran World Relief. We will share details of memorial services as they become available.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardComment
In Memoriam: Deacon Lorraine S. Brugh
In Memoriam: Deacon Lorraine S. Brugh

We pray for the family and friends of Deacon Lorraine S. Brugh, who died Saturday, January 25, 2025. A memorial service will be held Saturday, 2/22/2025 at 10:30 am at Pinnacle Presbyterian (25150 N Pima Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85255).

Deacon Brugh was the Frederick J. Kruse Endowed Chair in Church Music at Valparaiso University. She helped lead the development of the ELCA’s Evangelical Lutheran Worship and was co-author of The Sunday Assembly, published in 2008 to help church leaders incorporate the hymnal’s materials into worship services. She was involved in the development of Lutheran music and worship practices for many years and is a past-president of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians. At our 2024 assembly, along with Deacon Kate Adelman, she organized Wild Life: A Hymn Festival.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian Flatgard Comments
Why Lutheran? A New Book Bridges Tradition and Emerging Ministries
Why Lutheran? A New Book Bridges Tradition and Emerging Ministries

What does it mean to be Lutheran? J. Paul Rajashekar’s new book, On Being Lutheran, explores this question by examining Lutheran theology, history, worship, and governance. Written for emerging leaders in the ELCA, the book offers a concise introduction to Lutheran identity while emphasizing the global impact of the Lutheran tradition. Learn more about this vital resource and how it’s shaping ministries across cultures and continents. Read the full article at Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Installation of Rev. Mike Girlinghouse at LCM Canterbury NAU
Installation of Rev. Mike Girlinghouse at LCM Canterbury NAU

Rev. Mike Girlinghouse’s installation will be at Neely Chapel (319 S. San Francisco, Flagstaff) on Sunday, 2/9/2025. A chili dinner will be at 6pm, followed by worship at 7pm. Bishop Hutterer and Bishop Jennifer Reddall will be leading the reflection time.

Please send an email to lcmcanterbury@gmail.org with your name and number attending so there will be enough chili.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdinations and Installations, LCM NAU, High Country ConferenceComment
Ordination and Installation of Wendi Van Beek at Our Saviour's Lutheran in Tucson
Ordination and Installation of Wendi Van Beek at Our Saviour's Lutheran in Tucson

After a synod council vote to affirm her call with Lutheran Campus Ministry, Wendi Van Beek will be ordained and installed Wednesday, 2/19/2025, at 6 pm, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, (1200 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719). Pastor Amalia Vagts will preach. Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preside.

Ordained and consecrated ministers of all affiliations, current seminary students and those awaiting first call, and former and current Lutheran Campus Ministry students are invited to process. The color of the day is red. A reception will follow. Email wendi.lcmuofa@gmail.com to RSVP.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdinations and Installations, LCM U of A, Kino Conference Comments
Exploring the Modern Role of Pastors: Insights from Michael Plekon
Exploring the Modern Role of Pastors: Insights from Michael Plekon

In his new book Ministry Matters: Pastors, Their Life and Work Today, author and scholar Michael Plekon explores the evolving role of pastors in shifting congregational landscapes. Drawing on over 40 years of ministry and contributions from renowned leaders like Pope Francis, Nadia Bolz-Weber, and Rowan Williams, Plekon highlights the call to prayer, discernment, and reconciliation in ministry. Read more about Plekon’s insights in Living Lutheran: What is the role of the pastor today?

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving LutheranComment
Faith in the Unknown: Gracious Uncertainty in a Digital Age
Faith in the Unknown: Gracious Uncertainty in a Digital Age

How can the church lead in a time of “gracious uncertainty”? In his latest Ministry in a Digital Age newsletter, Ryan Panzer explores how faith communities can navigate a year of radical change and emerging technology. Drawing from Oswald Chambers’ words, Panzer emphasizes the church’s role in fostering hope and connection amid uncertainty, with digital ministry as a key opportunity. Read more for practical insights and inspiring examples of faith in action.

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardRyan PanzerComment
A Dream Eclipsed: Lowell G. Almen’s Memoir of the ELCA’s Founding Years
A Dream Eclipsed: Lowell G. Almen’s Memoir of the ELCA’s Founding Years

Discover the story of the ELCA’s founding and its quest for Christian unity in A Dream Eclipsed by former Bishop Lowell G. Almen. From his unique vantage point as the church’s first secretary, Almen reflects on the ELCA’s formative years, the triumphs and challenges of its early days, and its ongoing mission to embody faith, fellowship, and service. Pre-order your copy today, available February 11, 2025, through Augsburg Fortress or major booksellers.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Lowell G. AlmenComment
Faith, Fun, and Friendship Await at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat
Faith, Fun, and Friendship Await at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat

Give your child a weekend to remember at Camp ALOMA’s Elementary Retreat in Prescott, Arizona. Designed for grades 1 through 6, this faith-filled weekend includes Bible study, archery, campfires, and outdoor exploration. Happening March 14–16 for $100, it’s the perfect blend of fun and faith! Register now at campaloma.com or call 928-778-1690.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOutdoor Ministry, Camp ALOMA, High Country Conference, Youth and Young AdultComment
Defendiendo Espacios Sagrados: Declaración de los Ministerios Latinos de la ELCA | Defending Sacred Spaces, ELCA Latino Ministries Speak Out
Defendiendo Espacios Sagrados: Declaración de los Ministerios Latinos de la ELCA | Defending Sacred Spaces, ELCA Latino Ministries Speak Out

La Asociación de Ministerios Latinos de la ELCA ha respondido a recientes órdenes ejecutivas que amenazan a comunidades inmigrantes y espacios sagrados. Basada en fe y justicia, su declaración llama a la unidad, acción y abogacía, ofreciendo recursos esenciales para poblaciones vulnerables. Lea más aquí.

The ELCA Latino Ministries Association has responded to recent executive orders threatening immigrant communities and sacred spaces. Rooted in faith and justice, their statement calls for unity, action, and advocacy while providing essential resources for vulnerable populations. Read more here.

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ELCA, News, LettersBrian FlatgardEspañol, Asociación de Ministerios Latinos de la ELCA, Latino, Church and SocietyComment
From the Block to the Table: How Good Trouble Church Builds Community in Baltimore
From the Block to the Table: How Good Trouble Church Builds Community in Baltimore

Good Trouble Church in Baltimore, Maryland, embodies the call of Micah 6:8, creating “A Way Out of No Way” for those navigating systemic oppression, poverty, and housing insecurity. Led by Rev. Elazar Zavaletta, this ELCA congregation is a beacon of resilience and community care, offering initiatives like a Farm to Stoop Free Market, harm-reduction housing, and leadership workshops. Rooted in Afro-Indigenous wisdom and a “theology of the block,” Good Trouble Church demonstrates how faith can drive grassroots justice and liberation.

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ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardHunger, ELCA World HungerComment
Daily Bread and Bold Witness: A Call from Presiding Bishop Eaton
Daily Bread and Bold Witness: A Call from Presiding Bishop Eaton

In her pastoral message, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton reflects on the recent executive orders and their impact on communities, emphasizing prayer, advocacy, and action grounded in faith. Highlighting Martin Luther’s teachings on daily bread and leadership, she calls on the ELCA to advocate for policies that uphold justice and protect the dignity of all people. Resources like the social message on “Government and Civic Engagement” and AMMPARO are commended as tools for action in these uncertain times. Read the full message to explore how our church can respond faithfully to these challenges.

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Bishop Eaton, ELCA, Letters, NewsBrian FlatgardBishop Eaton Letters, Immigration and Refugees, Sumud, AMMPARO, Church and SocietyComment
Interfaith Dialogue: Free February Workshop on Mourning Rituals and Traditions
Interfaith Dialogue: Free February Workshop on Mourning Rituals and Traditions

Join the Islamic Speakers Bureau of Arizona for Living Our Faith, a free virtual event on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. MST. Discover how Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions navigate mourning rituals and customs, with insights from Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman, Pastor Judith Rainforth, and Imam Shahir Safi. Register now at www.isb-az.org/trifaith to participate in this inspiring evening of interfaith dialogue and understanding.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardEcumenical and Inter-Religious Relations, Islamic Speakers BureauComment
Know Your Rights: Essential Resources for Immigrant Neighbors
Know Your Rights: Essential Resources for Immigrant Neighbors

Amid heightened uncertainty, knowing your rights is vital for immigrants and their advocates. ELCA’s AMMPARO initiative and the Archdiocese of Dubuque offer multilingual tools like Red Cards, family safety plans, and legal support directories to help communities stay prepared. View these pages for a comprehensive list of resources and how to share them in your congregation.

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ELCA, Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Immigration and RefugeesComment
“We Survived the End of the World”: A Book Club on Apocalypse and Hope
“We Survived the End of the World”: A Book Club on Apocalypse and Hope

Join the Spirited Book Club this February to discuss Steven Charleston’s We Survived the End of the World, a compelling exploration of Native American resilience amid apocalyptic challenges. Learn from Indigenous prophets and sacred stories as we delve into strategies for courage and hope in times of crisis. Discussions are on February 6 and 20, from 3:00–4:00 PM AZ (MST). Register today to be part of this engaging conversation on faith, community, and survival.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirited Book Club, American Indian and Alaska Native, Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment
Reignite Your Ministry: Join the Missional Leadership Cohort (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert)
Reignite Your Ministry: Join the Missional Leadership Cohort (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert)

Discover new ways to lead in changing times! The Missional Leadership Cohort is a nine-month journey beginning March 2025 to equip clergy with tools for transformative leadership. With retreats (including an in-person gathering at Spirit in the Desert), coaching, and peer support, this program offers practical insights and theological grounding to help you move from “fixing” to faithful discernment. Scholarships available! Learn more today!

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther Seminary, Spirit in the Desert Retreat CenterComment