For What Shall We Pray?

For areas of the world impacted by ongoing war, conflict, or political instability, especially Ukraine, Gaza, and Bangladesh…
For Israeli and Palestinian hostages…
For all organizations whose mission and work centers on migrants, elders, those living in poverty, those seeking behavioral health services, foster care and adoption services, employment assistance, hunger relief, and other ministries of societal care…
For our nation, all who govern, and all leaders tasked with attending to the common good…
For healthcare workers and health research…
For those affected by flu, COVID, RSV, norovirus, and other heightened illnesses…
For global neighbors, especially Canada and Mexico…
For ongoing earthquakes on the Greek island of Santorini…
For victims of the Guatemalan bus crash and their families…

ELCA, Prayers, SpotlightBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025ELCA Worship, For What Shall We PrayComment

Calling Passionate Leaders: Shape the Next Generation at Community of Grace in Peoria

Community of Grace Lutheran Church in Peoria, Arizona, is seeking a part-time Director for Youth Ministries to guide middle and high school students on their faith journey. Help create a grace-based, inclusive community while leading activities, mission trips, and faith-building programs. View the job description as a PDF and contact the church through boldrecklessgrace.org to apply and learn more!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Community of Grace Peoria, Cactus Conference, help wanted, Help WantedComment

Advocacy Days Mobilize Lutherans for Justice

Faith and advocacy go hand in hand. As Rev. Kelly Bayer Derrick of the ELCA Virginia Synod reminds us in this ELCA blog post, engaging in civic life is a way to live out our faith and seek abundant life for all. Across the country, ELCA-affiliated public policy offices are hosting advocacy days to help Lutherans and faith-based advocates voice their concerns on issues like housing, hunger, migration, and environmental justice. Want to get involved? Find an upcoming event near you or contact your local synod office to learn how you can participate in shaping just policies in your community.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Advocacy, ELCA AdvocacyComment

Pressing On: Faith, Perseverance, and the Power of Not Giving Up

When life’s challenges feel like an uphill climb, how do we press on in faith? Drawing inspiration from children joyfully tackling a snowy obstacle, Living Lutheran reminds us that perseverance, prayer, and community help us move forward even when life feels stuck. This reflection from Philippians 3:14 encourages us to trust God’s presence, embrace the work of faith, and find joy in both the struggles and the triumphs. Read more at Living Lutheran.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Living LutheranComment

Building Bridges: How One Young Lutheran Is Leading Intergenerational Conversations

John Christensen, a young-adult and disability advocate, is shaping the future of Lutheran leadership through global advocacy and intergenerational dialogue. After serving in Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM), he joined the ELCA’s Young Adult Vocational Fellowship and now works with the World Council of Churches on disability and mental health advocacy. His journey highlights how young leaders can stay engaged in ministry and address crucial issues within the church. Read more about his inspiring work at Living Lutheran.

ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 12, 2025Living Lutheran, Youth and Young Adult, Young Adults in Global MissionComment

Equipping Worship Leaders: New Resources & Events for February

February brings a wealth of opportunities for worship leaders, musicians, and faith communities. From Music That Makes Community’s singing workshops to the Institute of Liturgical Studies’ conference on rites of passage, these events offer learning and inspiration. The Lutheran Summer Music Academy seeks young musicians, while the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians provides training and networking for church musicians. Looking ahead to Lent, Augsburg Fortress has released Life Renewed: Devotions for Lent 2025. Discover more about these events and resources in this month’s ELCA Worship update: Read more here.

Leadership Resources, ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025ELCA WorshipComment

Nourishing Body and Spirit: How Lutheran Social Services of Nevada is Expanding Senior Meal Support

Lutheran Social Services of Nevada is expanding its impact with a new Senior Meals to You (SMTY) program, bringing hot meals to homebound seniors—made possible by donations, including vehicle contributions. Chef Dominic has already won the hearts of seniors with his gourmet, home-style cooking. Meanwhile, LSSN’s pantry served a record-breaking 2,200 individuals in January, and BINGO is back, offering seniors joy and connection. Finally, we celebrate Dre Green, Employee of the Month, for his outstanding service. Learn more about how you can help at LSSNV.org.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Lutheran Social Services of Nevada, Colorado River ConferenceComment

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. Order your copy today through Augsburg Fortress or major booksellers.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Bishop Lowell G. AlmenComment

From Crisis to Community: The Enduring Lutheran Commitment to Refugees

For 85 years, Lutherans have been at the forefront of refugee resettlement, welcoming those fleeing war, persecution, and hardship. What began in 1939 as a small initiative has grown into Global Refuge, continuing the church’s mission of providing safety, empowerment, and new beginnings. From World War II to today, this work embodies our faith in action. Learn more about how you can be part of this ongoing mission at globalrefuge.org/get-involved.

Smart Giving in 2024: Tax-Savvy Ways to Support ELCA Ministries

Want to make the most of your generosity this year? The ELCA Foundation offers smart, tax-advantaged giving strategies to maximize your impact while providing financial benefits. From stock donations to charitable trusts, there are creative ways to give that align with your financial goals. Learn more and connect with Lisa Higginbotham for personalized guidance.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025ELCA Foundation, StewardshipComment

Prayers for Covenant Lutheran Church in Quartzsite

We uplift and pray for Rev. Kevin Meyer and the people of Covenant Lutheran Church in Quartzsite, part of the Cactus Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Spotlight, PrayersBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Covenant Quartzsite, Cactus ConferenceComment

Prayers for Mount Zion Lutheran Church in Tucson

We uplift and pray for Rev. Daniel Valasakos, Rev. Louis Liss and the people of Mount Zion Lutheran Church in Tucson, part of the Kino Conference.

Grand Canyon Synod, Spotlight, PrayersBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Mount Zion Tucson, Kino ConferenceComment

Serve, Grow, and Lead: Summer Staff Opportunities at Camp ALOMA

Camp ALOMA in Prescott, AZ, is hiring summer staff! Positions include counselors, program staff, and kitchen staff for those 18+ or high school volunteers. Staff training starts May 18, and camp ends July 19. Apply today to make a difference: Apply Now.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Outdoor Ministry, Camp ALOMA, Help Wanted, High Country ConferenceComment

Camp ALOMA Seeks Skilled Property Manager for Flexible Role

Camp ALOMA in Prescott is hiring a Property Manager to oversee the upkeep of their buildings and grounds. Flexible hours, negotiable wages, and the chance to work amidst beautiful surroundings make this role an excellent opportunity. Contact Leah at office@campaloma.com or 928-778-1690 for details.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Outdoor Ministry, Camp ALOMA, Help Wanted, High Country ConferenceComment

Ordination celebrations: February 14-20, 2025

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversary of Rev. Barbara Bengtson, who celebrates 31 years on February 20.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardFebruary 11, 2025Ordination AnniversariesComment

Hands and Feet of Christ: Meal Packing Event in Fountain Hills

Join us February 26, 2025, at the Fountain Hills Community Center for a family-friendly food packing event hosted by New Journey Lutheran. From 5:30–7:30 PM, volunteers will pack thousands of meals for those in need locally and globally. Registration is required—sign up today at njlc-fh.org/food-4-kidz. View a PDF flyer here. Be the church in action!

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 10, 2025Hunger, Northeast Valley Conference, New Journey Fountain HillsComment

Connect with Bishop Hutterer: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025

Rostered ministers, it’s time to complete your annual Report to the Bishop! Reports are due by March 1, 2025 and are an opportunity to connect directly with Bishop Hutterer. All submissions will be carefully reviewed, and each minister will receive a personal response. Forms are available online or as downloadable Word documents. Visit gcsynod.org/rostered-minister-report for full details.

Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardFebruary 10, 2025Office of the BishopComment

In Memoriam: Rev. Jack Neimi

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.

Grand Canyon Synod, News, Prayers, In MemoriamBrian FlatgardFebruary 10, 2025Lord of Life Sun City West, Cactus ConferenceComment

Join Shane Claiborne at New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson: Addressing Poverty Through Faith

Join New Spirit Lutheran Church in Tucson on February 16th to hear Shane Claiborne, renowned author, speaker, and activist. Worship begins at 10:00 AM, followed by fellowship, a bring-your-own lunch, and Shane’s presentation, “What to Do About Poverty,” at 1:00 PM. View PDF flyer here. Together, let’s explore how faith can inspire action against poverty.

Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardFebruary 10, 2025New Spirit Tucson, Kino Conference, PovertyComment

“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.