Standing for Justice: Pastor Christine Stoxen Advocates for YIGBY Bill
Standing for Justice: Pastor Christine Stoxen Advocates for YIGBY Bill

Pastor Christine Stoxen of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Chandler, testified before the Arizona House Appropriations Committee in support of HB2191, the “Yes In God’s Back Yard” (YIGBY) bill. Representing Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) and Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), she spoke on the critical role faith communities play in addressing Arizona’s housing crisis. While the bill advances, significant challenges remain, and continued advocacy is essential. Click here to read the full story on the LAMA site and see how you can help keep up the momentum!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA), Advocacy, Homelessness, Church and SocietyComment
Global Hunger & U.S. Policy: A Conversation with Rick Steves & Rev. Eugene Cho
Global Hunger & U.S. Policy: A Conversation with Rick Steves & Rev. Eugene Cho

Hunger affects 10% of the world, and as people of faith, we are called to respond. On Monday, March 3, at 7:00 p.m. MT, Bread for the World President Rev. Eugene Cho joins travel writer and advocate Rick Steves for an online discussion about global hunger, the impact of U.S. foreign aid, and how we can advocate for change. Register now for this free event and learn how you can make a difference. Register here.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Hunger, Bread for the World, Rick Steves, Eugene ChoComment
Installation of Rev. Mari Larson at St. Andrew Lutheran in Las Vegas
Installation of Rev. Mari Larson at St. Andrew Lutheran in Las Vegas

Rev. Mari Larson will be installed Sunday, 3/9/2025, at 3 pm at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, (8901 Del Webb Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89134). Bishop Deborah K. Hutterer will preach and preside.

Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is purple. A light reception will follow. Livestream will be available on the church’s YouTube channel.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardOrdinations and Installations, Colorado River Conference, St. Andrew Las VegasComment
Celebrating Ministry: Submit Your Story for the 2025 Synod Assembly
Celebrating Ministry: Submit Your Story for the 2025 Synod Assembly

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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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Synod AssemblyComment
Five Ways to Support Refugees and Immigrants in 2025
Five Ways to Support Refugees and Immigrants in 2025

Thousands of refugees and immigrants are seeking safety and stability in our communities. As people of faith, we are called to welcome them with love and action. From sharing accurate information to volunteering, advocating, giving, and supporting employment, there are many ways to help. Read more about how you can make a difference in 2025 with tips from Global Refuge. 

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Global Refuge, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), Immigration and RefugeesComment
Full-Time Parish Administrator Position Open at All Saints Lutheran in Phoenix
Full-Time Parish Administrator Position Open at All Saints Lutheran in Phoenix

All Saints Lutheran Church in Phoenix is hiring a full-time Parish Administrator to oversee administration, communications, and church property. This leadership role supports the congregation’s mission, ensuring a well-organized and welcoming environment. Applicants should have administrative experience, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to faith-driven service. For more details or to apply, visit allsaintsphoenix.org or contact Pastor Dan Hoeger at 602-866-9191.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardHelp Wanted, All Saints Phoenix, Capital ConferenceComment
Three Years of War: How ELCA Support is Bringing Refugees Hope and Stability
Three Years of War: How ELCA Support is Bringing Refugees Hope and Stability

Three years into the Russia-Ukraine war, Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) continues to walk alongside refugees and those impacted by the conflict. From helping families find safety in Romania and Hungary to equipping Roma children in Ukraine with coding skills for a brighter future, LDR’s presence is making a difference. Read about the resilience of those receiving support and how ELCA congregations are part of this ongoing mission. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardLiving Lutheran, Lutheran Disaster Response, Russia and Ukraine WarComment
Advocacy as an Act of Hope: ELCA Leaders Share Wisdom
Advocacy as an Act of Hope: ELCA Leaders Share Wisdom

Faith-based advocacy is a powerful way ELCA members live out their calling to love God and neighbor. Former state public policy office (SPPO) directors share their insights, emphasizing the persistence, faith, and courage it takes to work for justice. Whether advocating for climate action, hunger relief, or racial equity, Lutherans across the country are making a difference—one conversation, prayer vigil, and legislative meeting at a time. Click here to read more in Living Lutheran.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Living LutheranComment
Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care
Lutherans Across the Country Mobilize for Policy Change and Community Care

ELCA state public policy offices nationwide are actively advocating for justice, equity, and compassion. Recent highlights include Arizona's Lutheran Day at the Legislature, Minnesota's housing and environmental initiatives, New Mexico's broad social justice agenda, Pennsylvania's defense of vulnerable communities, Texas's robust advocacy teams, and Virginia's focus on healthcare and criminal justice reform. Explore how Lutherans across the U.S. continue to make a difference. Read the full update here.

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ELCA, NewsBrian FlatgardAdvocacy, ELCA Advocacy, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA)Comment
Ordination celebrations: March 1-7, 2025
Ordination celebrations: March 1-7, 2025

This week we celebrate the ordination anniversaries of:

  • Rev. Jeremy Nausin, Holy Spirit, Las Vegas, who celebrates 10 years on March 1.

  • Rev. Elaine Watskey, who celebrates 22 years on March 1.

  • Rev. Timothy Wright, Community of Grace, Peoria, who celebrates 41 years on March 4.

  • Rev. Jonathan Linman, Faith/La Fe, Phoenix, who celebrates 36 years on March 4.

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Grand Canyon Synod, News, SpotlightBrian FlatgardOrdination AnniversariesComment
Bishop Eaton: Faith, fear, and the call to community
Bishop Eaton: Faith, fear, and the call to community

ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton speaks to the church about the need to check in on one another during this time of great anxiety and fear for so many members. "We may not know what tomorrow brings, but we have each other. And we have the promise of a God who meets us in our fear, who walks with us in our struggles, and who calls us to be bearers of hope.”

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ELCA, Bishop Eaton, NewsBrian FlatgardChurch and Society, Bishop Eaton LettersComment
Is Seminary Your Calling? Explore Signs Along the Way at PLTS
Is Seminary Your Calling? Explore Signs Along the Way at PLTS

Wondering if seminary is the right next step for you? Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary (PLTS) invites you to Signs Along the Way, a Visit and Discernment Weekend on April 4–6, 2025, in Berkeley, CA. With PLTS moving to fully online programs, this event provides a unique opportunity to connect with faculty, explore theological education, and experience online learning. Lodging and meals are provided, and travel assistance is available. Learn more at plts.edu/signs.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardPacific Lutheran Theological SeminaryComment
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
Women of the Cactus Conference Gather in Yuma to Learn, Connect, and Serve
Women of the Cactus Conference Gather in Yuma to Learn, Connect, and Serve

Join Lutheran women across the Grand Canyon Synod for the Cactus Conference Spring Gathering on March 22 in Yuma, AZ. This year’s theme, “Peace and Unity: Borders and Neighbors,” will feature a keynote by Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls, highlighting the region’s connections with Mexico. The gathering will also support Hunter’s Army, an organization aiding families and children in need. Registration is $15, due by March 17—carpool with friends for a day of fellowship, learning, and faith in action!

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardWomen of the ELCA (WELCA), Cactus ConferenceComment
“Women on the Move”: Kino Conference Spring Gathering Set for March 8
“Women on the Move”: Kino Conference Spring Gathering Set for March 8

Women of the Kino Conference are invited to the annual Spring Gathering on March 8, 2025, at Streams in the Desert Lutheran Church in Tucson around the theme “Women on the Move” (Ruth 1:16). The event features a special program from Teen Challenge of Arizona’s Springboard Home for Girls, a fashion show, and a pop-up boutique from Blessingdales Boutique. Attendees are encouraged to bring in-kind gifts for Sister Jose Women’s Center. Registration ($20) is due by February 28—no walk-ins. View this flyer to learn more and use this PDF to register.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardGrand Canyon Women, Kino ConferenceComment
Final Deadline: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025
Final Deadline: Submit Your Rostered Minister Report by March 1, 2025

A big thanks to the 75 rostered ministers who have submitted their rostered minister reports! 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.

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Bishop Hutterer, Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leadership ResourcesBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Time to Report: Submit Your Congregation’s Annual Report by March 1
Time to Report: Submit Your Congregation’s Annual Report by March 1

The Annual Congregation Report (Form A) portal is now open, and all congregations are asked to complete their reports by March 1, 2025. This year’s updated system makes reporting easier, with previous year data displayed, built-in instructions, and forms available in English and Spanish. To access the portal, visit ELCA.org/congregationreport using your congregation’s ID and password. If you didn’t receive this information, contact the Office of the Bishop. Your participation helps shape the future of our synod and the wider church—thank you for being part of this important work!

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Grand Canyon Synod, Leadership Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardOffice of the BishopComment
Churchwide Assembly Needs You! Volunteer Webinars on 2/26 & 3/4
Churchwide Assembly Needs You! Volunteer Webinars on 2/26 & 3/4

The 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly is coming to Phoenix, and we need up to 100 volunteers to help make it a success! Join one of our Zoom info sessions on Feb. 26 or March 4 to learn how you can assist with registration, hospitality, worship support, and more. Hosted by Mary Beth Baron, these webinars will guide you through the volunteer opportunities and answer your questions.

Feb. 26 at 4:30 PM (AZ) | 3:30 PM (NV, PST) → Register Here
March 4 at 6:30 PM (AZ) | 5:30 PM (NV, PST) → Register Here

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian Flatgard2025 Churchwide AssemblyComment
Celebrating 40 Years of Faithful Service: Pastor Steve Talmage’s Ordination Anniversary
Celebrating 40 Years of Faithful Service: Pastor Steve Talmage’s Ordination Anniversary

Join us on Sunday, March 9, at 10:00 a.m. at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa, Arizona, to celebrate Pastor Stephen Talmage’s 40th anniversary of ordination! From his early ministry in Tucson to his time as Bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod, and now as Senior Pastor at Love of Christ, Pastor Talmage has faithfully served with passion and dedication. This special gathering will honor his four decades of ministry. All are welcome! For more details, contact Pastor Nanette Christofferson at nanette@loclc.org.

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Grand Canyon Synod, NewsBrian FlatgardLove of Christ Mesa Comment