By: Sue Jensen, Grand Canyon Synod Council Representative
It is always good for us at TVLC to reflect on the fact that we are not alone in what we do. We are joined in the task of bringing in the kingdom with the other 88 congregations in this synod, as we are with the thousands of other congregations in the ELCA. We need to be regularly reminded of our interdependence and consider not only what is best for us at TVLC, but also what is best for the larger church. If you are interested in learning more about the great things happening in the Grand Canyon Synod, take a moment to look at the synod’s webpage, www.gcsynod.org, and sign up to receive the weekly synod newsletter in your inbox. Below are highlights from the zoom meeting of the Grand Canyon Synod Council meeting on August 14.
- Due to the ongoing pandemic, the 2021 Grand Canyon Synod Assembly was held online in June. At this meeting the council heard evaluations of the assembly; while a majority of lay voting members expressed a positive view of the brevity and organization of the assembly, many rostered leaders expressed regret at not being able to reconnect in person with colleagues from across the synod. The council will continue to discuss the possibility of having online assemblies in the future.
- Because many congregations have been able to fulfill their benevolence pledges to the synod, and because investment income has risen during the first half of 2021, the synod will again be able to offer grants this fall for proposed projects and transformational ministries. Information about the synod’s grants program will soon be available on the synod webpage, www.gcsynod.org, and an informational webinar will be scheduled toward the end of August. Grant applications will be on due October 15.
- Clint Wasser, the synod’s Director for Finance, will retire at the end of 2021. The synod is seeking a CPA who is interested in taking on this part-time position.
- The synod’s Growing Generosity campaign, which has a goal of raising $500,000 by December 31, 2022, has already received over $350,000 in pledges and funds, including $8,200 donated by TVLC. Because of this enthusiastic response, the Ministerial Excellence Fund, which provides financial assistance to rostered leaders, has been fully funded; new faith communities are being developed; established congregations are being strengthened; campus ministries are being assisted; and advocacy efforts have raised the concerns of those without a voice. If you are interested in donating to this campaign, or would like more information about it, please contact Carol Paulsen, Sue Jensen, or the synod office.
While the threat of COVID-19 has required some changes in method, it has not prevented the Grand Canyon Synod from pursuing its mission: to communicate the love of Christ, to connect diverse people, and to create new ways of outreach. Bishop Deborah Hutterer continues to guide the work of the synod and to reach out to congregations across Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. Rev. Jacqueline Pagel focuses on youth, outdoor ministries and those considering a call to ministry. Rev. Miguel Gomez-Acosta assists congregations in transition and new faith communities. Many others in less visible positions continue to support the work of the synod.
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