“Growing in Faith: The diakonia Program” is a ministry that began 40-plus years ago within the ELCA, committed to fostering learning environments for followers of Jesus to grow in faith. In the fall of 2022, the program was reimagined, taking the best of the existing program, then adding new elements and more flexibility with a Foundation Year and optional subsequent Practical Year tracks.
There are currently three Growing in Faith communities in the Grand Canyon Synod with cohorts in metro Phoenix and Tucson, as well as online, all offering classes, retreats, and mutual care to equip followers of Jesus to live out their faith. A two-year curriculum allows progression through foundational and practical learning. The program accepts people where they are in their faith understanding, challenging them to grow to a deeper level.
Growing in Faith has touched the lives of hundreds of participants in the Grand Canyon Synod since classes were first offered in 2017, helping people to discern their callings in the world and supporting them in following those callings.
Information for the courses this fall:
Six Foundation Year Courses
- First class Sept. 11 — 6 to 9 p.m. Mondays via WebEx online and in person, Phoenix and Tucson locations
- Recommended for first-year students
Six Practical Year “Road to Service” Track Courses
- First class Sept. 5 — 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays via WebEx and in person, metro Phoenix
- First class Sept. 9 — 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays via WebEx and in person, Tucson
- Recommended for second-year students
Registration
- Program website: https://www.diakonia.education
- Admission/registration fee: $25
- Tuition: $70 per class
- For more information, contact: [email protected]