The Cactus & The Cross Blog

The Grand Canyon Synod (GCS) Assembly was June 11-13 at Love of Christ Lutheran Church in Mesa. Jeri Newman, Herb and Cindy Schilling, and Pastor Peter Perry attended as voting members from St. John’s. Pastor Dan and Deacon Wendy were also there in Synod roles. The GCS includes congregations in Arizona to southern Utah and Nevada. Everyone had a great time at the well-attended event. There were great talks, food, and more talks, and more food and even worship services during

We are reaching out with a call for volunteers to support the wonderful ministry of the Lutheran Thrift Shop in Sun City. The shop not only provides affordable clothing, household goods, and other essentials to folks looking to save money in a tough economy, but it also serves as a vital source of funding for local west valley nonprofits. It’s the circle of life! The Thrift Shop thrives because of the love and dedication of volunteers who generously give their time and talen

Two hundred and fifty years ago this month, on July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted unanimously by the Second Continental Congress. Why should Christians note this anniversary? What does this have to do with God’s mission to rescue the whole world (not just people in the USA!) from Sin, Death, and the Devil by sending his Son, Jesus? If compared to God’s universal mission, the 250th anniversary of the USA is nothing worthy of a Christian’s notice. The wor

Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen. — Ephesians 3:20-21 [NRSVUE] After much prayer and discernment, I am announcing my resignation as Associate Pastor for Outreach at St. John’s, effective June 30, 2026. I do not leave St. John’s so much as I am being called into a new season of ministry. I have acce

It’s almost that time again… when there’s a chill in the air and everything smells like evergreens! Well, maybe that “chill” is coming from the A/C—but it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the Lutheran Thrift Shop. Our most popular event of the year is just around the corner! Throughout July, our Holiday Shop will be transformed into a festive wonderland. Shelves and displays will be filled with exquisite holiday ornaments and dishes, twinkling colored lights and un

Transitions are a time when God can help us grow. When we move out of our parents house, we learn independence (somewhat painfully when the bills come due!) and God helps us to grow in both our abilities and our trust in God’s provision. When we lose a job, we enter a time of transition—and also a new opportunity for growth to be motivated to look for new opportunities trusting God to guide us. When the doctor says we have a disease, we enter a time of transition thinking of

When the Lutheran Thrift Shop first opened its doors, donations were picked up and furniture deliveries were made by volunteers using their own pick-up trucks. The ability to transport large items has always been crucial to the shop’s success, and it remains a major component of our daily operation. Over the years, business has steadily increased, and to keep up with demand, the shop upgraded to a seven-passenger, 14’ box truck — which continues to be a key part of our busine

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the excellence of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9) “Who me?” you might say. “Yes, you! I choose you!” Read the verse above again: yes, that’s you, that’s St John’s, that’s everyone who trusts God saves through Jesus! As people with high status (“a royal priesthood!”) before the God of the universe, we are free! How will we

In March, we held our annual Volunteer Appreciation dinner where we celebrated the hundreds of volunteers who generously give thousands of hours each year at the shop and from home. According to IndependentSector.org , the value of a volunteer hour in Arizona was $34.49 in 2025. Those donated hours save the shop millions of dollars in salaries - money that can instead be granted to many West Valley non-profits. Way to go, volunteers - that’s good business! Their generosity

Spring is here, and before the weather gets too hot, now is the perfect time to do a little spring cleaning! As you sort through closets, garages, and kids’ rooms, you may find items that are no longer needed, no longer fit, or are simply taking up space. Those gently used treasures can become a blessing to others through the Lutheran Thrift Shop. Donating is a simple way to clear clutter while supporting a ministry that gives back to our community. Clothing, household items,