FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Carefree, AZ — February 2026 — Leaders and theologians from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) met February 11–13 at Spirit In The Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, Arizona, for the latest session of their ongoing bilateral dialogue. Convened under the theme “Reforming and Restoring Through Scripture—Lutheran and Disciples Perspectives,” the gathering continued a decades-long commitment to deepen mutual understanding and shared witness.
The meeting centered on two major theological papers: “Disciples and the Bible,” presented by Rev. Dr. Shaun Brown (Disciples of Christ), and “The ELCA and Scripture,” presented by Rev. Dr. Carl Hughes (ELCA). Brown explored the historical and restorationist impulses that have shaped Disciples engagement with Scripture, while Hughes articulated the Lutheran understanding of Scripture as both source and norm for proclamation, highlighting the dynamic interplay between the Living Word and ecclesial confession. The presentations generated sustained conversation on authority, the role of creeds, the place of the Old Testament in church life, and the function of Scripture in guiding communal moral discernment.
The gathering was framed throughout by worship and prayer. The opening worship included a sermon by Rev. Rock Fremont, Vice President for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations for the International Council of Community Churches and pastor at Shepherd of the Hills UCC in Phoenix. The closing worship was led in the Disciples tradition, with preaching by Rev. Allison Bright. The service also included the celebration of Holy Communion — a visible sign of the unity for which the dialogue prays and works — presided over by the co-chairs, Rev. Dr. Bill Gafkjen (ELCA) and Rev. Dr. Bob Cornwall (Disciples of Christ).
Prayer leadership throughout the meeting was offered by Rev. Dr. Jonathan Linman, Lutheran Ecumenical and Inter-Religious Representative for the ELCA Grand Canyon Synod. Mid-judicatory guests, including Rev. Dr. Jay Hartley, Regional Minister of the Christian Church in Arizona, brought regional and ecumenical perspectives that grounded the theological discussion in lived ministry contexts.
This dialogue builds upon a long history of relationship and theological engagement between the two communions. For a historical overview of the ELCA–Disciples Bilateral Dialogue, visit: Disciples–ELCA Dialogue
For more information about this gathering or future dialogue meetings, please contact:
Rev. Paul S. Tché
Contact page
The ELCA and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) remain committed to discerning together how the Holy Spirit is reforming and restoring the church for faithful witness in a changing world.
