AFN: Digital Security, Election Protection and Building Community Across Differences

The latest Arizona Faith Network newsletter offers several opportunities for congregations, rostered ministers and lay leaders to put faith into practice through learning, service, community safety and relationship-building.

Coming immediately is Digital Security Workshop 2.0 on Thursday, August 27, from noon to 1:15 p.m. on Zoom.Digital security expert and investigative technology reporter Yael Grauer will offer practical strategies for protecting websites, constituent databases and sensitive information while recognizing common cyber threats. Registration is $10 for Safe Communities Coalition members and $15 for non-members.

On Tuesday, September 1, from noon to 1 p.m. Arizona time, AFN will host an interfaith Lunch & Learn on domestic violence and elder abuse. The conversation will help clergy and lay leaders recognize and respond to abuse, particularly among older adults in marginalized communities, while becoming compassionate listeners and trusted sources for referrals.

AFN is also recruiting Poll Chaplains and Peacekeepers for the November general election through its nonpartisan Election Protection program. Volunteers help foster peaceful and welcoming voting environments; no previous experience is required, and online training will be offered in September and October.

Looking further ahead, registration and sponsorship opportunities are open for the 2026 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering on Tuesday, October 20. With the theme “From Conflict to Community: Building Courageous Unity in a Time of Division,” the gathering will feature the Rev. Dr. Gary Mason, a Methodist minister and internationally recognized peacebuilder from Belfast, Northern Ireland.

The newsletter also includes opportunities to donate heat-relief supplies in Tucson, attend a September 12 educational forum at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral on legislation affecting LGBTQIA2S+ Arizonans, participate in a Sacred Traditions Facilitator Course in Tucson, celebrate International Peace Day with a film and community meal in Scottsdale, and volunteer when the Episcopal Church’s General Convention comes to Phoenix in 2027.

For Lutherans, these interfaith partnerships offer opportunities to live our baptismal vocation beyond the walls of our congregations—working alongside neighbors of many traditions for peace, justice, safety and the flourishing of our communities.

Read the full Arizona Faith Network newsletter

Read the full Arizona Faith Network newsletter for details:

arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter