From Conflict to Community: AFN Invites You to Gather

Arizona Faith Network’s October newsletter invites congregations to build community, support peaceful elections, and learn across religious differences. Upcoming highlights include the October 20 Annual Gathering and an October 21 conversation on reconciliation with the Rev. Dr. Gary Mason.

For Lutherans, these opportunities connect our call to love our neighbors with practical service, listening, and public engagement.

Here’s what to explore:

• From Conflict to Community — October 20, 9 a.m.–noon: AFN’s Annual Gathering brings faith leaders, community partners, and neighbors together at First Church UCC in Phoenix, with an online option, to strengthen relationships rooted in dignity, belonging, and hope.

• Hope and Healing for Divided Societies — October 21, 4:30–5:45 p.m. MST: Gary Mason shares lessons from Northern Ireland’s peace process at West Hall, Room 135, 1000 Cady Mall, Tempe, and via livestream. This free event explores dialogue, trust, and community leadership.

• American Caesar: Are We Already There? — October 22, 5 p.m. MST, via Zoom: Dr. Bradley Onishi discusses his analysis of Christian nationalism, technology, and executive power.

• The Vote Is Sacred community celebrations: Free, nonpartisan gatherings include food, voter information, and interfaith prayer. Stops begin at 5:30 p.m. October 27 at First Church UCC in Phoenix; October 29 at Prince Chapel AME in Tucson; and November 3 at Flagstaff Federated Church.

The newsletter also includes opportunities to serve as Poll Chaplains and Peacekeepers, Monday meditation, and a December 16 online conversation about the Psalms, faith, and family with Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz.

Read AFN’s full newsletter for registration links, volunteer information, and additional events. Share it with your congregation’s leaders and others interested in interfaith relationships and community service.