From RTS Training to Lutheran Day: LAMA Prepares the Church for Public Witness
As Arizona’s 57th Legislature prepares to convene for its second session on Monday, January 12, 2026, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) is equipping people of faith across our synod to show up, speak out, and act faithfully in the public square. Read the full LAMA Newsletter and upcoming advocacy opportunities.
LAMA’s latest newsletter highlights key advocacy tools, upcoming events, and opportunities for engagement that will shape the start of the 2026 legislative session. We encourage pastors, congregational leaders, and lay advocates throughout the Grand Canyon Synod to review these opportunities and share them widely.
Action Alert: Register for Arizona’s Request to Speak (RTS) System
One of the most effective ways to engage public policy in Arizona is through the state’s Request to Speak (RTS) system. This easy-to-use online tool allows individuals to register their position on bills and provide comments to legislators—without leaving home.
To support advocates, LAMA is offering RTS Training on Monday, February 9, 2026, helping participants get registered, understand how the system works, and confidently use it throughout the legislative session.
January Advocacy Events
LAMA and its partners are hosting several important gatherings in January:
Anti-Hunger & Food Systems Advocacy Call
Friday, January 9 | 12:00–1:00 PM
A monthly advocacy call offering legislative updates and connection with hunger advocates across Arizona, facilitated by the Arizona Food Systems Network and Arizona Food Bank Network.
AFN Cherishing Creation Collaborative
Tuesday, January 13 | 10:00–11:00 AM
A collaborative space for faith communities and justice-oriented organizations working to care for creation, hosted by Arizona Faith Network.
LAMA Liaison Roundtable
Monday, January 19 | 6:30–7:30 PM (Zoom)
A monthly conversation for congregational liaisons and advocates focused on strengthening advocacy engagement at the local level.
Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders Network
Tuesday, January 27 | 6:00–7:00 PM
Hunger leaders from across the synod gather to share projects, collaborate, and connect with synod and churchwide partners addressing hunger.
District Coordinator Training for Lutheran Day at the Legislature
Thursday, January 29 | 4:00–5:00 PM
A virtual training for district coordinators preparing legislative visits for Lutheran Day at the Legislature.
Looking Ahead: Lutheran Day at the Legislature
Save the date: Lutheran Day at the Legislature 2026 will take place Monday, February 23, from 9:30 AM–1:30 PM, with registration opening at 8:30 AM. The day includes a rally, meetings with legislators, and introductions in both the House and Senate—an important opportunity for public witness rooted in Lutheran faith and values.
Stories and Resources from LAMA
The newsletter also links to recent blog posts and resources, including:
A year-end reflection on faithful presence and public witness in 2025
An update from Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest as they prepare for a challenging 2026
2026 Lent resources from ELCA World Hunger
A reminder about the LAMA T-shirt design contest for Lutheran Day
We invite you to read the full newsletter, explore the linked articles, and share these opportunities within your congregation and networks.
👉 Read the full LAMA Newsletter here.
As Lutherans, we engage public life not as partisans, but as people shaped by the Gospel—seeking justice, dignity, and the flourishing of our neighbors. LAMA continues to help our synod live that calling faithfully and effectively.