LAMA’s October Update: Key Deadlines and Ways to Serve
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona’s October 20 newsletter brings several timely opportunities to put faith into action: comment on proposed U.S. Census changes by November 2, support an interfaith letter concerning Tohono O’odham sacred lands by October 22, and prepare for the approaching election.
LAMA, an advocacy ministry of the Grand Canyon Synod, connects public witness with our Lutheran calling to love and serve our neighbors. This edition offers advocacy resources, community gatherings, and opportunities to address hunger and poverty.
Time-sensitive actions
Census comments—due November 2: Read the ELCA action alert about proposed changes to the 2030 Census that could affect Arizona’s congressional representation, federal funding, and historically undercounted communities. Follow the newsletter’s links for instructions on submitting comments.
Sacred lands letter—sign by October 22: Learn about an interfaith call to stand with the Tohono O’odham Nation in protecting sacred lands, Tribal sovereignty, religious freedom, and the environment.
Daily Bread Grants—applications close October 21: Congregations and ministry partners responding to hunger and poverty can review ELCA World Hunger’s grant opportunity.
Voting resources: The newsletter identifies October 27 as the last day to mail an Arizona ballot and links to drop-off and polling locations. LAMA’s 2026 Voter Guide, available in English and Spanish, provides explanations, recommendations, and context for eight Arizona ballot measures.
Gather, learn, and serve
Arizona Faith Network offers Election Protection Volunteer Training on October 22, 6–7:30 p.m., for those interested in serving as nonpartisan Poll Chaplains and Peacekeepers.
Free, nonpartisan Vote Is Sacred community celebrations include food, voter information, and interfaith prayers for peaceful elections. Each runs 5:30–7:30 p.m.:
October 27: First Church UCC, Phoenix
October 29: Prince Chapel AME Church, Tucson
November 3: Flagstaff Federated Church, Flagstaff
The Grand Canyon Synod Hunger Leaders Network meets October 27, 6–7 p.m., welcoming everyone interested in collaborating on hunger solutions. Additional opportunities include Arizona Faith Network’s Social Justice Commission on November 5, 8:30–9:30 a.m., and its online Faithful Voter AZ Committee that afternoon, 2–3 p.m.
Also inside: Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry’s statement opposing the death penalty; an invitation to provide feedback on the ELCA’s reconsideration of its homelessness social message by November 30; a video study guide for congregational civic engagement; and updates on LAMA’s work.
Read the full LAMA newsletter for action instructions, event details, and participation links. Share these opportunities with your congregation and invite others to subscribe.
