Strengthening Faithful Witness: Upcoming AFN Events Across Arizona

The latest newsletter from Arizona Faith Network (AFN) is now available, featuring upcoming trainings, interfaith dialogue, public witness opportunities, and partner events across Arizona. We encourage you to read it in full and share it widely:

👉 arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter

Below are highlights particularly relevant to rostered ministers and lay leaders across the Grand Canyon Synod.

Digital Security Workshop

Monday, March 2 | 12:00 pm MST | Zoom

In an age of increasing digital threats, the Safe Communities Coalition will host Praveen Sinha, Security Director of Equality Labs, for an interactive workshop on tightening online security. Participants will learn practical strategies for preventing doxxing and responding to digital harassment.

For leaders navigating public ministry in polarized times, digital awareness is part of faithful stewardship.

Registration is required to receive Zoom information.

Training of Trainers for Faith Leaders

March 4–6 | Phoenix (Location TBA)

This in-person intensive gathering will equip experienced clergy and faith-based organizers with tools for strategic noncooperation and organizing in the face of authoritarian movements. Topics include the “authoritarian playbook,” noncooperation tactics, and the unique “superpowers” of faith leaders in public life.

Registration has closed, but faith leaders who believe they should attend are invited to email: contactus@azfaithnetwork.org

As Lutherans, we affirm that public faith is not partisan—but it is profoundly moral. Opportunities like this help leaders discern how to embody courageous, grounded witness.

Interfaith Book Group

Wednesdays, March 11 – April 1 | 6:00–7:00 pm MST

Foothills Christian Church, Glendale (Hybrid)

AFN invites participants into a four-part series exploring the “unified story of monotheism,” inspired by Keith H. Adkins’ memoir God’s Bridge Over a Broken World. The series includes guest speakers from Jewish, Christian, and Muslim traditions and guided dialogue.

This is an opportunity to move beyond tolerance toward deeper understanding—an essential practice in our diverse communities across Arizona and Nevada.

An Evening with John Fugelsang

Sunday, March 15 | 6:30–8:00 pm

Tucson Jewish Museum & Holocaust Center

This timely conversation will explore faith, democracy, and the separation of church and state. Registration is free but required.

For leaders wrestling with the intersection of faith and civic life, this promises to be thoughtful, substantive, and grounded in constitutional values.

Interfaith Dialogue: Shared Values in American Scripture

Thursday, March 19 | 5:00–6:00 pm MST | Zoom

Part of a series marking 250 years of the American experiment, these gatherings reflect on texts that have shaped U.S. history—from the Declaration of Independence to the poetry of Emma Lazarus—through an interfaith lens.

Participants may attend one or multiple sessions. Registration is required for Zoom access.

Interfaith Day at the Capitol

Wednesday, March 25 | 8:00 am–4:00 pm

Arizona State Capitol

As part of the Prophetic Witness Campaign, this day of presence and public faith includes singing, conversation, and meetings with legislators. Participants may attend for part or all of the day.

Public witness, rooted in love of neighbor, is a deeply Lutheran practice. We encourage congregational leaders to consider participating or sharing this opportunity.

Additional Partner Events

The AFN newsletter also highlights:

  • Walk & Talk at Tucson’s Birthplace

  • Black History Month Prayer Breakfast (Phoenix)

  • Ramadan Festival (Chandler)

  • People Against Polluters Rally (Flagstaff)

  • Phoenix Singing Resistance

  • Children’s Health Advocacy Day at the Capitol

  • And more.

The coming week also includes observances of Purim (March 2/3) and Holi (March 4)—reminders of the rich religious diversity in our communities.

We encourage you to read the full AFN newsletter for complete details, registration links, and updates:

arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter

Please consider forwarding it to colleagues and congregational leaders who may benefit. Faithful presence in public life, grounded in prayer and community, continues to matter deeply in this season.