This Week with LAMA: HIV/AIDS Funding, AFN Gathering, and December Opportunities
As we move toward the beginning of Advent, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) invites our synod to stay engaged with faithful public witness. The latest LAMA newsletter includes urgent action alerts, upcoming statewide events, and opportunities for congregations and leaders to deepen their advocacy practice. Below are highlights, and we encourage you to read the full newsletter at LAMAz.org and share it with your networks.
Action Alert: Ensure Release of Funds for HIV/AIDS Programs
World AIDS Day is Monday, December 1. The ELCA is urging Congress to ensure the release of critical funds for HIV/AIDS programs that serve vulnerable communities across the globe. Your voice matters—LAMA encourages congregations and individuals to take action today.
Upcoming Events
LAMA is lifting up several opportunities for connection, learning, and prayer in early December:
Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering
Tuesday, December 2, 9:00 AM–12:30 PM | Baháʼí Faith Community Center
A morning of interfaith community, themed United We Rise.
Coffee with Christine
Wednesday, December 3, 10:30–11:30 AM (online)
A monthly open forum with Christine Moffett, ELCA Program Director for Environment and Energy Policy.
AFN Social Justice Commission
Thursday, December 4, 8:30–9:30 AM
All are welcome to join this monthly justice-centered gathering.
Documentary Viewing: “Samaritans”
Friday, December 5, 6:00–9:00 PM | First Church UCC Phoenix
With filmmaker David Damian Figueroa in attendance.
Prayer Walk on the Arizona Trail
Saturday, December 6, 10:00 AM–2:30 PM | Picketpost Trailhead
A contemplative hike and prayer experience in the Sonoran Desert.
LAMA Liaison Roundtable
Monday, December 15, 6:30–7:30 PM (Zoom)
A monthly conversation for congregational liaisons and advocates.
News from LAMA’s Blog
The newsletter features several new posts, including:
Progress and Setbacks: ELCT Confronts HIV Challenges Amid U.S. Aid Freeze
Guest Blog: Faithful Resistance Against Dehumanization
Giving Tuesday Countdown
Action Alert: Support FEMA Reform
LAMA T-Shirt Design Contest (Deadline: Dec. 31)
Lutheran Day at the Legislature 2026
Save the date—Monday, February 23, 2026—for this annual statewide gathering of Lutherans committed to public witness. LAMA is also seeking district coordinators to support logistics and outreach.
Behind the Scenes at LAMA
This week, Solveig and the team are working on:
GCS Hunger Leaders meeting
Lutheran Day planning
Region 2’s 40-40-40 Lenten Challenge
Giving Tuesday campaign
Website, newsletter, and social media updates
Support LAMA’s Advocacy
Congregational and individual gifts directly strengthen LAMA’s ministry to end hunger, advocate for just policy, and form faith-rooted leaders. Visit LAMAz.org to donate or connect your congregation with advocacy opportunities.