|
|
Annual Gathering Countdown: Meet Our Peacemaker in Action!
|
|
|
|
|
Celebrating a Champion of Interfaith Understanding
As we count down to the 2026 Arizona Faith Network Annual Gathering, we re excited to introduce one of this year s
Peacemaker in Action Award recipients: Rev. Susan Valiquette!
|
|
|
|
|
An ordained United Church of Christ minister, Susan spent 18 years serving as Chaplain of Inanda Seminary in Durban, South Africa, before continuing her ministry here in Arizona.
Susan has also been an extraordinary partner in AFN s Heat Relief ministry, helping us get the program off the ground and working tirelessly to help it grow. From opening the doors of First Church UCC to supporting staff, volunteers, and guests, Susan
has shown what it looks like to put faith into action especially when our neighbors need it most.
Susan believes the church has the potential to help heal the world, and she lives that calling every day.
Learn more about Susan s incredible work by watching
her Peacemaker in Action awardee video here!
And join us at the Annual Gathering on October 20 as we celebrate Susan and our other Peacemaker in Action honorees!
|
|
|
|
AFN Monthly Meetings
All are welcome to join the following AFN commission and/or committee meetings. They are held online via Zoom, and you can RSVP using the links below. All times are MST.
AFN Social Justice Commission, Thursday, October 1, 8:30 - 9:45 am MST via Zoom -
RSVP
for Zoom information - This month's meeting will focus on Election Protection updates and also Peacemakers at the Polls training.
AFN Faithful Voter AZ (Voting Rights) Committee, Thursday, October 1, 2:00 - 3:00 pm MST via Zoom -
RSVP
for Zoom information
AFN Cherishing Creation Collaborative, Tuesday, October 13, 10:00 - 11:30 am MST via Zoom -
RSVP
for Zoom information
|
|
|
|
AFN Monday Meditation
Mondays at noon MST via Zoom
Start your week with meditation led by Bandhu, AFN's Interfaith Manager, and guests.
|
|
|
|
Election Protection: Poll Chaplains & Peacekeepers Needed
Arizona Faith Network is recruiting volunteers to serve as Poll Chaplains and
Peacekeepers for the November general election as part of our nonpartisan Election Protection program. These faith-rooted volunteers help create safe, welcoming, and peaceful voting environments where every eligible voter can participate with dignity
and respect.
No prior experience is required. Training and support are provided through partnerships with
Election Protection Arizona and Faiths United to Save Democracy. People of all faith traditions and people of goodwill are welcome. Training sessions via Zoom will be offered on multiple dates/times in September and October. See the registration
form below for additional details.
Join us in protecting democracy, promoting peaceful civic participation, and supporting our communities during the election season.
|
|
|
|
2026 ACC Candidate Forum
Monday, October 5, 6:30 - 8:00 pm MST via Zoom
Join Arizona Interfaith Power and Light and Arizona Faith Network for a virtual, non-partisan Arizona Corporation Commission candidate forum!
The ACC decides the cost of energy and can hold utilities accountable for Arizona s clean energy future. This is not a candidate debate, rather a moderated discussion focused on the issues that Arizona faith communities care about, including skyrocketing utility
bills, data centers and grid stability, and achieving a clean energy future for generations to come.
As people of faith strive to care for one another and care for the earth, how does the work of the Commission reflect our values?
The Zoom link will be shared three days prior to the event with those who register.
(the registration link is only available to those who subscribe to newsletters from either AIPL or AFN)
|
|
|
|
Arizona Poll Chaplain/ Peacekeeper Virtual Mobilization & Unity Rally
Wednesday, October 7, 5:00 - 5:45 pm MST via Zoom
This virtual rally will bring together certified Poll Chaplains/Peacekeepers, individuals who previously registered but did not complete the training, prospective volunteers, faith leaders, and community partners as we prepare to serve our communities during
this critical election season. The rally will inspire, energize, remind us why voting matters, clarify the critical role of Poll Chaplains and Peacekeepers, share special voting issues in the state, share tools for reaching discouraged voters, answer questions
for those who will serve; and share our post-election strategy to ensure all votes are counted.
Whether you are already certified, have started the process but have not completed the training, or are just learning about this movement, we need you to connect with others in the state committed to free, fair, and safe elections.
|
|
|
|
Community Voting Celebration
Thursday, October 8, 3:00 - 6:00 pm
The Good Shepherd United Church of Christ
17750 South La Ca ada Drive, Sahuarita, AZ 85629
Join Arizona Faith Network and The Good Shepherd United Church of Christ for a Community Voting Celebration an afternoon of food, community, nonpartisan voter education, and opportunities to participate in our democracy.
Stop by anytime between 3:00 and 6:00 PM to learn about what s on Arizona s ballot, connect with neighbors, enjoy free food, access voter information and resources, and celebrate our community. We ll also provide transportation for those who would like to drop
off their completed ballots at an official ballot drop-off location.
Come for part of the afternoon or stay for the whole celebration. Bring your family, friends, neighbors, and faith community! Free Nonpartisan Open to All
|
|
|
|
What's On Your Ballot?
Wednesday, October 14, 5:30 - 6:30 pm MST via Zoom
What will Arizona voters actually see when they open their ballots this fall?
Join us for What s on Your Ballot?, a free, nonpartisan educational webinar designed to help Arizona voters understand the races, offices, and statewide propositions appearing on the November 3, 2026 General Election ballot.
We ll begin with an overview of the federal, statewide, legislative, and other races Arizona voters may see on their ballots, including a brief explanation of what the different offices do and why individual ballots differ depending on where a voter
lives.
The majority of the webinar will then provide a deeper educational walkthrough of Arizona s 2026 statewide ballot propositions. Using official ballot language and other nonpartisan sources, we ll explain each proposition in plain language, including
what the measure proposes to change and what a YES or NO vote means.
The Arizona Secretary of State currently lists eight statewide propositions for the 2026 General Election:
Propositions 141, 142, 144, 316, 317, 318, 319, and 320.
This webinar is strictly nonpartisan and educational. Arizona Faith Network will not endorse candidates or ballot positions or tell participants how to vote. Our goal is to give voters clear, accessible information so they can research the issues and
make their own informed decisions.
|
|
|
|
Community Voting Celebration
Thursday, October 15, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
739 W Erie St, Chandler, AZ 85225
Join Arizona Faith Network, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Party at the Polls, and community partners for a Community Voting Celebration: Brunch + Educational Session at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Chandler.
Come for brunch, learn more about what s on your ballot, participate in Election Protection Peacekeeper training, connect with neighbors and community leaders, and if you re ready to return your completed ballot join us for transportation to an official ballot
drop-off location.
This is an open house, so come for the whole event or join us when you can! Free Nonpartisan Open to All
|
|
|
|
Faiths United to Save Democracy (FUSD) Poll Chaplain & Peacekeeper Training
October 15 | 4:00 5:30 PM Arizona Time via Zoom
Join Arizona Faith Network and Faiths United to Save Democracy for a national, nonpartisan training preparing faith and community leaders to help support free, fair, safe, and peaceful elections.
Poll Chaplains are ordained faith leaders and Peacekeepers are lay leaders who provide a calm, caring presence at polling locations. Volunteers are trained in de-escalation, voter protection, responding appropriately to potential conflict or intimidation, understanding
key election laws, and connecting voters with Election Protection resources when challenges arise.
With new election threats and changes in election laws in 2026, all Poll Chaplains and Peacekeepers are required to complete a 2026 training before serving.
Faiths
United to Save Democracy is a nonpartisan, multiracial, interfaith, and intergenerational voter education and protection campaign. In Arizona, AFN works alongside faith and community partners to prepare volunteers to help ensure every eligible
voter can participate safely and without intimidation. Clergy and lay leaders are welcome. No previous election protection experience is required.
|
|
|
|
Interfaith Council Meeting: Hare Krishna 101 & Dinner Party
Thursday, October 15, 6:00 pm
Hare Krishna Temple
100 S Weber Dr, Chandler, AZ 85226
You're invited to an Interfaith Council Meeting, instruction on "Hare Krishna 101" and a dinner party. Co-sponsored by the Arizona Interfaith Movement and Arizona Faith Network, it will be hosted by the Hare Krishna Temple in Chandler. Syama Mohini Devi Dasi,
the featured speaker, is an active community leader, speaker, and organizer with the ISKON Phoenix Community in Arizona, serving both locally and nationally. Please RSVP using the link below.
|
|
|
|
The Vote Is Sacred: Arizona Bus Tour & Community Celebration
Join us for a nonpartisan celebration of the vote as the Vote Is Sacred Bus Tour makes three stops in Arizona!
Arizona Faith Network, Interfaith Alliance, Faiths United to Save Democracy, Party at the Polls, and community partners invite you to come together with neighbors for an evening of free food, community, celebration, and nonpartisan voter information about the
upcoming election.
Each gathering will also include an interfaith Prayer Vigil for Democracy, bringing together faith and community leaders for prayer and reflection for a peaceful election season, the safety of voters and election workers, and the strength of our democracy.
These events are free, nonpartisan, and open to everyone. People of all faiths and no faith are welcome.
Dates & Locations:
Phoenix Area Tuesday, October 27 at 5:30 PM
First Church UCC
1407 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tucson Area Thursday, October 29 at 5:30 PM
Prince Chapel AME Church
602 S Stone Ave, Tucson, AZ 85701
Flagstaff Area Tuesday, November 3 at 5:30 PM
Flagstaff Federated Church
400 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Come share a meal, connect with your community, get the information you need for the upcoming election, and join us in celebrating the sacred importance of every voice and every vote. RSVP for one (or more!) of the Bus Tour stops using the link below.
|
|
|
|
Learning Psalms with my Christian Mother: An Interfaith Conversation with Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz
Wednesday, December 16, 6:30 - 8:00 pm MST (Arizona time) via Zoom
Join AFN and Rabbi
Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz for a thoughtful conversation on his book,
Psalms Between Us: A Rabbi and His Christian Mother on Faith, Love, and Loss, a deeply personal reflection on studying the Psalms with his evangelical Christian mother through illness, grief, and mourning. The book explores how sacred texts can
build bridges across theological differences and strengthen relationships rooted in love, respect, and shared spiritual practice.
Drawing from both Jewish and Christian traditions, Rabbi Shmuly will share insights on interfaith understanding, family relationships, caregiving, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of the Psalms to accompany us through life's most meaningful moments.
The conversation will offer valuable perspectives for people of all faith backgrounds, including clergy, caregivers, interfaith families, and spiritual seekers.
|
|
|
|
Take the Faithful Voter Pledge!
Voting is one way we show up for our neighbors and our communities. Arizona Faith Network invites people of faith and goodwill across Arizona to pledge to SHOW UP, make a plan to vote, help others participate, and stay engaged beyond Election Day. Visit the
link below to pledge to be a Faithful AZ Voter.
|
|
|
|
Listening & Healing Pilgrimage Documentary Screenings
Wednesday, September 30, in three locations: Sedona, Scottsdale, Tucson
September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation for those who suffered in Indian residential boarding schools. The Episcopal Diocese of Arizona invites you to join them in honoring this day with three special screenings of
Listening & Healing Pilgrimage: Stories from Arizona Indian Boarding Schools. The documentary follows the Diocese s Council for Native American Ministry as they traveled across Arizona to hear from survivors, families, researchers, and Native voices.
The pilgrimage closed with a healing ceremony and a renewed commitment to truth-telling and reconciliation. Visit the link below for details about attending one of the three screenings.
|
|
|
|
National Day of Remembrance Webinar
Wednesday, September 30, 4:30 MST via Zoom
The National Day of Remembrance on September 30th is a day to remember and honor those who attended Indian Boarding Schools, to tell the truth about this history and how it continues to impact Native communities today. Many boarding schools were supported and
run by Christian denominations and churches.
Join us for a presentation by Rev. Canon Debbie Royals (Pascua Yaqui) followed by a panel discussion with Vance Blackfox (Cherokee), Director of Ecumenical and Tribal Relations of the Indigenous Theological Circle, Rev. Dr. Allen Buck (Cherokee), Director of
the United Methodist s Circle of Indigenous Ministries in the Northwest, and Pearl Chanar (Alaska Native), co-chair of the Episcopal Church's Truth, Justice & Healing on Native Boarding Schools Commission.
|
|
|
|
Fall of Freedom Scottsdale
Saturday, October 3, 1:00 - 3:00 pm
First Christian Church Scottsdale
7405 E McDonald Drive, Scottsdale, AZ, 85250
During the weekend of October 2, 3, and 4, artists, speakers, musicians, photographers, filmmakers and more will present information and interpretation regarding current issues including climate change, the state of journalism, LGBTQ+ rights, veterans issues,
religion, voting rights, immigrant detentions and more at events around the country. The event in Scottsdale will include Clarissa Vela of the People First Project, Dr. Bob Howard of the Arizona Poor Peoples Project, and more. Registration isn't needed, and
you can contact the organizers at the link below.
|
|
|
|
Documentary Film Screening with Director Q&A - The Window on Death Row
Friday, October 9, 6:30 - 7:30 pm
The Loft Cinema, Tucson, AZ
Saturday, October 10, 1:00 - 2:30 pm
Media and Immersive Experience (MIX) Center, Mesa, AZ
Join Death Penalty Alternatives for Arizona (DPAA) and Arizonans for Effective Public Safety (AEPS) for special community screenings of
The Window on Death Row. The documentary tells the story of Joaqu n Jos Mart nez, who was sentenced to death for a double murder in Florida at age 24. After spending more than five years incarcerated, including three years on death row, he was ultimately
exonerated.
Following the screenings, attendees are invited to stay for a community conversation and Q&A exploring the film, Arizona s death penalty, wrongful convictions, and the experiences of people directly impacted by these systems. An art exhibit from Arizona's Death
Row artists will also be showcased at the event. Both events are free visit the link below for registration for the events.
|
|
|
|
Voices and Votes: Congressional District 1 Forum and County Candidate Social
Sunday, October 11, 2:30 - 5:00 pm
(location provided upon registratiion)
The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Phoenix invites you to join us for an afternoon of civic engagement and conversation with candidates running for office in Maricopa County. The event will feature Amish Shah, Democratic Party nominee, and Jay
Feely, Republican Party nominee, for a Congressional District 1 forum and candidate interviews.
2:30 3:00 PM: Registration
3:00 4:00 PM: Interviews with Amish Shah and Jay Feely
4:00 5:00 PM: Social reception featuring candidates for Maricopa County elected office
Registration instructions are available at the link below.
|
|
|
|
For the Living Film Screening
Sunday, October 11, 5:00 pm
Foothills Christian Church
3951 W Happy Valley Rd, Phoenix, AZ
Join us for a special screening of For the Living, a powerful documentary centered on remembrance, resilience, and the choice to move from dehumanization toward empathy. Admission is free. Please register so we can plan appropriately for seating. All
are welcome.
|
|
|
|
A Conversation with Secretary of State Adrian Fontes
Thursday, October 15, 12:00 - 1:30 pm
Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church
1401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
The African American Advisory Council invites you to an important conversation with Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes. Secretary Fontes will provide up-to-date information on the current status of the voting process in Arizona, along with insights into
issues and developments that may have national implications for voting and our democracy. This will be an opportunity for faith leaders to hear directly from Arizona s chief elections official, ask questions, and gain timely information that can help us remain
informed and engaged in our communities. The event is free and registration isn't necessary.
|
|
|
|
Tell Fountain Hills to Reject an Anti-Muslim, 'anti-Sharia' Proposal
Join the Arizona chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-AZ), a chapter of the nation s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, in urging Fountain Hills Mayor Gerry Friedel and the members of the Town Council to reject
a
proposed ordinance targeting sharia law. This action alert is for Arizona residents and will work only with an Arizona address.
At the September 15 Town Council meeting,
Councilmember
Allen Skillicorn called for a Florida-style proposal targeting sharia law. CAIR-AZ says the measure would solve no identified problem, duplicate an existing anti-Muslim Arizona adopted "anti-foreign law" bill, and expose the town to
serious constitutional and financial risks. A proposal targeting Muslim religious practice would be unconstitutional and could waste local resources defending an indefensible ordinance. Please visit the link below to submit a message to the Fountain Hills
Mayor and Town Council.
|
|
|
|
|
The coming week (today through next Tuesday) brings the following observances:
-
Shemini Atzeret / Simchat Torah (Judaism) - Oct. 3/4
|
|
|
|
|
Former AFN Board member Eric Ledermann donates his photographic talents to AFN. Click on the graphic below to visit his
photography
website, where you'll find samples of his work and the services he can provide.
|
|
|
|
|
Please consider making a tax-deductible gift to AFN today! Your partnership makes our Arizona community thrive.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
