Jottings 1/26/2026

Albuquerque in solidarity with Minneapolis! Thank you to everyone who showed up to witness, pray, sing, lament, and show solidarity. 📷 Rhonda Newby-Torres on Facebook

 

Congregational Church of the Valley’s Outreach Ministry volunteers gathered on Sunday, January 11 for their second Harm Reduction Kit Assembly event. At the request of Sonoran Prevention Works—who were experiencing a shortage following the holiday season—CCOV assembled 300 “Sick Kits.” These kits included electrolytes, Advil, hand sanitizer, stomach medications, and lip balm, and are distributed alongside Harm Reduction Kits to individuals who need them most. Their next Harm Reduction Kit Assembly event will be held on Sunday, February 22.

 

First Church Phoenix had presence at the Phoenix MLK March last week.

Shepherd of the Hills joined the Arizona Interfaith Movement at the Phoenix MLK parade.

Rev. Sue Joiner of First Congregational Albuquerque is super excited about a workshop with musician Melanie DeMore on February 28th from 10 am – 3 pm. She is incredibly engaging and her music will leave you inspired. The only requirement for the workshop is that you are breathing! You don’t have to be a fantastic singer. Cost for the workshop is $20 which includes lunch. Click here to register.

Also at First Congregational Albuquerque: Joy as Medicine Workshop

Funded by a Resiliency Grant from the Southwest Conference. Rev. Dr. Ryan has created a workshop series he calls “Joy as Medicine.” When we are feeling overwhelmed, laughter, joy and fun can provide an escape, leading to refreshment. The series will meet Saturdays from 2:00 – 3:30pm at the church. You are welcome to attend one, two, three or all, free of charge. And you can invite others too.

  • January 24 * Laughter Yoga

  • February 7 * Crafting Comedy

  • February 21 * Comedy Viewing

  • March 14 * Laughter-based Energy Healing

Arizona Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

From Rev. Rock Fremont of Shepherd of the Hills: Last night (January 22) we gathered at Historic Tanner Chapel AME Church in downtown Phoenix for the Arizona Week of Prayer for Christian Unity—an extraordinary evening that brought together bishops, judicatory leaders, clergy, and lay leaders from across the state. Representing many Christian traditions, we stood side by side in prayer, song, and shared witness.

For many years now, I have had the privilege of coordinating our statewide observance of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, and evenings like this are a powerful reminder of why this work matters. In a fragmented world, it was a joy to see leaders from throughout Arizona embody togetherness, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to Christ’s prayer that “they may all be one.”

I am deeply grateful to Tanner Chapel AME Church for their gracious hospitality, and especially thankful for the many Shepherd of the Hills folks who showed up to be part of the evening. Our presence mattered, and our witness as a congregation committed to unity and relationship is deeply felt.

It truly was an amazing and hope-filled night—one that continues to affirm the strength and beauty of Christian unity across our state.


Q1 2026 United Church Funds Town Hall
Thursday, February 5, at 3:00 pm MST. The UCF team will delve into market and fund performance, organizational updates, and responsible investing initiatives. Don’t miss the chance to connect with our team and engage in an interactive Q&A. SAVE YOUR SPOT today!