Conference News

Statement of Arizona Christian Bishops and Denominational Leaders

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​​​​We wish to unite our voices to express our grave concern over America’s failure to update our immigration system and the threat of mistreatment of undocumented persons ​who are our neighbors and contribute to our communities​. While we recognize the lawful right of nations to monitor and control their borders, we also recognize ​that in many ways our current US immigration laws do not uphold individuals’ rights to a dignified life, family unity, and safety. ​ As immigration and migration are driven by complex factors, oftentimes resulting in life-or-death situations, the rights of those fleeing disaster, hunger, conflict, violence, or war are urgent and compelling. ​​​Therefore, grounded by the demands of the Gospel of Jesus Christ​ and love of our neighbors​—our deeply held religious beliefs—we ​urge ​​our elected officials and community leaders to stand with us to protect family unity and human dignity by refusing to participate in any deportation efforts which violate these most basic human rights.​

Click through to read the full statement.

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2025 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

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2025 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

2025 marks the 1,700th anniversary of the first Christian Ecumenical Council, held in Nicaea, near Constantinople in 325 AD. This commemoration provides a unique opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the common faith of Christians, as expressed in the creed formulated during this council.

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025 offers an invitation to draw on this shared heritage and to enter more deeply into the faith that unites all Christians.

The guiding biblical text for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2025 comes from John 11:17-27. The theme for the week, “Do you believe this?” (v. 26), takes its cue from the dialogue between Jesus and Martha when Jesus visited the home of Martha and Mary in Bethany following the death of their brother Lazarus.

The traditional period in the northern hemisphere for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is 18-25 January. In the southern hemisphere churches often find other days to celebrate the Week of Prayer, for example around Pentecost, which is also a symbolic date for the unity of the church.

The Southwest Conference will take part in two statewide services; one in Arizona and one in New Mexico.

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Prophetic Preaching on Christian Nationalism 

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Prophetic Preaching on Christian Nationalism 

A 6-week online course beginning March 5, 2025

At a time when many of our progressive values are being threatened and undone - racial equity, inclusivity, social justice, human rights, pluralism, etc. - how can we tell the Good News in a way that is truly 'good'?  Check out this brand new six-week course to help churches address the growing threat of Christian nationalism. Explore the distorted relationship between religion, race, and democracy that has been arising within conservative Christian circles throughout the last few decades. 

This course is offered by the Project Proclaim Partnership of the Southern New England UCC with PATHWAYS funded by the Lilly Foundation. Other courses beginning in February and March can be found on the PATHWAYS website, pathwaystheological.org. Visit their website to sign up for this course or others. 

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Important Update: New Standing Rule for Document Submission

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During our recent Committee on Ministry A (COM A) meeting, a new standing rule was adopted to streamline the review and decision-making process for documents submitted for our consideration. This new rule will help ensure sufficient preparation and efficiency in addressing essential matters.

Standing Rule:

Effective immediately, all documents to be considered by COM A concerning Member in Discernment (MID), Transfer of Standing, Privilege of Call, and 3 or 4-Way Covenants documentation must be submitted to the Chair and the Associate Conference Minister (ACM) at least two weeks prior to the scheduled meeting date.

This change will allow committee members to thoroughly review the materials and come prepared for meaningful discussion and timely decisions.

Thank you for your attention to this important update. Please don't hesitate to contact me or the Chair if you have any questions or need clarification about this new process.

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In Memoriam: Reverend John J. Allen

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In Memoriam: Reverend John J. Allen

"Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your master." — Matthew 25:21

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Reverend John J. Allen, fondly known as Jack Allen. Jack passed away peacefully last Thursday. A beloved member of our community, Jack transferred into the Southwest Conference on February 14, 2023, and resided in Tucson.

In a recent conversation with his wife, Virginia Wyly, she shared that Jack deeply loved the United Church of Christ and its mission, which was central to his life and ministry.

Please hold Virginia and their family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God’s comfort and peace surround them as they grieve the loss of their loved one.

We give thanks for Jack’s life, ministry, and the ways he touched the lives of those around him.

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Job Posting: Grant Director, NM Conference of Churches

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Job Posting: Grant Director, NM Conference of Churches

Job Description

Grant Director: Thriving Churches Initiative “The Journey Project”

NM Conference of Churches

3-5 years Temporary Position

Salary $54,600 per year with 5% COL raise each year, Fringe Benefits at 25% of salary added to salary per year.

Part-time: 25-30 hours per week

 The Grant Director of The Journey Project will direct the Strengthening the Church Initiative for NM Conference of Churches until the end of the grant period 2027 or for extended period as approved by NMCC Board and the Lilly Endowment.

Click through for details.

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