Church of the Red Rocks will welcome Dr. Peter Makari, Minister for Global Ministries and Relations for the United Church of Christ, for a special weekend of learning and dialogue. Dr. Makari will be at the 9:30 am worship on Sunday, September 27, sharing insights drawn from more than 25 years of building interfaith relationships among Christians, Muslims, and Jews in the Middle East. Later, on Tuesday, September 29, he will join Rabbi Wayne Franklin for a facilitated interfaith dialogue exploring the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, the challenges of addressing both Palestinian suffering and rising antisemitism, and the importance of recognizing one another's sacred worth. The dialogue begins at 9 am, with refreshments available at 8:30 am. Both events offer meaningful opportunities for education, reflection, and faithful engagement with issues of peace and justice.
Taos United Community Church announces new leadership: Read the Taos News article about the launch of a new pastoral leadership team, the Shepherd Body.
The new structural model shares leadership across four part-time lay positions. Jerry Kennell serves as vision shepherd, Eileen Wiard as worship shepherd, Cidney Fee as congregational care shepherd and Leonor Kennell as community service shepherd.
The Shepherd of the HIlls Outreach committee connected with Tavan Elementary, a Title 1 school just 2 miles from their neighborhood, and realized that the children suffered from the lack of basic school needs. Shepherd of the Hills UCC united as one with Prince of Peace Lutheran to provide at least 33 backpacks, 23 water bottles, 58 composition books, 40 pencil bags, 84 plastic file folders with pockets, 7 pairs of tennis shoes, $250 in Walmart gift cards, and a myriad of packs of pencils, dry erase markers, highlighters, colored pencils, erasers, binder clips, pens, etc. Thank you all for your generous hearts and for truly living out the call to love our neighbors, especially those who are wanting.
The youth of Scottsdale Congregational UCC have continued their heat relief ministry this summer, recently gathering for the third time to assemble care bags for people in need. The bags, stocked with useful items and donated snacks, are available at the church for anyone who could benefit from them. Church leaders report that the bags are disappearing more quickly than ever, highlighting the growing need within the community. The congregation is inviting volunteers to help assemble future bags or donate supplies. A recent contribution of fig bars added a welcome treat to the latest round of care packages.
Desert Chorale’s Santa Fe Sings! Saturday, Sept. 19 (9:30 - 2:30) at United Church of Santa Fe: Led by Artistic Director Josh Habermann (with Michelle Schumann at the piano), this community-wide, full-day singing workshop is open to the public! To join in, register at Santa Fe Sings! – Santa Fe Desert Chorale. You’re also welcome to simply come to the 2:00 pm free public concert and enjoy the 100+ voices.
Back by popular demand, the Healing Project at First Church UCC Phoenix is holding its annual Art Share and Potluck on Sunday, August 30, beginning at noon. The event celebrates art as a source of healing, connection, and renewal, featuring a shared meal, live performances, and a community art display. Attendees are encouraged to bring a favorite dish or piece of art, enjoy performances and storytelling, and view artwork that holds special meaning for artists and participants.
Registration is open for the Arizona Faith Network's 2026 Annual Gathering!
On Tuesday, October 20, join faith leaders, community organizers, civic partners, and people of goodwill from across Arizona for a morning of inspiration, relationship-building, and courageous conversation as we explore this year's theme: From Conflict to Community: Building Courageous Unity in a Time of Division.
In a time marked by polarization, political violence, fear, and growing isolation, people of faith have a unique opportunity to help build bridges, strengthen relationships, and model another way forward. Together, we will explore how faith-rooted leadership can foster belonging, resilience, and hope in Arizona. We are honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Gary Mason as our keynote speaker. An internationally recognized Methodist minister and peacebuilder from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Rev. Dr. Mason has spent decades helping communities navigate conflict, build trust across deep divides, and advance peace. Click/tap on this link for more information, registration and sponsorship opportunities!
Group tickets are now on sale for Convergence Music Project's Converging: Sing Through It! This gathering in Louisville, October 7–10, is for progressive Christian musicians, songwriters, worship directors, and for anyone interested in finding, sharing, and creating the songs our communities need to help us "sing through" difficult and challenging times. Grab 4 tickets for the price of 3 here. Learn more about the event here.