Shepherd of the Hills is honored to host Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes for a public Town Hall tonight, April 28th from 6-8pm . This important conversation will address federal funding threats—including DOGE funding cuts—and harmful budget proposals that could impact Arizona families. Attorney General Mayes will share legal updates, listen to community concerns, and outline how her office is working to defend essential services.
The Sahuarita Food Bank and Community Resource Center, a ministry begun by and now supported by The Good Shepherd UCC, is built on three time-tested pillars. Of course, they give food assistance to those in need through their food bank, and also provide family support and essential services, such as free tax preparation, health and nutrition classes and other programs through the Family Resource Center. But the third pillar has become a source of strength and growth for those who want to improve the future for themselves and their families, and is centered on workforce development. Classes include basic computer skills, acquiring English language proficiency, GED prep, financial learning programs, and technical skills with classes like welding or IT customer service support. Thank you, churches, for planting seeds in your communities.
On May Day, May 1st, Arizona Faith Network invites you to join with a diverse community to fight for dignity, justice, and public investment in our lives. Across the country, people are rising up, resisting attacks on working families, immigrant communities, transgender persons, and crucial programs like Medicaid and Social Security. In Arizona we are confronting harmful legislation like the Arizona ICE Act (SB 1164) and other bills that target immigrant communities. Meet at the Arizona State Capitol, 1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007, at 9AM, then march to the rally at the Sandra Day O’Connor U.S. Courthouse, 401 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85003. RSVP
Rev. Francis Rath, Pastor Emeritus of First Congregational UCC in Albuquerque, was an icon in the Southwest Conference. Although we announced his passing a couple weeks ago, if you would like to read more about his extraordinary life and ministry, his obituary is available here: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/abqjournal/name/francis-rath-obituary?id=58193444.
Last week, I told you about the Black Lives Matter banner at First Congregational in Albuquerque being burned! Well, they are moving forward with replacing it. But this time, they have acquired a large piece of sheet metal that will be decorated. This will be a more fireproof option than the previous canvas banner! When hate is loud, love must be louder! (And stronger!)
Two youth were confirmed at Black Mountain UCC on Palm Sunday!
Arizona Faith Network Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis
With deep reverence and heartfelt sorrow, the Arizona Faith Network joins communities worldwide in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
Pope Francis was a transformative moral and spiritual leader who reminded the global faith community that justice, compassion, and inclusion are not just ideals but mandates of faith. Through his unwavering commitment to the poor, his calls for environmental stewardship, and his bold witness to interfaith cooperation, Pope Francis expanded the Church’s reach to the margins, echoing the sacred truth that every person bears the image of the Divine.
His legacy has been deeply felt in Arizona—especially among immigrant communities, climate justice advocates, and those seeking a more just and loving world. His vision for a Church of mercy and solidarity inspired many across traditions to work together for the common good.
As we grieve this profound loss, we also give thanks for a life lived in faithful service. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forward his call to care for our neighbor, protect our Earth, and build peace across all that divides us.
In shared sorrow and shared hope,
Rev. Katie Sexton
Executive Director,
Arizona Faith Network
Oak Flat updates last week:
4/17/2025 Breaking: Feds charge ahead with plan to destroy Oak Flat
4/25/2025 Apache Stronghold makes emergency appeal to save Oak Flat
