Remembering Pope Francis and Responding to the Heat: AFN’s April Update

Walking in the Spirit of Pope Francis: AFN’s April Update and Call to Action

With heavy hearts, the Arizona Faith Network (AFN) joins the global community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. A voice for the poor and a champion of creation, Pope Francis called us all to a deeper life of justice, compassion, and interfaith solidarity. His impact has been especially felt across Arizona’s immigrant, environmental, and faith communities.

As we carry his legacy forward, AFN invites you to live out these values through action:

Heat Relief Starts Next Week

As temperatures soar, AFN’s Heat Relief Sites will once again offer hydration, shelter, and supplies to unsheltered neighbors. Volunteers and donations are urgently needed. Learn more and sign up to help: www.arizonafaithnetwork.org/heatrelief

Phoenix May Day March — Thursday, May 1, 9 AM

Stand alongside immigrant and working-class communities at the Arizona State Capitol and march to the Sandra Day O’Connor Courthouse. Clergy are encouraged to form an interfaith presence near the front. RSVP: bit.ly/PHXMayDay

Faith and Science: An Islamic Perspective — Saturday, June 7, 12 PM via Zoom

Explore the deep harmony between spiritual tradition and scientific inquiry. RSVP for this Faith 101 session to grow in understanding across faith lines.

Weekly Meditation

Every Monday at noon MST, join AFN’s Interfaith Manager Bhikkhu Vasu Bandhu for a time of grounding, peace, and prayer via Zoom.

ICYMI: Tree Planting at Heat Respite Center

AFN recently celebrated a day of community and creation care at Larkspur Christian Church, planting eight shade trees and assembling relief bags and meals for neighbors.

Partner Highlights

From Holocaust remembrance to Indigenous-led environmental advocacy, check out our full calendar of interfaith events, including the upcoming American Democracy Summit and the Living Our Faith tri-faith discussion.

In a time of grief and great need, may we heed Pope Francis’s example and show up for our neighbors with mercy, resolve, and joy.

➡️ For full details and links to RSVP or learn more, read this week’s newsletter: www.arizonafaithnetwork.org/newsletter