In August 2011, an article on the front page of the Arizona Republic began: “Children in Arizona are more likely to be poor, uninsured and part of a family whose home has been foreclosed than most American kids…” Members of the Justice Ministry believe that behind these sad statistics are policy decisions made by political leaders.
While we remain rigorously non-partisan, we believe that members of our church should be engaged in the political process. We want to foster civil and informed conversations on critical policy issues. We want to identify and encourage potential community leaders. We want to work with other faith institutions to support Arizona’s families.
Valley Interfaith Project
One strategy for our ministry is to work with Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), an organization of over 40 churches, synagogues, and other organizations with a 20-year history of advocacy in the region. Members of our church regularly participate in VIP activities, including events on our own campus. Some of our members have participated in VIP leadership training. On August 18 & 21, five Justice Ministry members attended the VIP Leaders’ Retreat in Phoenix.
Arizona Career Pathways
Last March our church sponsored an orientation session for Arizona Career Pathways, a VIP initiative. Almost 100 people in the community attended this session. Dozens of other sessions were held throughout the Valley. VIP is a partner with the U.S. Department of Labor, the Maricopa County Community College District, and area employers to help unemployed and underemployed persons improve their job skills. In the program’s first year, 50 students are enrolled in health-care related coursework. Members of the Justice Ministry continue to work with the City of Mesa, the College District, and regional employers to support this important project.
Local Civic Academies
Another strategy is to sponsor classes and discussion groups here at the church. In VIP parlance, these are “civic academies”: opportunities for church members to learn about the issues. Information alone is not enough. We also want to provide time for people to develop relationships with one other and with leaders in our broader community.