The amusing scholars of the Westar Institute (home of the Jesus Seminar) posted this graphic recently. As you consider this snapshot of Jesus's weekly schedule, remember that he took naps too.

We are grateful for the quick response of the UCC National Setting to attacks on reproductive justice.

There's a rally sponsored by Pro Choice with Heart at the Capitol (1700 W Washington Street) this coming Sunday at noon. If you're interested in participating and want to carpool with Shadow Rock friends, please email Karen.

Now is a good time to read more about reproductive freedom. Reproductive justice is a human rights issue! As people of faith and conscience, we promote the rights of people to bear children they want to have, to not bear children, to raise the children they do have in safe and healthy environments, and express their sexuality without oppression.

The Shadow Rock congregation has been bold in our support of Afghan families displaced or in danger by the Taliban takeover in mid-2021. We have sponsored two families and welcomed them to the Phoenix area. A third family is desperate to come to Arizona from a country that's friendly to the new regime in Afghanistan. They remain in great danger, but we have hope that they will be safe soon.

Our commitment to these families goes beyond logistical and emotional support. We will offer financial and material support as they arrive, get settled, and move toward self-sufficiency. We have an ambitious preliminary fundraising goal: $100,000 dedicated to this ministry, knowing that there will be continuing and unanticipated expenses. Any support toward this goal from family, friends, neighbors and compassionate strangers is needed and appreciated. If you have questions about this ministry or are ready to make a pledge of support, please contact Pastor Ken.

Our fundraising dinner this coming Saturday evening to support the Refugee Resettlement Fund includes a fantastic silent auction item: Surf & Turf dinner for 10 provided by Chef Herb and Chef Mike. These chefs have a heart for both entertaining and hospitality, so this is a high value item! If you'd like to submit an online bid (minimum bid is $500) for this item, please complete this form before 4:00 pm on Saturday, May 14. Live auction will take place during the dinner. If you have questions about the bidding procedure or other auction items, please email Heidi.

If you would like to contribute to the Refugee Resettlement Fund but will not be attending the dinner, THANK YOU. Please visit this link to get started.

Ktizo UCC is gearing up its Beat the Heat program, a daytime heat relief shelter during the Phoenix summer. Volunteers make this life saving work possible!

When can you help?

For Friday's one-time volunteer event, please contact Peg Hesley. For Beat the Heat's ongoing Wednesday afternoon needs, please check out their SignUpGenius!

Our partnership with Ktizo already is generating much gratitude and compassion. As the temperatures rise, may our partnership grow.

We're sad to share news of the death of George Dritsas, spouse of Karen Dritsas. Our prayers for strength and healing are going to Karen and to their extended families. A memorial service is scheduled on Saturday, May 21 at 2:00 pm.