Guest blogger Paul Westermann of University Lutheran Church in Tempe writes about his experience as an elections clerk.

As I reflect on the election results in our nation and in our swing-states synod, I recognize that emotions across our communities are varied and deeply felt. For some, there is joy and hope; for others, uncertainty and worry. In this moment, we turn our gaze once again toward Jesus, our unchanging source of comfort and strength in uncertain times.

The day after the 2024 presidential election, whether individually people experience joy or grief, Bishop Eaton reflects on the many expressions of our church being woven together as strands of a large tapestry. 2:07, recorded November 6, 2024.

A pictorial account of Solveig’s day as a poll monitor at South Phoenix Baptist Church.

During this election season and as we prepare to vote as part of our civic responsibility and commitment to the Gospel, Bishop Eaton reminds us, "We are not defined by our political affiliations but by our shared baptism and our commitment to the Gospel."

New! Filmed at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “What are your hopes post-election?” Length 1:23.

Tuesday, October 29th is the last day to mail your ballot! Read on to find drop-off locations and polling places for the election ~ 14 days away!

New! Filmed at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “Do you think you would vote differently if you weren’t a person of faith?” Length 1:24.

Join Arizona Faith Network and the Election Protection Arizona as a nonpartisan, volunteer poll monitor for the 2024 General Election! Sign up to be an EPAZ volunteer at allvoting.org/afn2024. Zoom-based training dates are on the form.

Why vote early? Early voting permits citizens to cast ballots in person at a polling place prior to an election. Is early voting right for you? See arguments for and against early voting.

As early voting begins in Arizona, and with early voting also beginning soon in Utah and Nevada, I want to reflect on the sacred responsibility we hold as citizens and people of faith. Our participation in the democratic process is not only a privilege but a duty—one that reflects our commitment to justice, peace, and the flourishing of all people.

The ELCA Civic Engagement and Voter Education Guide is a resource guide to encourage, empower and equip voter education and other responsible civic participation shaped by faith values. Now available in Spanish.

Lutherans have a history of civic engagement during election season, including being voting centers. Holy Trinity and Mountain View were two of 37 Lutheran congregations who offered their space at voting centers in Arizona’s 15 counties this year

New! Filmed at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “Why should Lutherans vote?” Features Bishop Eaton and more. Length 1:41.

Did you know that only 36% of registered voters cast their ballots in Arizona in 2020? For the 1 in 8 Arizonans and 1 in 5 kids across our state who are struggling with hunger, that matters. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get through until Election Day.

Another new voter engagement video from LAMA! Filmed on location at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, people of faith share their thoughts on the question, “What is your advice for someone who is on the fence about voting?” Length 1:21.

Check the date your ballot was sent to you, the date the ballot was returned and received by the County Recorder, and whether your ballot was accepted and signature verified.