Mary Louise Frenchman might be “Pastor Frenchman” in professional circles. In more formal settings, some might introduce her as “the Rev. Mary Louise.” But to those who gather for worship and greet her almost daily on the streets of Phoenix, it’s “Big Mama.”

“We couldn’t survive without our grants… they’re the most fantastic thing in the world!” ELCA World Hunger announced recently that two ministries in the Grand Canyon Synod received Domestic Hunger Grants in 2022: Grace Lutheran Church in Phoenix and Native American Urban Ministry, also in Phoenix.

As one of the Grand Canyon Synod’s Global Engagement initiatives, this new ministry “table” brings together lay people across the synod who are interested in hunger issues within their communities.