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A diverse body of religious leaders in Arizona led an Interfaith Prayer Service for the dignity and recognition of immigrants on the Arizona State Capitol Senate Lawn on Tuesday, April 4. Bishop Minerva Carcano of the Desert Southwest Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church; Bishop Gerald Kicanas of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson, Bishop Kirk Smith of the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona, Father Tim Conlon of the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, Rabbi Peter Levi, and Imam Didmar Faja of the Albanian American Islamic Center of Arizona called for moderation and civility in the dialogue about immigration.
The mixed multitude 1,000 strong prayed for leadership with a vision that addresses the complexities of the immigration issue with a positive, uplifting approach that respects and values the lives of all people. The Prayer Service on the Capitol Lawn, entitled "Together in Prayer and Action," recognized and celebrated the contributions of immigrants who enhance, not diminish, our country. Immigrants from several generations and countries recounted their stories. All of the faith traditions present led the assembly in prayers calling for solidarity among the people of God.
At the conclusion of the Prayer Service, participants were invited to sign letters calling for comprehensive and compassionate immigration reform and to encourage State Legislators to lead our community and not divide it. After the service, the leadership team delivered the letters to Senate President Ken Bennett, House Speaker Jim Weiers and Governor Janet Napolitano.
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