The Cactus & The Cross Blog

In March, we held our annual Volunteer Appreciation dinner where we celebrated the hundreds of volunteers who generously give thousands of hours each year at the shop and from home. According to IndependentSector.org , the value of a volunteer hour in Arizona was $34.49 in 2025. Those donated hours save the shop millions of dollars in salaries - money that can instead be granted to many West Valley non-profits.   Way to go, volunteers - that’s good business! Their generosity

Are you seeking a meaningful opportunity to help others? Participate in our Shower Ministry on Friday, March 13, from 9 am to noon , as we offer support and companionship to our unhoused neighbors in the community. This ministry goes beyond just providing hot showers. It focuses on respecting dignity, offering hospitality, and showing God’s love through small, compassionate gestures. In addition to showers, we supply hygiene items, clean towels, and—most importantly—a warm an

Last Soup Supper for Lent 🍲 Lent provides a time for reflection, community, and shared experiences, and we embrace this by gathering around the table. Every Wednesday during Lent, we meet for our Soup Suppers from 5–6 pm in the Chapel Area . We will enjoy simple meals, engage in meaningful conversations, and appreciate each other's presence as we prepare our hearts for Easter. Note: The Bell Choir will dine first and then go to practice. Could You Bring Soup or Bread? We in

There's something unique about gathering as a church family—not only for worship but also for service. On Saturday, March 21, starting at 8:00 am , we invite everyone to join us for our Church Work Day  as we collaborate to maintain and enhance our church property. This is a wonderful chance to serve together, connect with others in the congregation, and ensure our church campus remains clean, safe, and inviting for all who enter. Whether you like working outdoors, repairing

There’s something special about coming together as a church family—not just in worship, but in service as well. On Saturday, March 21, beginning at 8:00 am , we’re inviting everyone to take part in our Church Work Day  as we work together to care for and improve our church property. This will be a great opportunity to serve side by side, meet others in the congregation, and help keep our church campus clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone who walks through our doors. Whethe

Be Prepared. Be Confident. Be Ready. At St John’s , one of the most important responsibilities of our Ushers — and really, all members of our church family — is being prepared in case of an emergency. Whether it’s a medical situation during a service, a special event, or an unexpected incident, knowing what to do in those first critical moments can make all the difference. That’s why we’re hosting First Aid Training on Saturday, March 14 at 9:00 am , and we hope you’ll make e

Looking for a meaningful way to assist others? Join our Shower Ministry on Friday, March 13, from 9 am to noon , as we support and stand alongside our unhoused neighbors in the community. This ministry extends beyond offering hot showers. It emphasizes honoring dignity, providing hospitality, and demonstrating God’s love through simple, compassionate actions. Along with showers, we provide hygiene supplies, clean towels, and—most importantly—a welcoming and respectful presenc

Be Prepared. Be Confident. Be Ready. At St John’s , one of the most important responsibilities of our Ushers — and really, all members of our church family — is being prepared in case of an emergency. Whether it’s a medical situation during a service, a special event, or an unexpected incident, knowing what to do in those first critical moments can make all the difference. That’s why we’re hosting First Aid Training on Saturday, March 14 at 9:00 am , and we hope you’ll make e

Soup Suppers Are Here for Lent 🍲 Lent is a time for reflection, community, and a shared journey, and one way we experience this together is by gathering around the table. Starting on Wednesday, February 25 , we will meet each Wednesday during Lent for our Soup Suppers from 5:00–6:00 pm in the Chapel Area . We will enjoy simple food, engage in meaningful conversation, and spend time together as we prepare our hearts for Easter. Note: The Bell Choir will eat first and then pr

Spring is here, and before the weather gets too hot, now is the perfect time to do a little spring cleaning! As you sort through closets, garages, and kids’ rooms, you may find items that are no longer needed, no longer fit, or are simply taking up space. Those gently used treasures can become a blessing to others through the Lutheran Thrift Shop. Donating is a simple way to clear clutter while supporting a ministry that gives back to our community. Clothing, household items,