Episcopal Community Services (ECS)
The Episcopal Church has always been a leader in the struggle to serve the poor based on Matthew 25:36-37
- feeding the hungry
- clothing the naked
- visiting the prisoners
- visiting the sick
- welcoming the stranger
In 1974, the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona confirmed God's identification with the poor and oppressed and the Gospel's mandate to reach out to those in need through the establishment of Episcopal Community Services of Arizona. Bishop George Selway, retired Bishop of Michigan, and former Dean of Trinity Cathedral, founded ECS at that time.
This ministry continues to serve the people of Arizona through the efforts of many remarkable men and women who have served as trustees, directors of ministries, donors, and volunteers.
The major focus of service for ECS currently is to provide grants for Episcopal Congregations and Agencies connected with the Episcopal Church who provide for the issues of the poor in Arizona.
Funding Criteria
ECS is looking for creative ministries that address the issues of the following:
- Advocacy
- Empowerment
- Justice
Advocacy
A ministry of advocacy is one that addresses the issues of poor and oppressed people who are in need of a voice for their situation or circumstances.
Empowerment
A ministry of empowerment focuses on educational endeavors that provide people with the skills needed to break the cycle of poverty.
Justice
This aspect of ministry addresses issues of injustice that may be leading to the plight of the poor and oppressed.
Your contribution makes possible ministries in the Diocese of Arizona such as:
- Education Programs for at risk children in Tucson
- Scholarship program for Sudanese College Students
- Reading Readiness Program in San Carlos Indian Reservation
- Parish Nurse & Health Program in Sedona
- Clinic for Cripple Children in Nogales
- Youth Empowerment Program in Tucson
- Food Banks in Benson
- Education Program in Prescott
- Native American Substance Abuse Program for Youth in Winslow
- Meals for Persons with HIV/AIDS in Tucson
- Refugee and Immigration Programs in Glendale, Phoenix, and Cave Creek
- Empowerment and Educational Programs in Tombstone
- Furniture for Families Transitioning From Homelessness in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area
Together We Can Make a Difference
The Rev. Canon Carmen B. Guerrero
ECS Executive Director
carmen@azdiocese.org
The Episcopal Diocese of Arizona
Phone: 602.254.0976
114 W. Roosevelt Street
Phoenix, AZ 85003-1406
FAX: 602.495.6603
