Friends of St. Francis Special Events
At St. Francis, community extends beyond our walls.
Friends of St. Francis highlights events, gatherings, and opportunities hosted by our ministry partners, community groups, and members—both on our campus and throughout the wider community. These offerings reflect the shared spirit of connection, creativity, and care that lives within and alongside St. Francis.
From workshops and support groups to arts events, service opportunities, and community initiatives, these gatherings create space for people to come together in meaningful ways.
Whether you are looking to engage more deeply, explore something new, or simply connect with others, we invite you to discover what our extended community is offering and find a place to participate.
May
Hope Lab
A Bright Side Practice
Presented By Shar and Stephen Budd
Six Wednesdays, Start May 6th
at 10:00am
in Room 50
Move forward with intention, clarity, and an optimistic outlook.
Focus, by moving forward with purpose rather than dwelling on the past.
Activities, including guided discussions, collaborative topic planning, and practical resources.
Integration, as each session includes brief, accessible breath work or movement to ground the nervous system.
Join us to grow is this supportive space for growth and connection as we explore and navigate life's changes with intention.
Facilitated by Stephen Budd, a Tucson-based couples coach and mentor for young adults. A semi-retired psychotherapist with nearly 14 years in private practice. Trained at the Arizona Children's Association and holding a masters in Social Work from Arizona State University; his work focused on families, children, and depression. Today, he helps individuals and couples cultivate positive, hopeful, and forward looking lives.
Dreaming Through Grief:
A Jungian Workshop
Presented By The Learning Community
Saturday, May 16th
at 9:00am
in the Community Hall
In this experiential workshop, led by Charles Gillispie, we will explore the powerful role dreams play in the grieving process. Together, we will examine how dreams - or the absence of dreams - can provide comfort, insight, and emotional healing.
We will learn and practice a flexible approach to dream work, grounded in Jungian principles. Through carefully selected case studies, demonstration, and hands-on practice, participants will learn techniques to support people who are navigating loss and life transitions.
Participants are warmly invited to share experiences, ask questions, and explore dreams in a safe, supportive environment.
Charles Gillispie is a licensed counselor and a certified spiritual director with a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Arizona. He has published articles and poems exploring themes of love, loss, and grief.
520 Mayan Wisdoms Revealed
Presented By Jose Muñoz
Saturday, May 23rd
10:00am
in the Community Hall
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
A transformative guide to ancestral harmony, body, heart, and soul.
Join Jose Muñoz, a spiritual guide, ceremonial leader, and calendar time keeper of the new 26,000-year Cycle of the Sixth Sun, on a transformative journey.
The Building of the Southern Pacific Railroad Through Arizona & It’s Chinese Workers
Presented By Sandy Chan
Sunday, May 24th
at 11:00am
in Room 50
This presentation explores the often-overlooked story of the Chinese workers who played a vital role in building the Southern Pacific Railroad through Arizona.
Through a closer look at their day-to-day lives, we will gain insight into the challenges, resilience, and contributions of these laborers as they worked under demanding conditions to help shape the region’s infrastructure. Their experiences offer a deeper understanding of both the human side of railroad construction and the broader historical forces at work during this period of expansion.
In addition to personal and cultural perspectives, the presentation will also examine the history of the Southern Pacific Railroad as it moved through Arizona—highlighting its impact on communities, economic development, and the growth of the state.
Join us for an opportunity to learn, reflect, and honor the stories of those whose work helped lay the foundation for modern Arizona.