June 2, 2024

Diocese of Los Angeles representatives to the Triennial, a gathering of Episcopal Church Women that will run concurrently with General Convention, are, from left: Christine Budzowski, Kimberly Cortner, Martha Estes, Sheila Lowerre and Tammy Smecker-Hane.

Five official Diocese of Los Angeles reps prepare to attend Triennial meeting alongside General Convention

By Pat McCaughan

[The Episcopal News – May 29, 2024] The Diocese of Los Angeles will be well-represented at the 151st Triennial – the every-three- years gathering of women from across the worldwide Anglican Communion slated for June 22-28 in Louisville, Kentucky, in conjunction with the 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church.

“Early on, before women could serve as clergy or deputies to the General Convention, [the Triennial] provided an opportunity for women throughout the church to come together, raise their voices, share dreams and ideas, network, and support one another in ministry and calling,” according to Christine Budzowski, diocesan Episcopal Church Women president, who will lead the Los Angeles delegation.

The cancellations of Triennial meetings in 202l and 2022 have increased the anticipation and excitement surrounding this year’s gathering, she said. “So much has changed Churchwide due to Covid-19, … that I look forward to seeing where we are now and how we can support the church’s women and their ministries in new ways,” Budzowski said.

She will be joined by: Kimberly Cortner, president of the diocesan Order of the Daughters of the King; Tammy Smecker-Hane, diocesan United Thank Offering coordinator; Canon Martha Estes, Province VIII ECW president; and Sheila Lowerre, incoming diocesan DOK president.

Diocese seeks communications coordinator

The Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles is seeking a communications coordinator skilled in social media, digital publications, and news reporting and editing.

A description of the full-time diocesan staff position is here. Qualified applicants are asked to email a resumé and cover letter to Canon Anilin Collado, diocesan missioner for human resources, before June 30.

The communications coordinator will succeed Canon Janet Kawamoto, who has announced her retirement after 22 years on the diocesan staff, serving as editor of The Episcopal News and producing other diocesan media. Kawamoto will be recognized at Diocesan Convention for her decades of outstanding service which began in 1981 when she served as communications assistant through 1985.

Based at St. Paul’s Commons in Echo Park, the new coordinator will work with continuing staff members Canon for Common Life Bob Williams, who oversees the diocesan communications department, and the Rev. Canon Pat McCaughan, longtime senior writer for the Episcopal News and editor of the Angelus clergy community newsletter. Advising the work of the department is the diocesan Program Group on Communications and Public Affairs.

LA City Council honors HFS Adoption and Foster Care on 75th anniversary

The Los Angeles City Council honored HFS Adoption & Foster Care – an institution of the Diocese of Los Angeles – on May 28 in honor of the agency’s 75th anniversary.

Julie Brown, executive director, told the council that HFS is the oldest adoption agency in Los Angeles, started in the downtown area with the help of entertainer Bob Hope and his wife, Dolores after she witnessed a heartbreaking scene of a young birth mother giving up her baby, never to see the child again.

“In 1949, Dolores and her husband Bob founded Holy Family Services with a mission to destigmatize adoption and provide birth mothers with the dignity and respect they deserved,” Brown said. The agency has facilitated more than 7,500 adoptions.

HFS was operated by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles until 2007, when it joined the Episcopal diocese, allowing the organization “to further embrace the values of diversity, inclusion, and equality – especially for those in the LGBTQIA+ community,” Brown said.

Councilmember Kevin De Leon said, “Julie’s leadership, and that of the entire organization, have made HFS the most distinguished adoption and foster care agencies in Southern California.

“Let me just say – one of the most distinguishing services at HFS is their commitment to providing lifetime counseling services to birth mothers. This unique aspect of their mission ensures that birth mothers receive continuous support and never feel abandoned. … It is this compassionate approach that truly sets HFS apart from other adoption agencies and highlights their dedication to holistic, empathetic care.

‘On behalf of the City of Los Angeles, we extend our deepest gratitude to HFS Adoption & Foster Care. Your unwavering commitment to children and families has made our city and our world a better place.’

Attending the city council meeting, in addition to Brown, were HFS staff members Xenia Valle, clinical social worker and Jazmin Gutierrez, administration assistant; board of directors members Elaine Tumonis, vice-president, and Ryan Harlow-Nakano; and HFS adoptive family Tim Smithers – himself an adoptee – and Lilia Smithers and their adopted son, Toby.

Local Episcopal school celebrates 55th anniversary with Carnegie Hall performance

The choir and orchestra of St. James’ School, Los Angeles, recently travelled to New York to perform at Carnegie Hall in celebration of the school’s 55th year.

The group of elementary school students and alumni were accompanied and directed by teachers Ji Have Lee and Luisa Cartagena, with the support of Peter Reinke, retiring head of school, and other senior administrators – and plenty of proud parents in the audience.

Photos courtesy of Luisa Cartagena and St. James’ School, Los Angeles

Kaleidoscope announces new leadership training programs

The Kaleidoscope Institute, which trains leaders to create gracious space for courageous conversations and consulting to heal and transform organizations, has announced several summer training programs. Full information and details can be found here. www.kscopeinstitute.org/events

TUESDAYS, JUNE 25 and JULY 2, 4 - 6 p.m.

Conversation Guide Training

Via Zoom

Information/Registration

This training provides the opportunity to learn and practice the basic Kaleidoscope Institute tools to build more inclusive and participatory communities. We recommend this training for those who want to run better meetings, facilitate challenging conversations, or simply make sure everyone gets truly heard in a conversation. Participation in both sessions is required. (An additional training will be held on Aug. 24 and Sept. 7, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.)

TUESDAYS, JULY 9, 16, 23 and 30, 4 - 6 p.m.

Facilitator Training Tuesdays

Via Zoom

Information/Registration

This facilitator training will provide resources to coordinate and facilitate inclusive small group dialogue using the KI gracious leadership tools, skills and processes. Also, it will equip you with tools to learn how to invite people to come to an initial dialogue, designed to achieve mutual understanding through deep listening. This training event will provide KI resources for your work and ministries and for building and nurturing relationships in your congregation. It is necessary to attend all four sessions. (Another training is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 14 - Oct. 5, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.)

TUESDAYS, 9 a.m.

Kaleidoscope Bible Sharing for Preachers

Via Zoom

Information/Registration

Are you a preacher? Come spend an hour each week with KI founder and innovator the Rev. Dr. Eric H. F. Law to listen and reflect on a lectionary text for the upcoming Sunday, in preparation for preaching in a multi-contextual community. This weekly gathering of the preaching community will use a combination of the multi-contextual preaching model Law shared in his book, The Word at the Crossing and the Kaleidoscope Bible Sharing process.

Update begins summer schedule

This week the Episcopal News Update launches its summer biweekly schedule while looking toward its daily coverage of the 81st General Convention of The Episcopal Church, to be held June 22 - 28 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Summer publication schedule:

June 16 (publication June 12)
General Convention daily reports from Louisville (The Update will be on hiatus for the week of General Convention)
July 7 (publication July 3)
July 21 (publication July 17)
August 4 (publication July 31)

The regular weekly schedule will resume with the Aug. 18 (publication Aug. 14).

News and calendar items for consideration may be emailed to editor@ladiocese.org. Deadline is Tuesday at noon.

The Bishop's Blog ( Additional entries are here)

Visiting All Saints by-the-Sea, Santa Barbara

May 27, 2024

Over 150 strong this week, the people of All Saints by the Sea Episcopal Church in Montecito warmly welcomed Canon Kathy Hannigan O'Connor and me at a festive Trinity Sunday confirmation service. It felt different than last time, when the saints were recovering from serial crises. Before we got there this week, I reviewed my sermon notes from my prior visitation in November 2021. They read like a wartime dispatch. Stay the course. Put your neighbor first. Wear your mask. Save your bacon grease and old tires. Two years before COVID, the parish had been at the epicenter of deadly mudslides.

Beatles and goslings

May 23, 2024

When the Beatles recorded the album containing “Twist And Shout” at Abbey Road studios in London in February 1963, John Lennon had just come off the road with a wicked cold. At the end of a 12-hour session, though he’d been lashing it with milk all day, his voice was shot. They got the song in one take just before midnight. It was all he had left. He never liked it. Raw and rough, smooth and fluid, incredibly powerful, it’s a lava milkshake, like the fire that touched Isaiah’s lips but didn’t burn. It’s one of the greatest vocals ever.

People

Service of ordination slated for June 8 at St. John’s Cathedral

Bishop John Harvey Taylor will ordain three and receive one to the Sacred Order of Deacons at a service at St. John’s Cathedral at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 8.

The ordinands are: Margaret Stivers of St. Richard of Chichester Church, Lake Arrowhead; Michael Mischler of St. James’ Church, South Pasadena; and Karen James of The Church of the Epiphany, Oak Park.

Hart Roussel of St. Andrew’s, Fullerton, who was formerly ordained in another tradition, will be received as a deacon of The Episcopal Church.

The prayers and presence of the diocesan community are invited. The cathedral is located at 514 West Adams Blvd., Los Angeles 90007.

This week

St. Francis’ Church hosts 53rd annual Palos Verdes Antiques Show and Sale

St. Francis' Episcopal Church will host the 53rd Palos Verdes Antiques Show and Sale, its annual fundraiser, on Thursday and Friday, May 30 - 31, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., and Saturday, June 1, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The popular three-day event features top dealers from Northern and Southern California and—who will display and sell a dazzling array of 18th, 19th and early 20th Century furniture, silver, prints, jewelry, china, pottery, rugs, Asian antiques, vintage Americana and more. In addition to the antiques, the show features the Harvest Cupboard with tasty homemade offerings; the Garden Gazebo with plants and ornaments; patio luncheons; and English afternoon tea.

Ricardo, of his award-winning nursery, will share gardening tips on Thursday at 3 p.m. Comedian Lynn Chichi will perform her hilarious “Chichi’s Table Talk” on Friday at 3 p.m. (during afternoon tea). Admission is $10 with return privileges, and parking is free. The Opening Night Preview Party will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets for the preview are $50 presale, $75 at the door.

For more information and tickets, call 310.375.4617 or visit the parish website.

GLEAM annual Garden Party celebrating LGBTQIA+ ministry returns to Pasadena June 2

GLEAM, the LGBTQIA+ ministry of the Diocese of Los Angeles, invites all to its annual Garden Party, an afternoon of food, fun and fundraising on Sunday, June 2, 2 - 4 p.m. at the episcopal residence, the Pasadena home of Bishop John Harvey Taylor and Canon Kathy O'Connor.

This year will mark the return of the Garden Party Hat Contest, with prizes given in the following categories:

Garden Party Chic (best use of flowers)
True Colors (best use of Pride colors)
Make A Statement (best message or theme)
Dynamic Duo (matching hats)
Hat-A-Tude (best upcycled or handmade hat).

A suggested donation of $40 includes admission and two drink tickets. Cash, checks and credit will be accepted at the door. All are invited, including the LGBTQIA+ community and allies.

Reservations are required; the address will be provided to those who register here. An invitation in Spanish is here.

Events & Announcements

Jubilee Consortium seeks young people to join food justice ministry

The Jubilee Consortium, a ministry of the Diocese of Los Angeles based in Hollywood, invites young people ages 21 - 29 who are passionate about food justice to join its 2024 - 2025 JYLA Food Justice Corps.

Applicants who live in Los Angeles County, have at least a high school diploma or GED, and are interested in food justice issues, inspired to serve and be a change maker, and interested in living simply in community with fellow corps members are invited to apply.

The year-long program begins in August 2024 and will end in July 2025. Corps members work four days each week, with one day of learning and training each week covering topics such as composting, produce dehydration, food safety, urban agriculture, social enterprise and more. They will receive several certifications throughout the year, including that of Master Gardener through a University of California program. Several retreats will be held throughout the year.

Corps members will receive an $800 per month stipend, plus free housing (or housing stipend), utilities and transportation, basic healthcare, and the support of staff and mentors.

For information, email junmey@jubileeconsortium.org. (Right-click on image to download flyer.)

St. Mark’s School, Altadena, offers full scholarships for underserved children

St. Mark’s School, Altadena, in partnership with The Children’s Education Initiative (TCEI), a non-profit organization, is offering a rare opportunity to children in underserved communities: full scholarships to its highly rated elementary school.

The scholarships, which are available for children entering kindergarten in the Fall, will cover 100% of tuition and other associated fees such as childcare and uniforms.

Saint Mark’s is an independent Episcopal school for students in preschool through grade 6, located at 1050 E Altadena Drive, Altadena 91001 (at the corner of Lake Avenue and Altadena Drive). Parents or guardians of prospective students are invited to call Maggie Young at 626.798.8858 to set up a school tour, and to visit the school website to apply. Families will be asked to fill out a tuition assistance application. Translation services and support available.

Teresa of Avila book by San Diego priest to be launched June 6 at Westwood event

Laurel Mathewson, an Episcopal priest and co-rector of St. Luke's North Park in San Diego, will launch her new book, An Intimate Good: A Skeptical Christian Mystic in Conversation with Teresa of Avila, on Thursday, June 6 in the Wesley room at Westwood United Methodist Church, 10497 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles.

When Mathewson was 21, the pain of losing her mother to cancer, along with “a naturally skeptical and questioning outlook,” sent her on a years-long existential journey. Along the way, she unexpectedly experienced an overwhelming sense of God's love and discovered a surprising affinity with the 16th-century Spanish saint, Teresa of Avila. An Intimate Good, which has a foreword by Sojourner founder Jim Wallis, is “a moving memoir about the upheaval of loss, and the dawning discovery that God is near, God loves us, and God is good.”

Westwood Church and The Loft pastor Molly Vetter will be in conversation with the author about this newly-released book and the ideas behind it.

Mathewson also recently published a new edition of St. Teresa of Avila's masterpiece, The Interior Castle: Exploring a Spiritual Classic as a Modern Reader.

Bloy House announces June training classes for lay ministers

Bloy House, the Episcopal Theological School at Los Angeles, offers a range of classes for lay leaders and ministers that will qualify them to be licensed in a variety of roles, including chaplain, lay eucharistic minister, eucharistic visitor, preacher, evangelist, catechist, pastoral leader, or worship leader.

Classes to be offered in June include:

SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Anti-Racism Training for Lay Licensing

Bloy House

1300 E. Colorado Street, Glendale 91205

Instructor: Canon Suzanne-Edwards Acton, founder of My Work To Do

Anti-racism was made a requirement for lay licensing by our diocese in response to an effort by the national church to encourage these discussions in local settings for those in lay leadership. The purpose of this class, based on the nationally recognized My Work To Do program, is to help participants learn how to talk about issues of systemic racism. Lunch will be provided. This class, or equivalent anti-racism training, is required for all licensed lay ministries.

THURSDAYS, JUNE 6, 13, 20, 27, 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Episcopal Identity

Via Zoom; Register

Facilitated by the Very Rev. Gary Hall, president, and Linda Allport, dean of Bloy House

How would you describe the modern Episcopal Church - its theology, its worship and community, its history, its organization, and what you love about it - to a friend who has never experienced it? In this deeper dive than confirmation class, even cradle Episcopalians will learn something new about our church. For those in lay ministry, it provides the foundation for all ministry, where we live out our baptismal vows and represent the values of the Episcopal Church. This class is required for all licensed lay ministries, except Eucharistic Minister, for which it is recommended.

SATURDAYS, JUNE 8, 15, 22, 9 – 11 a.m.

Deacons: Who, What, Why -

An Introduction to the Sacred Order of the Deacons

Via Zoom: Register

Facilitator: The Rev. Dennis Sheridan, Ph.D., a professor emeritus of Azusa Pacific University and Episcopal deacon since 2014.

Three 2-hour sessions will offer a glimpse into the life and history of the diaconate. We’ll answer the questions: What does it mean to be a deacon today? How do I know that I am called? What are the steps for getting there? Participants will hear stories about deacons who act as the bridge between the church and the world and learn about the distinctive diaconal voice. Recommended for those discerning a call to ordained ministry.

There is a $25 fee for each course. Additional information, full course descriptions and information about lay licensing programs, as well as the Spanish-language Instituto de Liderazgo, may be found here.

Camp Stevens summer camp sessions are filling up: Register now

Summer sessions for children at Camp Stevens, the diocesan facility in Julian, California, are filling up fast; the first three sessions are already fully booked.

Camp sessions will be held the following weeks:

Session 1: June 23 – June 28, ages 8-15 FULL
Session 2: July 7 – July 12, ages 8-15 FULL
Session 3: July 14 – July 19, ages 8-15 FULL
Session 4: July 21 – July 26, ages 8-15 - OPEN
Session 5 (International Odyssey): July 28 – August 3, ages 12-17 - OPEN

"At Camp Stevens, our program isn’t built around crafts and activities: it’s built around people," camp staffers wrote on Facebook. "Each member of the group brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that shape a one-of-a-kind experience each week.

"The job of our staff is to facilitate creative outdoor play that builds belonging and fosters connection. On a given day, an adventure group might tackle a team building challenge, paint watercolors out by the pond, explore off trail and find a clearing to build forts in, hop in the pool at free time, visit with the camp farm animals, and watch shooting stars as they drift off to sleep. As our returning campers and staff have shared: there’s always more to see and explore but what makes it really special are the people you’re there with."

For full information and registration, visit the website. A few openings are available for Counselor Training, for campers age 16 and up who would like to be considered for summer camp counseling positions (June 16 - 21). Information and application forms are here.

Seminary in Puerto Rico offers language courses this summer

This June, San Pedro y San Pablo seminary of the Diocese of Puerto Rico will offer “Verano en Español,” an immersive Spanish program designed to equip non-Spanish speakers with the tools to confidently express themselves in the language.

Students may choose between two modalities tailored to their needs; a brief immersion in conversational Spanish or a comprehensive deep dive into the language and culture. Students will connect effectively with Spanish-speaking communities, enrich their ministry outreach, and build meaningful relationships.

For more information and registration, email to seminario@episcopalpr.org.

Early childhood educators invited to summer institute in San Juan Capistrano

[The Episcopal News – March 20, 2024] Registration is now open for the inaugural St. Margaret’s Summer Institute for early childhood education, to be held June 14 - 15 at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church and School in San Juan Capistrano.

The institute will bring together early childhood educators, administrators and policy makers over two days to explore and elevate the quality and excellence of early childhood education. Attendees will explore the essential role of play in early childhood education, diving into the latest research, methodologies and best practices.

Episcopal schools teachers and administrators are especially invited and encouraged to attend, according to the Rev. Ryan Newman, executive director of the diocesan Commission on Schools.

Date set for 2024 Episcopal-Lutheran Night at Dodger Stadium

Episcopalians are invited to join their Lutheran siblings at Episcopal-Lutheran Night at Dodger Stadium on Friday, Sept. 6 at 7 p.m.

The Dodgers will play the Cleveland Guardians. Tickets will be $35. Fireworks and a drone show are scheduled after the game.

More information has been sent to clergy and lay leaders, who will work with congregation-level coordinators to collect ticket orders, according to the Rev. Canon Greg Larkin, Dodger night coordinator.

From the wider church

General Convention worship will feature five joint services, a variety of styles and voices

By Melodie Woerman

[Episcopal News Service_ May 29, 2024] Official worship during the six legislative days of the 81st General Convention during its June 23-28 meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, will feature three joint services of the Holy Eucharist and two Morning Prayer services, as well as Morning Prayer in the meeting spaces of the House of Deputies and the House of Bishops on June 27.

“Our worship is the heartbeat of our convention, a time when we are drawn into the presence of God as one united family,” Presiding Bishop Michael Curry said, in a preface to the worship services booklet. He added, “We eagerly anticipate the blessings and transformations that will unfold as we worship God during our time together. May the Holy Spirit move among us, empowering us to live out the theme of our gathering — Together in Love.”

Young Adult Caucus’ letter urges reforms of church’s Title IV clergy disciplinary process

By David Paulsen

[Episcopal News Service – May 29, 2024] The House of Deputies’ Young Adult Caucus has issued a letter to the 81st General Convention amplifying churchwide calls for reform of The Episcopal Church’s Title IV disciplinary canons for bishops and other clergy.

The letter, submitted as a memorial resolution, expresses “grave concern” about the current state of clergy discipline “and the inconsistent application of the canons that has been observed throughout the church over many years.” An online hearing on the resolution was held May 28 by the bishops’ and deputies’ Title IV legislative committees.

Eva Warren, a Diocese of Ohio deputy and chair of the Young Adult Caucus, testified in support of the resolution, saying its goal was to highlight key weaknesses of the Title IV canons and underscore areas of potential reform.

Committees approve ongoing dialogue with United Methodist Church, with goal of full communion

By Melodie Woerman

[Episcopal News Service – May 28, 2024] General Convention’s committees on Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations on May 24 adopted a resolution that celebrates the United Methodist Church’s recent decision to remove restrictions on LGBTQ+ clergy and calls for continuing dialogue and additional planning before The Episcopal Church would vote on full communion.

The resolution, a substitute to Resolution A049, celebrates the historic votes taken by the United Methodist Church during their recent General Conference, while also setting out needed action before The Episcopal Church would vote on full communion.

New Jersey removes old swastika symbols from diocesan building’s floor

By Mary Frances Schjonberg

[Episcopal News Service – May 28, 2024] Work is underway to remove 1920s-era tiles bearing swastikas – once a symbol of welcome and prosperity – from the floor of a Diocese of New Jersey building.

“Regardless of its history, the continued existence of a symbol of hatred and oppression in one of our primary meeting spaces is unacceptable,” Bishop Sally French wrote to the diocese earlier this month. “It is harmful to those who have experienced racism and bias. It is shocking to guests and newcomers who do not expect to see such a symbol at the heart of our Diocesan House.”

The centuries-old holy symbol was historically used by Hindus, Jains, Buddhists and some Indigenous peoples before Nazis adopted it as a symbol of racial hatred.

For more churchwide stories, visit Episcopal News Service here. General Convention-related stories may be found here.

General Convention 2024

Planning under way for 81st General Convention:

Episcopal Church provides information, resources

The 81st meeting of General Convention will convene June 23 - 28 in Louisville, Kentucky.

A major portion of its business will be the election of the 28th presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church to succeed the Most Rev. Michael Curry, who will conclude his nine-year term in November of this year. On April 2 the nominating committee announced its slate: Bishop J. Scott Barker of Nebraska, Bishop Daniel G.P. Gutiérrez of Pennsylvania, Bishop Sean Rowe of Northwestern Pennsylvania, and Bishop Robert Wright of Atlanta. (Read more here.) A fifth candidate, Bishop DeDe Duncan-Probe of Central New York, was added by petition. (Read more here.)

More about General Convention and Diocese of Los Angeles representation is here. This article is updated occasionally as new information becomes available.

Calendar

THURSDAYS, 7 p.m.

Episcopal Students of UCLA

St. Alban's Episcopal Church

580 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles

Information: episcopalstudentsucla@gmail.com

We are a group of Christians, looking to further our relationship with God and strengthen our bonds in Christian community. Meeting in the library at St. Alban's Episcopal Church (right near campus), we are a welcoming community whose goal is to live out the truth of the gospel through spiritual growth, community experience, and service.

FRIDAYS, 6 - 7 p.m.

Vigil for Peace

St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church

3233 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, 92625

Join us every Friday in the St. Michael’s sanctuary and on Zoom as we pray for peace in our community and around the world. Log-in information here (see "Weekly Worship"), or join on Facebook Live.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 3 p.m.

Benefit Concert

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

100 N. Third Avenue, Covina 91723

The University of La Verne Chamber Singers (under the direction of Ariel Pisturino) will perform a concert of beautiful Renaissance music to raise funds for their upcoming Germany & Czechia Tour. A suggested donation of $20 is requested. All donations go directly to choir tour costs.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1, 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 3 p.m.

The Orange County Women’s Chorus: 'Wings'

St. Wilfrid of York Episcopal Church

18631 Chapel Lane, Huntington Beach 92646

Tickets

Join the Orange County Women’s Chorus for a soaring musical journey celebrating the theme of taking flight in their season finale concert. Experience the exhilarating music that will accompany the group during their upcoming tour to Croatia this summer, providing a glimpse of the captivating melodies they will perform abroad. The choir’s voices will bring to life stories of travel, adventure, and creatures of the sky. Tickets $30 Seniors (65+) $25; students (with ID); $15.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 4 p.m.

Choral Evensong with Epiphany Parish Choir and Schola

Church of the Epiphany

5450 Churchwood Drive, Oak Park 91377

Information here or music@tcote.org or 818.991.4797

The upsurge in popularity of Choral Evensong has led an Oxford University researcher to study how and why this service meets the varied needs of those who attend. Is it the beauty of the music? The quiet, reflective atmosphere? The evocative language and rhythm of the liturgy? Or maybe it is the mystery and wisdom, the possibility of peace, meditation, and spiritual enrichment; a space for anonymity – a time to “lighten the darkness”? Answer these questions for yourself by joining us for this timeless service, led by Epiphany’s Parish Choir and Schola.

SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 5 p.m.

Songs of Freedom: A Joyous Celebration of Spirituals and Gospel Music

All Saints Church

132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101

Information: Merry Simkins, msimkins@allsaints-pas.org or 626.583.2733

Join us as the Canterbury and Coventry Choirs in a powerful tribute to this cherished and uniquely American musical tradition; a soul-stirring performance filled with uplifting melodies and infectious rhythms. With the addition of a dynamic rhythm section, the energy and excitement of the evening will soar to new heights. Featuring soloists Michal Connor, Stephen McDonough, and guest soloist Maiya Sykes. Accompanied by Dwayne Swan on Hammond organ, David Otis on saxophone, Oskar Cartaya on bass, and Dave Tull on drums. See the flyer here.

THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 7 p.m.

Taizé Heartfulness Prayer Service

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

428 Park Avenue, Laguna Beach 92651

Join St. Mary’s on the first Thursday of each month for this service in the style of France’s Taizé monastery.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Pride Festival

St. Hilary's Episcopal Church

11305 Hesperia Road, Hesperia 92345

Free admission. Join us for a vibrant marketplace, with arts and crafts from local vendors and food trucks with delicious offerings. Also find health and wellness resources, including health screening. Also featuring free Mom hugs, as well as raffles and giveaways.

SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 4 p.m.

Antonio Vivaldi's Gloria

St. Cross Episcopal Church

1818 Monterey Blvd., Hermosa Beach

St. Cross Choir, soloists and orchestra presents this multi-movement musical setting of the "Gloria in excelsis Deo" text. There is no charge, but a free-will offering will be taken to benefit the music program at St. Cross.

TUESDAY, JUNE 11, 7 - 8 p.m.

A Pentecost Taizé

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

525 E. 7th Street, Long Beach 90813

Information: 562.436.4047

St. Luke’s invites all to this quiet hour of prayer, chant and renewal. Taizé services will be held online throughout the year. Online services available here or by joining on Zoom (Meeting ID: 864 4405 5548, Password 525).

THURSDAY, JUNE 13, 7 p.m.

A Pentecost Taizé

St. Andrew's Episcopal Church

1432 Engracia Avenue, Torrance 90501

The mutual ministry of St. Andrew's and Christ Church, Redondo Beach, invite all to this monthly candlelit service of music, meditation and prayer. Taizé services will be held in-person or online throughout the year. Online services available here.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19, 7 – 8:30 p.m.

The Welcome Table: A Christian Spiritual Gathering for the LGBTQ+ Community and Our Allies

Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church

24901 Orchard Village Road, Santa Clarita 91355

Information: 661.259.7307 or here

The Welcome Table is an experience created by and for the LGBTQ+ community. Gather with us as we eat, pray, sing, discuss, share communion, celebrate diversity and explore our faith community as our true, authentic selves. Come as you are, this place is for you.

THURSDAY, JULY 4, 7 p.m.

Taizé Heartfulness Prayer Service

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

428 Park Avenue, Laguna Beach 92651

Join St. Mary’s on the first Thursday of each month for this service in the style of France’s Taizé monastery.

Events to be included in the online diocesan calendar and the Update may be emailed to editor@ladiocese.org.

Opportunities

VOLUNTEER

Immigration & Refugee ministry

IRIS (Interfaith Refugee & Immigration Service)

3621 Brunswick Ave., Los Angeles 90039

Support is needed more than ever for newly arrived refugee and immigrant neighbors. Community members can volunteer with IRIS in many ways, from one-off or short-term opportunities, such as greeting newcomers at the airport, to donation coordination, transportation, translation, and more. For those interested in even deeper client connections, don't hesitate to ask about mentorship opportunities. Proficiency in Spanish, Arabic, Farsi (and other languages) is desirable, but not required, for some volunteer positions. A background check will be conducted for volunteers working directly with clients. Contact Ruben Tomasian at rtomasian@ladiocese.org. IRIS, a non-profit organization, is a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles, and an affiliate of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Through refugee resettlement, immigration legal services, and organized community involvement, IRIS helps immigrants and refugees reach self-sufficiency. Check the website for more information.

Food Pantry

Our Saviour Center

4368 Santa Anita Avenue, El Monte

With lower pandemic numbers and everyone back at school and work our Food Pantry is in need of volunteers. Lend a hand on Tuesdays and Thursdays and the second and fourth Saturdays of each month from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m., rain or shine, to help us help the neediest families in our community. Volunteers should be age 16 and up. Street parking is available on Santa Anita, McGirk and Lambert avenues. Please wear a mask. All activities are outdoors; dress appropriately and wear close-toed shoes. For information or to sign up (not required), email info@our-center.org.

PILGRIMAGES, RETREATS & TRAVEL

FULLY SUBSCRIBED: WAITING LIST ONLY

October 7 – 17, 2024

Italy Pilgrimage

Join the Rev. Steve De Muth and the Rev. Barrett Van Buren for an 11-day pilgrimage across Italy. We will visit Venice, Florence, Assisi, and Rome. The tour price includes roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles, first class/select hotels, most meals, professional tour director, comprehensive sightseeing, all hotel service charges and local taxes, porterage and entrance fees. Cost is $4,549 per person from Los Angeles including $520 taxes/airline surcharges. For information, contact Steve De Muth, 100 N. Third Ave., Covina, CA 91723 or 626.967.3939 or padresteve@holytrinitycovina.com. A full itinerary is here.

EMPLOYMENT

Listings may be sent to news@ladiocese.org. There is no charge.

LAGUNA HILLS: Church Administrator, St. George’s Episcopal Church. Part time (15-19 hours/week), to begin work in late May 2024. Areas of responsibility: communications, administration, membership, facilities management, and IT. We seek a dynamic self-starter who can implement technological, operational, and systemic changes to help the church better serve the community. This position reports to the vicar and offers opportunity for creativity and leadership. The right candidate will thrive as the primary point of contact at the church, ideally 4-5 days per week, 3-4 hours per day (we are open to flexible scheduling). Full job description here. To apply, email resume and cover letter to the Rev. Pat McCaughan, vicar, at revpatmccaughan@aol.com.

LONG BEACH: Music Director. St. Luke’s Church / Iglesia de San Lucas looks forward to welcoming a creative collaborator and team player, someone who is passionate about music as a vehicle for spiritual growth and who views their music performance as a spiritual practice. The music director will lead a diverse and dynamic music program that is central to our identity as a parish, enhances our worship experience, and supports us in our aspirations to become a Beloved Community. For more information, please see the job description, which also includes information on how to apply.

LOS ANGELES: Development Coordinator. IRIS (Interfaith Refugee & Immigration Service, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles) seeks to hire a full-time development coordinator (our first) as we expand and reorganize as an independent non-profit after nearly 20 years as a successful, fiscally sponsored agency. This position requires a seasoned, confident, and humble professional who thrives in a thoroughly cross-cultural environment and measures her/his/their success by helping others to achieve their own. Full information, job description and application information are here.

LOS ANGELES: Episcopal Hospital Chaplain, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, 1225 Wilshire Boulevard. Full time, salaried. Reporting to one of our department supervisors or managers, this position provides spiritual support to patients, their loved ones, and staff in our hospitals. This chaplain serves people of all belief systems (religious and non-religious), and provides or arranges special rites and rituals as requested by patients and/or surrogates. Full job description and information here.

PASADENA: Director of Children, Youth & Families Ministry, All Saints Church, a progressive and dynamic Episcopal Church rooted in a tradition of intellectual engagement and enrichment, and fully committed to offering a deeply fulfilling worship experience. All Saints core values are Radical Inclusion, Courageous Justice, Joyful Spirituality and Ethical Stewardship. All Saints is seeking a leader who will make the love of God real and meaningful for all children, youth and families; to continue to grow an engaging, empowering, compassionate, and listening space for all young people to explore faith and how it relates to their inner lives and the lives of the world around them. This position oversees all department activities for children, youth and families, coordinates with an engaged group of volunteers, and represents children, youth and families on parish and community committees. Job description here.

STUDIO CITY: Organist. St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church is seeking a professionally trained church organist. The organist will be expected to play for two Sunday services and one choir rehearsal per week. Additionally, the organist will play for special services such as Holy Week and Christmas Eve. We value traditional worship drawn from the Book of Common Prayer. The preferred style of music is classical sacred music, ranging from Palestrina to Rutter. The pipe organ was built by Reuter in 1961. R. M. Ballantyne replaced the console and performed substantial refurbishment and modernization of the instrument in 2008. The organ has three manuals and 16 ranks of pipes with some unification. The organist will work directly under our Director of Music in a collaborative manner. Salary: $18,000. Weddings and funerals will provide additional compensation. A full job description is here. Send resume to Mark Gaddis via email at administrator@stmikessc.org or by mail at 3646 Coldwater Canyon Avenue, Studio City 91604.

TUSTIN: Sexton at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. 25 hours/week. The sexton serves to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and readiness of Church facilities to enable the work and ministry of the congregation and to create a pleasant atmosphere for members, guests, and staff. This includes deep cleaning of the kitchen, restrooms, church, and general gathering space(s), as well as basic household chores and changing out supplies as needed. Full job description and application instructions here.

UPLAND: Music Director and Organist. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Upland, California, seeks a part-time music director and organist who can bring musical gifts, creativity, faithfulness, and joy to our community. We hope to strengthen and expand our music program, which has a long history of quality voice and instrumental offerings from a core group of dedicated volunteer musicians who help lead the congregation in worship each Sunday. A full job description is here. Resumes, references, and links to musical performance recordings should be sent to our selection committee at music@stmarks-upland.org. Please include a short cover letter of introduction.

WESTWOOD (LOS ANGELES): Director of Finance, St. Alban’s Episcopal Church. Part time (20 hours/week.) Reporting to the rector and supporting the ministry of the parish treasurer and finance committee, the director of finance serves as a senior member of a five-person parish staff. Director of finance has responsibility for financial operations, ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and integrity. Responsibilities include the oversight and management of all financial areas, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, analysis, reporting, financial services, contract management, and compliance. Full job description is here. To apply, email cover letter, resumé or CV, and references to the Rev. Adam Dawkins, rector, at rector@stalbanswestwood.org. No phone calls, please.

The Episcopal News Update is published on Wednesday afternoons. News items, job listings, calendar items, questions and comments may be sent to editor@ladiocese.org. Weekly deadline is Tuesday at 12 p.m. Photos are welcome: please include them as email attachments (rather than embedded in a document). To subscribe, click here.

— Janet Kawamoto, editor