May 12, 2024

Clergy Conference 2024

Clergy of the Diocese of Los Angeles gathered May 6 - 8 at the Mission Inn, Riverside, for their annual conference, with a program led by Kathy Wilder, executive director of Camp Stevens. Bishop John Harvey Taylor's sermon from the closing Eucharist is posted in the Bishop's Blog entries below. More about the conference will be included in next week's Episcopal News Update.

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.

Credit Union annual meeting slated for May 21

The Episcopal Community Federal Credit Union will hold its 2024 annual meeting at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21 in the St. Paul the Apostle room at St. Paul’s Commons, 840 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles 90026. Interim Director Johnny Lee invites all to “join us for an evening of connection and insight as we provide a recap of last year's highlights and our exciting plans for the future. It's a fantastic opportunity to engage with the other members and CU staff, enjoy delicious appetizers, and win raffle prizes.” Reservations are requested; call 213.328.7756 or email customerservice@episcopalcredit.org

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.

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.

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.

The Bishop's Blog (click here for additional entries)

Clergy Conference sermon: Julian of Norwich

May 8, 2024

You may remember it from our conversation yesterday, when Dr. Kathy Wilder was helping us with conflict management. Jamie, vicar of The Church of the Epiphany in Oak Park, stood up and talked about the holy space that exists between stimulus and response. We absorb that thoughtless comment, that shaming email, that belittling criticism. We’re tempted to respond in kind, but our training and experience make us wait. In that holy space, we find the means of grace. The authority of forgiveness. Finally, our feet find their way back to Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry’s sacred way of love. The grace of reconciliation smothering the spark of escalation.

The Mother’s Union at St. Mark’s, Van Nuys

May 6, 2024

At the Ugandan Community Church in Van Nuys, the Mothers Union is a pillar of extended church family. Founded in 1908 in British-colonized Uganda, at the UCC, part of the rich ministry of Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church, Van Nuys, CA, the Mothers Union (together with the Fathers Union) provides an anchor for second- and third-generation children and grandchildren as they make their way through their school, college, and early adult years.

This week

First of 4 climate crisis programs will focus on water

Responding to the climate crisis requires new forms of imagination, and the first public event of a series featuring the four elements (Water, Fire, Air, and Earth) will immerse participants in a conversation about water and the climate crisis in relation to faith and science.

The water-themed event, which is sponsored by the Wildland-Urban Interface Climate Action Network (WUICAN), will be held on Thursday, May 9, 6 - 7:30 p.m. at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 2200 San Joaquin Hills Road, Newport Beach 92660.

The Episcopal Church of the Messiah, Santa Ana, is among the sponsoring organizations; the Rev. Jim Lee, assistant priest at Messiah, is a member of the working group planning the event series.

“Participate in a Water Communion,” says the invitation. “Experience diverse prayer traditions. Share snacks and make new friends. Find out how the climate crisis is impacting different communities, and what you can do.”

Presenters include: Pastors Sadie and Ryan Cullumber of Harbor Christian Church; Keila Villegas, Water Justice director, Orange County Environmental Justice; Steve Allison, professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCI; Rabbi Marcia Tilchin of the Jewish Collaborative of Orange County; and Duygu Ustun, Pacifica Institute.

Based at the University of California, Irvine, WUICAN is a consortium of community organizations, California Native American Tribes, land managers, and universities working together to develop community-driven policies and practices for land and water stewardship in the face of the climate crisis.

The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are requested; use the form here.

Maureen Cruise, RN, to advocate for state health bill at Inglewood forum

Holy Faith Episcopal Church, Inglewood, will host a community forum titled “California Universal Health Care Now” on Saturday, May 11 at 10 to discuss CalCare SB 2200 Health Care for All, a bill being considered by the California State Senate, with a vote due at the end of May.

Maureen Cruise, RN, board member of the Cal Care Campaign sponsored by the California Nurses Association, will be the speaker. Cruise has a long history of support for single-payer health care systems in the state.

The forum is sponsored by JAMM (Justice & Mercy Mission), a ministry at Holy Faith Church, and by its rector, the Rev. Joseph Oloimooja. Holy Faith Church is located at 260 N. Locust Street, Inglewood 903301. The forum, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the parish hall.

A Los Angeles area native and lifelong resident, Maureen Cruise received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology from UCLA. She enrolled in graduate studies in psychology before leaving to pursue a career in nursing. Cruise is a former research associate at UCLA’s Neuropsychiatric Institute, a former public health clinic nurse with the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services and a Red Cross volunteer. She has worked at LAUSD schools on projects as a parent outreach coordinator, student support sServices coordinator, and as a volunteer program developer. She has been active with many health care justice organizations and coalition partners in California for over 20 years.

Annual scholarship benefit event to honor NYA students who are 'going places'

Neighborhood Youth Association (NYA), an institution of the diocese, will hold its 41st annual scholarship benefit event, titled "Going Places," on Saturday, May 11, 5 - 7:30 p.m. at the Parish of St. Matthew's Sprague Center, 1031 Bienveneda Avenue, Pacific Palisades 90272

Attendees will find a op-up store, art exhibit, music and refreshments beginning at 5 p.m.; a reception with heavy hors d'oeuvres buffet will start at 5:15 p.m. The awards program will begin at 6 p.m.

NYA was founded in 1886 as "Church of the Neighborhood (later the Neighborhood Settlement Association) under the auspices of the Diocese of Los Angeles. Now an independent agency that maintains its ties with the church, NYA "empowers students to achieve 100% college placement and on-time high school graduation through mentoring, tutoring, and a holistic family approach to break cycles of poverty and vulnerability," according to its mission statement.

More about NYA is here. To order tickets to the benefit ($125 per person) or contribute to NYA scholarship funds, follow the "Donate Now" link on the home page.

Santa Angelina apartments at Blessed Sacrament, Placentia, will hold grand opening May 13

National CORE, the Episcopal Church of the Blessed Sacrament and the City of Placentia invite the diocesan community to the grand opening celebration of Santa Angelina, a new affordable senior housing complex on the church’s campus, on Monday, May 13 at 11:30 a.m.

Santa Angelina was developed by National CORE, the Episcopal Church of the Blessed Sacrament and Episcopal Communities & Services. It is the latest project to be built under the Diocese of Los Angeles’ housing initiative, launched by Bishop John Harvey Taylor, which aims to build affordable apartments on 25 percent of its properties. Several other projects are in various stages of development.

A recent ABC-7 Eyewitness News report on recent legislation streamlining such projects that features the Santa Angelina project is here.

The grand opening will feature performances by the choir of the Children’s Learning Center, which also shares the Blessed Sacrament property; a ribbon-cutting ceremony; tours of Santa Angelina’s amenities and apartments; and a reception with an international tasting menu.

Bishop Taylor is scheduled to take part in the program, along with Orange County Supervisors Doug Chaffee and Katrina Foley; the Rev. R. Barrett Van Buren, rector of Blessed Sacrament Church; Placentia Mayor pro tem Kevin Irwin; Michael Duane, president of National CORE, the developer of the new complex; and Hope Through Housing Vice President Alyssa Cotter.

Reservations are requested here, or call 909.204.3490. Church of the Blessed Sacrament is located at 1320 North Angelina Drive, Placentia 92870.

Guests are invited to park in the south parking lot and along the west side of North Angelina Drive. Enter the site from Angelina Drive, as left turns are not allowed from Morse Avenue. Additional parking may be available at adjacent commercial centers. Parking guides will be available on the day of the event; guests should allow extra time to park before the event starts.

Events & Announcements

May 18 service to honor retired Bishop Chet Talton: all are invited

A service in celebration and thanksgiving for the ministry of retired Bishop Chester Talton will be held on Saturday, May 18, 3 - 6 p.m. at St. John's Cathedral.

The Program Group on Black Ministries and the H. Belfield Hannibal Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians invite the diocesan community to this event, which will begin with Eucharist and end with a seafood gumbo and peach cobbler dinner reception.

Talton, 82, was consecrated sixth bishop suffragan of the Diocese of Los Angeles in 1991 and served until his retirement in 2010. Prior to his election he was rector of St. Philip's Church in New York City's Harlem, and served churches in St. Paul, MN; Chicago; and California. He was the first person of African descent to be elected a bishop in the diocese.

Clergy are invited to wear green vestments; all attendees are encouraged to wear Afrocentric attire. St. John's Cathedral is located at 514 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles 90007.

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.

Shepherd's Cup Golf Classic postponed

The Diocese of Los Angeles' second annual Shepherd’s Cup Golf Classic and Dinner has been postponed to Oct. 14, 2024.

The tourney will be held at the Industry Hills Golf Club and Pacific Palms Resort in the City of Industry. More information is here.

Stillpoint announces Pentecost retreat, ‘Dancing with Wind and Fire’

Stillpoint: The Center for Christian Spirituality, invites the diocesan community to "Dancing with Wind and Fire: A Pentecost One-Day Retreat" on Saturday, May 18, 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

“We invite you to gather with us to joyously celebrate Pentecost –a landmark moment that marked the start of a new movement that is still transforming us and the worlds we live in,” according to the invitation to the online. “If you are in need of a ritual, in community, to restart some area of your life, please join us.”

Participants will explore three movements during this online event:

"A deeper grounding that connects Spirit to Earth, moving from private to public and individual to collective
"A stirring up, being amazed , confused – and becoming Beloved Community
"Dancing with the potential invitation from these experiences – what is mine, yours and ours to do?"

Leaders Desta Goehner and Ravi Verma, both certified spiritual directors, will use a variety of practices – movement, silence, journaling, and small- and large-group discussions “to open our hearts and bodies to the Divine. And hopefully, leave with a renewed sense of hope, purpose and open to deep transformation.”

Cost is $75. The sessions will be conducted online and recorded. Register here.

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.

Read more here.

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 was recently 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

Two priests announce candidacies for House of Deputies vice president

By David Paulsen

[Episcopal News Service – May 8, 2024] Two deputies have declared candidacies for House of Deputies vice president after the incumbent vice president said she is running for president instead. Both elections will take place during the upcoming 81st General Convention.

The Rev. Steve Pankey of the Diocese of Kentucky and the Rev. Charles Graves IV of the Diocese of Texas both announced this week they are running for House of Deputies vice president. The Rev. Rachel Taber-Hamilton, the incumbent vice president, announced last month that she would challenge incumbent President Julia Ayala Harris when the General Convention convenes June 23-28 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Read more here.

General Convention to consider endorsing ‘migration with dignity’ principles

By David Paulsen

[Episcopal News Service – May 7, 2024] The 81st General Convention is considering at least three similar resolutions that would commit The Episcopal Church to supporting a global policy framework known as “migration with dignity.”

Eight people testified in favor of the resolutions May 7 at an online hearing held by the Social Justice & International Policy committees. Several of those testifying shared stories from their dioceses’ work with migrants, asylum-seekers and others fleeing war, violence, persecution, economic deprivation and the effects of climate change in their native countries.

Read more here.

Dioceses of Milwaukee, Fond du Lac, Eau Claire vote to combine as Diocese of Wisconsin

[Episcopal News Service – May 6, 2024] The dioceses of Milwaukee, Fond du Lac and Eau Claire voted on May 4 to finalize a merger that would re-establish the historic Diocese of Wisconsin, which dates to 1847, a year before Wisconsin became a state.

A merger agreement under the canonical process of reunion was overwhelmingly approved by the clergy and lay orders of the three dioceses and now heads to the 81st General Convention for final approval.

Read more here.

Austin Keith Rios consecrated as bishop coadjutor of California

By Stephanie Martin Taylor

[Diocese of California – May 6, 2024] The Rt. Rev. Austin Keith Rios was ordained and consecrated bishop coadjutor of the Episcopal Diocese of California on May 4 at Grace Cathedral, San Francisco. The consecration paves the way for Rios to succeed the Rt. Rev. Marc Handley Andrus, who is retiring July 24 after 18 years as the diocese’s chief pastor.

The presider was the Rt. Rev. Diane M. Jardine Bruce, bishop provisional of West Missouri. In a historic first for the Diocese of California, the examination — the series of questions the bishop-elect must answer prior to ordination — was in a mix of Spanish and English.

Read more here.

For more churchwide stories, visit Episcopal News Service 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.

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 7 p.m.

Taizé Service

St. Andrew's Episcopal Church

1432 Engracia Avenue, Torrance 90501

Information: 310.540.1722

Our candlelit evenings of music, meditation, and prayer return for another season! Join us at St. Andrew's on the second Thursday of each month to experience this powerful, spiritual service. Online services available here.

THURSDAY, MAY 9, 7:30 p.m.

Missa Mystica on Ascension Day

All Saints Episcopal Church

504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210

Information here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org

All Saints’ Choir Schola sings Missa Ascendens, Christus in altum and Ascendens in altum by Tomás Luis de Victoria.

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 4 p.m.

Spring Organ Recital: Ty Woorward

St. Edmund's Episcopal Church

1175 San Gabriel Blvd., San Marino 91108

St. Edmund's presents its annual Spring Organ Recitals on its famous Aeolian Skinner/Rosales Organ. A reception will follow. There is ample parking and a free will offering will benefit the music fund. An additional recital will be held on May 19.

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 4:15 p.m.

Solemn Evensong

St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church

3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010

Information

The Choir of Saint James performs Westminster Abbey Responses and St. James Canticles by James Buonemani (music director at St. James'); "O Clap Your Hands" by Orlando Gibbons; and "Totus Tuus" by Henryk Górecki.

TUESDAY, MAY 14, 7 – 8 p.m.

A Resurrection 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 this Zoom link. Meeting ID: 864 4405 5548, password 525

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Bloy House Spring Reception

St. Paul's Commons

840 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles 90026

Reservations: rfelton@bloyhouse.org

Bloy House (The Episcopal Theological School at Los Angeles) invites its alumni and friends to the rooftop of St. Paul's Commons for fellowship, fun, and updates on the school's work and its next steps as it searches for a new leader. More about Bloy House is here.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 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.

FRIDAY, MAY 17, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Lunch & Learn Lecture Series: Arnali Ray

Immaculate Heart Community at St. Paul’s Commons

840 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles 90026

Registration (in-person or Zoom)

Arnali Ray is executive director of Hollywood Food Coalition, whose mission is to feed and serve the immediate needs of the hungry every day of the year so they can build better lives. The vision of HOFOCO is of a city where everyone has food, community, and support. Ray brings more than 14 years of experience in non-profit social services and healthcare, and a passion for helping marginalized communities. The Immaculate Heart Community Lunch and Learn programing is available to all interested peoples. Please consider a donation to cover the costs of this event. Nobody will be turned away.

SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2 - 4 p.m.

An Afternoon with Father John Dear, Peace Activist

Trinity Episcopal Church

1500 State Street, Santa Barbara 93101

Information: here, office@trinitysb.org or 805.965.7419

Meet longtime activist, author, teacher and Catholic priest the Rev. John Dear, who will be visiting Trinity on his national book tour. During these times of warfare, gun violence, racism, poverty, and climate change, John Dear has much to say in his new book, The Gospel of Peace, which is a commentary on the Gospels from the perspective of nonviolence. Dear’s Jesus is like Gandhi and Dr. King–nonviolent to the core, a disarming healing presence toward those in need, and a revolutionary disrupter of the unjust status quo. Prepare to be stirred up and inspired! Suggested donation: $20. Books will be available for sale for an additional $20. Cash, check, and credit card accepted at the door.

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 4 p.m.

Choral Evensong for Pentecost

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

100 N. Third Avenue, Covina 91723

Information: 626.967.3939

Take in the beauty of sacred music as we present T. Tertius Noble's poignant and dramatic Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in A Minor — a cherished Anglican choral masterpiece. In addition, the choir will fill our sanctuary with Leo Sowerby's radiant choral anthem, "Like the Beams from the Sun." Come and immerse yourself in the sacred sounds of Pentecost, as the Choir of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church guides you on a journey of reflection, reverence, and renewal. Free and open to the public. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 4 p.m.

Pentecost Sunday Evensong

St. Gregory's Episcopal Church

6201 E. Willow Street, Long Beach 90815

Information: 562.420.1311 or info@stgregoryschurch.com

St. Gregory’s hosts the annual Guild Service of the Long Beach Chapter of the American Guild of Organists with a festival service of Evensong for The Day of Pentecost, featuring music by Alfred V. Fedak, William Billings and Andrew Carter.

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 4 p.m.

Evensong

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

122 South California Avenue, Monrovia

Evensong, or Evening Prayer, is a centuries-old, uniquely Anglican service created from the sevenfold monastic cycle of prayer, combining the offices of Vespers and Compline. The Rev. Neil Tadken will be officiant and cantor. The St. Luke’s Choir will be joined by our frequent collaborators from churches all over Los Angeles County. The anthem, under the direction of Kent B. Jones, director of music at St. Luke’s, will be Randall Thompson’s masterpiece, "Alleluia." The Magnificat and the Nunc Dimittis will be sung in Anglican chant by the choir and the congregation. A wine and cheese reception will follow the service. Lyn Walsh’s chutney, jam, and marmalade will be for sale to benefit the church’s music program.

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 4 p.m.

Spring Organ Recital: Robert Hovencamp

St. Edmund's Episcopal Church

1175 San Gabriel Blvd., San Marino 91108

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 5 p.m.

Chamber Music Concert IV: Maurice Clerc, organ

All Saints Episcopal Church

504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210

Information here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org

Maurice Clerc is the titular organist emeritus of the Cathedral of Dijon in France. He presents a varied program including music of Buxtehude, Mestres, Franck, Tournemire, Langlais and Cochereau. Tickets: $20 ($10 students and seniors). Admission free with Music Guild donor season pass.

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 6 p.m.

Classical Sundays at Six: Pacific Trio

St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church

3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010

Information

Roger Wilkie, violin; John Walz, cello; Edith Orloff, piano; performing Nocturnes by Ernest Bloch; Trio by Gaspar Cassado; and Trio in A Minor by Maurice Ravel. “Top string quartets pop up everywhere, but first-rate piano trios are rare. A concert by the Pacific Trio was a special treat, as the trio demonstrated in convincing manner, why it should be considered one of the best.” So began the Los Angeles Times review of Pacific Trio’s debut. Each member has enjoyed a celebrated career on the international music scene, rich in recital, ensemble, and concerto performances. Read more about the artists here.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22, 7 p.m.

Concert: Hidden Journeys

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

2901 Nojoqui Avenue, Los Olivos

Tickets/Information

Featuring Roger Roe, English horn and oboe, and R. Kent Cook, piano.

THURSDAY, MAY 23, 6:00-8:30 p.m.

Christian Nationalism: American Democracy's Looming Threat

All Saints Church, Pasadena

132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101

Americans United for Separation of Church and State and All Saints Church present a stellar panel of experts in lively discussion. Rachel Laser, the Rev. Traci Blackmon, Eddie Tabash Esq., the Rev. Mike Kinman, Salam al-Marayati, Rabbi Susan Goldberg and moderated by Bradley Whitford. This event will be livestreamed.

SUNDAY, MAY 26, 6 p.m.

Classical Sundays at Six: International Laureates Organ Series

St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church

3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010

Information

Bruce Neswick is artist-in-residence at St. James by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in La Jolla, a position to which he was appointed in summer 2022. Prior to moving to California, he served as the canon for music at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Portland, OR; associate professor of music in organ at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, and assistant organist of St. Francis in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, Louisville, KY. He has also served as director of music at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, and as canon for music at the Cathedral of St. Philip, Atlanta. Read more about this artist here.

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.

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.

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

Opportunities

VOLUNTEER

Work Day: MAY 18

Camp Stevens

1108 Banner Road, Julian

Come lend a helping hand at camp! The trails need a little love after a wet winter so they can be safe and accessible all spring and summer long. Tools, materials, instructions, and lunch are all provided; families and friends are welcome. Sign up here.

Immigration & Refugee ministry

IRIS (Interfaith Refugee & Immigration Service)

3621 Brunswick Ave. Los Angeles 90039

In this new year, 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

June 9 - 14, 2024

Aquinas At Orvieto, Italy:

Deepen Your Own Spiritual Journey as Mystic and Prophet

Join Matthew Fox, Meshi Chavez and Claudia Picardi for a five-day workshop at the ancient monastery of St. Ludovico in St. Thomas Aquinas’ hometown. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) was a mystic and prophet and one of the greatest geniuses in Western history. Courageous and controversial in his day, he brought science (from Aristotle) into the Christian West. His writings reveal an amazing mind and mystical heart. Matthew Fox, a member of the Dominican order, is a preeminent theologian and internationally acclaimed scholar of Western spirituality. He has written extensively on the wisdom of Aquinas and has translated for the first time in English some of his works. Discover Aquinas where he lived and worked, and experience monastic hospitality during this five-day retreat. More information is here.

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.

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.

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