Beloved Community,

At a recent gathering of clergy, we had an opening check-in framed around this question: "What grief are you carrying right now, and what are you grateful for?"

I shared that the grief weighing on my heart is how so many of our community members and neighbors are living in fear, wondering how they'll put food on the table, facing job loss, or worrying about ICE and the freedom to walk down the street or go to work or school without fear. These aren't new realities for many in our country, and prophets from Moses to Dr. King to Rev. William Barber have been calling for liberation for all of God's people for generations.

When I shared what I'm grateful for in the midst of that grief, it was you. I'm grateful for the ways you continue to care for one another and for our neighbors in this season of uncertainty. I'm proud of how you're listening for where God is still speaking, offering your gifts, and showing up in love and solidarity. I see how seriously you are taking our invitation to Dream God's Dream and build beloved community.

One dream I want to share with you today is the Jericho Road effort. If you were in church on Sunday, you heard about our November collection drive to provide new and gently used warm clothing for guests at Samaritan House in December. Siew Kang began imagining how we could be "good samaritans" along our own Jericho Road- starting with supporting our weekly dinner guests through the colder months.

Towards the bottom of this email you’ll find a detailed list of what we are collecting, and I hope you'll share what you can. And as you do, may you keep dreaming, listening, and noticing those who might need a little extra care. If that person is you, please let us know.

With gratitude and hope,

Jessica

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

Filled with flowers, memories, and light. Our community came together last Wednesday evening to lovingly construct this traditional Día de Muertos altar, a beautiful space for remembrance and celebration.

Thank you to The Z Trio for sharing their incredible talent! Their beautiful music truly enriched our All Saints Service.

Each young CCSMer received a special flameless candle as we paused to remember the saints and beloved family and friends.

What a send-off! Tommy Occhiuto delivered a unique and memorable ending to our service, playing a saxophone rendition of When the Saints Go Marching In.

THIS WEEK

CCSM & You: New Member Lunch

Sunday, November 9 from 12 - 2pm

Whether you're new to CCSM or have been around a while, come learn more about our church, discover ways to get involved, and explore why membership might be the right step for you. It's not too late to RSVP, contact Alison Schwandt. We'd love to welcome you more fully into the life of the church.

Our Home Same Mateo Rally

Tuesday, November 11 at 6pm

The fight for renter protections is now more critical than ever. Since the San Mateo City Council rejected renter proposals in April, worsening federal actions have drastically impacted low-income and Latino communities.

As the City Council revisits the discussion on evictions and forced displacement, please plan to rally with us to demonstrate our determination to protect our neighbors. Our collective presence will urge them to counter federal trends by enacting measures designed to keep renters in their homes. Members of the press are expected—let’s show our strength!

COMING UP

Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity Benefit Concert

Thursday, November 13, 6pm doors open

This annual concert brings together musicians, poets, and storytellers who use their gifts to inspire hope and solidarity across differences. It’s a beautiful reminder that in times of fear and division, love and community are our strongest response.

CCSM supports IM4HI’s ongoing work for justice and dignity for immigrants and those impacted by incarceration. Attend, bring friends, and be renewed by an evening of powerful music and storytelling.

Learn more or purchase tickets at bit.ly/2025LoveOverFear.

🍺 The Village Pub is Back!

Thursday, November 20, 7 - 8:30pm in the Fireplace Room

Join us for another casual and cozy evening at The Village Pub in the Fireplace Room on Thursday, November 20th, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

This is a perfect, low-key opportunity to connect with new people and discover something new about familiar faces. Come ready to chat, laugh, and simply enjoy hanging out with your community. Bring a friend—all are welcome!

Questions? Contact Dave Olson.

Music & Art Guild

Friday, November 21 at noon in the Buckham Room

All are invited to bring their own lunch for a time of fellowship (dessert will be provided) and a performance by the vocal ensemble Bella Voce. The group, which was created in 2015 and is based at CCSM, stresses singing as a way for women to create community, collaboration and mentorship. Currently led by our own Julie Berk, the ensemble will be performing a variety of works, such as a 16th century madrigal, a Broadway hit, an African American spiritual and others.

Second Hour: Innovation Lab Update

Sunday, November 23 at noon in the Buckham Room

✨ Innovation Lab Update: Supporting Working Parents ✨

After months of exploring how to reimagine ministry our Innovation Team has a focus! The feedback from our community points to the critical need to support working parents with children at home struggling with stress across work, family, and finances.

Learn what we've discovered and share your input. Join the Innovation Team during Second Hour on Sunday, November 23 as we discuss next steps to nurture connection, faith, and well-being for families.

Thanksgiving Potluck Service

Wednesday, November 26 at 7pm in Kloss Hall

We’re excited to celebrate our special bilingual Thanksgiving Potluck Service on Wednesday, November 26, at 7:00 pm in Kloss Hall. This will be a beautiful opportunity for our church family to come together and express gratitude for another year of blessings.

This intimate service will be led by Revs. Jessica and Álvaro and will take place around tables where we’ll share bilingual prayers, break bread, and enjoy a festive dinner. The church will provide turkey, so please consider bringing your favorite side dish or dessert to share, or just bring yourself and your thankful heart!

Inaugural Family Tree Lighting Festival

Sunday, November 30 from 5 - 7pm

CCSM’s Advent Tree Lighting Festival is coming!

Let’s kick off the Advent season in style — with chili, cocoa, carols, cookies, and crafts!

Create holiday decorations with us, and then join the countdown to our outdoor tree lighting at 6 PM.

It’s the perfect way to welcome the season of hope and light — bring your family, invite your friends, and come celebrate!

If you'd like to contribute a pot of your favorite chili, please reach out to Rev. Jessica.

🥳 Our Party-Hosting Fundraiser is Moving!

Sunday, February 22

We're excited to announce a new name and date for our annual party-hosting fundraiser! Formerly known as Pick-A-Party, we're rebranding to Pick-A-Vent (to broaden the scope) and shifting the sign up from November to February 2026. This popular fundraiser is all about connecting with fellow members and supporting CCSM's financial goals by hosting or attending fun, unique activities. Hosts cover the costs and set a fee for guests, and all proceeds go directly to the church. Look for our call for party submissions soon! If you have questions, reach out to Robert Leung.

View Our Full Calendar

TAKE ACTION

Annual Giving Commitment

Your annual pledge provides the essential resources that power CCSM's work—from our outreach programs to weekly worship. Your commitment isn't just a number; it is a powerful statement of confidence and hope for our future. Join us in sustaining and expanding the life and nourishment CCSM offers to all!

We have 55 households/individuals who have pledged so far, totaling $273,060 of our 2026 goal of $560,000.

Support Our Shared Dream

Make your Estimate of Giving pledge today and help invest in CCSM's ministry and mission.

Donate to Call Primrose

We're nearing our goal of 42 cases of 502 bottles of Thanksgiving cooking oil but are several hundred dollars short.

Please consider donating to Call Primrose via our website or app, selecting Call Primrose, to help us reach our goal.

Donate Winter Clothing to Samaritan House

Help us keep our neighbors warm! We are collecting essential winter items for those who receive meals at CCSM. Your generosity provides warmth and safety this season.

High-Demand Items (New or Gently Used & Clean):

Coats/Jackets (all adult sizes)
Hats, Gloves, and Scarves
Sweaters/Hoodies
New Socks (thick, thermal, or wool only)

When & Where to Give:

Dates: Now through Thanksgiving week
Location: Box in the Narthex

Questions, reach out to Siew Kang.

Help Spread Advent Joy: Poinsettia Volunteers!

Our annual poinsettia deliveries are almost here, and we need your help! This project is a wonderful way to bring Advent joy to church members, and the time commitment is short.

We need a couple of volunteers to help with various phases, such as identifying recipients, tagging the plants, and distribution. You're welcome to jump in for one phase or the whole process.

To learn more and to volunteer, please contact Diane Kalliam.

Have You Downloaded the Church Center App?

Join our new Church Center Directory!

If you haven't already, download the app today and explore how easy it is to submit a prayer request, give, connect with other members, make your pledge, and see what's coming up in the life of the church.

Learn More

Did You Miss Worship?

View Last Sunday's Service

Click the video below for Rev. Jessica's sermon,

"Their Light Still Shines"

Or click below for Rev. Jessica's powerful, 30-second insight on the meaning of All Saints Day. Plus, stick around for the last 15 seconds! We captured the incredible, saxophone-playing send-off by Tommy Occhiuto that closed the service.