Reflections on Peacemaking | | |
Dear Friends,
Many of you participated in our recent Peacemaking Weekend, and/or heard from our peacemaking partners during worship. It was a rich and challenging set of discussions about the ways that militarism affects people around the world. We found glimpses of hope that we can — by God’s power — work together to build connections and peace despite deep obstacles.
Our peacemaking partners were full of praise for your hospitality and honest engagement. They also perceived your hunger to understand how God is leading us to combat hostility, division, and oppression in this world.
Sunnyvale Pres has long yearned for and worked for peace — through our longstanding commitment to anti-militarism, our support for global mission partnerships, our hosting of events and speakers, and more.
Remember, we have seen glimpses of God’s peace breaking forth into our world, and together, we have been and continue to be a community that helps it grow!
In hope,
Hardy
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Guest Preacher: Rev. Julie Porras-Center
Sunday, July 20
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Did you know a pastor’s community can be something other than a church? On July 20, we’ll be blessed to hear from Rev. Julie Porras-Center, a pastor in our presbytery whose community is Somos Cafe in Watsonville. This cafe serves as a “third space” for the entire community, including many farm laborers who are being deeply impacted by the current administration’s immigration policies. Come to worship and to learn about Rev. Julie’s very real-world ministry.
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Picchetti Ranch Preserve Hike
Tomorrow! Saturday, July 12 • 9 am • Map • RSVP
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Come join us on a beautiful hike at Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve. The four-mile Zinfandel Trail is a moderate out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of only 633 ft. Bring a lunch or snack and we’ll have a picnic before going home. Meet at 9 am in the Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve Parking (next to the winery's parking lot). If you plan to come, please RSVP so we know to watch for you!
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Welcome to Alice Chegwidden!
Youth & Children’s Ministry Summer Intern
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You may recognize our summer intern, Alice — she grew up attending our Children’s and Youth programs and became a Sunnyvale Pres member in 2020 upon completing Confirmation. She coordinated VBS last month and is currently busy getting Children’s and Youth programs ready for fall. Alice just finished her first year at Colorado State University, where she’s majoring in Biomedical Sciences with hopes of attending vet school. When you see Alice around church, please say hello!
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It’s almost time for CARAVAN!
Commissioning: Sunday, July 20
CARAVAN Sunday: July 27
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Before they go, join us during worship on Sunday, July 20 as we commission our leaders and youth participants for CARAVAN. Then after their trip, join us on July 27 as they lead worship for CARAVAN Sunday. Prayers for the participants and the organizations they will be working with are most appreciated.
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The Music School: Best New Musical
Friday, July 25 • 7 pm • Phoenix Center • Tickets
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Join us for Best New Musical as our Summer Theater kids present an original story, packed with Broadway hits and talented stars! The show will open with our teens, alumni, staff, and family members performing a medley of Wicked favorites. Ticket donation links will be posted on our website.
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Come join us for a delightful evening of classical music at Sunnyvale Pres! Katie Hyun (violin), Paul Hyun (cello), and their friend Carlos Avila (piano) will perform together. You may recognize Katie and Paul, whose parents are church members and who have shared their music with us several times in the past. The concert is free and open to the public, but we ask that you RSVP so we know how many people to expect.
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Thanks to everyone who attended our Pride events in June, including Sunnyvale Pride. But wait, the celebration’s not done yet! Mark your calendars for Affirming Church Series classes — Trans 101 on August 10, and the LGBTQIA+ Elder Panel on August 17. Queer people and allies are invited to sing in the Out Loud Choir, in preparation for our Queer-led worship on August 24. Then Sunnyvale Pres will march in the Silicon Valley Pride Parade on Sunday, August 31.
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August Eats — All are welcome to join one or all of our PW Circles for an enjoyable meal and fellowship. Email for details or to RSVP.
Join a PW Circle — Small-group Bible studies meet monthly, starting in September.
- Koll Circle — 4th Tuesdays, 7:30 pm, Zoom
- Reed Circle — 3rd Thursday, 1 pm, Coleman Room
- Ortega King Circle — 4th Sunday, 11:30 am, Coleman Room
- Global Mission Circle — 3rd Monday, 7 pm, Zoom
Stop by our table in Trinity Court on Sunday to learn more.
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In Our Thoughts and Prayers...
Continued Prayers
- Pat Vorreiter — recovering from fall and brain bleed
- Phil Craine — healing and strength
- Kristy Freese — injured knee and upcoming surgery
- Barbara Humphrey — healing and comfort
- Mildred Prasad — dementia and depression
- Maggie Burklund — healing and strength
Grief
- Marilyn Kunz after the passing of her sister on June 26
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CARAVAN Intergenerational Day
July 26
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Out Loud
Choir
July 24–
August 24
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Peacemaking Fellowship
Groups
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Save the Dates
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Summer Chancel Choir • Sundays through July 27 • 8:45 am
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Kin•dom Camp at Zephyr Point • July 20–25 • Details
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Safe Church training • August 24
Reminder: Some groups are not meeting due to summer vacations — always check the Events page for the most up-to-date calendar info.
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Join us for weekly worship opportunities!
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Sundays @ 10 am — onsite or online
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Modern Worship Collective — 2nd & 4th Wednesdays @ 6:30 pm, dinner and worship in Fellowship Hall (note new time & location for the summer!)
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Evensong: Contemplative Worship — 3rd Wednesdays @ 7 pm in the sanctuary
To join online, look for the red “Online Worship & Event Links” button at the top of our website.
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Beware of scams! If you’re ever unsure about a message that looks like it’s from a church staff member, contact us before purchasing gift cards or sending money to anyone.
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