The Pacifica Synod has committed itself to becoming an anti-racist Church, grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and our baptismal call “to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.” Rooted in the ELCA’s social statement Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture, we understand racism as sin and seek to dismantle its power in our congregations, institutions, and wider community.

To support this commitment, the Synod seeks a half-time Assistant to the Bishop for Anti-Racism Coordination (20 hrs/week) who will shepherd this work with faith, accountability, and hope. Is that you? Or do you know someone who might be a good fit? Find the complete job description and application details here. Applications must be submitted by October 14, 2025.

Bishop Dave wants to hear what you think. As we reach the midpoint of his term, what is the synod doing that is helpful for you? What are we missing? How can he better serve your ministry as your bishop? Below is a link to a survey that will allow you to provide some helpful feedback. Please take 5-10 minutes and let us know how we are doing and how we can serve you more effectively.

You can take the survey here. Your responses are automatically anonymous unless you supply us with your name and email address. Please respond by October 9th.

Support Immigrants

Through AMMPARO and CLUE

THANK YOU for your wonderful support of migrants, asylum seekers, and immigrants! We are in this together! We will not turn our backs on those who are suffering and we will continue to prayerfully do what we can!

What you can do:

1. Come to AMMPARO meetings and contact Pastor Karla Halvorson or a planning team member to find out more! You can text Pastor Karla at 858-442-6761. The next meeting is Saturday, September 13, at 10 am, and you can join via Zoom here. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A NEW LINK! (Meeting ID: 870 8107 6920  Passcode: AMMPARO) 

2. Faith leaders in the San Diego area are invited to join the Catholic Diocese of San Diego and Detention Resistance as courthouse escorts. This is someone who meets with asylum seekers and goes into courtrooms with them to support them and help them feel safe. This is especially important in this moment where many of these asylum seekers will be detained and kidnapped by ICE when they exit the courtroom. Having sustained volunteer presence matters even if it's just to witness what is happening and pass that information on to others. To participate or to get more information, text Krystle J of Detention Resistance at 858-382-2109.

3. Faith leaders in Orange County or Los Angeles can consider joining the CLUE Rapid Response network in Orange and Los Angeles County. CLUE (Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice) have long been advocates of immigrant rights and are looking for volunteers to help in many ways, including Courtroom Observation and Accompaniment. Speaking a second language is helpful but not required. Click here to find out more info on providing immigrant support at the courthouses in Los Angeles and Santa Ana.

Lutheran Office of Public Policy

Guidance on CA Prop 50

The Lutheran Office of Public Policy for California has made available two separate letters regarding the upcoming public vote on California's Proposition 50. You can read the letters by accessing the links below:

Prop 50 Policy Council Letter

Letter from CA Bishops in Support of LOPP

Tapestry Retreat #2

September 19-21, 2025

THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO SEPTEMBER 16!

Tapestry is a ministry of the Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), dedicated to inspiring and educating LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Through our retreat weekends, we foster community and deepen our understanding of Christ from a Queer perspective. Participants leave these retreats empowered to serve as beacons of faith, providing support and connection to those seeking a safe space to express their spirituality.

This is our second retreat weekend and we look forward to sharing God's love with our communities once more. Join us for a weekend of spiritual renewal. We will hear talks from LGBTQ+ clergy and lay leaders; spend time in small groups to reflect, connect and create; enjoy free time for creating, praying or holy rest.

Arrival time is 5 PM on Friday night and a meal will be provided. Later that night we will have an open circle of getting to know each other and then proceed to a meditation before retiring for the evening. Meals included for the weekend: Friday - dinner, Saturday - breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Sunday - breakfast and lunch. There will be plenty of snacks throughout the weekend to satisfy even the most voracious appetites.

The Retreat Center charges $253 for the weekend but in order to make this retreat possible for everyone, you are invited to pay whatever you can to attend, even if it's $0! Those who are able to donate more to support others are encouraged to do so.

Come experience God's love for you in a space designed with you in mind! Registration is required to attend, so register by September 16.

If you have questions about this event, please contact Pastor Rachel Reeder at revrachelreeder@gmail.com.

Theoasis Registration Open!

October 14-16, 2025

Theoasis is back! This joint church leaders’ event is a theological oasis for rostered leaders, professional lay church staff, youth leaders, church administrators, office managers, outdoor ministry leaders, worship leaders, and anyone else doing ministry. All are welcome! 

Theoasis will be held at the Embassy Suites in La Quinta, CA, from Tuesday, October 14 to Thursday, October 16, focusing on the theme “Blessed are the Poor—In Mind, Body, and Spirit.” Registration is now open and will close on October 3, so the sooner you get in, the better. The special room rate is only available until September 13 or until the group block is sold out, which is even MORE reason to register early!

For more information about this impactful event, including speakers, schedule, and crucial hotel information, go here.

Installation of Pastor Russell Lackey

Mission Lutheran, Laguna Niguel

October 19, 2025

Pr. Russell Lackey will be installed on Sunday afternoon, October 19, 2025 at Mission Lutheran Church in Laguna Niguel. There will be a meal at 4:00pm followed by the installation service at 5:00pm, with a dessert reception following. 

Engaging and Equipping Faith Communities in Gun Violence Prevention (Free Webinar)

October 21, 2025

In response to the resolution on gun violence prevention passed by the 2025 Synod Assembly, this Zoom gathering will offer information, resources, and ideas faith leaders and congregations can use to respond to gun violence and work for gun violence prevention. We will be joined by members of the San Diegans for Gun Violence Prevention coalition and hear from leaders in different areas of the synod. This Zoom event is open to all but you must register in advance to participate. 

Middle School Youth Gathering

November 14-16, 2025

Why be normal? It's time to live outside the box! Middle School Youth Gathering is BACK, November 14 through 16, and this year, we’re heading to Knott’s Berry Farm for a weekend of worship, encouragement, games, surprises, and five whole seconds of suspended terror as we wait for the drop on Hang Time.

Registration is now live, so if you have youth in the Pacifica or Southwest California Synods who are entering 6th through 9th grades, sign up now to secure your spots. And, just like last year, high school students (grades 10 through 12) are also welcome to come along for a special leadership track.

Pricing, dates, times, room information, and more details are available at the registration page, so head over there and get your group signed up ASAP.

Dates for 2026 Regional Gatherings, "A-Zoom-bly"

We are pleased to announce the dates for next year's in-person regional gatherings and our all-synod assembly being held over Zoom. Complete location information will be forthcominghe dates are:

• April 25, 2026 – Hawaii Regional Gathering (at LC of Honolulu)
• May 2, 2026 – Location TBD
• May 9, 2026 – Location TBD
• May 16, 2026 – Location TBD

And the A-Zoom-bly:

• June 20, 2026

Watch this space for more details as they become available!

What Does My Offering Do?

The ELCA recently released this Mission Support video that details how congregational offering supports ministries around the world through our synods and churchwide organization. Of the $1.6 billion given to ELCA congregations and worshiping communities as regular offerings, most stays with the congregation to fund its vital ministry. A portion — about 5% on average — becomes Mission Support, given by congregations to our synods. Mission Support ensures that synods can find and equip leaders of all ages and deploy an array of ministries, including those of synod companions and those for youth and young adults. Our synods, in turn, give a portion of that Mission Support to our churchwide organization to fund our shared work across the country and around the world. Mission Support is possible only because of your congregational offering. Read more stories about Mission Support at livinglutheran.org/SOFIA.

Show Solidarity with Palestinian Christians

with the Holy Land Accompaniment Pilgrimage

March 9-19, 2026

The ELCJHL (Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land) is inviting the Pacifica and Southwest California Synods to the Holy Land early next year for an accompaniment pilgrimage. Come be with Palestinian Christians and experience the challenges they encounter just trying to live out their faith in the face of enormous structural obstacles. Yes, you'll see the historic foundations of the early Church--Capernaum, the Mount of Olives, the Sea of Galilee, and others--but more importantly, you'll form relationships with those who are building on those very foundations today. Have your faith inspired and your hope challenged.

Free, Research-Based, Community Workshop

September 19-20, 2025

You’re invited to reserve complimentary seats for your youth community at Spark San Diego, a no‑cost, research‑based experience designed to reduce burnout, strengthen relationships, and create lasting positive change. We especially welcome you, your staff, students (13+), and parents to attend together. 

“Spark San Diego” is an intergenerational event that invites youth, parents, educators, faith leaders, and community partners to gather for a pre-workshop dinner highlighting storytelling, research-backed strategies, and hands-on activities that turn positivity into a ripple effect throughout families, schools, and neighborhoods. This event is hosted by St. Andrews Lutheran.

Addiction & Youth: Trends and Challenges (Free Webinar)

September 24, 2025

Nine out of ten adults who have a diagnosed substance use disorder started when they were adolescents. Furthermore, the younger someone is when they have their first use, the more likely they are to develop a substance use disorder.

Compounding the problem, youth are the most underserved demographic when it comes to addiction and recovery services. There are many factors behind this. If we are serious about changing the trajectory of this very costly and deadly disease, we need to start further upstream and focus on research supporting best practices for youth. 

Learn about the current trends in adolescent drug use and the different approaches that can make a meaningful impact on a young person's life from Michael Durchslag, one of the country's foremost experts on adolescent recovery.

PLTS Discernment Weekend

October 31 - November 2, 2025

Are you wondering if seminary might be right for you? Consider joining Signs Along the Way at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, California to connect with others in discernment, get to know PLTS faculty, and explore what it’s like to be an online student in the MDiv, MA in Spirituality and Social Change, or Lutheran Year programs. PLTS is transitioning to only offer online study with in-person intensives, so this weekend is designed for those interested in online learning. PLTS covers lodging and meals during the event and can offer travel assistance for those who need it.

Natural Sciences Retreat (Carefree, AZ)

January 16-19, 2026

Are you curious about the natural sciences' connection with Christian theology? If so, Living Into a New Story: A Spirited Assessment of the Christian Story in the Light of Earth-based Wisdom and Today’s Sciences Retreat is for you!

The retreat goals are to:

• Provide meaningful experiences together that will affirm our being cheered on by the whole Universe and by God
• Discover new realizations that our modest lives are part of a much larger story
• Inspire continued deep questioning and learning
• Stimulate a renewed sense of vocation

Highlights and takeaways include a booklet of current and rewritten hymns/songs grounded in ecology-theology themes; a worship/preaching/teaching resource for the Season of Lent; quotes, poems and journaling starts; book lists for further reading; time for journaling, worship, prayer, music, experiences; good food, serene surroundings, stimulating discussions, healing relaxation; time outdoors on the land, including an optional hike; wisdom for sustainable living and effective advocacy.

TACO In Need of Immediate Funds

Many of your churches or church members have been faithful supporters of the Third Avenue Charitable Organization (TACO) at First Lutheran Church in San Diego. TACO is a community drawn together to support the dignity, health, and well-being of people among us experiencing homelessness and poverty in San Diego. Essential services include hot meals, medical/dental/legal clinics, mail services, and showers. 

The TACO board met last week to discuss some dire news.

Donations have fallen sharply, while the number of people turning to us for meals, showers, clothing, and support continues to grow. Many of our guests are seniors from the nearby housing high-rises who are struggling with the rising cost of living, and we are also seeing more first-time homeless individuals seeking help. 

The board is working on some long-term planning to stay afloat, but in the meantime, TACO is in immediate need of financial assistance to help cover its operating expenses and continue providing its crucial services. Here are some ways you can help:

• Make a special one-time or recurring donation here.
• If you are a regular giver to TACO, please consider "frontloading" the remainder of your 2025 donation.
• Sponsor a meal ($5) or a full meal service for one day ($250).
• Share a message to your social media networks to ask for donations.
• Register for Bike the Bay the TACO Way.

Remembering Rev. Ken Dale

(March 3, 1926 - September 9, 2025)

Longterm missionary Ken Dale of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Claremont entered into his eternal rest on September 9, 2025. For more than 35 years, Ken taught pastoral care and counseling at Lutheran College and Seminary in Tokyo, where generations of students learned not only from his scholarship but from his deep kindness. Ken also founded and directed a pastoral counseling center in Tokyo, leading it for 14 years and offering community-based therapy, education, and research to the benefit of thousands of individuals and families. Memorial service information will be made available at a later date.

Music Items for Sale (Updated)

Trinity Lutheran, Hemet

Trinity Lutheran in Hemet is downsizing and wishes to sell some of their musical instruments, sheet music, and miscellaneous materials that go with them. Items include hand chimes, tambourines, drums, robes, lesson kits, books, chairs, and more. Download an updated flier with links to all the available items by clicking here or contact the church at trinityhemet@verizon.net

Hand Bell Director (Part-Time)

Clairemont Lutheran/Iglesia Luterana, San Diego

Clairemont Lutheran/Iglesia Luterana in San Diego is seeking a part-time Hand Bell Director to provide leadership for the CLC Hand Bell Choir regarding weekly rehearsals and scheduled performances. For a complete job description and application information, go here.

Music Director (Part-Time)

St. Andrew's Lutheran, San Diego

St. Andrew's Lutheran in San Diego is seeking a part-time Music Director to be responsible for coordinating Christian music at all worship services, including collaboration with soloists, ensembles, and choirs. The Music Director will provide opportunities for volunteers to utilize their musical gifts in service to the ministry of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church. For a full job description or to apply, visit the listing on Indeed.

Director of Faith Formation

Calvary Lutheran, Solana Beach

Calvary Lutheran in Solana Beach is seeking a Director of Faith Formation. The DFF works in cooperation with the pastor and ministry teams to envision, coordinate and implement ministry and relationships with children, youth, families, adults and volunteers. They will lead the Children & Family and Youth Ministry Teams and volunteers that assist these ministries, fostering a dynamic community that provides sound Biblical teaching and spiritual care. The long-term vision includes helping facilitate Calvary Small Groups and Adult Faith Formation, establishing and leading Calvary Young Adults programming, supporting creation and maintenance of the congregation’s website and social media platforms (in coordination with Calvary's Communication Team), and/or other duties (including those that utilize the Director’s unique gifts).

A full job description can be found at this link. Those interested are asked to email a resume and cover letter to Pastor Mark Donald at calvarylutheranjobs@gmail.com.

Youth and Family Coordinator (Part-Time)

St. Paul Lutheran, Fullerton

St. Paul Lutheran Church is seeking an enthusiastic, creative and energetic individual for a position to grow our Youth and Family Ministries. The Youth and Family Coordinator will be responsible for designing programs that engage, guide, and mobilize the gifts of others, including spiritual formation, education, mission, service, fun and outreach.

A full job description can be found at this link. Interested applicants are asked to email a resume, cover letter, and this completed application to stpaulfullerton@gmail.com. Applications must be received by September 30, 2025.

Organist

Incarnation Lutheran, Poway

Incarnation Lutheran Church (ILC) in Poway is seeking an organist to help us experience and celebrate God’s gifts of grace in worship at our traditional Sunday worship service at 11am. ILC has a long history of excellent music expressed through our musicians, vocal and bell choirs, congregational singing, instrumental ensembles, and soloists. If interested and qualified, candidate could apply to be considered at a later date as Director of Music and/or vocal and bell Choir Director. 

A full job description can be found at this link. Those interested are asked to contact the church office at Servants@GodAmong.us with questions or to send letters of interest/resumes.

Children, Youth, & Family Director

Mount Cross, Camarillo (Southwest CA Synod)

Mount Cross in Camarillo is seeking an enthusiastic and creative Children, Youth, and Family Ministry Director (CYFD) to support our children, youth, and family ministry programs. This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about fostering community, connecting with youth and families, and driving engagement.

A full job description can be found at this link. Those interested are asked to email a resume and cover letter to jobs@mountcross.com.