The congregation at the Jan. 14 celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day cheers saxophonist Rodney Taylor, performing with The Episcopal Chorale. Below left: Canon Ronald Byrd preaches at the service, held at Church of the Good Shepherd. | |
Be a drum major for justice, peace – and move your feet, Canon Ron Byrd tells congregation at MLK celebration
[The Episcopal News – Jan. 17, 2024] The Rev. Canon Ronald Byrd, The Episcopal Church’s missioner for African Descent Ministries, issued a rousing call to worshippers attending the Jan. 14 annual diocesan celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King “to move their feet” like drum majors for justice, peace, love, and for Christ.
Preaching at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Los Angeles’s historic Leimert Park, Byrd wove together themes of the African concept “ubuntu,” or connection among all humanity, activism and leadership, and the honored role of drum majors, “that does not come without hard work, dedication and commitment … but rallies others to do their part for the common purpose.”
The joyful celebration included performances by the Episcopal Chorale, led by former director Canon Chas Cheatham; Naomi Welikala of the diocesan Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Service Black Migration Assistance Project; greetings from the Rev. Judy Baldwin, priest-in-charge; Program Group on Black Ministries chair Canon Suzanne Edwards Acton; the Rev. Guy Leemhuis, on behalf of the H. Belfield Hannibal Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians, and Bishop John Harvey Taylor, who introduced Byrd.
Read more here.
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Housing initiative progressing well, Michael Bell tells Diocesan Council at January meeting
By Pat McCaughan
[The Episcopal News – January 17, 2024] The Rev. Michael Bell, director of Housing and Business Development for Episcopal Communities & Services, reported to the Jan. 11 meeting of Diocesan Council that 7 congregations have either completed or are developing affordable housing on their campuses and another 13 are considering possible projects.
Bishop John Harvey Taylor has pledged to develop affordable housing on 25% of diocesan church campuses (a total of 33).
Other matters discussed during the meeting, which was held on Zoom, included a slightly improved financial report and the reelection of Samantha Wiley as council secretary. Taylor reminded the council that A Case for Love, a feature-film documentary inspired by the teachings of Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and produced by Grace-Based Films, a company formed by parishioners of All Saints Episcopal Church, Beverly Hills, will be screened at theaters around the diocese (and the nation) on Jan. 23. (More information, including study guides and local screening times, is here.) An update was also given on Curry’s recovery; he has been released from the hospital following a second surgery to correct bleeding on the brain after a fall.
Taylor also renewed a longstanding request for congregations to provide their mailing lists to the diocesan Communications Office. “We’ve got about 50,000 Episcopalians, and we’re reaching maybe 20% of them with The Episcopal News right now, ever since we went all digital several years ago. The only way we can get it to you is by having your email addresses.” (Address lists may be sent to editor@ladiocese.org.)
Read more here.
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Habitat for Humanity 'Build for Unity' will bring faith groups together to provide affordable homes
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles will sponsor a "Build for Unity" event Feb. 2 - 3, and invites members of area faith communities to help raise $25,000 to build homes in Southern California and beyond.
Build for Unity events "bring people together of all beliefs and backgrounds to make a difference and build critically needed affordable housing in our community," according to HabitatLA. The Feb. 2 - 3 event coincides with World Interfaith Harmony Week, which is Feb. 1 - 7.
"Build for Unity is a truly unique and exciting opportunity to come together, no matter what your skill level or spiritual background, and roll up your sleeves to promote positive, interfaith impact and unity in our greater Los Angeles community."
Habitat invites people of faith to join the effort either as individuals or as groups from their churches, synagogues, mosques and other places of worship. Funds raised through Build for Unity support the construction of homes for low-income families in need of shelter and stability.
To take part in Build for Unity, either with a financial contribution or on a building team, contact Chris Untiet at chrisu@habitatla.org, or visit the website. A brochure for the event is here.
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Mental Health First Aid training planned at St. George's, Laguna Hills
St. George's Church, Laguna Hills, will sponsor a Mental Health First Aid training session on Saturday, Feb. 24, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. for those wanting to learn how to accompany people experiencing mental health challenges.
A suggested $20 donation per person will include a light lunch and training materials.
To register, contact the Rev. Canon Pat McCaughan, vicar, at revpatmccaughan@aol.com or 909.892.0525. St. George's Church is located at 23802 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills.
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All Saints, Pasadena, to screen 'The Philadelphia Eleven' documentary
All Saints Church in Pasadena will host a screening of the award-winning documentary “The Philadelphia Eleven” – a celebration of the 11 women who shattered a stained-glass ceiling in 1974 when they became the first women priests in the Episcopal Church – on Saturday, March 16 at 2 p.m.
"Don’t miss this opportunity to watch their inspiring story in community as we learn from their example how we can continue the work of calling the church to become more fully the Beloved Community it aspires to be," says the announcement from the parish.
An opportunity for reflection and conversation will follow the film, with a festive reception afterwards. All are welcome; registration is requested. For information and to register, contact Debbie Daniels at ddaniels@allsaints-pas.org.
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Lenten series led by Payton Hoegh will connect spirituality to nature
Each Monday in Lent Payton Hoegh, a postulant for Holy Orders and member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, Hollywood, and the All Wanderers spiritual community, will lead a series of online meditations "to nurture mindful reflection and community during this sacred season of attention to Spirit's call."
The weekly gatherings will be "a space for stillness, curiosity and rich conversation centered around The Center for Spirituality in Nature's Monday Notes from Nature," says Hoegh when announcing the series. Each session will begin at 9 a.m. with a slow reading of the Monday Note from Nature and guided centering practice. Participants will be invited to engage both the natural world and the text from each week in purposeful reflection while stepping outside, looking out the window, or contemplating the note's accompanying picture. "It will be a time of deep, purposeful reflection and meaningful discussion engaging themes of the season of Lent," says Hoegh.
Information and registration for the full series or individual weeks is here.
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Civic faith, gospel faith, and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King
January 15, 2024
A few days before he was assassinated, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave a sermon at Washington National Cathedral that he called “Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution.” Fresh, urgent, and profoundly patriotic, King’s words are helpful as we reflect on his legacy while bracing for a political year unlike any other.
Read more here.
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Martin Luther King celebration
January 15, 2024
My scrapbook from the festive two-hour-plus Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles service Sunday afternoon and evening commemorating the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at Christ The Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in historic Leimert Park. Over 100 were in attendance.
Read more here.
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Four ordained as priests in rites in Los Angeles, Connecticut
Bishop John Harvey Taylor ordained the Rev. Mel Soriano, the Rev. Joshua Wong and the Rev. Jonathan Stoner to the priesthood on Jan. 13 at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Los Angeles. Pictured with the ordinands and Taylor, who also preached at the service, are the Very Rev. Anne Sawyer, interim dean of the cathedral; the Rev. Canon Thomas Quijada-Discavage, diocesan missioner for Formation and Transition Ministry; the Rev. Karri Backer, retreat leader for the ordinands; Bishop Franklin Brookhart, retired bishop of Montana; and Canon to the Ordinary Melissa McCarthy, celebrant at the Eucharist.
In addition, the Rev. Timothy Hamlin, a transitional deacon of the Diocese of Los Angeles, was ordained to the priesthood on Jan. 6 at Christ Church Cathedral, Hartford, by Bishop Jeffrey Mello of Connecticut, acting on behalf of Bishop Taylor.
Photo: Janet Kawamoto
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White House advisor visits IRIS offices, shares time with staff
White House Special Advisor for Refugee Admissions Andrew Nacin paid an informal visit on Jan. 12 to IRIS (Interfaith Refugee & Immigration Service), a ministry of the Diocese of Los Angeles and local representative of Episcopal Migration Ministries.
Nacin spent about an hour with members of the IRIS staff, many of whom are former refugees and now assist others from countries ranging from Iran, Iraq and Afghanistan to African nations and South America. In addition to answering their questions about various aspects of immigration policy, Nacin invited the staff to share their experiences of how the nation's procedures and policies worked in the field. Taking extensive notes, he said he would share their concerns with policymakers. After a tour of IRIS's headquarters in Atwater Village, Nacin remarked to Troy Elder, the agency's executive director (pictured above with Nacin), that the staff members' questions were "thoughtful, incisive, and challenging."
During his time in Los Angeles, Nacin also visited the local offices of the International Rescue Committee. Elder and two members of the IRIS staff also took part in that visit, which included small-group meetings with refugees and immigration workers.
"I’m proud that we were able to showcase our amazing talent to President Biden’s senior staff in this way, and at this important time for our work and for our clients," Elder told his colleagues in an email after the visit.
Photos: Janet Kawamoto
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St. George's, Riverside, to celebrate new vicar Karri Backer on Jan. 20
St. George's Church, Riverside, will hold a Celebration of a New Ministry for its new vicar, the Rev. Karri Backer, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 20. Bishop John Harvey Taylor will preside at the service, to be held at the church at 950 Spruce Street, Riverside 92507. All are welcome.
Backer is also a spiritual director and therapist, and has spent many years exploring the intersections between faith, spirituality, and mental health. She holds a bachelor's degree from UCLA in the Study of Religion, a master's from Antioch University in clinical psychology, a master of divinity degree and a doctorate in practical theology/spiritual formation from Claremont School of Theology.
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Celebration of first woman Anglican priest Li Tim-Oi will feature panel with Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori
[The Episcopal News – January 10, 2024] In 1944, in the midst of World War II, Bishop Ronald Hall of the Diocese of Hong Kong desperately needed Church of England sacraments to be administered in Macau. He ordained Hong Kong-born Li Florence Tim-Oi, then a deaconess, as the first woman priest in the Anglican Communion, of which The Episcopal Church is a member.
Church of Our Saviour, San Gabriel, and its resident Li Tim-Oi Center for Chinese ministry will mark the 80th anniversary of that historic ordination with a two-day event on Saturday and Sunday, Feb 10 and 11, which is also the celebration of the lunar new year.
All are welcome to join the celebration, which will begin at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10 with an exhibit of artworks depicting women in the Bible, created by He Qi, renowned artist and member of Church of Our Saviour.
A panel discussion of women’s ordination will begin at 4:30 p.m., keynoted by the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, the first woman to serve as presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church and the first to lead a branch of the Anglican Communion. The Rev. Canon Susan Russell will moderate the discussion.
Read more here.
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'New Camino' seminar will offer a fresh take on Latino/Hispanic ministries
[The Episcopal News – Jan. 10, 2024] Congregations considering launching or expanding ministry to Latino members of their communities are invited to join the Program Group on Hispanic Ministries and the Rev. Canon Anthony Guillen, The Episcopal Church’s missioner for Latino Ministries, for New Camino, a two-day in-person seminar with a fresh take on Latino/Hispanic ministries.
New Camino, to be held Friday and Saturday, March 22 – 23 at St. Paul’s Commons in Los Angeles, “is all about reimagining and revitalizing Latino/Hispanic ministries,” according to the seminar announcement. “Come and be a part of this transformative journey, exploring new ways to serve communities in our diocese.”
Participants will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about Latino/Hispanic ministries. Through engaging workshops, inspiring speakers, and interactive sessions conducted in English, attendees will delve into innovative approaches and fresh perspectives and together forge a new path forward.
“Whether you’re a church leader, a volunteer, or simply interested in learning more, this event is for you!” says the announcement. “Discover practical strategies, gain valuable insights, and build meaningful connections. Let’s come together and create a stronger, more inclusive future for Latino/Hispanic ministries.”
Read more here.
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Art and activism will mark Black History Month at St. John’s Cathedral
Abstract art and religious and political activism will intersect at St. John's Episcopal Cathedral for its 2024 celebration of Black History Month.
The cathedral will provide a platform for several local artists to express social and political commentary in unique and thought-provoking ways, according to the Rev. Anne Sawyer, interim dean.
"Abstract art, with its focus on shapes, color, and forms, allows for unconventional and symbolic representations of societal issues and political movements," says Sawyer. "This year St. John's is focused on providing a safe space for our community to gather to discuss strategies to confront racism." Pictured above is a work by Mary Harris, one of the featured artists.
In coming weeks, three guest preachers who are committed to social justice will speak at several 10 a.m. services at the cathedral.
The Rev. Brandon Harris, associate dean of Religious and Spiritual Life at USC, will kick off Black History Month on Jan. 14, Martin Luther King Jr. Sunday. Harris is committed to interfaith engagement and racial justice. He was ordained at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, the historic church community of Dr. King.
The Rev. Canon Warner Traynham, former rector of St. John's, known for his pioneering leadership in the inclusion of LGBTQ+ persons in the church, will return to preach on Jan. 28.
Andre Henry, theologian, musician, anti-racist activist and author of the bestselling book All the White Friends I Couldn't Keep will preach for Absalom Jones Sunday of Feb. 11. The Rev. Absalom Jones (1746 – 1818), an early anti-racism activist, was the first Black priest ordained in the Episcopal Church.
The cathedral invites all to attend these special services and events. For more information, visit the website. St. John's Cathedral is located at 514 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles 90007.
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Lay CPE training sessions to begin Jan. 20, continue until April 13
The Center for Lay Chaplaincy (CFLC) will offer Lay CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) Training in 12 four-hour sessions, designed for anyone seeking to develop spiritual care skills and/or seeking a pathway to licensed lay chaplaincy.
The sessions will be held on Saturdays beginning Jan. 20 and concluding on April 13, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at St. Paul's Commons, 840 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles.
For more information and to begin the application process, email info@centerforlaychaplaincy.org.
More about CFLC and its programs is here.
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Commission on Ministry announces new discernment schedules
[Commission on Ministry] Over the past five years, the Commission on Ministry of the Diocese of Los Angeles has been taking deliberate steps to streamline and clarify the discernment process for people wishing to enter lay or ordained ministry. They have re-imagined the congregational discernment committee training and manual, re-worked and published a new discernment website, have provided input into crafting a new lay licensing certification program, and launched the Diocesan Discernment Information Gathering, just to name a few.
Training for congregational discernment committees is required as part of the discernment process, so that all clergy and committees are working from the same guidelines. Beginning in 2024, training for congregational discernment committees will now be held four times per year at different locations around the diocese, instead of at individual parishes.
If you are clergy currently working with a parishioner on discernment, please take note. If you feel your discerner is ready or almost ready for a congregational discernment committee, please ask your chosen committee members to attend a training at one of the locations listed below. Registration for committee members can be scheduled by contacting Cameron Johnson at cameratta@aol.com. Additional Spanish-language training may be scheduled as requested.
Saturday, January 20, 2024; 10 a.m.
Discernment Committee Training
St. Wilfrid's Church, Huntington Beach
Saturday, March 16, 2024, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Discernment Information Gathering
St. Paul's Commons, Echo Park
How is God calling YOU? We’re often surprised that God calls us … all of us. Today’s world pulls us in so many directions that it's sometimes hard to discern. Have you been wondering where God is calling you in your life, your work, your church and beyond? The Commission on Ministry (COM) in the Diocese of Los Angeles wants to help those seeking answers to these questions. Please join us as we explore what answering a call can mean in your life.
Saturday, March 16, 2024, 1 p.m. (English), 2 p.m. (Spanish)
Discernment Committee Training
St. Paul's Commons, Echo Park
Saturday, July 20, 2024, 10 a.m.
Discernment Committee Training
All Saints'/Todos los Santos Church, Oxnard
Friday, November 8, 2024, time TBA
Discernment Committee Training
Diocesan Convention, Riverside Convention Center
Leer en español aquí.
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Local screenings, study guides set for ‘Case for Love’ film produced by team based at Beverly Hills parish
By EN Staff
[The Episcopal News – December 13, 2023] Congregations across the Diocese of Los Angeles are invited to rally around the Jan. 23 release of “A Case for Love” – a feature-film documentary inspired by the teachings of Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and produced by Grace-Based Films, a company formed by parishioners of All Saints Episcopal Church, Beverly Hills.
The film is slated for a one-day release in selected AMC/Regal/Century theaters on Jan. 23 (see schedule here).
Free resources – including discussion guides for adult education and youth groups, communications tools, social media files and posters – can be downloaded here.
An Episcopal News Service story about the film and its production team is here.
Read more here.
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By Your Side training sessions to begin Jan. 23
By Your Side, a program of Episcopal Communities & Services, will begin its winter training session for end-of-life companions on Tuesday, Jan. 23, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m., and continue on Tuesdays through Feb. 20,
The sessions will be held at MonteCedro, ECS's senior living facility at 2212 El Molino, Altadena 91001.
Since 2011, the mission of By Your Side has been to support people in times of change and difficulty, particularly in health crisis, and to be at their bedside at the end of their lives as needed. By Your Side has trained more than 500 volunteers to be a compassionate presence.
"We continue to develop teams of people to serve in hospital and long-term care settings, especially in our ECS communities," says By Your Side administrator Susan Brown. "Team members have had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of what it means to really be “with” the residents they support; residents become even more aware of the needs of neighbors having difficulty with changes in their lives, with challenging diagnoses or increasing frailty. In the larger community, individuals and spiritual care teams strengthen their understanding of what being together through the end of life can really look like. We all gain tools for taking care of ourselves while being present for those around us."
There is no obligation to volunteer after training. For further information and to register for the winter training session, contact Brown at sbrown@ecsforseniors.org or 626.403.5424. A fee of $70 (which includes all materials) is due by the second class. Scholarships are available. CE (12 hrs.) for nurses is available for an added $30 under California Board of Registered Nursing Provider CEP 16239.
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SAVE THE DATE
March discernment event will help church members answer calls to ministry
The Commission on Ministry of the Diocese of Los Angeles invites any Episcopalian who feels a call to lay or ordained ministry to attend a Diocesan Discernment Information Gathering (DIG) on Saturday, March 16, 2024, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at St. Paul's Commons, 840 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles.
"How is God calling YOU? We’re often surprised that God calls us ... all of us," says the event announcement. "Today’s world pulls us in so many directions that it's sometimes hard to discern. Have you been wondering where God is calling you in your life, your work, your church and beyond? The COM wants to help those seeking answers to these questions. Join us as we explore what answering a call can mean in your life."
For information, contact Cameron Johnson at cameratta@aol.com
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Presiding bishop to undergo new medical procedure to prevent recurrence of brain bleeds
[Episcopal News Service – Jan. 17, 2024] Presiding Bishop Michael Curry will undergo a medical procedure on Jan. 18 that doctors hope will alleviate the underlying condition that has caused Curry’s recurrences of subdural hematoma, according to an update from the church’s Office of Public Affairs.
Curry has been treated twice at a hospital near his home in Raleigh, North Carolina, since early December, when doctors diagnosed the subdural hematoma, or brain bleed, after he suffered a fall during a visit to the Diocese of Central New York. The new procedure will use a catheter to insert a metal coil intended to prevent blood from pooling in the brain.
Read more here.
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Michael Barlowe to retire in August after 11 years as General Convention’s executive officer
By David Paulsen
[Episcopal News Service – Jan. 16, 2024] The Rev. Michael Barlowe, whose leadership of the General Convention Office as executive officer put him at the forefront of the church’s years-long shift to digital technology and its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Jan. 16 that he plans to retire in August.
Barlowe, an Episcopal priest for more than 40 years, is known in church governance for wearing many hats. In addition to General Convention’s executive officer, he serves as that governing body’s elected secretary, as its registrar and as secretary of Executive Council, the church’s governing body between meetings of General Convention. He also is secretary of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society, the church’s corporate entity, and chairs the joint standing committee that considers and recommends host cities for the church’s triennial General Convention.
In his Jan. 16 letter to Executive Council, he announced that the 81st General Convention in June will be his last.
Read more here.
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Indigenous Episcopalians gather in Texas for annual Winter Talk conference
By Shireen Korkzan
[Episcopal News Service — Port Aransas, Texas – Jan. 17, 2024] Episcopalians representing multiple Indigenous tribes throughout the United States and worldwide gathered in person and virtually Jan. 13-15 at the Mustang Island Conference Center in Port Aransas, Texas, for the annual Winter Talk conference.
“This endeavor strengthens our Indigenous community, which we then take with us back to our own communities,” said Forrest Cuch, a member of the Ute tribe and senior warden of St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church in Whiterocks, Utah. “It’s just a wonderful time. It’s something we all look forward to. It’s incredible.”
The Episcopal Church’s Office of Indigenous Ministries organizes Winter Talk as a forum where participants can highlight their Indigenous traditions and contributions to the church. This year, 38 people participated in person and as many as 75 people participated via Zoom. Participants included priests, bishops, lay leaders and tribal elders.
Read more here.
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New web-based app automates Episcopal parish register portion of the annual parochial report
[Episcopal News Service – Jan. 16, 2024] The General Convention Office has released a new web-based app that helps tally items on the annual parochial report relating to church services and attendance.
The parish register app allows users to track aspects of every liturgy that takes place in their congregation and then adds that data to the church’s parochial report, the Rev. Molly James, deputy executive officer of General Convention, told Episcopal News Service. Every congregation in The Episcopal Church is required to complete the parochial report annually. This year’s report based on 2023 data is due March 1.
“It tracks everything related to worship, so that at the end of the year, when you go to fill out the parochial report, the number of Eucharists you have, the number of baptisms, your average Sunday attendance – all of the math is done for you,” she said. Data that is entered during 2024 will be compiled for the parochial report that is filed in 2025.
Read more here.
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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
Information here Zoom Meeting ID: 912 3096 9532; Passcode: 080100
Worship bulletins here
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.
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SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 6 p.m.
Classical Sundays at Six: Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
Featuring Vittorio Ponti, piano. Carlo Ponti, conductor. Selections will include Nocturne in B Major, Opus 40, by Antonín Dvořák; Concerto in D Major for String Orchestra by Igor Stravinsky; Keyboard Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, BWV 1052 by Johann Sebastian Bach. The Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra is a dynamic ensemble devoted to the advocacy and support of music education. The ensemble was founded in 2013 on the core belief that an orchestra is a unique educational resource. Read more about the artists here.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 7, 8 p.m.
Compline
St. John's Cathedral
514 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles 90007
The service is sung in its entirety by the cathedral choir under the direction of Christopher Gravis, with a time for light refreshment and fellowship afterwards.
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 12 – 2 p.m.
SAGES Lunch & Speaker Series
All Saints' Episcopal Church
504 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills
Reservations: Gflores@alllsaintsbh.org
Speaker: Suzi Digby, Baroness Eatwell OBE. A choral music director of considerable reputation for some time, Lady Eatwell has conducted the popular Golden Bridge Concert series at All Saints, where she explores fascinating comparisons of modern and classical composers. Additionally she comes to Los Angeles as a visiting lecturer at USC, where she teaches conducting. She is an extremely dynamic speaker and performer, and we are very fortunate to have her join us! She will share highlights of her career, including her collaboration with All Saints’ own Dr. Craig Phillips. Suggested donation: $15. SAGES is All Saints' fellowship ministry for mature adults. We gather two Thursdays a month for lunch, friendship, prayer and engaging presentations.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 7 p.m.
Taizé Service
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church
1432 Engracia Avenue, Torrance 90501
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. Service may be seen online here.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 14, 4:15 p.m.
Solemn Evensong
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
The Choir of Saint James will perform Responses by William Smith; Gloucester Canticles by Herbert Howells; "Jesu, the Very Thought of Thee" by Paul Halley; and "Ave Maria" by Franz Biebl.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 7:30 p.m.
A Service in the style of Taizé
All Saints Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210
Information here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org
Begun many years ago at the ecumenical French monastic community called Taizé, these services, with candlelight and singing of chants, are a wonderful way to refresh in the midst of a busy week.
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SATURDAY, JANUARY 20, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Home by Another Road: An Epiphany Collage and Writing Retreat
Online
Information and registration here
Presented by Stillpoint. Join the Rev. Christine Ng and the Rev. Sandra Wagoner of SoulCollage® for a transformative journey as we embrace the spirit of Epiphany. Using the spiritual practices of contemplative writing, art-making, and reflection, we’ll collectively explore Epiphany’s invitation to listen within and discover what it means to return home another way. In this interactive session, we’ll create a SoulCollage® card that we’ll engage with via imaginative writing prompts. No prior experience of SoulCollage® or contemplative writing necessary. You will need to bring some craft supplies to the online retreat; click the registration link for more information.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 21, 4 p.m.
Oak Baroque: Baroque Rarities
Church of the Epiphany
5450 Churchwood Drive, Oak Park 91377
Information here or music@tcote.org or 818.991.4797
The players of Oak Baroque return with a fascinating program of Bach’s Partita in Bb, BWV 825, Telemann’s Gulliver’s Travels Suite for Two Violins, rarities for cello by Domenico Gabrielli and Francesco Maria Zuccari, and American premieres of recently discovered works by Roberto Valentine and an anonymous composer. There will be a simple reception after the concert to greet the artists.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 21, 6 p.m.
Classical Sundays at Six -
International Laureates Organ Series: Ryan Chan
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
Ryan Chan is recognized as a versatile musician who specializes in organ and harpsichord. His passions for both early and contemporary repertoire, performance practice, historic/antique keyboards, experimentation and teaching define his musical identity. As a soloist and a chamber/orchestral player, he has performed in venues across the United States, Europe and Hong Kong. Selections will include: Prelude and Fugue in B Major (from Op. 7) by Marcel Dupré; Hommage à Couperin, Op. 48 & Trumpet Tune, Op. 43, N0. 6 by Rachel Laurin; Fantasie No. 2 in D-flat Major, Op. 101 by Charles-Camille Saint-Saëns; Carmen Fantasy by Edwin Lamare; "Hózhó" by Connor Chee; "Lullaby that releases me from reality" by Hina Sakamoto; "Toccata" (from Suite, Op. 5) by Maurice Duruflé. Read more about this artist here.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 12 – 2 p.m.
SAGES Lunch & Speaker Series
All Saints' Episcopal Church
504 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills
Reservations: Gflores@alllsaintsbh.org
Curtis Berak/Harpsicord. A master and acclaimed harpsichord maker and hurdy gurdy (we will learn all about this instrument!) player, Curtis promises to inspire us with an introduction to these two instruments invented during the Middle Ages, and which he supplies all over the West Coast for music from the Baroque and Renaissance era. He is an expert in his field and we are so very fortunate to have him join us! Suggested donation: $15. SAGES is All Saints' fellowship ministry for mature adults. We gather two Thursdays a month for lunch, friendship, prayer and engaging presentations.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 5 p.m.
Chamber Music Concert III
All Saints Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210
Information/tickets here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org
Music by Beethoven & Bruch, performed by Roger Keller, clarinet; Connie Kupka, viola; David Speltz, cello; and Stephen Manes, piano. This concert features Beethoven’s “Eyeglass Duo” for viola and cello, and “Trio, Op. 11,” and other duos and trios of Max Bruch. Tickets: $20 ($10 students and seniors). Admission free with Music Guilddonor season pass.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 6 p.m.
Classical Sundays at Six: Phillip Levy, violin & Tae Yeon Lim, piano
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
Featuring works by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, and Kreisler. Hailed by the San Francisco Chronicle as the top classical performer of 1995, violinist Phillip Levy has received worldwide critical acclaim at festivals in Spoleto, Bayreuth, Edinburgh, Israel, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Ojai, Seattle and Aspen. Read more about the artists here.
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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 7 p.m.
Every Child’s Life is Sacred: An Interfaith Concert for Humanity
St. John's Cathedral
514 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles 90007
Reservations here
Presented by The Guibord Center. Featuring the Yuval Ron Intercultural Ensemble: Elinor Sitrish, vocals; Khawaja Ehrari, vocals and ney flute; Banafsheh Sayyad, liturgical dancer; Housain Ehrari, percussion; Katyanna Zoroghlian, vocals; Norik Manoukian, woodwinds; Virgine Alimian, kanun (laptop zither); Jamie Papish, percussion; and Yuval Ron, oud, backup vocals and artistic director. Free to the community, but seating is limited and reservations are required. Free valet parking.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 6 p.m.
Classical Sundays at Six: Emerging Artists Series
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
Featuring Crossroads School EMMI Chamber Orchestra and ensembles, Alexander Treger, conductor. The Elizabeth Mandell Music Institute (EMMI) is a renowned high school music program. In addition to the outstanding college preparatory academic offerings at Crossroads, EMMI students study music theory, harmony, analysis, counterpoint, rhythm and ear training at the conservatory/college level. Read more here.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 5 p.m.
Choral Evensong for Epiphany
All Saints Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210
Information/tickets here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org
All Saints’ Choir will sing "Lux Aurumque" by Eric Whitacre; Preces & Responses by Kenneth Leighton; Magnificat & Nunc dimittis (Collegium Regale) by John Tavener; and "Jesu, the very thought of thee" by Paul Halley. A reception will follow the service.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 12 – 2 p.m.
SAGES Lunch & Speaker Series
All Saints' Episcopal Church
504 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills
Reservations: Gflores@alllsaintsbh.org
Renne Bilson and Jacquie Dolan, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). This program supports foster children in the LA County juvenile dependency court system. CASAs are trained community volunteers who provide one-on-one advocacy to ensure the youth to whom they are appointed receive educational, medical, psychological, and emotional support--in order to help them overcome the trauma they have experienced and thus have a better future. All Saints' own Renne Bilson and founding President Jacquie Dolan have done impressive work and are passionate about what CASA can do - come be inspired as we learn about how they have ministered to some of the most vulnerable in our court system.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 7 p.m.
Taizé Service
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church
1432 Engracia Ave, Torrance 90501
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.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 8 p.m.
Golden Bridge Consort
All Saints Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210
Information here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org
Join us for an evening of spectacular choral music. The Golden Bridge ensemble, led by Suzi Digby, OBE, features the finest professional singers in California. Their ninth annual concert will again focus on a program exploring the relationship between the English and American choral traditions and Renaissance works juxtaposed with newly commissioned compositions. Tickets available at the door. Music Guild members admitted free with season pass. A reception will follow the service
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 4:15 p.m.
Solemn Evensong
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
The Choir of Saint James will perform Responses by William Byrd; Winchester Canticles (U.S. premiere) by Joe Twist; Dum Medium Silentium by Vytautas Miškinis; and "Salve Regina."
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 7:30 p.m.
Missa Mystica for Ash Wednesday
All Saints Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210
Information here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org
All Saints’ Choir will perform Missa Brevis by G. P. Palestrina and "Ave verum" by William Byrd.
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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 6 p.m.
Classical Sundays at Six: Daniel Schlosberg & Inna Faliks, piano
St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church
3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010
Information here
Featuring Symphony No. 6 by Gustav Mahler (arr. Zemlinsky). Daniel Schlosberg has appeared with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as featured soloist and in numerous chamber music concerts. He has a passion for contemporary music, collaborating frequently with Eighth Blackbird and Third Coast Percussion. He also gave the world premiere of Augusta Read Thomas’s “Starlight Ribbons” for solo piano; the U.S. premiere of Kaija Saariaho’s “Calices” (for violin and piano), and several sets of piano pieces by Stanley Walden. He was a founding member of Yarn/Wire, the lauded two piano/two percussion group. Read more about the artists here.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 7 p.m.
Choral Compline
Church of the Epiphany
5450 Churchwood Drive, Oak Park 91377
Information here or music@tcote.org or 818.991.4797
Compline is a contemplative and richly beautiful service that brings the day to a peaceful close. Liturgically and musically, Compline reached its apex during the Tudor era, when composers like Byrd and Tallis created music for Compline that has been described as “more divine than human.” Using glorious Tudor-era music, our service will be sung entirely a cappella by the Epiphany Schola.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 7:30 p.m.
A Service in the style of Taizé
All Saints Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills 90210
Information here or 310.275.0123 or info@allsaintsbh.org
Begun many years ago at the ecumenical French monastic community called Taizé, these services, with candlelight and singing of chants, are a wonderful way to refresh in the midst of a busy week.
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Events to be included in the online diocesan calendar and the Update may be emailed to editor@ladiocese.org. | |
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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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