October 26, 2025

Diocesan Council approves $13.4 million 2026 consolidated budget, hears updates on upcoming Convention meeting

By Pat McCaughan

The upcoming election of the 8th Bishop of Los Angeles and review of the $13.4 million consolidated budget for 2026 – to be presented to the Nov.7-8 Diocesan Convention – were the main business of the Oct. 16 meeting of Diocesan Council, held via Zoom.

Bishop candidate meet-and-greets begin

The Rev. Canon Greg Larkin, Transitions Committee co-chair, told Council a busy agenda is planned, intending to show bishop candidates, the depth and breadth of diocesan congregations. There will be stops at a variety of ministries and ethnic congregations, in Los Angeles, Camarillo, Hacienda Heights, Riverside and Woodland Hills. Larkin encouraged visitor registration prior to designated candidate meet-and-greet sessions to allow for adequate planning and space accommodation. Spanish translation will be provided at the sessions for both clergy and laity.

Bishop John Harvey Taylor, who will reach the church’s mandatory retirement age in 2026, offered prayers for the candidates, the Rev. Antonio Gallardo, rector of St. Luke’s/San Lucas, Long Beach; the Rev. Monica Burns Mainwaring, rector of St. Martin in the Fields, Atlanta, Georgia; and the Rev. Melissa McCarthy, diocesan canon to the ordinary. “It's an experience like no other in the church to stand for an episcopal election,” Taylor said. “There's nothing easy about it, but it is, in its way, glorious.”

Meet-and-greet sessions with bishop candidates continue through Oct. 24

After two lively initial days, the series of meet-and-greet gatherings with the three nominees for eighth bishop diocesan continues as The Episcopal News was published this evening. Registration is still open for three sessions – in Riverside, Santa Ana, and Hacienda Heights – Oct. 23-24.

The first meet-and-greet forum, attended by clergy and laity, was held the evening of Oct. 21 at St. Columba’s Church in the Ventura County city of Camarillo. Organizers said the event was well attended by nearly 200 participants both in person and via Zoom. A link to the Zoom coverage is here.

Coordinated by the diocesan Transitions Committee co-chaired by the Rev. Canon Greg Larkin and Sheira Smith, the meet-and-greet events opened Oct. 20 with dinner at the Church of Our Saviour, San Gabriel. Tuesday’s itinerary included a visit to St. John’s Cathedral, Los Angeles, and the West Valley Food Pantry in Woodland Hills. Wednesday events began at St. Paul’s Commons in Echo Park with a reception with diocesan staff, a tour of the complex including stops in the on-site offices of the Immaculate Heart Community and Nefesh Jewish Community, and an afternoon question-and-answer forum with some 70 diocesan clergy. Activities continue this evening with a 7 p.m. meet-and-greet session at Christ the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in L.A.’s Leimert Park neighborhood.

The meet-and-greet sessions precede Nov. 7-8 balloting by Diocesan Convention at its annual meeting in Riverside where a successor will be elected to Bishop John Harvey Taylor, who has announced his retirement in 2026.

Photos: At St. John’s Cathedral (upper photo), nominees and Transition Committee members are pictured with cathedral staff and lay leaders (photo: The Rev. Mel Soriano). At West Valley Food Pantry (lower photo, top row), nominees smile with staff members including Debbie Decker, executive director (at right). At St. Paul’s Commons in Echo Park, nominees are welcomed by Rabbi Susan Goldberg and members of the on-site Nefesh Jewish Community, and by Immaculate Heart Community’s president, Dr. Sherry Purcell IHM, and colleagues (staff photos). Forums with the nominees were held Oct. 21 at St. Columba’s, Camarillo, and Oct. 22 at both St. Paul’s Commons, Echo Park, and Christ the Good Shepherd, Leimert Park.

EN_NominationReport_2025_Spanish_COVER image

Now available to download: The Episcopal News presents “Nomination Report 2025,” a PDF magazine-format publication, in English and Spanish, of statements and Q&A with the three candidates for eighth bishop of Los Angeles. Suitable for printing and distribution in congregations, the publications are available here.

Immersed in Worship program finalizes first grant recipients, continues congregational support, prepares for growing grant cycles

By Mostyn Trudinger-Smith

To strengthen ministries with children, eight congregations of the Diocese of Los Angeles will soon receive grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 through the Immersed in Worship program. Congregations receiving this first round of sub-grants will be celebrated at Diocesan Convention Nov. 7-8.

The diocesan Immersed in Worship program officially began Jan. 1 with the start of funding from a $1.2 million grant the program received from Lily Endowment Inc. The program seeks to support congregations and help them to create and collaborate on vibrant ministries that engage children ages zero-12.

The program offers resources, training, and sub-grants to individual congregational projects, in addition to developing a network of connection between congregations, said Missy Morain, director of the program and diocesan missioner for Christian formation, children and youth. Morain works closely with the Rev. Canon Melissa McCarthy, diocesan canon to the ordinary, who played a key role in securing the grant.

“We are grateful to Lilly Endowment for affirming our vision and commitment to children in our diocese and the church,” McCarthy told the News. “Missy Morain’s ideas, coalesced in this grant, are inspired. She is a brilliant educator with years of experience and cutting-edge work in children’s and youth ministry at the church-wide level. This grant enables us to do something we have long dreamed of — resource congregations to engage children through grassroots, diocesan-supported efforts. It will be transformational for our diocese, and, with God’s help, the whole church.”

Episcopalians from around the diocese join ‘No Kings’ protests

From Riverside to Santa Monica, from Laguna Hills to Santa Barbara, in Pasadena, Downtown Los Angeles, the South Bay and all across the Diocese of Los Angeles, Episcopalians stood up for “the dignity of every human being” in the words of the baptismal covenant. They joined seven million nationwide in opposing injustice and affirming democracy.

Hermosa Beach acolytes attend National Cathedral festival

Acolytes from St. Cross, Hermosa Beach, attended the Washington National Cathedral Acolyte Festival, held Saturday, Oct. 11.

The St. Cross acolyte delegation was among dozens participating in the National Cathedral’s annual observance, opened with the “Grandest of Processions” and continuing with Holy Eucharist. Participants also were invited to spend the afternoon exploring the cathedral and its grounds, joining workshops, including technique with incense thuribles, and helping to build a LEGO® scale model of the cathedral.

“Our acolytes always make us proud, but having them represent us at the National level is a true honor,” said St. Cross in a Facebook post.

‘Our Sacred Canopy’ offers free tree plantings for congregations in qualifying neighborhoods

California Interfaith Power and Light is providing free trees, along with a canopy-education event and tree-planting ceremony, to congregations located within EPA-designated low-canopy areas, through the Our Sacred Canopy initiative.

“Across spiritual traditions, trees are revered as symbols of life, wisdom, and interconnectedness,” says the Our Sacred Canopy webpage. “From the Tree of Life in the Bible to the Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, trees remind us of the sacredness of our Sacred Earth and our responsibility to care for it.”

The Bishop's Commission on Climate Change endorses Our Sacred Canopy, and encourages congregations, especially those in communities disproportionately impacted by pollution, to see if they are eligible for the program.

Learn more about the initiative here, and submit the interest form to see if your congregation qualifies and to begin the process.

Updates posted for Convention, ‘Resilience & Renewal,’ Nov. 7-8 in Riverside

The 130th Annual Meeting of Convention of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Los Angeles: Resilience & Renewal will take place Friday and Saturday, Nov. 7 and 8, 2025 at the Riverside Convention Center. An updated Call to Convention is now available on the website.

Highlights:

Hotel rooms: Rooms have been added to EDLA’s block at the Marriott and Mission Inn.

We have now contracted with the Hyatt Place as well. If you booked a room at the Hyatt Place before the Convention office secured this block, please reach out directly to Karla or Abigail at the Hyatt Place at 951.321.3505 to have our group rate applied to your reservation.

Meals: Tickets for the Friday Night Dinner are now for available. Following the conclusion of business on Friday evening, there will be a hospitality reception in the Upper Concourse and then dinner in the Raincross Ballroom. Tickets must be purchased in advance here. Seating will not be assigned.

Pre-Convention Diocesan Presentations and Deanery Assemblies: Deanery 1’s Presentation and Assembly has been rescheduled for Saturday, Oct. 25 @ 10am.

Deaneries 1, 3, 4 & 5 – Saturday, Oct. 25 @ 10 a.m.

Deaneries 6, 7 & 8 – Saturday, Oct. 25 @ 3 p.m.

Deaneries 2, 9 & 10 – Saturday, Nov. 1 @ 10 a.m.

If you are unable to attend your Deanery’s scheduled Zoom, you are welcome to attend the Diocesan presentation on another date. If you are unable to attend any of the scheduled Zoom meetings, the packet of materials with all the information presented will be available on the Convention website by Monday, Oct. 20.

Visitors: The business of Convention will be livestreamed on the diocesan Facebook page and YouTube channel. Visitors who would like to join in person are welcome to sit in the visitors’ seating to the side of the Floor of Convention and are welcome to purchase meal tickets. Pre-registration is not required for visitors, but please check in at the Information Table when you arrive.

Clergy spouses, partners invited to Diocesan Convention lunch program, hospitality room

Clergy spouses and partners are invited to gather in a designated hospitality room for lunch Friday, Nov. 7, and throughout Diocesan Convention’s annual meeting in Riverside.

Bishop John Harvey Taylor will share reflections during the lunch program, set for 12 noon Nov. 7 and hosted by his spouse, Canon Kathy O’Connor.

Spouses and partners wishing to attend the luncheon are asked to email O’Connor at mizkoc@gmail.com to indicate their plans to participate.

Youth delegate applications, nominations encouraged for Diocesan Convention

Young people (ages 16–18) in the diocese are invited to grow as a leaders and share their voice in the governance of the Church as youth delegates to Diocesan Convention, Nov. 7–8. Delegates must be available for the entire Convention to fully participate as eligible voting members. Housing and meals will be provided, along with orientation and mentorship. Apply or nominate a young person in your community for this exciting opportunity for leadership and formation below.

Application for Youth/Young Adult Delegates to Diocesan Convention

Nomination form for Youth/Young Adult Delegates to Diocesan Convention

Requiescat in Pace

The Rev. John Limo, rector in Apple Valley, dies at 63

The Rev. Canon John Edward Limo – who served since 2016 as rector of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Apple Valley – died Oct. 19 while hospitalized in Los Angeles. He was 63 and had until recently served as co-chair of the diocesan Program Group on Black Ministries.

Survivors include his wife, Violet, and their three adult children, John Limo Jr., Juliet Achieng, and Janet Limo, and two grandchildren. Memorial services are pending; The Episcopal News will publish details when they become available.

Limo was received into the Diocese of Los Angeles from the Anglican Church of Kenya in 2016 by then-Bishop J. Jon Bruno. He held a diploma in theology from the Great Lakes University of Kisumu, Kenya, and went on to earn an M.Div from the International Theology School in 2009.

In the Diocese of Los Angeles, Limo brought key cross-cultural perspectives to the work of the black ministries program group, and he was highly esteemed for his pastoral ministries in the High Desert community of Apple Valley.

Cathedral Connections

Nov. 16 festival Eucharist will mark cathedral church’s 100th year

St. John’s Cathedral will mark the 100th year of its landmark sanctuary with a festival Eucharist at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 16. (Please note change from previously publicized date of Nov. 23.) The liturgy will feature joyous music for brass, timpani, organ, and choir. Two new choral anthems will be premiered, composed specially for the occasion by Vasken Ohanian and Zachery Neufeld. Stirring brass fanfares and processions are also planned.

Cathedral leaders also invite the diocesan community to save the evening of Saturday, Dec. 20, for a gala celebration to conclude the centennial observance. Further details will be published as they become available.

The Bishop's Blog (additional entries are here)

Opening Dinner for Bishop Nominees

October 21, 2025

On Friday, the Very Rev. Canon Ian Elliott Davies, rector of Saint Thomas the Apostle, Hollywood, told me about a book by Paul Avis called “Becoming a Bishop: A Theological Handbook of Episcopal Ministry.” My response was that, nearly nine years into this, I was way overdue reading it.

Visiting St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Monrovia

October 20, 2025

For my third and likely final visitation at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Monrovia, as it celebrated the feast day of St. Luke, purportedly a physician, I thought about all that our doctors do, if we are blessed to have health care. Whatever our complaint, no matter how much detail we throw in to try to make it uniquely ours, they have heard it all before. They sometimes know what is likely to happen to us before it does. And they know what’s good for us and never fail to say, leaving it up to us what to do. My sport coat feeling looser and blood numbers looking healthier feel infinitely better than 100 cheeseburgers taste. And yet, as St. Paul predicted I would somewhere in his letters, I still reach for the cheeseburger.

Announcements & Events

Sewanee ethicist to speak on eco-theology and private property at Howe Lectures

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Westwood, will welcome Dr. Andrew R. H. Thompson, assistant professor of theological ethics and director of the Center for Religion and Environment at the School of Theology, University of the South (Sewanee), as the featured speaker in the next installment of the Howe Lectures on Monday, Nov. 10.

Thompson will deliver a lecture titled “Eco-Theology and Private Property: A Radical Episcopal Critique.” Drawing on his 2023 book, Reconsider the Lilies: Challenging Christian Environmentalism’s Colonial Legacy, Thompson will examine how contemporary Christian environmental movements have been shaped by the intertwined histories of colonialism and slavery, and how retrieving the witness of Episcopal lay theologians Vida Dutton Scudder and William Stringfellow might offer a more radical, liberative vision of creation, community, and stewardship.

“Eco-theology and creation care are profoundly shaped by the legacies of colonialism and slavery,” Thompson writes. “Moving past these distortions requires challenging the foundations of our economic and political systems. One such radical critique is present in the work of Scudder and Stringfellow.”

The lecture will begin at 6 p.m. at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 580 Hilgard Ave., Los Angeles (across from the UCLA campus). A reception and book signing will follow. The event is free and open to the public.

Trinity Church, New York, invites L.A. congregations to Gift of Place virtual conference

Trinity Church, New York, is hosting its sixth annual Gift of Place conference, which is meant to serve as an opportunity for faith-based organizations to explore creative ways of using existing real estate holdings to further mission and ministry, virtually Nov. 12-13. Organizers welcome clergy and lay leaders who are curious about or already working on a creative reimagining of their church property to join. Participation is free, and there are different participation options based on interest/availability and where a congregation is on their mission real estate journey. More information and registration here.

Sing-along to Handel’s Messiah, along with preparatory scripture-study, offered in Ventura

St. Paul’s, Ventura, is hosting a Messiah sing-along on Saturday, Dec. 13th at 3 p.m. The event will feature singers and musicians from various churches in the diocese and the community. Tickets are $20 each, which will pay the orchestra musicians. Come to listen, or join in! A reception will be held after the event in Kahler Hall. Purchase tickets here.

In advance of the event, St. Paul’s is offering a four-week study series entitled: Hallelujah! — The Bible and Handel’s Messiah. The series will be held Tuesday evenings, Oct. 28 – Nov. 18, from 6:30-8 p.m. in the community room. The Rev. Greg Larkin and Seminary Intern Drew Darby will lead an exploration of the scriptural texts of Handel’s Messiah. The study is for both the music-lover and the biblical seeker, with a careful examination of the texts that will open understanding of both the Bible and Handel’s masterpiece in new and exciting ways.

Candidates for elective offices offer statements; nominations open until Convention

Diocesan Convention delegates and members of local congregations are encouraged to read the statements posted by candidates for election during Convention’s Nov. 7-8 annual meeting in Riverside. Statements and open offices are posted here.

For more information and current candidates, visit the Elective Offices and Nominees page on the diocesan website, here.

By Your Side offers Zoom training Nov. 17-Dec.15

By Your Side — an organization dedicated to supporting people in times of change and difficulty, particularly in health crisis, and to be at their bedsides at the end of their lives as needed — is offering a Fall training course, Mondays, Nov. 17-Dec.15, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. More than six hundred people have been trained by By Your Side to be a compassionate presence.

By Your Side continues to develop teams of people to serve in hospitals, particularly Keck Medicine at USC and Olive View/UCLA, and in long-term care settings, especially at ECS communities. In residential communities of older adults, residents become even more aware of the needs of neighbors having difficulty with changes in their lives, with challenging diagnoses or increasing frailty. Team members deepen their awareness of what it really means to be “with” the residents they support. In the larger community, spiritual care teams and individuals strengthen their understanding of what being together through the end of life can really look like. Participants gain tools for taking care of themselves while being present for those around. There is no obligation to volunteer.

This cohort will meet only on Zoom. A fee of $70. (which includes all materials) is due by the second class. Complimentary for ECS team members; scholarships are available for public enrollees. CE (12 hrs.) for nurses is available for an added $30.00 under California Board of Registered Nursing Provider CEP 16239.

For further information and to register, contact Susan Brown at sbrown@ecsforseniors.org or 626.403.5424 or Celeste Stump at cstump@thecanterbury.org.

Introduction to Diaconate workshop offered for those discerning a call to ministry Nov. 1

What does it mean to “interpret to the Church the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world”? Those who have had that question or sensed a pull toward ordained ministry are invited to attend an Introduction to the Diaconate workshop Saturday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. The workshop, led by the Rev. Deacon Dennis Sheridan, Ph.D., and the Venerable Laura Siriani, archdeacon, will be held at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, 6201 E. Willow St., Long Beach. Spanish language translation will be available.

Los Angeles deacons will offer a glimpse into the life and history of the diaconate, and answer questions. Participants will hear from deacons who act as the bridge between the church and the world and learn about the distinctive diaconal voice. The workshop is recommended for those discerning a call to ordained ministry.

Please provide your name, congregation, contact information, and your preference for Spanish language translation. Lunch will be available for purchase for $15, or participants may bring their own lunch.

Nomination, application deadlines near in rector search at All Saints’, Beverly Hills

Key deadlines are approaching as All Saints’ Parish, Beverly Hills seeks its next rector. The deadline for applications is Friday, Oct. 31, at 8 p.m. Pacific time, and the deadline for nominations is Friday, Oct. 24, at 8 p.m. The parish profile, as well as online nomination and application forms, can be found at www.allsaintsbhrectorsearch.org.

St. Stephen’s continues fundraising for families of detained

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Hollywood, announced Sept. 16 that 11 of the 14 who had been abducted and detained by ICE and are connected to St. Stephens’s have been released on bond. The Rev. Jaime Edwards-Acton, rector, said that most are required to wear ankle monitors. Some do not have their next court immigration appointments until March of 2026, he said. Two have self-deported back to Mexico. One is still in Adelanto.

St. Stephen’s is fundraising and accepting donations to support the families while they are unable to work their previous jobs. There is the current need especially for water, cooking oil, flour, canned tuna, canned fruit, dried beans, sugar, and pull-ups, size 7, as well as financial donations for rent and bills. Donations may be made via Venmo to @ststephenshollywood, or via PayPal, here.

Learn more about the stories of those detained at: https://www.instagram.com/luchazapoteca/

UTO invites 2026 grant applications, due Oct. 25, celebrates 2025 projects

UTO grants for 2026 will focus on the theme of justice and bridging divides. If you are interested in applying, please consult the grant proposal guidelines as soon as possible. Please email Tammy Smecker-Hane at tsmecker@cox.net for help navigating the process. There is an internal diocesan deadline for UTO grant proposal ideas for the Diocese of Los Angeles, as each bishop can endorse only one UTO grant. To enter a proposal idea, email Bishop John Harvey Taylor (jtaylor@ladiocese.org) and Smecker-Hane (tsmecker@cox.net) a short (1 page maximum) proposal description by Oct. 25. Proposal descriptions should detail who will be served by the proposal and how, what other group will be partners, what makes the applicant equipped to carry out the proposal, and a draft budget. In addition, applicants should plan to attend at least one of the webinars that UTO is offering to help prepare proposals.

Every penny donated to United Thank Offering in 2025 went out as UTO grants to Episcopal groups in United States and throughout the wider world in the Anglican Communion to solve communities’ challenges accessing reliable and clean water. The 2025 UTO grants include projects for rainwater harvesting for landscaping use at St. Matthew’s Church in San Andreas, California, for constructing showers and laundry facilities for unhoused people in Maine and Massachusetts and for school children and their families in Pennsylvania, for obtaining first-time water access and indoor bathrooms at the Church of the Mediator on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, and the construction of solar-powered boreholes to provide reliable and safe drinking water for entire communities in the Dioceses of Gambia, Libera, Mpwapwa (Tanzania), Mumias (Kenya), and Northern Luzon (Philippines). For a complete list of the 2025 UTO grants, see the UTO website.

IRIS Dreams and Dignity Fund aims to pay legal service fees

Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Service (IRIS), a ministry of the diocese focused on immigration legal services, has a new fundraising effort to cover costs of legal filing fees and other immediate needs of clients.

IRIS lost the majority of its funding in January, and has since been getting buy through fundraising as well as staff reductions. Now, IRIS has been forced to transition to direct support staff only. The new Dreams and Dignity Fund hopes to encourage and empower community members to raise funds on behalf of IRIS and the immigrant community, to provide for IRIS clients.

Donate to the fund and read more here.

Episcopal Church Foundation offers congregational resources for faithful action

The Episcopal Chuirch Foundation, as part of its Vital Practices ministry, offers congregations two new Toolkits for ministry, “Congregational Solidarity and Resistance” and “Solidarity with our Trans and LGBTQ+ Siblings.”

The toolkits offer resources, prayers, study guides, advocacy tools, and practical suggestions for congregations to begin or deepen their work of solidarity with marginalized community members. The toolkits were developed in collaboration with TransEpiscopal, the Episcopal Migration Caucus, the Staff Office for Gender Justice at The Episcopal Church, Palestinian Anglicans & Clergy Allies, Sacred Resistance, and the AuSable Inclusion Center. They are designed to meet Episcopal communities where they are and equip them to widen their circle of belonging, bear witness to the dignity of every child of God, and take faithful action in the face of injustice.

The Congregational Solidarity and Resistance toolkit includes two pieces by the Rev. Dr. Francisco Garcia, one of the conveners of the Sacred Resistance Task Force in the Diocese of Los Angeles.

Daughters of the King to offer Fall Assembly bilingual presentation

Join the Daughters of the King in person on Nov. 1 (All Saints’ Day), 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., at All Saints Church, 144 S C Street, Oxnard, hosted by the Santa Maria Chapter. This is our Corporate Day of Worship, where we honor the communion of saints—faithful believers, living and deceased, united in Christ.

We especially welcome Spanish-speaking women interested in learning more about the Order, as we will also celebrate El Día de los Muertos. Please bring photos of loved ones to place on the Ofrenda.

Learn more and register here.

From the Wider Church & Media

Episcopalians among millions joining nonviolent ‘No Kings’ marches

[Episcopal News Service] Episcopal clergy and laity were among the nearly 7 million people who participated Oct. 18 in nation- and worldwide nonviolent “No Kings” marches in opposition to authoritarian leaders and here in the U.S., Trump administration policies aimed at cutting services to the poor, public education, health care, environmental protection and targeting immigrants.

A vision for General Convention’s future: Less legislative time, more time for formation, fellowship

[Episcopal News Service] Churchwide leaders got a first look Oct. 21 at a vision of what The Episcopal Church’s General Convention soon could become.

When the churchwide governing body meets next in 2027 in Phoenix, Arizona, mornings would be devoted solely to worship and formation. Legislative sessions, held only in the afternoons, would benefit from better coordination of the hundreds of resolutions considered every year by bishops and deputies. Evenings would be reserved for “joyful fellowship,” and the weeklong meeting would “harness the capacity of all the leaders who gather” and “send then home empowered and inspired.”

For more churchwide stories, visit Episcopal News Service.

Calendar

TUESDAYS, 10 – 10:30 a.m.

Episcopal Church Immigration Updates

Via Zoom

Join Episcopal Migration Ministries and the Office of Government Relations every Tuesday at 1 p.m. ET for 30-minute updates on U.S. immigration policy and how Episcopal congregations and communities are responding. Spanish interpretation is available. Register here.

TUESDAYS, 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Gentle Yoga For Seniors

Holy Trinity Church, 100 N. Third Ave., Covina

Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle. No matter your strength or flexibility, this class is intended to hold loving space for you to intentionally move and stretch your body in a safe and supportive environment. Beginners are welcome. $10 per class. Our instructor is Kerry Cannell Muir, RYT500/hr. Email: kerrywithakww@gmail.com. All are welcome.

TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS, 9:15 – 10:15 a.m.

Community Yoga Class

St. James Episcopal Church

1325 Monterey Road, South Pasadena

Community yoga is an inclusive and accessible gathering for people of all ages and skill levels. Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle. Beginners are welcome. $15 per class, $120 for a 10-class pass. A collaboration between Caitlyn Ference-Saunders, RYT500 and St. James' Episcopal Church. We respect the history of yoga as a holistic South Asian practice. Our classes are offered with cultural respect and religious neutrality in mind. All are welcome.

TUESDAYS, OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 18, 6:30-8 p.m.

Hallelujah! — The Bible and Handel’s Messiah

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

3290 Loma Vista, Ventura

The Rev. Greg Larkin and Seminary Intern Drew Darby will lead an exploration of the scriptural texts of Handel’s Messiah. The study is for both the music-lover and the biblical seeker, with a careful examination of the texts that will open understanding of both the Bible and Handel’s masterpiece in new and exciting ways. Held in Advance of the Messiah sing-along at St. Paul’s in December. See related item above.

WEDNESDAYS, 7 p.m.

Women's Lectionary Study

St. Francis Episcopal Church

2200 Via Rosa, Palos Verdes Estates

Join us every Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Library for Women’s Lectionary Study. We’re exploring scripture through “A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church – Year W” by Rev. Dr. Wilda Gafney, discovering fresh perspectives that center women’s voices and experiences in the Bible. You don’t need the book, and you don’t need to attend every week— just come as you are to listen, learn, and share in open, thought-provoking conversation. Everyone is welcome — men and women alike!

THURSDAYS, 7-7:30 a.m.

Churches for Middle East Peace weekly calls on Holy Land conflict

Via Zoom

Join weekly briefings on the Israel-Hamas war hosted by Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP), of which The Episcopal Church is a founding member and active on the board. CMEP mobilizes Christians in the United States to advocate for equality, human rights, security, and justice for Israelis, Palestinians, and all people of the Middle East. Learn more and register.

THURSDAYS, 10-10:30 a.m.

Episcopal Public Policy Network/Office of Government Relations weekly calls

Via Zoom

Join these 30-minute conversations each Thursday with Office of Government Relations staff members, who share an overview of the political environment and legislative outlook, offer advocacy tips, and answer questions. Register here.

THURSDAYS, 7 p.m.

Episcopal Students of UCLA

St. Alban's Episcopal Church

580 Hilgard Ave., 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.

FIRST SATURDAYS, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Dress a Girl Around the World Sewing Ministry

St. Paul's Episcopal Church

242 E. Alvarado St., Pomona

All are invited to participate in St. Paul's sewing ministry, creating dresses for the Dress a Girl Around the World project. Experienced sewing is not required! Please email seniorwarden@stpaulspomona.org to attend.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 9 - 11 a.m.

Pancake Breakfast and Silent Auction on Saturday

St. Paul's Episcopal Church

242 E. Alvarado Street, Pomona CA

Tickets: $15

All proceeds will support St. Paul's community outreach efforts and help fund the congregation's 150th anniversary celebration. Contributions will directly benefit Options Preschool, the Pomona Family Sanctuary, and Dress a Girl ministry. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others and support this special milestone in St. Paul's community's history.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 5 - 9 p.m.

Trunk or Treat

St. Francis Episcopal Church

2200 Via Rosa, Palos Verdes Estates

A spooktacular night at St. Francis: costumes, pizza, games, and Halloween fun! St. Francis and Ancient Ways Karate are teaming up for an evening your kids (and teens!) won’t forget — ending with our Trunk-or-Treat in the lower parking lot at 8 p.m.! RSVP to Shelley Reece at shelley.reece@stfrancispalosverdes.org. For more info, see here.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 5 - 8 p.m.

Trunk of Treat

St. Paul's Episcopal Church

242 E. Alvarado St., Pomona

Join St. Paul's Pomona and Pomona Church of the Brethren for a joint annual Trunk or Treat on Halloween, 5 - 8 p.m. “Join us for some good old fashioned fun!”

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 9 a.m - 1 p.m.

Daughters of the Kind Bilingual Fall Assembly

All Saints Church

144 S. C St., Oxnard

Join the Daughters of the King for a celebration of All Saints Day and Día de los Muertos. Bring a photo for the ofrenda. Learn more and register here.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1, SUNDAY NOVEMBER 2

All Saints by-the-Sea 125th Anniversary Celebration

All Saints by-the-Sea

83 Eucalyptus Lane, Santa Barbara

Saturday, November 1: 3 p.m. Anniversary Concert, 4:30 p.m. Champagne Reception. Enjoy the music and greet friends and former clergy.

Sunday, November 2: All Saints Day, 9 a.m. anniversary service, 10:30 a.m. anniversary brunch and children's activities. All are warmly invited. More information at www.asbts.org

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 5 p.m.

Waters of Comfort Concert

St. Wilfrid of York Episcopal Church

18631 Chapel Ln., Huntington Beach

The Requiem by John Rutter with orchestra, presented by The St. Wilfrid Choir & Laguna Beach Chamber Singers. Music by Rutter, Kallman, Johnson, Kirchner and Beach. Tickets: St. Wilfrid's Episcopal Church | Music $30, $20 seniors/students

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2

All Saints Sunday

All Saints Episcopal Church

504 N. Camden Dr., Beverly Hills

Festive Eucharist - 10 a.m.

All Saints’ Choir, Parish Choir and All Saints’ Chorister

Philip Moore, He that is down needs fear no fall; Craig Phillips, All Saints’ Mass; Craig Phillips, And I saw the Holy City; Stephen Paulus, Every soul who has willingly served

Choral Evensong - 5 p.m.

All Saints’ Choir & Parish Choir

John Tavener, Song for Athene; Bernard Rose, Preces and Responses; C, V. Stanford, Magnificat and Nunc dimittis in C Paul Halley, Bring us, O Lord God. Reception to follow

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 4 p.m.

All souls requiem, and celebration of Dia de los Muertos

Holy Trinity Church

100 N. Third Ave., Covina

All are invited to Holy Trinity's Annual All Souls Requiem on Sunday, 2 November at 4 p.m. We will be praying for all the faithful departed, especially those who were lost during the last year. The Parish Choir will sing portions of the Mozart Requiem. Come early so you can add the names of your loved ones to the list of those for whom we shall pray. For more information, contact holytrinitycovina@yahoo.com or 626.967.3939

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 8 p.m.

Operatic Fireworks with Mezzo-Soprano Raehann Bryce-Davis

St. Matthew’s Music Guild

At St. Augustine by-the-Sea Episcopal Church

1227 Fourth St., Santa Monica

The Chamber Orchestra at St. Matthew’s, under the direction of Music Director Dwayne S. Milburn, continues its 41st season with an unforgettable evening of Operatic Fireworks featuring acclaimed mezzo-soprano Raehann Bryce-Davis. Program includes Arias by Bizet, Berlioz, and Verdi; works by Amy Beach and Dwayne Milburn; African American Spirituals (arr. Milburn). Tickets are $45 for general admission, $10 students with ID at the door.

Tickets: musicguildonline.org

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 6 p.m.

Eco-Theology and Private Property: A Radical Episcopal Critique

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church

580 Hilgard Avenue, Los Angeles

St. Alban’s will host Dr. Andrew R. H. Thompson, Assistant Professor of Theological Ethics and Director of the Center for Religion and Environment at the University of the South (Sewanee), for a public lecture titled “Eco-Theology and Private Property: A Radical Episcopal Critique.”

This lecture is part of The Howe Lectures, a series honoring Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Daniel Walker Howe and Sandra Shumway Howe, longtime parishioners of St. Alban’s, and is free and open to the public.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 6 p.m.

Spain Pilgrimage Welcome and Information Dinner

Church of the Blessed Sacrament

314 N. Angelina Dr., Placentia

An informational meeting about Blessed Sacrament's pilgrimage to Spain trip will be held Thursday, Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. at the church. A Spanish dinner is being prepared. Please consider brining an appetizer (tapas), salad, dessert or wine to share! Friends and family are welcome. The meeting will serve two purposes: to give information on the trip to Spain, and to for potential travelers to meet. There will be several invitations in 2026 as the trip draws near. Please email DeMuth at wisecosteven@hotmail.com or Van Buren at Frbarrett1314@gmail.com to confirm attendance, ask questions, and share what side dish or desert you plan to bring. Full trip information pamphlet here. See more in the item below.

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

Opportunities

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimage to India

Episcopal Evangelism Society and Forward Movement

November 7 - 24, 2025

Join the Rev. Koshy Mathews and the Rev. Troy Mendez in a pilgrimage that follows the footsteps of St. Thomas the Apostle, visiting places where he ministered and was martyred. Participants will encounter ancient sites of Christianity in India, meet faithful Christian communities doing transformative ministry, and witness how diverse cultures intersect in a hope-filled search for peace.

For details and registration, contact info@myfaithjourneys.com or 1.877.732.4845

Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

Episcopal Evangelism Society and Forward Movement

January 6 - 19, 2026

Join the Very Rev. Troy Mendez and the Rev. Canon Scott Gunn in a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Walk where Jesus walked, from Galilee to Jerusalem, sail on the Sea of Galilee, meet local Christian communities and members of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem ministering faithfully in extremely challenging conditions, and learn how faith leads to solidarity, justice, and renewed hope.

For details and registration, contact info@myfaithjourneys.com or 1.877.732.4845

Journey to the Holy Land

All Saints, Riverside, and friends, with Qumri Pilgrimages

February 2027

Join All Saints Episcopal Church, Riverside, in a Journey to the Holy Land led by the Rt. Rev. Diane M. Jardine Bruce and the Rev. Canon Kelli Grace Kurtz, with local guides Canon Iyad Qumri and Rami Qumri. For more information, email PilgrimKGK@gmail.com

Pilgrimage to Spain

Holy Trinity Church, Covina, and Blessed Sacrament, Placentia, with NAWAS International Travel

October 13 - 24 2026

Join the the Rev. Steven De Muth and the Rev. Barrett Van Buren in a pilgrimage to Fatima, Lourdes, and Spain with Avila and Barcelona. Explore Holy places and historic sites throughout the Iberian Peninsula and France as we trace the footsteps of the three shepherd children at the Cova da Iria in Fátima, spend time with Teresa of Ávila, mystic and writer of The Interior Castle and more, participate in an evening torchlight procession on our way to the famous grotto of our Lady in Lourdes, visit majestic Madrid, the royal city and the Prado, the Archabbey of Montserrat and with the beloved Black Madonna. Finally, enjoy a few days in Barcelona and see the hopefully completed Sagrada Familia, and much more.

An informational meeting about the trip will be held Thursday, Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, Placentia, 1314 N Angelina Dr, Placentia.

A lovely Spanish dinner is being prepared. Please consider brining an appetizer (tapas), salad, dessert or wine to share! Friends and family are welcome.

The meeting will serve two purposes: to give information on the trip to Spain, and to for potential travelers to meet. There will be several invitations in 2026 as the trip draws near.

Please email DeMuth at wisecosteven@hotmail.com or Van Buren at Frbarrett1314@gmail.com to confirm attendance, ask questions, and share what side dish or desert you plan to bring.

Full trip information pamphlet here. For more information, contact padresteve@holytrinitycovina.com or 626.967.3939

VOLUNTEER

Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Service

Assemble “Essentials Kits”, organizing drives for essential items for immigrant and refugee families, set up fundraiser events for IRIS, facilitating workshops for clients, or suggest an idea of your own. Visit the IRIS volunteer page to get involved.

Seeds of Hope

Volunteer with Seeds of Hope at free farmers’ markets, gardens, and compost sites, which all rely on volunteers. From lifting boxes to planting seeds, every hand makes a difference.

To join, fill out the volunteer form here pick what you want to do, and join the crew.

Food Pantry

Our Saviour Center

4368 Santa Anita Avenue, El Monte

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. For information or to sign up, email info@our-center.org. Volunteers may fill out a volunteer form here.

IRVINE: Minister of Music. St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is seeking a minister of music to serve as the organist, pianist, and choir director, working in partnership with and reporting directly to the Rector. The Minister of Music will be well versed in a variety of musical genres to lead the congregation and volunteer choir in sung worship. The successful candidate will be familiar with the Episcopal liturgical tradition, a strong choral conductor, self-motivated, and a willing partner working collaboratively with the Rector to grow and enhance the music ministry of St. Andrew’s. This position is a part-time ministry staff position. The full job description may be accessed here. Interested parties should send a cover letter and resume to The Very Rev. Peter Browning at peter@standrewsirvine.org.

IRVINE: Part-time Assistant Priest. St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is seeking a half-time priest with strong preaching, interpersonal, and collaborative skills. The ability to welcome new and diverse persons and to communicate with young people is essential. This person would assist with preaching, Christian formation, and would partner with our rector in supporting the ministries of our congregation. Please send cover letter/questions/resume to Peter@standrewsirvin e.org.

LONG BEACH: Parish Administrator. St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church, seeks a friendly, detail-oriented, and resourceful parish administrator to support the vibrant and welcoming congregation. The parish administrator serves as the heart of the church office — providing administrative support to the rector, serving as the primary point of contact for parishioners and visitors, and managing day-to-day operations of parish life. This is a part-time position of 12 to 16 hours/week, ideal for someone who values both meaningful work and work-life balance. A detailed job description is available at here.

LOS ANGLES: Part-Time Financial Services Representative. Episcopal Community Federal Credit Union is seeking a friendly, reliable team member to work 3 days a week, 6 hours per day. This entry-level role includes teller services, member support, and digital banking assistance. No banking experience needed, we’ll train you! $20/hour, 18 hours/week (3 days, 6 hours each). Must be comfortable with computers and enjoy helping people. Contact 323.454.4420 or email your resume to JLee@Episcopalcredit.org to apply!

PASADENA: Part-Time Youth Associate, All Saints Church. Reports to director of Children, Youth, and Families. Hours: 12 hours/week, Sept 2025 through June 2026; Wednesdays and Sundays required (non-exempt position). Compensation: $20/hour. The ideal candidate will have a heart for serving youth, spiritual maturity, a commitment to continual spiritual and personal development, and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of youth in our community. As a youth associate, you will work closely with our youth minister and director of Children, Youth, and Families to plan, organize, and implement programs that support the spiritual, emotional, and social needs of our youth. Full job description here.

SANTA CLARITA: Organist/Pianist. St. Stephen's Episcopal Church is seeking an organist/pianist skilled at playing service music in worship settings and well versed in a variety of musical genres to support the musical life of the congregation. A successful candidate will be familiar with the Episcopal liturgical tradition, will be a strong musical collaborator, will be self-motivated and will work collaboratively with the Music Director to grow and enhance the music ministry of St. Stephen’s. This position is currently a part-time ministry staff position (approximately 10 hours per week). The full job description is here. To apply, email christopher@st-stephens.org.

WOODLAND HILLS: Executive Director for the West Valley Food Pantry. Prince of Peace Episcopal Church is seeking an executive director for the West Valley Food Pantry (WVFP), to shape and lead the organization into the future. The WVFP works to alleviate hunger in the west San Fernando Valley, operating five days a week and serving approximately 10,000 people per year. Job description, requirements, and application information, are here.

The Episcopal News Update is published on Wednesday afternoons. News items, job listings, calendar items, questions and comments may be sent to mtrudinger-smith@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.

— Mostyn Trudinger-Smith, managing editor