September 10, 2023

New diocesan lay licensing process to begin this Fall

by Linda Allport

[The Episcopal News – August 30, 2023] For more than a year, members of the Commission on Ministry, along with diocesan and Bloy House leadership, have been developing a new process for licensing lay ministers according to the canons of the Episcopal Church.

There are seven lay ministries identified in the canons eligible for licensing:

Eucharistic minister – a lay person who administers the consecrated elements at Holy Eucharist.
Eucharistic visitor – a lay person who takes the consecrated elements following a celebration of Holy Eucharist to members of the congregation who were unable to be present due to illness/infirmity.
Preacher – a lay person who delivers sermons or homilies in a congregational setting.
Evangelist – a lay person who presents the good news of Jesus Christ in such a way that people are led to follow Christ; assists with the community’s ministry of evangelism.
Catechist – a lay person who prepares persons for baptism, confirmation, reception, and the reaffirmation of baptismal vows.
Worship leader – a lay person who regularly leads public worship in a congregational setting.
Pastoral leader – a lay person who exercises pastoral or administrative responsibility in a congregation under special circumstances.

In addition, our diocese will license two types of lay chaplains:

Parish chaplain – a layperson who offers a ministry of listening, support, and spiritual accompaniment within his or her home parish community.
Diocesan chaplain – a lay person who offers a ministry of listening, support, and spiritual accompaniment in a variety of ministry contexts outside his or her home parish community.

Read more here.

More information about Bloy House course offerings related to the lay licensing program is below (under "Christian Formation opportunities") or here.

Despite Dodger loss, Episcopalians - and Lutherans - enjoy annual baseball outing

[The Episcopal News – September 6, 2023] The Dodgers lost to the Atlanta Braves 6-3, but it didn't affect their standings (they're still firmly in first place in the National League West), and about 1,100 church members had a great time at Episcopal – Lutheran Night at Dodger Stadium on Sept. 1.

The Southwest California Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America joined the Diocese of Los Angeles for the game. Lutheran Bishop Brenda Bos and Episcopal Bishop John Harvey Taylor roamed the stands to greet their respective members.

A photo gallery is here. See more from Bishop Taylor's blog below or here.

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Photos at top: Janet Kawamoto. Photos above: Michael Sahdev of All Saints' Church, Beverly Hills

Seismologist Lucy Jones will share insights at diocesan Climate Change Summit Sept. 16

Congregations urged to send teams in person, online to hybrid gathering

By EN Staff

[The Episcopal News – August 30, 2023] Distinguished seismologist Lucy Jones – a well-known voice for earthquake science and safety – will deliver the morning plenary presentation at the diocesan Climate Change Summit, a hybrid event set for Saturday, Sept. 16, at St. Paul’s Commons, Echo Park.

Registration is here. All are welcome. Coffee and table conversation starting at 9:30 a.m. will precede the program opening at 10 a.m. Sessions will continue until 2:30 p.m. with a 30-minute break for lunch.

Jones, who is a lay leader at St. James Episcopal Church in South Pasadena, will be joined by afternoon presenters Kate Varley and Lisa Markus, also Episcopalians and climate specialists from local congregations.

“The summit is a great opportunity to bring our diocesan community together to do what we can to address this issue which affects our whole world. It’s not easy work but it is necessary work,” said the Rev. Canon Melissa McCarthy, diocesan canon to the ordinary, who chairs the 30-member commission on behalf of Bishop John Harvey Taylor.

Read more here.

Ministry education classes in Spanish to begin Sept. 23 via Zoom

Escuela para Ministerios en Español, offered by All Saints Church, Pasadena, in partnership with the Diocese of Oregon and taught via Zoom entirely in Spanish, consists of six modules of formation that will be conducted throughout the liturgical year. The Fall module, "Mission: Our Baptismal Covenant," will begin on Saturday, Sept. 23, 5 - 7 p.m., and continue every other week: Sept. 23, Oct. 7, Oct., Nov. 4 and Nov. 18

New students may join at any time during any module. This program is open to anyone interested in learning and engaging in an immersive Spanish theological experience.

Other module subjects are: Theology and Spirituality; Theological Reflection; Sacred Scriptures - Hebrew Bible and New Testament; Church History and Anglican-Episcopal Tradition; and Sacraments and Liturgy.

"Mission: Our Baptismal Covenant" will be taught by the Most Rev. Naudal Alves Gomes, presiding bishop and primate of the Anglican Episcopal Church of Brazil (IEAB) from Nov. 2018 to Nov. 2022. According to the course description: "In baptism, we are 'marked as Christ’s own forever.' From there we are co-responsible for the Missio Dei, the Mission of God. In these ongoing formation classes, we are going to reflect on the significances and commitments that flow from this sacrament, from which we are invited to bear witness to Jesus and the good news. How do we in the Episcopal Church understand and practice that task for which God has commissioned us?"

All are welcome. For information and to register, contact Alfredo Feregrino at 626.583.2713 or aferegrino@allsaints-pas.org; or Ana Camacho at acamacho@allsaints-pas.org.

Bishop's Blog (click here for additional entries)

Episcopal Night at Dodger Stadium 2023

September 2, 2023

Did Yogi Berra say it? When the two best teams in the league meet, someone always loses. Atlanta may have beat the Dodgers Friday night, 6-3, but it was a winning night for southland and central coast Episcopalians and Lutherans — nearly 1,100 strong at an ecumenical night at Dodger Stadium. A disappointing evening for the home team, yet a welcome home feeling for dozens of parishes and missions as summertime enters late innings.

The Rev. Canon Greg Larkin, our legendary Canon Baseball at the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles, who makes it all happen every year, was scoring the game as usual. Just because it was an inconsequential loss didn’t mean he didn’t want the win anyway (another sentence worth of Yogi).

Canon Kathy Hannigan O’Connor and I were along with Lindsay Ann Taylor, Mark and Valerie Passarella, and Harriet, 4, who made friends with Melia, 4. Bishop Brenda Bos of the Southwest California Synod ELCA and I kept meeting in the aisle, making our rounds. It was moving beyond words when Kobe Bryant’s elder daughter, Natalia, threw out the first pitch, and her sister Bianka took Vin’s classic line: “It’s time for Dodger baseball!”

— Bishop John Harvey Taylor

Events & Announcements

'New Camino' seminar will present vision for Latino ministries

The Program Group on Hispanic Ministries of the Diocese of Los Angeles will host "New Camino: A New Vision for Latino/Hispanic Ministries," a two-day seminar presented by the Office of Latino/Hispanic Ministries of The Episcopal Church, Oct. 20-21 at St. Paul's Commons.

New Camino is especially designed for diocesan bishops, staff and congregations open to exploring how they can be more effectively involved in reaching all the various Latino generations.

New Camino offers a new strategic, evangelistic outreach that is open to either a Spanish or English-language ministry, depending on the cultural and linguistic context of the anticipated mission field. Its aim is to dispel stereotypical notions about the Latino population by presenting the changing reality of Latino ministry that must recognize the cultural, linguistic, and generational diversity in the Latino population.

New Camino specifically aims to demonstrate that a paradigm shift is emerging in Latino ministry. The shift begins with thinking in terms of evangelistic niches due to the socio-demographic changes in the Latino population.

Accommodations are available at the St. Paul's Commons Retreat Center, located at 840 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles. For information and to register, email delaministeriohispano@gmail.com

Episcopal agencies, Diocese of Hawai'i seek support for relief efforts after devastating fire on Maui

[The Episcopal News - August 16, 2023] The town of Lahaina, Maui — once a royal capital of Hawai'i — burned to the ground in a wildfire last week, which was exacerbated by strong winds from Hurricane Dora following a period of drought. With the death toll at 96 and rising, the blaze was the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century.

Hundreds of Lahaina residents have lost their homes, and its historic Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, a parish of the Diocese of Hawai'i, was completely destroyed.

"As is usually the case in the immediate aftermath of disasters, monetary gifts remain among the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai’i’s most urgent needs," Bishop John Harvey Taylor of the Diocese of Los Angeles wrote on his Facebook page Aug. 16, "second only to your prayers for those who are have been lost and those who wait in agony for news of the missing."

Episcopal Relief & Development, an agency of the multi-nation Episcopal Church, is asking for financial support to help those affected by this devastating event. Funds will go to immediate relief efforts, in addition to emerging needs, a situation in which Episcopal Relief & Development has extensive experience.

To donate, click here.

Episcopal Relief & Development will continue to work with the Diocese of Hawai'i and other agencies after the initial response period to support redevelopment efforts.

Read more here.

Immigration ministry asks Episcopalians to encourage US assistance for refugees

Troy Elder, director of IRIS, the diocese's refugee and immigration service, has issued a call for Episcopalians to join the New York-based International Refugee Assistance Project in asking President Joe Biden to facilitate the entrance of refugees into the United States.

"Every September, the president sets the goal for the number of refugees to be admitted into the United States for the upcoming fiscal year," said a message from the organization. "Last year, President Biden set out to welcome 125,000 people, but as the year comes to a close, the United States is on track to admit less than half of that number.

"Every unutilized spot in the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program represents a person or family that is left in harm’s way. Today, more than 108 million people worldwide have been forcibly displaced, 40 percent of whom are children – a new record. More than 2.4 million people need urgent access to resettlement this year.

"Refugees are a vital part of the American social, cultural, and economic fabric. They invigorate our economies and bring their resilience and drive to our communities, making us stronger. President Biden can ensure we achieve our nation's FY 2024 resettlement goal by investing the resources necessary for the resettlement program to rebuild and prepare to welcome."

Individuals may send a message to Biden requesting action here.

Christian Formation opportunities

Bloy House announces new fall formation classes, open to clergy and laity

[The Episcopal News] Bloy House, the Episcopal Theological School at Los Angeles, has announced several online continuing education and formation classes this Fall for lay people and clergy.

Leading Adult Formation and Small Groups: Tips and Techniques

Tuesdays, September 12, 19, 26, Oct 3, 7 - 8:30 p.m. via Zoom

For both clergy and lay leaders, this class will host a collaborative discussion on how to plan adult formation; develop new curriculum or enhance packaged curriculum; design activities to deepen participant engagement; prepare promotional materials; facilitate Zoom classes; and handle difficult situations that arise in small or large groups. Facilitated by Linda Allport, dean of Bloy House. Allport has more than 35 years’ experience in leading bible study and adult formation in a variety of group settings. This class is recommended for those wishing to be licensed as a Lay Pastoral Leader, and required for licensing as a Lay Catechist.

Genesis 1 and 2: A Fresh Exploration of the Creation Stories

Mondays, October 1, 9, 16, 23, 7 – 8:30 p.m. via Zoom

Taught by popular Hebrew Scripture facilitator the Rev. Dr. Mary Tororeiy, this class will help participants learn how to read and understand Hebrew Scripture using the first two chapters of Genesis. The class will explore and contrast general themes from these two creation accounts, focusing on human identity, gender, and the natural world.

Episcopal Identity

Wednesdays, October 25 and November 1, 8, and 15; 7 - 8:30 p.m. via Zoom

How would you describe the modern Episcopal Church - its theology, its worship and community, its history, its organization, and what you love about it - to a friend who has never experienced it? A deeper dive than a confirmation class, even cradle Episcopalians will learn something new about our church. Facilitated by Gary Hall, president of Bloy House, and Linda Allport, dean. This class is required for all licensed lay ministries, except Eucharistic Minister and Eucharistic Visitor, where it is recommended.

The fee for formation classes is $25. Click here for more information and to register.

Registration is open for Education for Ministry classes

[The Episcopal News – August 23, 2023] Education for Ministry (EfM), a unique four-year distance learning certificate program in theological education based upon small-group study and practice, will begin its 2023-24 sessions in the Diocese of Los Angeles in September.

“EfM is destined to take on a larger role in our formation and theological education toolkit," says Bishop John Harvey Taylor, "to address the disconnect in basic biblical understanding between those who preach and those who hear and to remove stumbling blocks to the pluralization of church leadership.”

The curriculum, based at the University of the South's School of Theology, is shared in a small-group setting of six to 12 students. It is intended to help church members connect faith with everyday life. "We guarantee to stretch your imagination and open a new world of insights as you probe scripture and tradition," according to EfM.

In-person and online groups will be available. For more information about EfM and its curriculum, visit the website.

Read more here.

Online classes to study 'wisdom tradition' in Christianity

The Center for Spirituality in Ontario, based at Christ Episcopal Church, has announced a series of online classes on recovering the wisdom tradition in Christianity

According to the center's director, the Rev. Gianluigi Gugliermetto, Ph.D., "The particularity of these classes is at least threefold: 1. they are informative and not dogmatic; 2. they are centered on the spiritual journey of the participants; 3. they are interactive and engaging (you do not simply receive a video to watch)."

Upcoming classes are:

Pearls of Wisdom, Drops of Dew

Fridays, beginning Sept. 1, 9 a.m.

A presentation and discussion of one or more texts from the Bible, following the Revised Common Lectionary used by many churches for their Sunday worship. Gugliermetto, Episcopal priest and a published author in the fields of interfaith dialogue, the history and theology of Anglicanism, and theology and sexuality (theology of desire), will explain the context of the texts, the main ideas present in the texts, and the history of their interpretation for about half an hour. A discussion will follow. This is a free program.

All the Big Words: An in-depth exploration of John's Gospel

Thursdays, beginning Sept. 5, 6:30 p.m.

The second half of the Gospel of John deals with the major words that give meaning to human existence, such as peace, freedom, love, unity, truth. This course is an in-depth reading of chapters 13-21 of this late first-century book, daring to plunge into hard existential questions without the moralizing bigotry which hides and dilutes the power of the text. Led by James Dunkly, Ph.D., former professor at Nashotah House, the Episcopal Divinity School, and the School of Theology at the University of the South, who now teaches at Bloy House.

For more information, visit the center's website or contact Gugliermetto at director@spiritualityontario.org

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Immersion programs will introduce women to Franciscan spirituality

The Community of St. Francis of San Francisco invites women over age 18 to take part in a "Companions in Franciscan Spirituality" 10-day residential immersion program in Franciscan Spirituality. The program includes studying Franciscan spirituality and living out of that spirituality by sharing in community life, worship and ministry in the church and wider community. Cost is a free will donation. Next session is Sept. 29 – Oct. 8 (with a focus on St. Francis Day). For more information, contact Sr. Pamela Clare at pamelaclarecsf@aol.com.

From the wider church

Retired Oklahoma bishop identified as focus of presiding officer’s complaint amid calls for bishop accountability

By David Paulsen

[Episcopal News Service – September 5, 2023] Clergy and lay leaders across The Episcopal Church are joining House of Deputies President Julia Ayala Harris in demanding reform of the church’s disciplinary process for bishops as retired Oklahoma Bishop Ed Konieczny was identified as the focus of Ayala Harris’ sexual harassment complaint.

Ayala Harris, in revealing the general details of her complaint last week, withheld the identity of the bishop who she said had “physically overpowered” her at last year’s 80th General Convention. In an Aug. 30 letter to the House of Deputies, she said she felt compelled to go public after her case had ended in a “pastoral response” rather than discipline for the bishop.

Konieczny was first identified publicly at the subject of Ayala Harris’ complaint on Sept. 5 in a story by The Living Church, citing three unnamed sources and the Diocese of Oklahoma’s chancellor. Episcopal News Service left messages with the chancellor seeking confirmation but has not not yet independently verified the retired bishop’s identity.

Presiding bishop offers pastoral word on church safety, accountability

[The Episcopal Church – September 5, 2023] Presiding Bishop Michael Curry issued a video on Sept. 5 in which he addresses concerts related to safety and accountability in light of the recent charge by House of Deputies President Julia Ayala Harris that a retired bishop behaved inappropriately toward her at the 2022 meeting of General Convention.

Video and transcript are here.

Open letter calls for improved church response to misconduct

A group of Episcopal Church clergy and lay leaders have composed an open letter in response to Episcopal House of Deputies President Julia Ayala Harris’ letter of Aug. 30 describing an incident of unwanted contact from a retired bishop at the 2022 meeting of General Convention (see related articles above). The open letter asks for improved church response to such allegations, especially when they concern misconduct by people with prominent leadership roles. Any Episcopalian is invited to sign the letter, which may be found here. As of Sept. 6 the letter had nearly 400 signatures.

— Episcopal News staff report

Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s surgery rescheduled

By ENS staff

[Episcopal News Service – September 1, 2023] Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s surgery has been rescheduled for Sept. 20, according to a Sept. 1 press release from the church’s Office of Public Affairs.

The procedure was initially scheduled for Sept. 8, but the surgeon needed to reschedule for “family matters.”

Curry will undergo surgery to remove his right adrenal gland and an attached mass. His surgeon estimates his recovery period will be two to three weeks, after which Curry is expected to resume his regular work schedule.

Curry was admitted to the hospital on Aug. 17, after a reoccurrence of the internal bleeding that required him to be hospitalized over Memorial Day weekend.

Read more here.

Calendar

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Free Legal Clinic

Jackie Robinson Community Center

1020 N. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena 91103

Open to all individuals and community members who need legal assistance, but lack the resources to hire an attorney. Please bring with you any and all papers related to your case. Get help with renters’ or homeowners’ rights; access to cash, food, or health benefits; unemployment benefits; immigrants’ rights; questions about a will or trust; and divorce or child custody issues. If you can’t attend the clinic and are in need of support, please call Public Counsel at 213.385.2977. The clinic, sponsored by All Saints Church, Pasadena, is held on the second Saturday of each month.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 4 – 7 p.m.

Season of Creation 2023: Ecumenical Service of Prayer and Reflection

Southern California Christian Forum

Christ Cathedral Chapel in the Sky – Tower of Hope

12141 Lewis Street, Garden Grove 92840

Information/Registration: Contact Rt. Rev. Alexei Smith, president, Southern California Christian Forum, at FrARSmith@la-archdiocese.org. Join the Southern California Christian Forum’s Faith & Order Commission for a time of prayer and reflection on the Season of Creation, featuring an address by Archdeacon John Chryssavgis, advisor to the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople on environmental issues. This event is free, but registration is required.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 1 - 3 p.m.

ICUJP 2023 George F. Regas Courageous Peacemaker Awards - Housing Is A Human Right

All Saints Church

132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101 (in the Forum)

Registration here

Honorees include All Saints Church’s Safe Haven Bridge to Housing, Anthony Manousos and Jill Shook, and the Jerusalem Legal Aid Center. The event will be hosted by PBS’s Bonnie Boswell. Join us when we honor Safe Haven Bridge to Housing and other great programs working to end homelessness. ICUJP (Interfaith Communities United for Justice and Peace) was founded after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks by a consortium of religious leaders, including the late Rev. Canon George Regas, retired rector of All Saints Church.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 5 p.m.

Healing Service in Spanish

All Saints Church (in the Chancel)

132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101

Information: Alfredo Feregrino, aferegrino@allsaints-pas.org

Anyone seeking hope and healing in body, mind or spirit for themselves or someone they love is invited to attend the first in a new series of Eucharist services conducted entirely in Spanish with laying on of hands and anointing. All are welcome.

DOMINGO, 10 DE SEPTIEMBRE, 5 p.m.

Misa de Sanación

Iglesia de Todos los Santos

132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101

Información: Alfredo Feregrino en aferegrino@allsaints-pas.org

Cualquiera que busque esperanza y sanación de su cuerpo, mente o espíritu para sí mismo o para alguien a quien ama está invitado a asistir a nuestro primer servicio eucarístico realizado completamente en español con imposición de manos y unción. Todos son bienvenidos.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 4 - 5:30 p.m.

Conversations from your Spiritual Core - Sept. 11

The Guibord Center

Online: Register here

As we approach the remembrance of Sept. 11, 2001 we pay tribute to those whose lives were lost on that day, and honor those who have worked so faithfully ever since to create paths of peace in our conversations with one another. This event, part of our contribution to the growing bridge-building movement in the United States, will help people have better conversations about charged social and political issues. This event will NOT be recorded. Limited to 35 participants; register soon.

WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 13 - OCTOBER 25, 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Online BioSpiritual Focusing Book Study: An Exploration

Center for Spiritual Development, Ontario

Via Zoom

Registration here or call 714.744.3172

This program is for those who wish to learn the process of BioSpiritual focusing. The workbook Rediscovering the Lost Body-Connection Within Christian Spirituality by the Rev. Edwin McMahon, Ph.D. and the Rev. Peter Campbell, Ph.D will be our guide for the exploration. Led by Deacon Joe Marino, Sr. Jeanne Fallon, CSJ, and David Robinson, SJ. Seven weeks, on Wednesday evenings via Zoom: September 13, 20, 27 and October 4, 11, 18, 25, 2023. Fee: $110

SEPTEMBER 14 - 17

Camp Stevens Alumni Reunion Weekend

Camp Stevens

Julian, CA

Information/Registration here

Bring the family or come solo and join friends for a weekend reunion. Visit for the day or for the whole experience! Activities may include swimming in the pool, group projects, silk screening, hikes, a special beer tasting by John Horton and, of course, community gathering around the campfire. Come home to camp, share your stories and make new memories together. To help plan the event contact alumnus Stephen Lockert at stephenlockert@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Side by Side Retreat for Couples:

The Sacred Art of Couples Aging with Wisdom & Love

Trinity Episcopal Church

1500 State Street, Santa Barbara 93101

Information/Registration here

Based on the true soul stories collected in the newly released book Side by Side: the Sacred Art of Couples Aging with Wisdom & Love, authors Jay and Caryl Casbon offer this one-day retreat designed for all couples in committed relationships, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, living into the autumn/winter of their lives. Participants will actively engage in rituals, tell stories, view interview clips, and share in small groups using the Circle of Trust process. Cost: $95 per person ($190 per couple), which includes a copy of the book. (Partial scholarships are available upon request.) Deadline for registration is Sept 6.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 3 – 5:30 p.m.

‘Love and Listen’ Mental Health Fair

St. James' Church

3209 Via Lido, Newport Beach

Information here

Co-sponsored by St. James and Hoag Faith Community Nursing, this fair offers information to improve your mental health, as mental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being and should be given the same attention as physical health. There will be helpful resources, food and fun, live music from the George Fryer Combo, PAWS therapy dogs, yoga instruction, a photo booth, on-site mental-health support, and much more. Parking is available in the St. James’ lot across from the church on 32nd Street.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Centennial Celebration: Episcopal Communities and Services

Monte Cedro

2212 El Molino Avenue, Altadena 91001

Reservations: call 626.403.5445

Come celebrate 100 years of service with a unique look back at the history and legacy of ECS. Light refreshments will be served. Business professional or smart casual attire.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 4 p.m.

Choral Evensong

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

100 N. Third Avenue, Covina

Experience the beauty of choral music, including the powerful Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis from the St. Paul's Cathedral, Buffalo, Service composed by Roland E. Martin and the soul-stirring offertory, "Behold, the Tabernacle of God." Don't miss this delightful time of musical enchantment and spiritual reflection. The City of Covina Awards Banquet will follow the service (see listing below).

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 5 p.m.

City of Covina Awards Banquet

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

100 N. Third Avenue, Covina

Reservations: 626.967.3939

This event will recognize the city's Police Officer of the Year, Firefighter of the Year, Medical Professional, and Citizen of the Year (of the city of Covina). Admission is free, and all are warmly welcome to attend.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 12:15 - 12:45 p.m.

Noon Concerts: Pastoral Scenes

Trinity Episcopal Church

1500 State Street (at Micheltorena), Santa Barbara

Featuring Craig Phillips, organ; Heather Clark, flute; Roger Wilkie, violin; and William Wood, bassoon. $10 suggested goodwill offering at the door.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 4:15 p.m.

Solemn Evensong

St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church

3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010

Information: 213.388.3015 or here

The Choir of Saint James; James Buonemani, conductor. A uniquely Anglican service in the style of the great English Cathedrals at 4:15 p.m. Music selections: Responses by Richard Ayleward; Jesus College Canticles, Cambridge by William Mathias: "Faire is the Heaven" by William Harris; "Ave Maria" by Rihards Dubra. The Choir of Saint James is made up of amateur and professional adult musicians from the Los Angeles metropolitan area. It has been honored to serve three times as Westminster Abbey’s choir-in-residence during the months of August, 1999, 2006 and 2010

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 1 - 4 p.m.

Gather Your Burdens: An Afternoon with Mirabai Starr

Center for Spiritual Development

434 South Batavia Street, Orange 92868

Registration here

Information: 714.744.3160 or theCSD@csjorange.org

Join us for an in-person afternoon of spiritual refreshment guided by author and interspiritual teacher Mirabai Starr as we explore and delight in the healing potential of Sabbath and the sacred feminine through Mirabai's input and insight into spiritual practices, as well as ritual and guided journaling.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8, 6 - 6:45 p.m.

Compline with the Choir of St. Paul's, Ventura

Trinity Episcopal Church

1500 State Street, Santa Barbara

Calm your soul at the end of the day during our brief, candle-lit, choral prayer service. This is an a cappella offering. Selections of music highlight composers such as Tallis, Lotti, Rickard, and St. Paul's music directors, Tara Eisenhauer and Felix Eisenhauer. There is no cost, but a goodwill offering will be taken; proceeds will be used for the choir's tour and pilgrimage to Europe in 2024.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 7 - 9 p.m.

The Guibord Center's Annual Fundraising Dinner: 'Our Hearts Beat On'

St. John's Episcopal Cathedral

514 W. Adams Street, Los Angeles 90007

Information/Tickets here

The Guibord Center – Religion Inside Out partners with faith communities and individuals to open hearts and minds through a range of programs, public lectures, and immersive events. These experiences reveal the wonder and transformative power at the center of our many religious and spiritual traditions, putting us in touch with something larger than ourselves.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Free Legal Clinic

Jackie Robinson Community Center

1020 N. Fair Oaks Avenue, Pasadena 91103

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 5 p.m.

Diamond Jubilee Gala Celebration

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

24901 Orchard Village Road, Santa Clarita

Reservations: email christopher@st-stephens.org

A dazzling evening of local cuisine, live music, live and silent auctions with SCV Woman of the Year, Jenny Ketchepaw as the evening’s emcee to celebrate St. Stephen's 60th year of ministry. St. Stephen's, which already engages in a host of community ministries, is developing a long-range strategy that will bring about the modernization of our campus and ensure that it becomes a more valuable resource for the people of Santa Clarita. Specifically, we are focused on transforming our campus to be better suited to support educational initiatives for both children and adults, to be flexible beyond the internal needs of the parish alone, and to be environmentally friendly, safe, inclusive, and accessible for all people and to use our campus resources to support and amplify the meaningful work already being done by local organizations that provide care to vulnerable people in need. Tickets: $45. Sponsorships are available. Childcare will be provided. Reservations are requested by Sept. 15. To donate to the fundraiser, click here.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 4 p.m.

Evensong for St. Luke's Day

St. Luke's Episcopal Church

122 South California Avenue, Monrovia 91016

Kent B. Jones, music director, will conduct the men of St. Luke's choir, along with invited singers from other congregations, in this annual celebration of the parish's patron saint. A reception will follow the service.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 6 p.m.

Classical Sundays at Six: Martin Glicklich, flute, & Friends

St. James in-the-City Episcopal Church

3903 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 90010

Information: 213.388.3015 or here

Breana Gilcher, flute; Phil O’Connor, clarinet; Jonathan Stehney, bassoon; Emily Pesavento, horn. Martin Glicklich has enjoyed success as an educator, soloist, conductor, chamber and orchestral musician, and has been described as possessing dazzling virtuosity with an enchanting, singing sound. A native of Los Angeles, Martin received his doctorate in flute performance at the Thornton School of Music at USC under the tutelage of James Walker.

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

Opportunities

VOLUNTEER

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.

EMPLOYMENT

Listings may be sent to news@ladiocese.org. There is no charge.

GLENDORA: Organist. Grace Episcopal Church is seeking a professionally trained church organist to be a part of our strong and vital music ministry. The organist will be expected to play for one Sunday service and one choir rehearsal per week, feast days, and for festive concerts. We offer a traditional Rite II service at 10 a.m. on Sundays. The preferred style of music is classical sacred music, ranging from Palestrina to Rutter. The pipe organ is by Manuel Rosales, built in 1977, with a new console in 1980, and substantial reconditioning work in 2016. The organ has two manuals and 26 ranks. The organist will work directly under our choirmaster/director of music in a collaborative manner. Salary: $18,000. Weddings and funerals will provide additional compensation. A full job description is here. Send resume to the Rev. Susan Scranton via email at grace@graceglendora.org or by postal mail at 555 E. Mountain View Avenue, Glendora 91741.

LOS ANGELES: Administrative Assistant, St. Philip's Episcopal Church. Part time (no more than 15 hours/week). On site as much as possible. Wage: $18/hour. Requires English and Spanish. Full job description here. Contact: Marc Nesbit, senior warden, at bx94860@yahoo.com or the Rev. Thomas Quijada-Discavage at tdiscavage@ladiocese.org.

OJAI: Music Director (keyboard and choral conducting skills), St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. This is a part-time, contracted position, and compensation is commensurate with experience. Individuals who have excellent musicianship, can work both independently and collaboratively, are creative, and demonstrate strong leadership skills are encouraged to apply. We have a small Bösendorfer grand piano in the sanctuary as well as a Rosales-Dickson Opus 10 pipe organ (two manuals, tracker action, 15 stops, 17 ranks) built in 1983 and installed in 1983. Responsibilities: report to the rector; select music for Sunday services and special liturgical services during Easter and Christmas; provide music on piano or organ or both and direct the choir at the 10 A.M. Sunday service and at special liturgical services; conduct weekly choir rehearsals; work with youth choir (when one is formed) for occasional special services; play for weddings and funerals, with first right of refusal; recruit additional paid/non-paid supplemental singers; attend staff meetings. Send application letter and resume to: Organist/Choir Director Search Committee, St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 409 Topa Topa Drive, Ojai, CA 93023, or e-mail office@standrewschurchoiai.org or call 805.646.1885 or email E. J. Beukenkamp, search coordinator, at ejb7@cornell.edu.

PASADENA: Childcare staff. All Saints Church is seeking two part-time employees to care for groups of five to 20 children on-site during Sunday services (8 a.m. - 1 p.m.). Hours will vary during other days of the week, usually focused around afternoons and evenings depending on program status and family needs. Total hours per week are a minimum of 5 on Sunday, and will not exceed a total of 8 hours per week. A full job description is here.

SANTA MONICA: Music Director. St. Augustine by-the-Sea, an inclusive and progressive Episcopal Church, is seeking a creative and dynamic music director to lead its music program. An organist and adult choir are in place. The music director will select choral offerings and help plan music and manage the church's music program, rehearsing and directing the choir. Full job description is here. Compensation: $25,000+. Starts Summer 2023 (negotiable). Send resume and references to the Rev. Nathan Rugh, rector, at nate@saint-augustine.org.

TUSTIN: Sexton. St. Paul's Episcopal Church. 25 hours/week. The sexton serves to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and readiness of Church facilities to enable the work and ministry of the congregation and to create a pleasant atmosphere for members, guests, and staff. Job description here. Contact: administrator@stpauls.org.

OUTSIDE THE DIOCESE

PALM SPRINGS: Parish Administrator, St. Paul in the Desert Episcopal Church (Diocese of San Diego). The parish administrator serves as the central contact and hub for all church staff, parishioners, volunteers, visitors, vendors, and community partners. The parish administrator must be well-organized, able to work independently and collaboratively, and be flexible in responding to the changing needs of the parish. The parish administrator reports to the co-rectors and manages two other staff members: a sexton and assistant sexton. The parish administrator also works with the co-rectors in managing a team of office volunteers who will assist in the broad scope of this key role as the parish grows into a program-sized church. Hours: Full time, Monday - Friday (occasional weekends); depending on applicants the job may be split up into two part-time positions. A full job description is here.

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