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Church of England priest Jonathan Aitken shares ministry insights during talk with chaplains in diocese
By EN staff
The Rev. Jonathan Aitken -- Church of England prison chaplain, author of 19 books, and former member of Parliament – spoke to “the vital role of chaplaincy in a secularizing world” during a Sept. 11 lunch gathering of chaplains active in the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles.
Held at St. Paul’s Commons in L.A.’s Echo Park district, the event helped galvanize the newly formed network of chaplains convened by the Very Rev. Betsy Hooper-Rosebrook, diocesan dean of chaplains, who co-hosted the luncheon with Bishop Diocesan John Harvey Taylor, a friend of Aitken for nearly 40 years.
Aitken praised the effectiveness of L.A.’s diocesan chaplaincy group, which unites clergy and lay ministers active in hospitals, prisons, schools, and other institutions. He said he hoped to recommend the creation of a similar professional cadre in his home diocese.
In his remarks to the L.A. chaplains, Aitken spoke of spiritual resources he gained while himself incarcerated for 18 months on charges of perjury committed in the context of his governmental work. A video livestream of his full presentation – rich with humor as well as poignancy – is here.
Taylor paid tribute to Aitken both during the lunch and on Facebook. He spoke how "a great prison chaplain was born" during Aitken's incarceration, "according to the ineffable and unstoppable work of our God in Christ and the Holy Spirit."
Taylor continued, "At the Lambeth Conference last summer in Kent, my entree to Church of England bishops was to say I knew Jonathan Aiken. And their faces would always brighten and they'd say that he was one of the most extraordinary and devoted prison ministries they had ever encountered." (For more from Taylor, read his Bishop's Blog entry below or here.)
Hooper-Rosebrook added her appreciation. "As dean of chaplains, I was delighted to participate in the first occasion of gathering chaplains from around the diocese,” she said. “Though our ministry settings vary greatly, we work primarily outside the church, so it's great to meet each other, make personal connections, and be encouraged by others who understand the challenges of chaplaincy.
“The Rev. Jonathan Aitken's talk to us and the conversation that followed reminded us all of the role of chaplains in 'meeting people at the sharp end of a moment of great need in their lives,' and of the satisfaction of just getting on with ministry wherever we may be," she added.
Aitken was joined on his L.A. visit by Peter McDonald, president of the McDonald Agape Foundation, which supports the roles of Christian scholars specializing in medicine, law, and the arts in elite universities nationally and abroad.
On Sept. 12 Aitken and McDonald were hosted by Chaplain Sharon Crandall, director of the diocesan jail chaplaincy program, PRISM, on a pastoral visit to L.A.’s Men’s Central Jail. “There aren’t words to describe what it’s like to walk rows with someone who loves this work as much as I do, as well as introducing someone visiting for the first time,” Crandall wrote in a Facebook post. “We ended our time in the chapel praying for the men we had visited and sharing our passion for this work.”
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Tom Quijada-Discavage leads a "story day" at All Saints Church, Beverly Hills. Photo: Colleen Dodson Baker | |
Tom Quijada-Discavage eases the way for clergy, congregations in transition
By Pat McCaughan
[The Episcopal News – September 13, 2023] When the Rev. Thomas Quijada-Discavage isn’t shepherding congregations through transitions, he is leading another flock as priest-in-charge at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Los Angeles.
Or he’s helping to plan the annual conference for the clergy of the diocese. Or working with clergy who are hoping to come to the Los Angeles diocese, while also supporting those who are retiring, or who are leaving ministry. And providing formation opportunities for the recently ordained.
“Today I had two Zoom calls with clergy who have expressed interest in looking at possible calls in the diocese,” he told The Episcopal News recently. “We get a number of people who think they want to come here or might have family connections here and have a desire to connect or be closer to them.”
But “the great challenge is the cost of living here; making that a possibility for people who don’t quite get the picture of what cost of living entails.”
There are other challenges, including an unprecedented transition wave, Discavage said. “Transition has been affected by Covid, and by the changing face of the church, by the necessity for less-than-fulltime ministry in congregations because of declining numbers or communities changing. We’re seeing unprecedented numbers of clergy retiring and a large number of retirements even earlier than the mandatory age, 72,” he said.
Read more here.
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A chaplains’ luncheon with the Rev. Jonathan Aitken
September 11, 2023
“Not you with your frightful blather again!” Using different words starting with the same consonants, that’s what a prisoner said when the Rev. Jonathan Aitken was announced as the homilist during one of his turns as Great Britain’s most famous prison chaplain.
Read more here.
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Visiting St. John’s Cathedral
September 10, 2023
St. John’s Cathedral in the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles has been a generous host this year, inviting me for Easter and Pentecost days and, today, for a good, old-fashioned visitation. Its innovative dean, the Very Rev. Anne Sawyer, welcomed me graciously as always. The Rev. Mel Soriano, who just joined the St. John’s staff, was kind enough to serve as my chaplain.
Read more here.
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The Reverend Canon
Virginia Gilbert Erwin
November 17, 1945 - September 12, 2023
[The Episcopal News – September 13, 2023] The Rev. Canon Virginia "Ginny" Gilbert Erwin, former rector of Trinity Church, Orange, and a former archdeacon for Clergy Deployment and Development of the Diocese of Los Angeles, died Sept. 12 in Banning, where she had been living in retirement since 2006. She was 77 and had been suffering the effects of Alzheimer's for several years.
Survivors include her sons William Edward (Chip) Erwin and John Matthew (Matt) Erwin; and her brother, John (Jack) Gilbert. Her marriage to William Erwin ended in divorce in the early 1990s.
Services will be held at Trinity Church; details are pending.
On Sept. 15, 1991, when Bishop Frederick H. Borsch installed Erwin as rector of Trinity, Bishop Suffragan Chet Talton was simultaneously installing the Rev. Kathleen Cullinane as rector of St. Mary's Church (Mariposa), Los Angeles. In an article in The Episcopal News (October 1991 issue), editor Ruth Nicastro noted, "The rites instantly increased the number of women rectors in the diocese by two-fifths." They were the fourth and fifth women in that role; Erwin was the first in Orange County.
During Erwin's tenure at Trinity, the congregation grew considerably. A talented administrator, she led a capital campaign that funded a new youth center and expansion of the parish hall to include a state-of-the-art kitchen and nursery. Erwin also built up the youth and children's program. Her close friend Nancy Guthrie recalls that Erwin often did magic tricks during her children's sermons, relating the illusions to the lessons of the day.
An obituary is here.
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Canon
Julie Dean Larsen
April 13, 1959 – September 11, 2023
[The Episcopal News - September 12, 2023] Canon Julie Dean Larsen — vice chancellor of the Diocese of Los Angeles, member of the Corporation of the Diocese, member of the Coadjutor Bishop Search Committee, deputy to two past meetings of General Convention, and member of St. Margaret of Scotland Church, San Juan Capistrano — died Sept. 11. She was 64 and was diagnosed about a year ago with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease).
Survivors include her husband, Chris Vogt; their daughter, Kallie; her mother, Judy Larsen; a brother, Todd D. Larsen; and a sister, Pam Rasmussen.
Service arrangements are pending, but will be held at St. Margaret's Church, probably in October, her husband said.
Larsen was a key legal advisor to the late Bishop J. Jon Bruno and to Bishop John Harvey Taylor, both of whom appointed her as a vice chancellor of the diocese. She also brought her legal training and experience to her role as a member of the disciplinary committee of the diocese. As vice chancellor she taught canon law to postulants for Holy Orders, and she developed a program to help congregations that already had or were considering negotiations for cell towers on their properties.
“Canon Larsen was one of the most devoted servants of the gospel I’ve ever known,” Taylor told The Episcopal News. “To fix or respect a canon, to defend the diocese, and to make sure members of the ordained orders were held to the highest standard, she always went the extra mile, as Jesus commanded. During one of her last visits to St. Paul’s Commons, I remember seeing her in a conference room, dwarfed by stacks of paper, trying to find evidence of a 50-year-old insurance policy – and she found it. She stood at Bishop Bruno’s side in his darkest days.
“And if I may be permitted a personal note, she was my caring, reassuring chaplain during the bishop search process in 2016. I’ll always miss her, and I’ll always smile when I think of her joyous face and easy laugh.”
An obituary is here.
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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, in addition to two types of lay chaplains.
Read more here.
More information about Bloy House course offerings related to the lay licensing program is below (under "Christian Formation opportunities") or here.
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COMING THIS SATURDAY; REGISTER TODAY
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.
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'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
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Christian Formation opportunities | |
Bloy House adds to Fall classes for laity, clergy
[The Episcopal News – September 11, 2023] Bloy House, the Episcopal Theological School at Los Angeles, has added two new online formation classes for lay people and clergy. Both are required for the new lay ministry licensing program recently established by the Diocese of Los Angeles (read more here).
The fee for formation classes is $25. Click here for more information and to register.
Genesis 1 and 2: A Fresh Exploration of the Creation Stories
Mondays, Oct 1, 9, 16, Oct 23; 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Taught by popular Hebrew Scripture facilitator the Rev. 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. Join this engaging and thought-provoking discussion.
Episcopal Identity
Wednesdays, October 25, November 1, 8, and 15; 7 - 8:30 p.m.
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 the Very Rev. Gary Hall, president of Bloy House, and Linda Allport, dean. This class is required for all licensed lay ministries, except Eucharistic minister, where it is recommended. It will be offered again in the Spring.
Anti-Racism
Tuesdays, November 28, Dec 5, 12, and 19; 7 - 8:30 p.m.
In accordance with a resolution of the 2000 General Convention that “the lay and ordained leadership of the Episcopal Church, including all ordained persons, professional staff, and those elected or appointed to positions of leadership on committees, commissions, agencies, and boards be required to take anti-racism training and receive certification of such training” the diocese now requires that every licensed lay minister complete training in understanding systems of oppression and how they affect the Episcopal Church and society in general. Facilitated by Suzanne Edwards-Action, MAPM, founder of My Work To Do. This class is required for all licensed lay ministries. It will be offered again in the Spring.
This article appears on the Episcopal News website here.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Committee completes initial review of possible presiding bishop nominees, renews call for prayers by all Episcopalians
[Episcopal News Service – September 13, 2023] The Joint Nominating Committee for the Election of the Presiding Bishop has reviewed applications from the bishops who have entered the discernment process for the 2024 election of the 28th presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church.
The work took place during the committee’s Sept. 6-9 meeting in St. Louis, Missouri.
The meeting followed the committee’s call for nominations from May 15 to July 15. During that time, 111 Episcopalians submitted bishops’ names.
The committee invited those bishops to enter the discernment process. Those who agreed provided biographical information, references, and written and video responses to several questions.
“We are thankful to all of the Episcopalians who suggested the names of bishops to us,” said Dr. Steve Nishibayashi, a canon in the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles, who co-chairs the committee with Alaska Bishop Mark Lattime.
Read more here.
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Episcopal churches observe National Suicide Prevention Month to promote education, destigmatization
By Shireen Korkzan
[Episcopal News Service – September 12, 2023] Episcopal churches nationwide are observing National Suicide Prevention Week, an annual campaign to raise suicide awareness and help prevent it.
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is one church planning an event.
“Walking the way of love is tough, especially for those who don’t feel loved or seen,” the Rev. Matt Holcomb, St. Michael’s rector, told Episcopal News Service. “As a church, we are called to show them the way of love, especially if they’re having thoughts of suicide or self-harm. There’s an important part of being part of the community helping one another and sitting with those who need it.”
“As a church, we’re in a good position to speak and minister to their lives. There’s a lot we can do to offer support for healing,” Holcomb said. “Ultimately, when we’re living into our baptismal covenant, we can offer hope, healing and help to those around us.”
Read more here.
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California diocese challenges Kairos’ prison ministry’s anti-trans policy
By Melodie Woerman
[Episcopal News Service – September 11, 2023] In August, an Episcopalian from the Diocese of California who has long volunteered with Kairos Prison Ministry International learned that the ministry’s Code of Conduct requires the use of a person’s gender assigned at birth for volunteers and participants in its ministry weekends, meaning transgender or nonbinary people were not welcome.
The volunteer, Christina Reich, soon resigned in protest of such a policy, which runs counter to The Episcopal Church’s policies of LGBTQ+ inclusion as approved by General Convention. Since then, Reich’s resignation has resulted in broader scrutiny by Episcopal leaders in the San Francisco-based diocese of all levels of the diocese’s engagement with Kairos.
Kairos is an interdenominational Christian ministry of volunteers who support prisoners and their families. It offers three programs: Kairos Inside, including a weekend event serving those in prison; Kairos Outside, which serves families of incarcerated people; and Kairos Torch, a mentoring program for incarcerated young people up to age 25.
Read more here.
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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.
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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.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 4 p.m.
Laós Chamber Music: Autumn Soiree
Church of Our Saviour
535 W. Roses Road, San Gabriel 91775
Join Laós for the launch of its new season with chamber orchestral music by Debussy, Barber, Yoshimatsu, and Copland. After the concert, enjoy a wonderful barbecue prepared by members of Church of Our Saviour. There is no charge for the concert; a donation of $15 is requested for the barbecue.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Eighth Annual Dinner & A Show
St. Luke's Episcopal Church
122 South California Avenue, Monrovia 91016
Tickets here
Dinner features food and wine prepared by Joe and Kelly Lauer; the show features performances by members of St. Luke's choir, members of the parish, and special guests. Tickets: $50 ($35 without wine) in advance; $65 ($50 without wine) at the door.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2 p.m.
Installation of the Rt. Rev. Gerry Fernandez Engnan
St. Luke's Episcopal Church
14646 Sherman Way, Van Nuys 91405
The Diocese of Western United States, Western Canada and the Pacific Islands of the Philippine Independent Church (Iglesia Filipina Independiente) will install Engnan as its bishop. Obispo Maxímo Joel O. Porlares will preside at the service, to be held at the Parish of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, which meets at St. Mark's, Van Nuys.
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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.
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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 7 p.m.
Blessing of the Animals
St. Wilfrid's Episcopal Church
18631 Chapel Lane, Huntington Beach 92646
Fur, feathers, and scales, oh my! All creatures, human and animal alike, are welcome at this special service taking place on the Feast Day of St. Francis, the patron saint of animals. This short service will take place in the Rose Garden and will be followed by individual blessings for each animal. Celebrate at St. Wilfrid's, St. Francis style.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 8 p.m.
Chamber Orchestra Concert
St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
1031 Bienveneda Avenue, Pacific Palisades
Information/Tickets here or 310.573.7422
Featuring Palisades resident Jens Lindemann, trumpet. Selections include the Trumpet Concerto by Franz Joseph Haydn and "Rising Sun" by Allen Vizzutti. Tickets: $45. Season passes for all seven concerts this season are available starting at $285.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The Order of St John Annual Service of Investiture & Rededication
All Saints' Episcopal Church
504 North Camden Drive, Beverly Hills
Information: email Steve Leland at swleland1023@gmail.com
The Priory in the USA of the Order of St. John will host its national Service of Investiture and Rededication. A working Order of Chivalry under the British Crown, St. John is a modern humanitarian organization dedicated to providing first aid, healthcare, and support services worldwide. Founded as a religious and military order caring for sick pilgrims in the 11th century, the organization now commemorates 1,000 years of service to humanity. With Prior Nigel Heath, KStJ, and Chancellor Ellen LeCompte, CStJ, presiding, the colorful service will include music offered by the All Saints' Choir and the participation of Bishop John Harvey Taylor, a member of the order and bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles. All are welcome. To learn more about the Order of St. John and its global humanitarian endeavors, click here.
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, 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
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.
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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
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, 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.
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Events to be included in the online diocesan calendar and in the Update may be emailed to editor@ladiocese.org. | |
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.
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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.
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.
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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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