Hello CCSM,

Zoe here, on Monday morning after that extravagant party to mark my retirement from this place. I felt so abundantly honored and celebrated. I really did not expect such a send-off for my little part-time job here! You all outdid yourselves in making me feel seen, loved, and appreciated... and well-fed. Thank you so much. It really couldn't have been any nicer. The flowers are gorgeous. The cards and gifts are heartwarming. And having my mom feel up to coming in person was so meaningful to me. (See pix below.)

I will say once again what I have already said more than once now... there is something warm at the heart of this CCSM community. My church in San Francisco has been talking about how to resist the aggressive cruelty and anti-compassion movement that seems so powerful these days, as Jessica preached about. It is really hard to know what is helpful and what is enough. But we have been talking about how staying in good relationships with each other, extending grace and curiosity, gathering regularly in person, singing, praying, and eating together, all these things are real forms of resistance that could be overlooked... but they matter. Those things are abundant here, and I have been blessed to be a little part of this community for these 34 years.

I will keep you all informed about how it's going at San Quentin. If any of you are interested in coming to a literary reading there sometime, you can send your email address to brothersinpen@gmail.com and I'll put you on the mailing list.

"Purple Dog retiring in a hammock in Yosemite," a wonderful gift of art by Chase Montara made especially for this milestone

Thank you for all your grace and curiosity towards me through all these years.

Peace,

Zoe

DID YOU MISS WORSHIP?

CLICK HERE for Last Sunday's Entire Service

CLICK HERE for Rev. Jessica Vackettas' sermon, "Christmas in July - Love Still Breaks In"

CHURCH SNAPSHOTS

Some photos from Zoe's retirement party day!

For the first time in over two years, Lee Mullery made it to worship in person, to celebrate Zoe's retirement. She was greeted like a celebrity.

Mike, Jennifer (Martin), Lee, Zoe, and Gigi Mullery

Zoe receiving CCSM's extravagant blessing from Jessica and Álvaro and the whole congregation

Warren Long and Betsy Woodward at Zoe's luncheon

Eric Chaney surprised Zoe with an amazing piece of art as a parting gift, a shadow-box collage with the title "Live A Story Worth Telling" and a story on the back that goes with the artwork. So many artists in CCSM's midst!

RSVP

LOVE OFFERING FOR ZOE MULLERY

After 34 years of faithful service, Zoe Mullery is retiring as CCSM’s beloved Administrative Assistant. Zoe has been a steady and compassionate presence through decades of change, always offering kindness, care, and deep dedication to our community. As we celebrate her retirement, we invite you to contribute to a special Love Offering as a tangible expression of our gratitude.

Scan the QR code or click HERE, and select "Love Offering for Zoe."

COMING UP!

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME!

Friday, August 22, 7pm

Join your CCSM friends for a fun night at the San Jose Giants Game on Friday, August 22! Tickets are just $17 per person. Food is on your own this year—so arrive early and grab your favorite baseball treat with before the first pitch! Come cheer on the Giants, connect with familiar faces, and make some new friends too. Register and pay for your ticket(s) by clicking the link below.

Click Here for Tickets!

View our full calendar on our website

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Job Position: Communications & Administrative Coordinator

Where creativity meets coordination.

CCSM is seeking a highly organized and creative individual to support our communications and administrative systems. This role is ideal for someone with strong visual design and digital media skills who thrives in a collaborative, justice-driven environment. Responsibilities include producing our weekly newsletter, managing the website and social media channels, designing materials for worship and events, maintaining databases, and providing essential administrative support to keep our operations running smoothly. Learn more about this opportunity.

Job Position: Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) Director

We're seeking a creative and passionate leader to guide our children and youth in their faith journeys. Our CYF Director will cultivate an inclusive, engaging environment where young people and their families explore spirituality, build community, and engage in social justice. If you're called to nurture the next generation's faith development through innovative programming and meaningful relationships, we invite you to learn more about this opportunity.

Job Position: Director of Music

Where sacred tradition meets creative spirit.

CCSM is seeking a collaborative and creative Director of Music (15–20 hours/week) to lead our choirs, plan worship music, and oversee a dynamic and inclusive music ministry. This part-time position pays $40/hour and includes benefits. We're looking for someone who can honor our rich musical tradition while thoughtfully introducing fresh, meaningful selections and styles that inspire worship and connection. Learn more about this opportunity.