 Bishop Bruno calls on congregations to join in prayer, compassion for migrant children
All congregations in the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles are invited by Bishop Jon Bruno to participate in a July 18-20 "Interfaith Weekend of Compassion and Prayer for Unaccompanied Migrant Children."
The California-Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church is coordinating this effort on behalf of the interfaith community, and in partnership with the Diocese of Los Angeles. A packet of prayers and other resources is available here. The prayers provided can readily be adapted for use in Episcopal liturgies. The letter template is also helpful for writing to elected officials urging compassion and care for unaccompanied minors arriving in the United States after fleeing life-threatening violence in their home countries.
Los Angeles United Methodist Bishop Minerva Carcańo and Bishop Bruno have joined in offering an Interfaith Call to Compassion, available in the packet, inviting all congregations and individuals into prayerful reflection and action.
Bishop Bruno has addressed this subject in his column in the Episcopal News Weekly, which may be downloaded here (the text is also here). The litany and prayer for this weekend's observance also are included in the Weekly.
Both bishops -- who visited the Point Hueneme Shelter Facility on July 9 -- have also joined civic leaders in thanking federal officials for the quality of care the youth, ages 12-17, are receiving on site.
Further information may be requested from the diocesan Office of Community Relations, 213.482.2040, ext. 240.
Local youth attend Episcopal Youth Event 2014
Victor Eichorn of St. Aidan's Church, Malibu; Carissa Cherpes of St. Wilfrid's Church, Huntington Beach; Alison Farrar of St. James' Church, South Pasadena; and Ikenna (Kenny) Skerrett of St. John's ProCathedral, Los Angeles represented the Diocese of Los Angeles at the Episcopal Youth Event (EYE), held July 9 - 12 at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. EYE14's theme was "Marked for Mission" and the gathering was built around helping the 786 high school-age participants discern how the Holy Spirit has marked them for mission and how they might engage in the work of the Anglican Communion's Five Marks of Mission. The young people and their adult leaders heard from Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori, President of the House of Deputies Gay Jennings, Bishop Michael Curry of the Diocese of North Carolina and other church leaders, and went on an "urban pilgrimage," visiting sites of church history and mission in nearby Philadelphia. Full Episcopal News Service coverage of EYE14, with photos and video, is here.
 Hillsides aims to collect
170 backpacks for new school year
Gaza's Al Ahli Hospital appeals for urgent help [Episcopal News Service] Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City is appealing for urgent aid as it struggles to provide critical healthcare services to anyone in need following more than a week of Israeli airstrikes targeting Hamas militants. One of more than 35 institutions run by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, the hospital is striving to meet the increased demands on its already-overburdened staff, who have tended to the wounded despite being surrounded by conflict, the challenges of diminishing medical supplies, and their own fatigue. "Like many hospitals in Gaza, Al Ahli Hospital is receiving patients who have been wounded, with staff working around the clock to provide them with critical medical care," wrote Anglican Bishop in Jerusalem Suheil Dawani in an e-mail to church partners. "At the same time, Al Ahli is experiencing shortages in medicine, fuel, and food for both patients and those in the community who need help." Read more here.
The dioceses of Jerusalem and Los Angeles have shared a companion relationship since 2004.
 'Laundry Love' ministry is focus
of new Episcopal Church video The ministry of Laundry Love and the many lives the program affects are explored in a new video from the Episcopal Church Office of Communication. Based in Venice Beach, California (Diocese of Los Angeles), Laundry Love is a ministry through which the members of the Episcopal Community of Thad's demonstrate that "people are the new program" at a Laundromat in nearby Santa Monica. Laundry Love "is a way to make a love-spreading difference in our community," the Rev. Jimmy Bartz of Thad's continued. "It's the modern day footwashing." "Laundry Love is about developing connection and relationship," explained Mike Collins, Episcopal Church manager of multimedia. "It's a simple way to encourage communion between the poor and the people of Thad's." See video here.
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 Events & announcements ...
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 Credit Union offers loans
to congregations The Episcopal Community Federal Credit Union, based at the Cathedral Center of St. Paul, is offering loans of up to $50,000 at 5% interest to congregations of the diocese for repairs or other uses. For information, contact Urla Gomes at 213.482.2040, ext. 286. The credit union, founded in 1994, provides a full range of financial services, including saving and checking accounts, debit and ATM Cards, credit counseling, 24-hour telephone information and online banking, bill pay, auto and business loans, wire transfers and financial education. Any Episcopalian may join the credit union.
 Chili Cook-Off to challenge chefs at Faith Church, Laguna Niguel
 Mary Crist to discuss
Native American spirituality
at LGBT gathering The Rev. Mary Crist (pictured) will be the guest speaker as the Saints Aelred and Hildegard Fellowship, an LGBT ministry, will meet for its monthly potluck at 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 20 in the Fellowship Hall of the Episcopal Church of the Messiah, Santa Ana. Crist will introduce the Native American concept of "two spirited people" and gay spirituality. She is a member of the Blackfeet Tribe in Montana and is a Native American missioner in the Diocese of Los Angeles. The group will also discuss the Episcopal booth at OC Pride, to be held on August 9. Wayne Kempe of Messiah is the host and Lee Grupsmith and Lyle Pedersen of St. Paul's, Tustin, are the co-hosts. Bring a dish to share; wine and soft drinks and dessert will be provided. Attendance at A&H events is not restricted to LGBT persons. Everyone is invited. Church of the Messiah is located at 614 N Bush Street, Santa Ana 92701. For information, call 714.543.9389.
 Salsa party planned at Abundant Table/Join the Farm The Abundant Table and Join the Farm! ministries will hold a special Salsa Day on Saturday, July 26, 2 - 4:45 p.m. The afternoon will begin with to tour and a chance to harvest ingredients for homemade salsa at Join the Farm, located at The Hansen Agricultural Center at 287 South Briggs Road, Santa Paula 93060. Then all will meet at at about 3:30 p.m. at The Abundant Table intern house, 722 East Main Street, Santa Paula 93060, to blend up Farmer Reyna's traditional, fresh Mexican salsa recipes to sample and take home, before trying out salsa dance moves to classic salsa music! Muy Caliente! Those who are so inclined can head to the Oxnard Salsa Festival to salsa the rest of the evening away! Bring your best homemade salsa to enter into the salsa contest; the best salsa-maker wins a personal salsa dance lesson with Farmer Reyna at the salsa party. Bring a container to take salsa home. For reservations, email by July 20 to Erynn@jointhefarm.com.
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This week around the diocese ...
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SATURDAY, JULY 19, 5:30 p.m.
'Swing Under the Stars'
Grace Episcopal Church
555 E. Mountain View Avenue, Glendora 91741
Information: 626.335-3171
This third annual event features Big Wednesday Swing Band. A barbecue dinner of tri-tip or chicken will be served beginning at 5:30 p.m., with music starting at 6:30 p.m. The concert is free and open to all. Dinner tickets are $10; a hot dog dinner for children under 12 is available for $5. Beer and wine will be offered for an additional charge. Advance tickets are encouraged: call for information.
SUNDAY, JULY 20, 12:30 p.m.
Lunch/Screening: Diagnosing Difference
All Saints Episcopal Church (Forum)
132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena
Information here
Reservations: galas@allsaints-pas.org
GALAS (Gays and Lesbians at All Saints) hosts a light lunch and a screening of the documentary Diagnosing Difference. H. Adam Ackley will facilitate a discussion after the viewing. Suggested donation: $10 (no one turned away for lack of funds).
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SATURDAY, JULY 26, 9 a.m. - 12 noon
Seminar: 'A Climate of Hope'
Cathedral Center of St. Paul
840 Echo Park Avenue, Los Angeles
Information: Allis Druffel at 310.752.3436 or allis@interfaithpower.org
Reservations here
Participants will spend the morning reflecting, planning and acting on pressing local environmental concerns. Because the event will take place just before the end of the California legislative session, participants can make their voices count on crucial legislation aimed at creating healthier communities. The event will also feature sessions on "telling your story"; local environmental challenges and solutions; and practical resources on "greening" congregational facilities and tips for church members. Among the speakers will be the Rev. Canon Sally Bingham, president of Interfaith Power & Light. The day will begin with check-in, refreshments and networking at 8:45 a.m. in the Cathedral Center's Great Hall.
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This week in liturgy & the arts ...
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SATURDAY, JULY 19, 7 p.m.
Evening of Prayer for Unaccompanied
Migrant Children Fleeing to the United States
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
3290 Loma Vista Road, Ventura
Information: 805.643.5033
Part of a weekend of prayer and compassion called for by local religious and civic leaders, open to people of all faiths, and no particular faith. The 30 - 45 minute service will be in the style of Taize, and will feature quiet meditation, simple repetitive music, readings, reflections and prayer. St. Paul's is collecting fans to use in the temporary shelter at the Port Hueneme Naval Base.
SUNDAY, JULY 20, 4 p.m.
Jazz@George's
St. George's Episcopal Church
23802 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills 92653
Information: www.jazzministry.org
A jazz vespers service with music by the Rev. Norm Freeman and friends, on the third Sunday of each month.
SUNDAY, JULY 20, 5 p.m.
Jazz Vespers with Carol Welsman
All Saints Episcopal Church (Chapel)
132 N. Euclid Avenue, Pasadena 91101
Information: Debbie Daniels, 626.583.2750
Susan Russell will offer the meditation. Child care provided. Should you like to use the elevator for accessibility, please arrive five minutes prior to the service. Carol Welsman is an internationally acclaimed singer and pianist who has captivated audiences worldwide with her expressive vocal stylings and dynamic stage presence. Fluent in English, French and Italian, she blends languages and rhythms with a versatile repertoire including swing, Latin, R&B, pop and jazz.
SUNDAY, JULY 20, 7 p.m.
Sacramentum
St. James' Church
1325 Monterey Road (at Fremont), South Pasadena
Information: 626.799.9194 or www.sjcsp.org
A monthly, candlelit Eucharist that blends ancient liturgy with new music, media, reflection and prayer. Sacramentum is on the third Sunday of each month at 7 p.m.
MONDAY, JULY 21, 7 p.m.
Centering Prayer
St. James' Episcopal Church
1325 Monterey Road, South Pasadena
Information: 626.799.9194
The centering prayer group meets each Monday evening, except holidays.
TUESDAY, JULY 22, 6:15 p.m.
Centering Prayer
The Church of Our Saviour
535 W. Roses Road, San Gabriel 91775
Information: 626.282.5147
No previous experience is necessary. Centering Prayer group meets every Tuesday in St. Luke's Chapel.
TUESDAY, JULY 22, 7 p.m.
Taizé Worship Service
St. Francis Episcopal Church (chapel)
2200 Via Rosa, Palos Verdes Estates
Information: 310.375.4617
A meditative Taizé service of healing and wholeness that includes candlelight, periods of silence, chants and intercessory prayer with a prayer team leader. Followed by a reception with light refreshments. Taizé is a calming and beautiful form of sung contemplative prayer developed in an ecumenical monastery in France. Taizé services are offered throughout the year on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Donations are welcome.
TUESDAY, JULY 22, 7 p.m.
Contemplative Prayer
Church of the Messiah
614 N. Bush Street, Santa Ana 92701
Information: 714.543.9389
Contemplative Prayer meets every Tuesday evening for an extended period of silent meditation and prayer in the Upper Room. Those unfamiliar with this method of prayer are welcome to join others who have practiced contemplative prayer before.
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THURSDAY, JULY 24, 7:30 p.m.
Centering Prayer
St. Augustine by-the-Sea Episcopal Church
1227 Fourth Street, Santa Monica
Information: 310.395.0977
All are welcome; no previous experience needed. The church is located on Fourth Street between Wilshire and Arizona. Parking is available in the public parking garage across the street. Centering Prayer is offered at St. Augustine's on the second and fourth Thursday of each month (except Thanksgiving Day).
SATURDAY, JULY 26, 7 p.m.
Harout Senekeremian, piano
The Church of Our Saviour
535 West Roses Road, San Gabriel 91775
Information: 626.282.5147 or www.churchofoursaviour.org
Suggested donation: $20.
MONDAY, JULY 28, 7 p.m.
Centering Prayer
St. James' Episcopal Church
1325 Monterey Road, South Pasadena
Information: 626.799.9194
The centering prayer group meets each Monday evening, except holidays.
TUESDAY, JULY 29, 6:15 p.m.
Centering Prayer
The Church of Our Saviour
535 W. Roses Road, San Gabriel 91775
Information: 626.282.5147
No previous experience is necessary. Centering Prayer group meets every Tuesday in St. Luke's Chapel.
TUESDAY, JULY 29, 7 p.m.
Contemplative Prayer
Church of the Messiah
614 N. Bush Street, Santa Ana 92701
Information: 714.543.9389
Contemplative Prayer meets every Tuesday evening for an extended period of silent meditation and prayer in the Upper Room. Those unfamiliar with this method of prayer are welcome to join others who have practiced contemplative prayer before.
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Opportunities ...
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The Portugal Way of St. James
September 19 - 29, 2014
Sponsored by Christ Church of the Ascension, Phoenix, Arizona, and let by the Rev. Phillip Jackson, rector. Visiting sites in Portugal and Spain, concluding at Santiago de Compostela. Cost: $3,300 per person (double occupancy), including 9 nights' accommodation, daily breakfast, six lunches, three dinners; tour guide, day cruise on the Douro River, air-conditioned tour coach, all entrance fees and gratuities. Airfare, insurance, additional meals not included. Information and tour brochure here. Contact: Bonnie Waite, 480.899.8006 or bonnie@yourcruise.com.
Pilgrimage: The Holy Land
December 1 - 11, 2014The Rev. Nancy Crawford, ECW national board president invites all to join this spiritual pilgrimage -- women, men, couples and youth. Organized by Lynn Headley of the Diocese of Los Angeles. Price: $3,300 (double occupancy), which includes roundtrip nonstop flight from JFK (New York) to Tel Aviv, meals, lodging, entrance fees, tips. ($520 additional for a private room). A brochure with detailed information is here. Lent in the Holy Land
February 26 - March 10, 2015A prayerful and contemplative pilgrimage sponsored by the Community of Divine Love and led by Brother Dennis and Sister Greta, with Canon Iyad Qumri. Visit Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Judean desert, the Jordan River, the Galilee and Nazareth; Gethsemane and the Gerassimos Monastery. Total cost: $3,840, including round-trip airfare from Los Angeles, ground transportation, accommodations, meals and tips. A deposit of $400 is due by August 1, 2014. Information flyer here. Reservations: cdlmonastery@aol.com or 626.703.4474. |
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EMPLOYMENT
ALTADENA: Organist. Saint Mark's Episcopal Church seeks a part-time organist to work with its director of music. Church instrument is a Karl Wilhelm tracker action pipe organ with 2 manuals and 25 ranks. The congregation has adult and children's choirs and a bell choir. Full job description and requirements and application information here.
COMPTON: Interim school director. St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Compton seeks a full-time interim school director to bring a positive, collaborative approach to continuing innovation as the school begins its search for a permanent director. Information here.
COMPTON: Bookkeeper. St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Compton seeks to hire a bookkeeper to make the entries and balance the books every week, help prepare the budget, and bring a positive, teamwork-oriented approach to the church and school. Information here.
COMPTON: Fundraiser. St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Compton seeks to hire a successful fundraiser to help find ways and means of raising funds for the church and school as we begin to search for a permanent director of the school. Information here.
COSTA MESA: Music Director (Organist/Choir Director). St. John the Divine Episcopal Church. Part time (8 hours/week) Sundays, one weekly rehearsal, plus additional holy day services. Full job description and application information here.
UPLAND: Interim Preschool Director. St. Mark's Episcopal School seeks an experienced preschool leader committed to early childhood education to serve under the guidance of the Head of School beginning in mid-July 2014. Job description and application information here.
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VOLUNTEER
For volunteer opportunities, click here.
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TO HAVE AND HAVE NOT
GRAVESITES: Episcopal Communities & Services has approximately 30 gravesites available at Live Oak Cemetery, located in Monrovia, and is selling these spaces at $1,000 each (they usually run $4,500 or more). The gravesites can be purchased individually or in blocks. ECS also has four available sites for cremains only; these can be purchased for $500 each. For information call Lisa Oddone at Episcopal Communities & Services, 626.403.1497.
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