Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Reading for Change
Welcome to Reading for Change! This is an expansion of Love Out Loud in which we will read quarterly books that will culminate in connecting with an organization that supports the mission of the book. We meet at 6:00 p.m. PDT on the 1st Thursday of each month.
We’ll do a deep dive on environmental justice to align with the 2026 Community of Christ Peace Forum: Seeds of Peace - https://cofchrist.org/peace-forum/
We’ll also be preparing for the 2026 Youth Justice Summit, hosted in partnership with the Sacramento Congregation.
Here are the books we look forward to reading together:
“Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization” by Bill McKibben
This is the latest book by Bill McKibben, the 2026 recipient of the Community of Christ International Peace Award. As the title suggests, this is a hopeful but realistic book about how we can respond to the climate crisis - particularly with solar power.
“What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures” by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson
This is a radically hopeful book about imagining possibilities of overcoming the climate crisis. It is a collection of interviews, essays, poetry, and art. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson brings us solutions that come from the worlds of science, policy, culture and justice, all with the goal of helping each of us discern our own climate superpowers.
“Youth to Power: Your Voice and How to Use It” by Jamie Margolin
This is a book written by a Colombian American youth activist, and she describes it as the book she wished she had when she got started in environmentalism. The book offers tangible and practical guidance as well as inspirational stories. We’ll read this as we prepare to support our youth at the Youth Justice Summit.
“The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet” by Leah Thomas
This is a great book that explains the connections between the climate crisis and other systems of oppression, and it gives us a roadmap for protecting the planet and the most vulnerable at the same time. Consider it our field guide to connecting everything we have learned together in Love Out Loud to the environmental justice movement.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Young Adult Retreat at Happy Valley
It's time to mark your calendar and plan to be at Happy Valley the weekend of May 16th for our mid-year Young Adult Retreat! Last year we had a blast, and I expect nothing less this time around.
We plan to do the usual Happy Valley stuff, like at least one trip for Marianne's ice cream. If you have specific ideas or requests, please send them my way. I always love incorporating your ideas into our plans because they improve them for everyone.
We will have child care planned, like last year, so you are welcome to bring your kiddos. Please consider whether you have any friends that would enjoy coming along. All are welcome!
Directed by Brian Anders
Email: brian.steven.anders@gmail.com
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
June Reunion
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR SPMC JUNE REUNION
We’re excited to share that registration is now open for our annual June Reunion taking place June 12 - 17, 2026.
Come for relaxation, community, and renewal in a beautiful setting.
REGISTER AT: www.cognitoforms.com/CommunityOfChrist3/SPMCReunion2026
Directed by Shirley Stevenson, Joy Brunner, Sue Thomas, Tricia Browne and Ruth Seagraves Email: svenranch@gmail.com
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Children's Camp
Children’s Camp
Dates: June 18-22
Who: Grades 3-5
Cost: $250
Directors: Shannon Hrobowski and Shirley Stevenson
Location: Happy Valley Conference CenterIf you have questions, email: shannonily@gmail.com
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
High School Camp (Grades 9-12)
High School Camp
Dates: June 23-29
Who: Grades 9-12
Cost: $400
Director: Jessica Jones-Tidwell
Location: Happy Valley Conference Center
Register Here
Email: sayhitojjones@gmail.com
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
High School Camp
June 23-29, High School Camp (Grades 9-12)
Directed by Jessica Jones-Tidwell, email: sayhitojjones@gmail.com
Save the date!
More details to come.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Middle School Camp
Middle School Camp
Dates: June 30 – July 5
Who: Grades 6-8
Cost: $325
Director: Cathryn Zangl
Location: Happy Valley Conference Center
Register Here
Email: cattyrose13@gmail.com
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
SPECTACULAR (SPEC)
SPEC is one of the most powerful and fun-filled experiences in the life of our high school youth, and we would love for you to be part of the Calizonia delegation this year!
What is SPEC
SPECTACULAR (SPEC) is a camp for high school students who have completed grades 9-12.
Each summer around 1,100 campers and leaders gather at Graceland University for the largest annual youth event in Community of Christ. Together we create a safe, Christ-centered community where young people are invited to discover God, claim their inherent worth, and explore, develop, and share their giftedness.
What can campers expect
Throughout the week youth will experience diverse and vibrant worship, leadership and discipleship development, delegation devotions, and communication and life skill workshops.
They will also enjoy many of the traditional SPEC activities including basketball, volleyball, soccer, table tennis, musical instruction, stage production, arts and tie dye, service projects, conversations about diverse topics, time with friends, and much more.
Where is SPEC
SPECTACULAR is sponsored by Community of Christ and hosted at Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa.
Dates and travel for Sierra Pacific
SPMC will travel from the Sacramento airport.
Departure: July 10, 2026
Return: July 18, 2026
Our group will fly to Des Moines where we will meet the rest of the Calizonia delegation from Arizona and Southern California. From there we will travel together by bus to Graceland University.
More detailed travel information, including flight times, baggage guidelines, and airport plans, will be shared with registered campers and families as we get closer to departure.
Cost for Calizonia campers
The cost is $750. This includes flights, food, registration, T shirts, ground transportation, and all event programming.
How to register
Registration is a two-step process:
First complete the SPEC registration form: https://cofchrist.wufoo.com/forms/m1xcmbn51erupvh/
Then complete the payment form: https://www.cognitoforms.com/CommunityOfChrist3/SPMCSpecPayment2026
Delegation Leader, Jessica Hudson, email: jl.judson@yahoo.com.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
SPMC FAMILY CAMP AUGUST (3rd-8th)
REGISTER TO JOIN US FOR SPMC FAMILY CAMP AUGUST 3-8
Join us for Family Camp at Plumas-Eureka State Park, August 3–8, 2026. Experience a relaxed week of tent camping, fellowship, and nature. This year’s intergenerational theme, "Aligned Living in a Changing Climate," explores living with integrity in a changing world.
Camperships are available—community is our priority! Bring your own gear and food; we’ll provide the ministry and evening campfires. Save the date for this soul-renewing retreat at the Camp Lisa Group Site.
Registration:
https://www.cognitoforms.com/CommunityOfChrist3/SPMCFamilyCamp2026
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Youth Justice Summit
August 28-31, (tentative) - Youth Justice Summit - Sacramento
Co-Directed by Emily Rose email: erose@cofchrist-spmc.org & Laura Bolton email: lbolton@cofchrist-spmc.org
Save the date!
More details to come.
Youth Justice Summit 2026
Join us for this year’s Youth Justice Summit to learn from activists and experts about
what you can do to take action. We’ll gather in Sacramento, CA and learn tangible
skills for engaging elected officials to make our voices heard. Then, on Monday,
August 31st our event will culminate with a lobby day at the State Capitol.
Are you traveling from out of state? We are thrilled to have you! Youth who join us
from outside California will attend our in-person lobby visits, as well as be given the
opportunity to hold Zoom lobby visits with elected officials from their home states.
Every social justice movement in history has been led by young people. This event is a
powerful opportunity for youth to explore how their faith invites them to join in that
tradition of activism and advocacy.
We can’t wait to see you in August!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Elementary Retreat
September 25-27, Elementary Retreat (Grades 1-5)
Directed by Jenna Boyd, email: jenna.b.1725@gmail.com
Save the date!
More details to come.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
75th Anniversary Happy Valley Conference Center
Directed by Tim Dodds, email: tim@happyvalleycc.org
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Community of Christ Peace Forum
October 16-18, Community of Christ Peace Forum - Independence, MO
Directed by Shandra Newcom, email: snewcom@cofchrist.org
Save the date!
More details to come.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Mission Center Conference
Directed by Ruth Seagraves and Paul Harding, rseagraves@cofchrist-spmc.org and pharding@cofchrist.org
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Christmas Youth Retreat
December 4-6, Christmas Youth Retreat (Grades 6-12)
Directed by Laura Bolton, email: lbolton@cofchrist-spmc.org
Save the date!
More details to come.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading Joshua: A Parable for Today by Joseph F. Girzone.
Joseph F. Girzone was a retired Catholic priest who became a world-renowned author by sharing a refreshingly simple, accessible vision of faith. Born in Albany, New York, and ordained in 1955, he served as a pastor for many years before retiring early for health reasons—a transition that allowed him to focus on his true calling: writing stories that bridge the gap between organized religion and the human heart.
Joseph was also the founder of The Joshua Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering peace and making the core teachings of Jesus relevant to modern life. He spent much of his later life traveling as a speaker, advocating for a "theology of the common man" that emphasized love over dogma.
His writing style and worldview were deeply shaped by his desire to strip away religious bureaucracy, focusing instead on the radical kindness and simplicity found in the Gospels. His work has been praised for its ability to resonate with people of all denominations and spiritual backgrounds.
Originally self-published out of the trunk of his car, Joseph’s debut novel JOSHUA became a massive international bestseller, eventually selling millions of copies and inspiring a major motion picture.
Click here to order the book online from World of Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Reading for Change
Welcome to Reading for Change! This is an expansion of Love Out Loud in which we will read quarterly books that will culminate in connecting with an organization that supports the mission of the book. We meet at 6:00 p.m. PST on the 1st Thursday of each month.
We’ll do a deep dive on environmental justice to align with the 2026 Community of Christ Peace Forum: Seeds of Peace - https://cofchrist.org/peace-forum/
We’ll also be preparing for the 2026 Youth Justice Summit, hosted in partnership with the Sacramento Congregation.
Here are the books we look forward to reading together:
“Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization” by Bill McKibben
This is the latest book by Bill McKibben, the 2026 recipient of the Community of Christ International Peace Award. As the title suggests, this is a hopeful but realistic book about how we can respond to the climate crisis - particularly with solar power.
“What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures” by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson
This is a radically hopeful book about imagining possibilities of overcoming the climate crisis. It is a collection of interviews, essays, poetry, and art. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson brings us solutions that come from the worlds of science, policy, culture and justice, all with the goal of helping each of us discern our own climate superpowers.
“Youth to Power: Your Voice and How to Use It” by Jamie Margolin
This is a book written by a Colombian American youth activist, and she describes it as the book she wished she had when she got started in environmentalism. The book offers tangible and practical guidance as well as inspirational stories. We’ll read this as we prepare to support our youth at the Youth Justice Summit.
“The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet” by Leah Thomas
This is a great book that explains the connections between the climate crisis and other systems of oppression, and it gives us a roadmap for protecting the planet and the most vulnerable at the same time. Consider it our field guide to connecting everything we have learned together in Love Out Loud to the environmental justice movement.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Online Session with 'Third Act'
Join us March 30th at 6:00 PM Pacific Time on Zoom to hear from Third Act – an environmental activism group specifically for folks over 60 who want to make an impact on the climate!
We will hear from two working groups in our area – the Bay Area Working Group and the Sacramento Working Group.
This is part of our Reading for Change series in which we connect with an organization that ties in with our book each quarter. All are welcome. – even if you weren’t able to join us in the reading group!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Camp 101
March 13-15, Camp 101 (Grades 1-3)
Directed by Jenna Boyd, email: jenna.b.1725@gmail.com
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Reading for Change
Welcome to Reading for Change! This is an expansion of Love Out Loud in which we will read quarterly books that will culminate in connecting with an organization that supports the mission of the book. We meet at 6:00 p.m. PST on the 1st Thursday of each month.
We’ll do a deep dive on environmental justice to align with the 2026 Community of Christ Peace Forum: Seeds of Peace - https://cofchrist.org/peace-forum/
We’ll also be preparing for the 2026 Youth Justice Summit, hosted in partnership with the Sacramento Congregation.
Here are the books we look forward to reading together:
“Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization” by Bill McKibben
This is the latest book by Bill McKibben, the 2026 recipient of the Community of Christ International Peace Award. As the title suggests, this is a hopeful but realistic book about how we can respond to the climate crisis - particularly with solar power.
“What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures” by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson
This is a radically hopeful book about imagining possibilities of overcoming the climate crisis. It is a collection of interviews, essays, poetry, and art. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson brings us solutions that come from the worlds of science, policy, culture and justice, all with the goal of helping each of us discern our own climate superpowers.
“Youth to Power: Your Voice and How to Use It” by Jamie Margolin
This is a book written by a Colombian American youth activist, and she describes it as the book she wished she had when she got started in environmentalism. The book offers tangible and practical guidance as well as inspirational stories. We’ll read this as we prepare to support our youth at the Youth Justice Summit.
“The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet” by Leah Thomas
This is a great book that explains the connections between the climate crisis and other systems of oppression, and it gives us a roadmap for protecting the planet and the most vulnerable at the same time. Consider it our field guide to connecting everything we have learned together in Love Out Loud to the environmental justice movement.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Redwoods Community Retreat: Love Is a Verb
The world is a tumultuous place right now, and we all know we can't pour from an empty cup. That's why retreats like this are so integral to our faith and overall health.
The Redwoods Retreat is calling you to Happy Valley to nourish your body and soul. There will be familiar faces, new friends, good food, and opportunities for building relationships and engaging in activity. There will be time for renewing spiritual connections, sharing wisdom, and peace practices with the group and relaxation. The registration deadline is February 14!
GENERAL DETAILS:
🗓️ Dates: Feb. 27 - Mar. 1, 2026
📍 Location: Happy Valley Conference Center
📣 Theme: Love Is a Verb
💲 Cost: $175 Adult (Age 12+) full weekend / $150 Youth (3-11) full weekend
⚠️ Registration: Register by February 14
Enjoy stories around the table and around the campfire. Come and hike, eat, make crafts, customize your “LOVE is a Verb” retreat t-shirt, learn something new in our Wisdom of the Group sessions, worship, nap, play games, or just be!
Registration and check-in will begin at 4:00 p.m. Hearty snacks will be served (no dinner) and the retreat will officially begin at 7:00 p.m. on Friday night. We will say our goodbyes after Brunch on Sunday!
Special Sharing Opportunity: Wisdom of the Group - Do you have knowledge of something that brings you peace, healing, or joy that you could teach, demonstrate, or talk about for 30 minutes? This could be a hobby, a practice, or a skill that you can share.
Questions? Interested in sharing what you know? Contact Ruth Seagraves at rseagraves@cofchrist-spmc.org for more information - we hope to have 6 - 12 sessions for people to choose from.
Directed by Ruth Seagraves and Emily Rose
Email: rseagraves@cofchrist-spmc.org
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
High School Youth Yosemite National Park Trip
We are doing it again! Last year, Calizonia traveled to Zion National Park. This time, we will be visiting Yosemite National Park!
🗓️ Dates: February 13-16, 2026
📍 Location: Curry Village, Yosemite National Park
🤷 Who: High School students
We have reserved space in canvas tents in Curry Village. (Learn more about Curry Village here.) It is expected that we will be able to view the "Fire Falls" - a natural spectacle where the setting sun perfectly illuminates Horsetail Fall, making it glow orange and red like lava. This is a wonderful chance to experience Blessings of Community with our friends from SPEC as well as the Sacredness of Creation.
Note: We are planning to leave Friday morning which will mean missing school that day. Space is limited due to our reservation, and registration will close when we reach capacity.
Led by Laura Bolton, email: lbolton@cofchrist-spmc.org.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!
Men's Retreat
“Notice the New Thing”
Join us for a laid-back men’s retreat rooted in Isaiah 43:18–19 and inspired by the way Leonardo da Vinci approached life—with curiosity, attention, and openness to growth. This weekend is designed with plenty of margin: short reflections, meaningful conversations, time outdoors, and space to rest. No pressure, no performances, just a chance to slow down, connect with other men, and notice what God might be doing new in your life. Sunday morning is intentionally low-key with an early send-off, plenty of time to get home, fire up the grill, and be ready for the Super Bowl.
Sign up anytime and feel free to invite a friend. Come as you are, no prep required. We’re looking forward to a relaxed, meaningful weekend together.
Cost: $175 per person for the weekend
Please note:Camperships are available through your congregation or the mission center. Please contact your pastor, or Paul Harding for details.
Leadership Team: Don Miller, Richie Yoha, and Brian Tidwell
Email: brian_tdwell@yahoo.com
Reading for Change
Welcome to Reading for Change! This is an expansion of Love Out Loud in which we will read quarterly books that will culminate in connecting with an organization that supports the mission of the book. We meet at 6:00 p.m. PST on the 1st Thursday of each month.
We’ll do a deep dive on environmental justice to align with the 2026 Community of Christ Peace Forum: Seeds of Peace - https://cofchrist.org/peace-forum/
We’ll also be preparing for the 2026 Youth Justice Summit, hosted in partnership with the Sacramento Congregation.
Here are the books we look forward to reading together:
“Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization” by Bill McKibben
This is the latest book by Bill McKibben, the 2026 recipient of the Community of Christ International Peace Award. As the title suggests, this is a hopeful but realistic book about how we can respond to the climate crisis - particularly with solar power.
“What If We Get It Right? Visions of Climate Futures” by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson
This is a radically hopeful book about imagining possibilities of overcoming the climate crisis. It is a collection of interviews, essays, poetry, and art. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson brings us solutions that come from the worlds of science, policy, culture and justice, all with the goal of helping each of us discern our own climate superpowers.
“Youth to Power: Your Voice and How to Use It” by Jamie Margolin
This is a book written by a Colombian American youth activist, and she describes it as the book she wished she had when she got started in environmentalism. The book offers tangible and practical guidance as well as inspirational stories. We’ll read this as we prepare to support our youth at the Youth Justice Summit.
“The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet” by Leah Thomas
This is a great book that explains the connections between the climate crisis and other systems of oppression, and it gives us a roadmap for protecting the planet and the most vulnerable at the same time. Consider it our field guide to connecting everything we have learned together in Love Out Loud to the environmental justice movement.
Disciplines Dialogue Devotion
You are invited!
Join us for Disciplines Dialogue at 10 a.m. Pacific every Tuesday.
Each week, we discover the scriptures anew together following along with Disciplines 2026, a book of devotions. Click the link below to join via Zoom.
Questions about this group? Email Bob B Thomas at bobbthomas@att.net.
The Enlarged-Print edition of the new 2026 book can be purchased using the button below.
Thrive Discussion
“Thrive” meets the 1st - 4th Monday nights every month from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. Pacific. (We don’t meet on 5th Mondays.)
We are currently reading This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation and the Stories that Make Us by Cole Arthur Riley.
Cole Arthur Riley is, more than most things, a writer. Born and for the most part raised in Pittsburgh, Cole studied writing at the University of Pittsburgh, but traces her love of words back to her father, who would bribe her and her siblings to write poems and stories to get out of chores, or for cold hard cash; and her gramma who was part writer, part sage.
Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator.
Some thinkers who have formed her include, Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, James Baldwin, Thomas Merton, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Julian of Norwich.
Cole’s debut book THIS HERE FLESH was an instant New York Times bestseller.
Click to order the book online from Better World Books
Join us at 7:30 p.m. for an hour of good conversation and relationship building! All are welcome, even if you’ve never joined us before – we would love to see you!