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West L.A. Connections Page 1 February 2016
WWeesstt LL.. AA.. CCoonnnneeccttiioonnss
A Monthly Publication of the West Los Angeles United Methodist Church February 2016
West Los Angeles
United Methodist Church 1913 Purdue Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: 310-479-1379
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.wlaumc.com
Office Hours Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 1 PM
Pastors' Office Hours Rev. Gary: Tues-Fri, 9 AM to 1 PM
Rev. Janet: Tues-Fri, 9 AM to 1 PM
Rev. Becky: Sat, 10 AM to 12 PM
Sunday Worship Services 9:30 AM
English Language Worship
Nursery and Sunday School
10:30 AM Fellowship Time for both congregations
11:00 AM
Japanese Language Worship
Staff Rev. Gary Oba, Senior Pastor
Rev. Janet Cromwell, Associate Pastor
Rev. Rebecca Hirata, Local Pastor
Japanese Language Ministry
Lina Yamaguchi,
Secretary and Newsletter Coordinator
Our Mission Statement Our Mission is to promote spiritual
growth - Building a community of
faith and making disciples of Christ
by reaching out with compassion,
forgiveness and love. At West LA
UMC, building a community of faith
is what we are about.
Lent – A Time for Inspection
Have you ever driven your car and noticed it drifting to one side? You’re
on the freeway and take your hands off the steering wheel (briefly, of course),
and notice that your car is veering to the right or left. You think to yourself,
“My car is in need of alignment.”
You take your car to a repair shop. They run it through a battery of tests to
determine where the problem is. Hopefully they can fix the problem quickly
and at a reasonable cost. A short time later, you’re back on the road, this time
without any drifting.
Sometimes our lives can get out of alignment. We can hit a pothole of a
health crisis, a speed bump of a broken relationship, or an accident of a job loss
and, soon after, find ourselves drifting. We might isolate ourselves from
family, friends, and the church, and do things that will not lead to health and
wholeness. If we do not correct the problem(s), we can end up at a destination
far from what God has in mind for us.
Lent is the time of the church year when all lives are called in for an
inspection. Think of it as an annual tune up. During the 40 days of Lent (not
including Sundays), we are called to examine the detail of our lives. We are the
inspectors, and Jesus is our inspection manual. When we notice an area that is
not working properly, we pray that God will give us the wisdom and courage to
repair it. Only then will we be able to get our lives going in the direction God
has hoped for us.
Moreover, the length of the season tells us that the inspection is not to be
done hastily or in a shallow fashion. The 40 days (symbolic of a lifetime)
encourage us to take our time and look with meticulous care into every aspect
of our lives. Only through an honest and thorough inspection will we be able to
find the problems that are causing the drifting, and turn us once again in God’s
direction.
Lent is a time for self-inspection. Let us use this season to give ourselves
a spiritual tune up. By doing this, we will be able to put ourselves in alignment
with God’s dream for us and the world.
Wishing you a holy Lent,
Rev. Gary Oba
WWhheerree NNuurrttuurriinngg EEmmppoowweerrmmeenntt WWeellccoommiinngg SSeerrvviiccee HHaappppeennss!!
West L.A. Connections Page 2 February 2016
Prayers Connecting and Nurturing through Prayer
As a community of faith, we support one another through prayer. To add or remove a prayer request, please contact one of the pastors or the church office.
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Narrative Lectionary Readings for February
These readings serve as the foundation for the Wednesday morning Bible Study and Sunday morning 9:30 Worship Service. By reading these scripture lessons during the week, you can prepare
your heart and mind for Sunday worship.
February 7 Mark 8:27-9:8
February 10 Mark 9:30-37
February 14 Mark 10:17-31
February 21 Mark 10:32-52
February 28 Mark 12:1-12
West L.A. Connections Page 3 February 2016
Worship & Studies Growing in Faith through Worship and Study
February 9:30 AM Worship Services
February 7 – 5th Sunday after Epiphany, Family Worship and Holy Communion Rev. Gary Oba preaching. Text: Mark 8:27-9:8. Theme: What does it mean to take up our cross? Rev. Janet Cromwell giving children’s message.
February 10 - 7:30 pm – Ash Wednesday Service The season of Lent begins with a simple service of scripture, hymns, and the imposition of ashes.
February 14 – 1st Sunday in Lent Scouting Ministries Sunday. Rev. Gary Oba preaching. Text: Mark 10:17-31. Theme: Riches won't get us into God's kingdom. Rev. Janet Cromwell giving children’s message.
February 21 – 2nd Sunday in Lent Rev. Gary Oba preaching. Text: Mark 10:32-52. Theme: Greatness comes from serving others. Rev. Janet Cromwell giving children’s message.
February 28 – 1st Sunday in Lent / Worship with Praise Band / Claremont School of Theology Sunday. Rev. Dr. Jack Jackson, Guest Preacher. Text: 2 Timothy 4:1-8. Theme: "Offering Christ."
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Guest Preacher Rev. Dr. Jack Jackson Sunday, February 28, 9:30 AM
Rev. Dr. Thomas Glenn “Jack” Jackson III is a Wesleyan scholar whose research centers on the theology and practices of mission and evangelism both in global contexts in the increasingly post Christian West. Dr. Jackson has extensive experience in global Christianity and Methodism. He helps lead the Center for Global
Methodism at Claremont School of Theology, which facilitates training, research, teaching, and formation for the Methodist and Wesleyan community.
Central to Dr. Jackson’s current work is helping prepare persons for Christian leadership in general and pastoral ministry in particular. He has served a number of churches over fifteen years in pastoral ministry. He teaches regularly in the Cal-Pac Course of Study program. Jackson is a frequent guest preacher at churches and leads workshops for pastors and laity on Theology and practices of mission, Basics of United Methodist History and Theology, Evangelism in Local Churches, and Growing Healthy Churches.
Sunday School and Bible Studies
Children’s Sunday School It is a new year to grow in faith and knowledge through Sunday School! Children and youth are encouraged to come each Sunday to learn, have fun, and make new friends.
Birth to K Nursery (Next to sanctuary) K to Grade 3 Explorer Room 3 Grades 4-8 Trekker Room 2 Grades 9-12 Youth Room 8 (Second floor)
Tuesday Bible Study Tuesdays, 7:30-9:00 PM in the Learning Center.
Tuesday Night Bible Study will continue its nine-week study of The Letter of James, using the N.T. Wright for Everyone Bible Study Guide. For the reading schedule, please go to the church's website and look under Get Involved/Bible Study/Tuesday Bible Study. No meeting on February 23 and March 1.
New! Lenten Study – Prayer and Reflection Wednesdays, 9:30 AM or 7:00 PM in Learning Center.
This five-week Lenten Study will use Rachel Hackenberg’s Writing to GOD: 40 Days of Praying with My Pen as the basis for prayer and written reflections on our faith journeys through Lent. Co-led by Jeri Okamoto and Rev. Janet Cromwell, the group will read, discuss, prayer and spend time writing during the class sessions. The study book may be purchased through the church for $16.00. See page 5 for more information.
New! Nichigo Lenten Study Wednesdays, 7:30 PM in Rev. Becky’s Office.
Why is the Bible important to us? Does God really care about us? Who is Jesus and why did he come? As we study and discuss together, may the Lord deepen our faith. Rev. Becky will lead this study in Japanese on February 17, 24, and March 2, 23.
“Alive Now” Study Group Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 AM in Room 2.
This study focuses on scripture lessons that will be the basis for Sunday morning’s sermon. See page 2 of this Newsletter for the weekly scripture lessons. Rev. Gary leads the discussion and new members are always welcome. This Study Group will not meet on Wednesday, February 24.
Men’s Bible Study Group Periodic Thursdays, 7:15-8:15 PM in Room 2.
The Men’s Study Group meets on periodic Thursday evenings. Contact Fred Hifumi for dates.
West L.A. Connections Page 4 February 2016
Children, Youth, and Family Ministries Supporting Families in Spiritual Growth and Discipleship
Valentine Making & Souper Bowl Sunday Sunday, February 7, 10:30 AM
On February 7, children, youth and adults are invited to enjoy a warm bowl of soup after worship. Your Souper Bowl Sunday donations will support the Wesley Foundation 580 Café, which provides hot meals for college students; sometimes their only good meal of the day.
After enjoying your soup, please move to the Valentine Making tables to create Valentines for persons on our church’s Prayer List. Supplies will be provided, so please plan to join us and share your creative talents on this important outreach project. Take the time to share some love with those in need!
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Trekker Pizza and Bowling Party
Sunday, February 14, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
We’re looking forward to a fun afternoon of food, fellowship, and bowling at Santa Monica’s Bay Shore Lanes. Registration is required by contacting Sharon Kinoshita Gill or Mike Dote. The cost is $10 per person and includes lunch, bowling, and shoe rental.
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Kizuna Preview Day and Summer Camp
Sunday, March 13, 11:00 AM, Learning Center
Join Kizuna on Sunday, March 13 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM in the Learning Center for an afternoon of mochi making as we have a kagami-mochi making competition! Your children will learn about the cultural significance of mochitsuki as we all make and mold mochi together in a fun and engaging ways. The cost is $15 per child. Register for this special program now at www.kizuna-la.org/mochitsuki.
This activity is an advertisement for Kizuna's Nikkei Discovery Camp, a cultural summer camp for elementary and middle schoolers (students entering 2nd thru entering 8th Grades) that builds a foundation of Japanese American culture and heritage. The camp will take place the week of June 27-July 1 at WLAUMC. Please visit www.NDC.kizuna-la.org or contact Paul Matsushima at [email protected] or 213-973-4465.
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Vacation Bible School July 18-22 at West LA UMC
Mark your calendar for this year’s VBS program! Director Jeri Okamoto will share more information about this year’s exciting theme in future Newsletters. Plan now to be a part of this fun and inspiring summer event!
Sitting with friends at Ohana.
Ohana 2.0 Gathering February 13, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Oftentimes, people will say to parents, “It’s just a phase,” indicating that whatever bothersome or irritating behavior that is happening will pass. In other words, “Just hang in there and everything will get better soon.”
But what if we understood that phrase as something positive, as in, “It’s just a phase, so enjoy it! Make the most of it! And don’t miss it!”
As parents, grandparents, mentors, and friends, we want to enjoy and make the most of every phase in a child and young person’s life. At each phase of life, there is something valuable for each child to experience and learn. And, as we pay close attention, we can assist them growing in knowledge, wisdom, and faith in each of those important phases.
At the February 13 Ohana gathering, parents will consider the importance of each phase of their child’s development, and how – in partnership with the church family – they can assist children in their faith journey.
Please join us for playtime, conversation, and potluck lunch. RSVP to Jane Shimotsu by February 1 so that childcare arrangements can be made. Bring a friend and discover why “it’s only a phase” matters!
Rev. Janet Cromwell ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Sawahata Scholarship
Applications are now available for the Sawahata Scholarship for high school seniors going on to college. Please see David Cook or Lina Yamaguchi in church office if you would like an application.
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Note from Kale Langley & Brooke Smars
Former West LA UMC worshippers Kale Langley and Brooke Smars sent Christmas greetings to the church announcing that they are expecting a baby this spring! You may see their card on the Social Hall bulletin board. They may be reached at 5045 Morgan Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55419.
West L.A. Connections Page 5 February 2016
Outreach & Social Service Serving Our Community and World
Scene from the Humanity Play Project. Photo: Jenny Brum.
Humanity Play Project
Members and friends witnessed a powerful presentation of drama, dance, music and poetry on January 18. The Humanity Play Project brought together performers to address violence against the African American community, and the deep desire for peace, justice, and equity. The performance was an appropriate way to commemorate the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.
Thanks to Carolyn Marie Wright and Jane Bacon for coordinating the program and to church members who attended and assisted that evening.
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People Assisting The Homeless (PATH)
The Social Action Committee is looking for volunteers to participate in dinner preparation and service for PATH in 2016.
The dinners will be the 2nd Monday of each odd month (March, May, July, etc.) at the PATH transitional housing facility assisting veterans at 2346 Cotner Avenue, West LA. Please contact Michi Matsuda ([email protected]) or Scott Nakaatari ([email protected]) if you are interested in either cooking or serving a meal at PATH.
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Wesley Foundation Silent Auction
In preparation for the Wesley Foundation’s second annual Open House on April 10, items are being collected for the Silent Auction. Art, household items, gift certificates, T-shirts, and other new and like-new donations are welcome. Please see Rev. Janet Cromwell or Deaconness Jeanne Roe Smith regarding your donations.
Upcoming Events Learning, Fellowship, and Fun
Library Open for Borrowing & Browsing
Sunday, February 7, 11:00 AM Learning Center 2nd Floor
The Church Library will be open for reading and borrowing books on Sunday, February 7 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. Come and enjoy the many history books, novels, and children’s books and CDs that are available to church members.
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Lenten Study on Prayer and Writing
Wednesdays, beginning February 17 9:30 AM and 7:00 PM, Learning Center
Author Rachel Hackenberg writes, “More than many of us would admit, prayer can be a struggle in our spiritual lives. We worry that our prayers are not “good enough,” and we stress when prayer feels stagnant. Lent is the perfect season for pushing beyond our fears in prayer and exploring a new prayer discipline! By focusing our prayers through the tips of our pens, we can shift our self-consciousness into creativity and engage God anew, as prayer becomes an active experience of mind, body, and spirit. Joining together with a group to write prayers [and reflections on scripture] add the gift of community to encourage our spirits.”
This year’s Lenten Study will use Hackenberg’s Writing to GOD: 40 Days of Praying with My Pen to explore scripture, prayer, and brief periods of written reflection to grow in our relationship with Christ.
Experienced writer, Jeri Okamato will offer helpful suggestions for persons who are just beginning to use writing as part of their spiritual journey. Participants may use Writing to GOD’s daily writing prompts or just come to the weekly sessions.
Please contact Rev. Janet with any questions and to purchase this year’s study book for $16.00.
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Habitat for Humanity Update
Thanks for all your prayers and support! Our church coalition now includes Venice/Santa Monica Free Methodist, Westwood UMC, Santa Monica UMC, Kardia UMC and other Westside churches. Habitat for Humanity LA has now gotten approval to move forward. We now have almost half of the $150,000 needed from this coalition for building materials for one home. We are continuing our fundraising efforts so any donations made to WLAUMC with Habitat to Humanity on the comment line are appreciated. Thanks for your prayers and support- more updates to follow.
Ken Ho, Missions Chairperson
West L.A. Connections Page 6 February 2016
Japanese Film Night Friday, February 26, 7:30 PM, Sanctuary
February’s Japanese Film Night will feature "Riding Alone for Thousands of Miles” / “Quan li zou dan qi.” The late, legendary actor, Takakura Ken portrays Takeda, a widower Japanese fisherman from Japan’s northern Akita province. This 2006 multi-award winning color film is a deeply heart-touching Chinese film from three-time Academy Award nominated motion picture director, Zhang Yimou. Come and join us! Free and open to the public.
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Women’s Retreat Saturday-Sunday, April 23-24
The church’s annual Women’s Retreat will take place on April 23-24, at Aldersgate Retreat Center in Pacific Palisades. Our theme of “Lavender Springs Spa: Where Women Rest in God’s Faithfulness” is sure to be an inspiring, relaxing and renewing time.
Registration Forms will be available in February. The Early Bird Retreat Fee is $99 before March 20. Your early registration will help us plan for a great Retreat! See Cindy Morimoto or Rev. Janet Cromwell for a flier and details.
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Altar Flowers and Refreshments
New sign-up sheets for providing Altar Flowers and Refreshments in 2016 are posted on the Social Hall bulletin board. Thank you for signing up.
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West LA UMC Prayer Ministry
The sanctuary is open on Thursday mornings at 9:30 AM to pray for persons on the church’s prayer list. The Prayer Ministry provides a calm and peaceful time to sit, pray, and listen for God’s guidance. To receive an updated copy of the Prayer List, contact Lina Yamaguchi at the church office at 310-479-1379.
Welcome Our New Members
On January 10, West LA UMC was pleased to welcome three new members: Jane Bacon by Profession of Faith, and Ashley and JR Ramsey by Transfer of Membership.
Jane Bacon hails from NY State and moved to the west coast to complete the MFA Acting program at UCLA, from which she graduated in 2011. Jane has been working as an assistant to Mary McDonnell on “Major Crimes” and as a casting director for small independent projects. She began
attending West LA United Methodist Church when Revs. Janet and Gary transferred here from Claremont and is proud to be a part of this welcoming and active congregation. Jane frequently sings with the Choir and is often one of our scripture readers in worship.
Ashley Ramsey was born in Mesquite, Texas and lived there until her high school graduation before moving to Shreveport, Louisiana where she graduated from Centenary College with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. She taught middle and high school chorus in Bossier City, Louisiana before moving to Los
Angeles. She has lived in LA for 2½ years where she has taught middle school and high school choir at Notre Dame Academy and Hermosa Beach Elementary School. She is currently the music director at West LA UMC and is getting her Master’s degree in Choral Music at the greatest school in SoCal, USC.
JR Ramsey was born and raised in Ruston, Louisiana (the best city in North Louisiana) and graduated from Centenary College in Shreveport in 2010 with a degree in New Media Communications. After graduation, he taught 6th grade English at Caddo Middle Magnet School in Shreveport and worked
as a Social Media Specialist at Centenary College. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Relations at the great University of Southern California. He currently works as an Admission Counselor at Pitzer College in Claremont.
JR and Ashley met at Centenary College and have been married for 5 years. They plan to continue living in the Los Angeles area working in music and communications fields.
West L.A. Connections Page 7 February 2016
Special Offerings Giving to God through our Tithes and Offerings
for your generous gifts!
Memorial Offerings
If you would like a list of the Memorial Offerings, please contact the Church Office.
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Special Offerings
If you would like a list of the Special Offerings, please contact the Church Office.
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Christmas Offering
If you would like a list of the Christmas Offering, please contact the Church Office.
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Christian Stewardship
Underlying the message of Stewardship is God's infinite love for us and the recognition that all we have is from God. Your annual pledge of financial support to West LA UMC enables the Church's mission to promote spiritual growth by building a community of faith, making disciples of Christ and reaching out with compassion, forgiveness and love.
Please see contact Harriet Woo or the Church Office for a Stewardship Packet and Pledge Card.
West L.A. Connections Page 8 February 2016
Japanese Ministry Praising and Serving God Together
「愛修会」
今年も、愛修会がロサンゼルスで行われ
る。今までは、夏休みに行われていたが、
今年は受難節に行う。南カリフォルニア
にある教会一緒に行う修養会である。2
月 27日（土）は、オレンジ郡教会で、
一日愛修会。3月 5日（土）は合同教会
で一日愛修会。今年から、1泊 2日のリ
トリートも行われる。3月 3-4日（木、
金）と、パロスバーデスにある Mary &
Joseph Retreat Centerが会場である。
「目を上げて畑を見るがよい」（ヨハネ
4:35）、「休ませてくださる主のもと
へ」（マタイ 11:28）、「時が来ると実
がなり、その葉は枯れない。何をしても
栄える」（詩編 1:3）と、聖書の奥深さを
発見し体験することができる素晴らしい
み言葉が準備されている。神様の声を聖
書から聴くことを体験すると私達は変わ
る。信仰生活に励ましを受け、そしてチ
ャレンジを受けることを切に願う。今年
も心静まり、み言葉を聞く霊的成長の時
を期待したいと思う。
そして、2月 28日（日）は、榎本先生が
私達の教会でメッセージの奉仕にあずか
る。お友達を礼拝に誘って一緒に主を礼
拝したいと思う。主は素晴らしい。
平田 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
受難節聖書勉強を 2月 17日、2月 24日、3
月 2日、3月 23日水曜日 7時半より行いま
す。
聖書はなぜ大事なの？神様はいるの？イエス
様は誰？なぜ、来たの？
目からうろこが落ちる時が与えられるよう祈
ります。
The Lent season is coming. This year, Rev.
Enomoto, the Director of Ashram Japan, is coming from Japan to lead Devotional Conferences on 2/27 in Orange County, 3/5 in LA County, and 3/4-5 at Mary and Joseph Retreat Center.
The Word of God has been prepared for us: “Open your eyes and look at the fields!” (John 4:35), “Come to Jesus who gives you rest.” (Matthew 11:28), “He is like a tree which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers!” (Psalm 1:3) When we experience in hearing God’s voice, we can be changed. God is able to touch us, to encourage us, and to challenge us.
And on 2/28, Rev. Enomoto will share a message in Nichigo Worship Service. We would like to welcome him, and expect the Holy Spirit to work in our midst. May the Lord bless the season of Lent and spiritually renew our faith.
Pastor Becky Hirata 平田
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日本語部カレンダー 2/7（日) 11:00 礼拝
12:00 聖書勉強
2/10（水） 7:30 灰の水曜礼拝（英）
2/14（日）11:00 礼拝
12:00 聖書勉強
2/17（水） 7:30 受難聖書勉強①
2/21（日）11:00 礼拝
12:00 聖書勉強
2/24（水） 7:30 受難聖書勉強②
2/26（金） 7:30 シングル会
2/27（土）11:00 シニアランチ
2/28（日）11:00 礼拝、愛餐会
West L.A. Connections Page 9 February 2016
February 2016 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
2 7:30pm Bible Study
3 9:30am “Alive Now” Study 10:30am Tai-Chi Class
4 9:30am Prayer Meeting 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 11:00am Staff Meeting
7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
5
6
8:00am Musical Group in Sanctuary 9:30am UCLA Dance Group
7 Family Worship
9:30am English Worship 9:45am Sunday School 10:30am Souper Bowl Lunch 10:30am Valentine’s Day Card Making 11:00am Japanese Worship 11:00am Library Opens 11:15am Bell Choir Rehearsal 12:15pm SPRC Meeting
8 6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
9 8:30am Fat Tuesday Men’s Breakfast at church 7:30pm Bible Study
10 9:30am “Alive Now” Study 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 7:30pm Ash Wednesday Service
11 9:30am Prayer Meeting 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
12
13
9:30am UCLA Dance Group 10:00am Ohana 2.0 Gathering
14 Boy Scout Sunday
9:30am English Worship 9:45am Sunday School 11:00am Japanese Worship 11:00am Trekker Lunch & Bowling 11:15am Bell Choir Rehearsal
15 6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
16 7:30pm Bible Study
17 9:30am “Alive Now” Study 9:30am Lenten Study 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 7:00pm Lenten Study 7:30pm Nichigo Lenten Study
18 9:30am Prayer Meeting 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
19
20
9:30am UCLA Dance Group 10:00-1:00pm Wesley Foundation Board Mtg
21 Worship & Fellowship 9:30am English Worship 9:45am Sunday School 11:00am Japanese Worship 11:15am Bell Choir Rehearsal
22 6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg 7:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal
23 No Bible Study Today
24 No Alive Now Study Today 9:30am Lenten Study 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 7:00pm Lenten Study 7:30pm Nichigo Lenten Study
25 9:30am Newsletter Folding 9:30am Prayer Meeting 10:30am Tai-Chi Class 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
26 7:30pm Japanese Film Night
27
9:00 Habitat for Humanity Project 9:30am UCLA Dance Group 11:00 Café Aloha Senior Luncheon 4:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal
28 Guest Speakers
9:30am English Worship 9:45am Sunday School 11:00am Japanese Worship 11:15am Bell Choir Rehearsal 12:00pm Nichigo Potluck Luncheon
29 6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
Ensuring safety for our children and youth at church.
West LA UMC is now officially registered with Safe Gatherings, the Annual Conference's new program that replaces the former Safe Sanctuary application, training, and background check process.
All persons who volunteer with children, youth, and vulnerable adults must complete the online Safe Gatherings process prior to March 31. This includes Sunday School teachers, Youth Leaders, Ohana and VBS volunteers.
Since it may take time for references to submit their form and the background checks to be completed, volunteers will want to begin the process as soon as possible.
We are grateful for the Annual Conference for engaging Safe Gatherings, standardizing the process, and paying all costs for the training and background checks now through March 31.
To learn more about the Safe Gatherings process, go to https://safegatherings.com/.
If you have any questions regarding the process and who is required to participate, please contact the pastors this month. We look forward to assisting you!
Many thanks for your assistance in this process.
West LA United Methodist Church 1913 Purdue Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025
wlaumc.com 310-479-1379
