Breaking Bread, June 2026

PSWR Disciples,

May the peace of God be with you.

8 By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was going to receive as an inheritance. He went out without knowing where he was going. – Hebrews 11:8 CEB

Recently, we have experienced the retirements of some of our beloved, gifted, and talented PSWR Disciples Clergy (Rev. Nancy Brink, Rev. Dr. Julie Roberts-Fronk, and Rev. Michael Fronk). In each of their celebrations, I heard stories from those who witnessed the impacts they have had on the lives of so many. Also, there were moments that recounted how the church, camp programs, and those saints (family, friends, or mentors) were vital to helping them hear/deepen their sense of call to ministry.  

One of the favorite parts of my current ministry is meeting with PSWR Disciples who are sent by their pastors, congregations, and/or their saints to discuss their sense of call to ministry. These times can serve as their initial interview before they are recommended for undergraduate or graduate education and before they meet our Committee on Ministry. When someone arrives, our Regional Staff is amazing at extending care by offering snacks and a cold or hot beverage. I don’t know if you might remember your own initial interview experiences. Were these moments of great anxiety, clarity, triumph, and/or disappointment? 

In the gospels, we find several accounts of a rich man’s encounter with Jesus, who asked what he must do to inherit eternal life, and these accounts ended in disappointment when the rich man counted the cost. To set you at ease, as a matter of practice/conviction, I understand that the last word on someone’s sense of calling is with them, the author/pioneer of that faith (Heb 12:2), and, most times, with their church or surrounding community. I/we work hard so that few leave our office disappointed. I/we receive each person with grace and will make them aware that the breadth of ministry is not always as it seems; it requires times of great commitment, study, and praxis (experience). Too, it can come with seasons of great changes, many blessings, and times of challenge or troubles. 

I wonder how you would have interviewed Abraham? We are grateful for the obedience of his willingness to follow a call “to go out to a place that he was going to receive as an inheritance. (Even)…without knowing where he was going.” (Heb 11:8 CEB). Everyone who is called will not become recognized as the father of the faith (Rom. 4:16 CEB). Too, they will not immediately know where their sense of call might lead. I hope you will join me on this road, helping others to see themselves as the next beloved, gifted, and talented ministers to lead our churches. Let us help them to listen to their sense of call to serve, lead, and help foster the common good. It is Jesus who reminds the Disciples, you, and I, that “the harvest is bigger than you (we) can imagine, but there are few workers. Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out workers for his harvest.” (Luke 10:2 CEB) It starts with our invitation and the support of others in their own call. I pray that we might look more intently around, finding and helping to commission our next era of faithful Disciples, leaders, and Clergy. 

As I travel the region, I often wish you could journey with me and see what I see across our regional territory. Here are some photos highlighting a place or two where I have been and can witness the amazing ministry happening.

On April 12 - 15, 2026, I traveled to attend the General Board meeting of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ in the United States and Canada), held at Geist Christian Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. Pictured below is its opening (our very own Bill Bailey – member of FCC, Fullerton serves as Parliamentarian). Rev. Brandon Johnson, Senior Pastor, FCC – Burbank (with vote – not pictured), and I serve (ex officio with other Regional Ministers) on the General Board.  The State of the Church (General Board) with our General Minister and President, Rev. Terri Hord-Owens, can be found here.

Also, glad for the opportunity to connect at meetings with a few colleagues (2nd photo: Rev. Lori Tapia, Rev. Andy Mangum, and Rev. Jay Hartley). 

On April 21, 2026, a team representing our faithful from Disciples Seminary Foundation and PSWR Disciples supports a prayer vigil for those facing injustice. This has remained a weekly action on behalf of the “Godmothers of the Disappeared” in Los Angeles, CA.

On April 23 – 25, 2026, I traveled to attend the Christian Church in Georgia Regional Assembly and Regional Minister installation held at Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur, GA. Enjoyed attending a Pre-Assembly Clergy Workshop on Self-Care led by one of our PSWR Disciples Clergy, Rev. Kinsie M. Tate, LPCC (3rd picture below). Follow this link for more information about her ministry. 

On May 17, members of the PSWR Staff and I attended the final worship service of Rev. Dr. Julie Roberts-Frank and Rev. Michael Fronk as Pastors of First Christian Church, Pomona. It was followed by a beautiful retirement celebration, which included their closest family and friends. Pictured below is their presiding at the table and a quilt with memories of their ministry leading the congregation. 

On May 18, 2026, I had joined Chapman University Faculty, Students and Staff at Fish Interfaith Center to celebrate the retirement of our beloved Rev. Nancy Brink, among so much to recount and honor, the University lifted up her service, joining Chapman in January 2009 as Director of Church Relations — a role she held for nearly 15 years before becoming Executive Director of the Fish Interfaith Center in late 2023. (A gifted and talented Christian Church – Disciples of Christ) ordained minister with a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University, Nancy brought to Chapman a depth of pastoral care and spiritual wisdom shaped by 30 years of parish ministry.

Also, she was recently recognized as a Dedicated Disciple by the Office of General Minister and President.

On May 22, I attended the Chapman University Commencement ceremonies (pictured below with the Christian Church Disciples of Christ Regional Minister, Rev. Dr. Lataunya Bynum). 

On May 28, 2026, I was glad to attend the Southern California Nevada Conference of the United Church of Christ Clergy Retreat at the Lines Hotel in Los Angeles, CA. The celebration of their Annual Gathering was held at First Congregational Church in Los Angeles, CA.

Pray Continually. Speak Out on behalf of the Voiceless. Do the difficult work of the common good. Be gentle to yourself and to all people. 

Blessings,
Richie

FORT WORTH MEETS SOUTH LA: A DAY OF SERVICE AND CONNECTION AT ALL PEOPLES COMMUNITY CENTER

FORT WORTH MEETS SOUTH LA: A DAY OF SERVICE AND CONNECTION

On June 1-4, All Peoples Community Center welcomed 15 high school and college aged youth from University Christian Church in Fort Worth, Texas for a day of service, learning, and connection.

Hosted by Executive Director Brandy Muñiz, the group spent the day helping clear out and organize much-needed storage and program space throughout the center. Their hard work will help All Peoples continue serving the community more effectively while preparing for a busy summer season.

The visit was also an opportunity to connect through a shared history in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ or DOC) tradition. The group learned about the history of All Peoples, its role in South Los Angeles, and the community it serves. In return, they shared stories about life in Texas, their congregation, and their connection to Texas Christian University. Brandy even received a lesson in Horned Frog pride, Go Horned Frogs!

All Peoples is grateful for the energy, service, and fellowship shared throughout the day and looks forward to continuing to build connections across the DOC community.

Breaking Bread, April 2026

PSWR Disciples,

May the peace of God be with you.

“5 Let your gentleness show in your treatment of all people. The Lord is near.” – Philippians 4:5 CEB

In Sunday School, were you ever challenged to learn and recite the Fruit of the Spirit? I can still picture people who would use construction paper, cut out fruit shapes, and write its different names on each of them. They would create a tree of paper or draw on a bulletin board and attach each one to a branch. Some would even create costumes with them, stapling or pinning each to different parts of their body. All these efforts were to show everyone the Fruit of the Spirit.  The fruit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22 – 23 CEB).

Like many believers, I am concerned and prayerful. What seems to be increasingly on display in the world and on our political stage are opposites of the Fruit of the Spirit. We read the exhortations and encouragement of the writer to the church of Phillipi, “let your gentleness show in your treatment of all people.” It is not enough to tape the Fruit of the Spirit on yourself. It must be evident in how your treat everyone. Theologian still work to interpret why the writer follows this exhortation with this declaration: “The Lord is near.”  Maybe, it could remind us to be mindful and bring some consciousness about the importance of our actions as believers. I believe this declaration brings us great comfort, knowing that we are not alone in our effort to let the Fruit of the Spirit manifest itself, even in our most difficult times, extending gentleness or kindness to ourselves and to all people.

Prayer:

“Have mercy on your people, Lord, and give us a breathing space in the midst of so many troubles.”

– Neumark, 2012, pg. 40

As I travel the region, I often wish for you to journey with me and see what I see across our geographical territory. Here are some photos highlighting a place or two of where I have been and can witness the amazing ministry is happening.

On March 3, 2026, Wahiawa Christian Church, HI, I had the privilege to visit with Pastor, Rev. Nan Riddle and the Lokahi Learning Center located on the church property. It was an afternoon filled with fun activities for children learning songs on the ukulele, using their imagination to paint, draw, create and recreate art. For more information: https://lokahilearningcenter.com

On March 4, 2026, Christ Church Uniting in Kailua, HI, Pastor, Rev. Kate Hogue hosted Bishop William J. Barber, II, Rev. Dr. Della Owens – Barber & the Judicatory Leaders of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the Pacific Southwest, Hawai‘i Conference United Church of Christ, and Presbytery of the Pacific to an Interdenominational Clergy Prayer and Dialogue Standing Up for Hawai’i’s immigrant communities. It was a sacred and spirit filled event. More to come.

On March 14, 2026, Chapman University Founders Day, Rev. Terri Hord Owens, General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada was the keynote speaker (photo below). It was a day filled with workshops, StoryHour, great music, fellowship and lots of fun.

On March 15, 2026, East 105th Christian Church, CA, Pastor, Rev. Elton Penn celebrated his 17th pastoral anniversary with the church. It was a spirit-filled day with lots of music, liturgical dance, and expressions of love for his ministry.

On March 28, 2026, Abundant Life Christian Church, CA, Annual Community Prayer Breakfast (Quiet Cannon) and Pastor, Rev. TJ Coon welcomed Dr. Deleslynn Kennebrew, Administrative Secretary of the National Convocation and Associate General Minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada as the Keynote Speaker. The day was filled with wonderful music, prayers, and concluded the celebration with communion led by Pastor Emeritus, Rev. Dr. John Tunstall.

On April 5, 2026, United Christian Church, Los Angeles, CA, Pastor, Rev. Dr. Mildred Butler welcomed Love, Peace, and Fellowship Church, Pastor, Crystal Nix to the pulpit for a joint worship service on Resurrection Sunday. It was a sacred and spirit-filled time. (photos below)

Pray Continually. Speak Out on behalf of the Voiceless. Do the difficult work of common good. Be gentle to yourself and to all people.

Blessings,
Richie 

Breaking Bread, March 2026

PSWR Disciples,

May the peace of God be with you.

“Pray continually.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17 CEB

As we witness, again, our nation’s leaders use and exercise of military force versus ways of peace.  These actions whether globally or nationally are insurmountable in repercussions, as we feel and experience its dread at our very doorsteps. We our being inundated with news of injustices perpetrated by those who are given charge and authority in the public square. Those officials are using behaviors incongruent with our faith, and it all seems so surreal.  I wonder if settling in by now is a heaviness, weariness, and / or a sense of powerlessness. Abraham Joshua Heschel writes that “prayer begins where our power ends.”  

While we are not power-less, we can agree during these trying times, it has never been more important to find a source and deeper connection with the Divine. As our very being and spirit can find sustenance in the power of prayer. Prayer is a conduit that opens us up passed our limitations to encounter this boundless possibility, potential, and power that reaches beyond ourselves. Too, it helps us return to the realities and responsibilities we all have as children and people of God. We are earthen and clay vessels carrying within and to the world, this treasure of hope, one that defies and resists injustices.

We find in Thessalonians chapter 5, instructions and blessing to “live in peace …and to pray continually.” These two instructions lead us and our world into blessed lives. It’s no secret, choosing peace saves lives, and living continuously a life of prayer keeps us centered, focused, and empowered.

Here is a Joint Statement on the US – Israel attacks against Iran concerning from our General Minister and President, Rev. Terri Hord – Owens, President and CEO, Disciples Overseas Ministries, Co-Executive, Global Ministries, Rev. Dr. LaMarco Cable, and our siblings, United Church of Christ General Minister and President / CEO Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia A. Thompson, and UCC Associate General Minster, Co-Executive Global Ministries, Rev. Shari Prestemon.

Also, this statement encourages our congregations, and members to “let your prayers be joined with courageous and concrete action. Stand publicly with those who are afflicted.”

As I travel the region, I often wish for you to journey with me and see what I see across our geographical territory. Here are some photos highlighting a place or two of where I have been and can witness the amazing ministry is happening.

On February 1, 2026, First Christian Church, El Monte, called and celebrated the installation of its Pastor Steven Han and a new executive board. Pictured below is a worshipful moment with Pastor Han and members of the board. It was a Spirit filled, happy, and joyous occasion.

On February 4, 2026, I was glad for an opportunity to visit Loch Leven Camp and Retreat Center, Mentone and tested the improvements on the Swinging Bridge. I was happy for then, an upcoming Chi Rho & CYF Winter Camp February 13 – 16, 2026 in the serene, and beloved place. When was your last visit?

On February 8, 2026, United Church of Christ, Southern California Nevada Conference, Conference Minister Rev. Rachel Pryor and I were able to enjoy some time for visioning over a cup of coffee at Tierra Mia Coffee (below). We’re looking forward to more collaboration and partnerships in the future.  

February 11 – 13, 2026, Participated in the Bi-lateral Dialogue with the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America), Carefree, Arizona. More pictures and more information about this work can be found here.

On March 1, 2026, Hosana Iglesia Cristiana, San Marcos, I was glad to preach and help celebrate the church’s first year anniversary as a congregation under-care of the PSWR. Pictured below is a worshipful moment with Pastor Marco Santiago and his wife Norma Olvera and members of their worship team. It was a Spirit filled, happy, and joyous occasion.

Pray Continually. Speak Out on behalf of the Voiceless. Do the difficult work of common good.

Blessings,
Richie

Breaking Bread, January 2026

PSWR Disciples,

May the peace of God be with you.

“After John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee announcing God’s good news, saying, “Now is the time! Here comes God’s kingdom! Change your hearts and lives, and trust this good news!” – Mark 1: 14 – 15 CEB

Our current times, whether locally, across the cities in our region, states, and nation have been heartbreaking – to put it mildly. Increased actions by immigration enforcement authorities have become more unsafe, increasing fear, and breeding violence. Last year (and still), our congregants, clergy, congregations, and communities in Los Angeles, its surrounding areas, and further have been stunned by militarized styled efforts, detainments, and unjust actions or treatment from their presence. We give thanks for our clergy, faith leaders, communities, and advocates from everywhere who have offered solidarity, support and their voices to call out for human dignity. Sadly, these enforcement actions by immigration authorities are growing and moving across the nation. Here is a Pastoral Letter concerning Minneapolis from our General Minister and President, Rev. Terri Hord – Owens and the Upper Midwest Sabbatical Regional Minister, Rev. Liz Woodward: https://disciples.org/uncategorized/a-pastoral-letter-concerning-minneapolis/

The Bible is not without these kinds of trying times, struggles, uncertainties, and woeful experiences. As we read in these few verses: “John was arrested.”  We could imagine this was not an easy time for John, and the community.  But Mark joins it with news about Jesus and his message. Later, John from prison asks about Jesus and his works. “Jesus responded, “Go, report to John what you hear and see. Those who were blind are able to see. Those who were crippled are walking. People with skin diseases are cleansed. Those who were deaf now hear. Those who were dead are raised up. The poor have good news proclaimed to them.” (Matthew 11: 4-6 CEB). In his book God of the Oppressed, James Cone writes, “when connected with the person of Jesus, hope is not an intellectual idea; rather, it is the praxis of freedom in the oppressed community. In Jesus, believers find hope and are mobilized (sent) to continue in his freedom work, ministry, and message. We should grieve these times. Too, we can press forward in our contexts in small and new ways, offering solidarity where / when we can. Speak out against injustice, practice resistance, and offer courageous prayers in the face of these trying times. Jesus calls you and I, the world, to change (our) hearts and lives and trust this Good News!  

As I travel the region, I often wish for you to journey with me and see what I see across our geographical territory. Here are some photos highlighting a place or two of where I have been and can witness the amazing ministry is happening.

On December 15, 2025, Our Region treated its staff for a Christmas luncheon at a restaurant in the Downtown Disney District, Anaheim, CA. Too, it suspended operations of the office for its ministry team and staff to enjoy Christmas with their families, friends, and more. Pictured is a joyous encounter with Mrs. Linda Gardner, Co-Chair of the PSWR Committee on Ministry as some of our staff and their families were enjoying the District’s sights. 

On January 10, 2026, Love and Peace Fellowship Church, called and celebrated the installation of its Pastor Crystal Nix. This spirited filled event was held at her longtime home congregation Abundant Life Christian Church, Los Angeles, CA. Pictured is a worshipful moment of Pastor Crystal Nix and representatives from across the region.

On January 13 – 15, 2026, Christian Church Foundation Disciples Development Conference, Savannah, GA, Inside Out: Transforming Your Fundraising Ministry through AI, Keynote Speaker: Nathan Chappell, Chief AI Officer at Virtuous Software and Author. Pastor Diego Salazar – Galvis, Latinx Community Minister, University Christian Church, San Diego was a panelist on how Disciples Ministries have already integrated AI into its work. Pictured is the panelists’ presentation cover.

On January 21, 2026, Ecumenical Worship service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Poway, Rev. Cheri Metier, Chairperson, PSWR Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations, organized clergy from throughout the San Diego area for a prayer service celebrating Christian Unity. It was a sacred, unifying, and spirit filled event. Pictured are the Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, Rev. Cheri Metier, and participating clergy.

On January 25, 2026, Iglesia Nueva Vida, Riverside, called and celebrated the installation of their new Associate Pastors, Luis and Alicia Orozco. It was a worshipful experience. They were surrounded by a large gathering of family, friends, and the congregation. 

On January 25, 2026, PSWR Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, It was filled with amazing worship experiences and a stirring prophetic sermon delivered by Rev. Terry “TJ” Coon, Jr., Senior Pastor, Abundant Life Christian Church. He encouraged our congregations by saying (paraphrased), in the face of our society’s current moral crisis we (congregations) have greater power to respond. Our response is spiritual before political. While our response will look differently according to each context – we must prepare to do something not done before. Amen. Pictured is Rev. Tanya Lopez receiving her Disciple of the Year Award and Regional Board members of our Executive Committee leading communion. More information, pictures, and a link to the service on YouTube can be found on our website.

Pray Always. Speak Out on behalf of the Voiceless. Do the difficult work of common good.

Blessings,
Richie