PSWR Disciples,
May the peace of God be with you.
It was a very Spirit filled and joyous day. Joy to the World danced in song! On Sunday, December 14, 2025, First Christian Church, Las Vegas was jam packed with wonderful worship, music, and a good Word! We were happy to welcome, Rev. John Powell, Interim President, Disciples Church Extension Fund, as guest keynote speaker. This followed with a late afternoon Christmas Concert unifying the Church Choir, a Bell Choir, and several solo performances. Singing “Joy to the World,” together, returns our celebration and continued call to the work of Christmas.
Just months ago, I sat with members of a church committee and subsequently its’ board to discuss concern/s for our sibling, neighbor, undocumented, and migrant who are being targeted by authorities. They’re threatened, even, the welcome in our sanctuaries and peoples’ hearts is being coldly calloused. I could not be prouder for their / our concerns, prayers, steps and dedication to the work of Christmas. When we say all, we mean all are welcome to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us. Our doors are open, in our sanctuaries and hearts! The following sung verse has more meaning and purpose for us today: “let ev’ry heart prepare him room, And heav’n and nature sing.” As we sing beyond the mountains, valleys, and byways to prepare room in our hearts for the Savior of the World. Let us not forget Jesus was a refugee. Refugees and migrants deserve room in our hearts, sanctuaries, neighborhoods, cities, and country. I am grateful for every congregation and clergyperson in the PSWR that dedicates themselves to the work of Christmas. Thank you for your support, gifts, works and efforts to radical welcome.
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 November 16, 2025, First Christian Church, Las Vegas, NV had an opportunity to welcome and visit with the interim pastor, Rev. Rex Kibler and his wife Marcia (below).
On November 23, 2025, Oceanside Sanctuary, Oceanside, CA was invited to help celebrate the 150th church anniversary with invited keynote speaker Rev. Yvonne Gilmore, Chief of Staff and Vice – President from the CC DOC Office of General Minister and President, guest clergy, and the congregation. Pictured below are Oceanside Sanctuary’s Co-Lead Pastors, Revs. Jason and Jenell Coker. Also, specially recognized were clergy who served the congregation in the past, Rev. Charles Elswick, Rev. Dale Suggs, and more. Beloved Way (DOC), Co-Founder and Pastor Rev. Dale Suggs presented the Co-Lead Pastors with a hand painted image of the church building to celebrate the occasion.
On November 27, 2025, Thanksgiving Day, CC DOC Clergy joined a morning prayer vigil to remember those who are being detained and separated from their families and friends because of a broken immigration system. We continue in the work of advocacy, providing support and care for our siblings throughout our communities. Pictured below is a screenshot of our very own, Rev. Tanya Lopez, Senior Pastor of Downey Memorial Christian Church leading in prayers.
On November 29, 2025, Joined with other Project Impact, Lynnwood, CA Board Members to celebrate the life of longtime Chairperson, Mr. Hal McNaughton. Hal was a friend to everyone and had a passion for kids in the community to enjoy an annual camp experience at our Loch Leven Camp and Retreat Center, Mentone, CA. Pictured below is Rev. Dr. Mary Harris who sung and Rev. Matt Harris preached. Both, provided sacred, spirited, lifting, and comforting experiences for the family.
On December 1 – 4, 2025, College of Regional Ministers Meeting, Charleston, South Carolina, we had an opportunity to visit Mother Emanuel AME Church (Opened in 1816) to reflect on the ten-year anniversary of its’ pastor and eight worshippers lives which were taken by a gunman. The church historian helped us learn of the congregation’s similar pain, suffering, and grief from the loss of lives in another senseless action more than a century before. Advocacy, a bedrock faith, discovery, and power of prayer was and still is the way forward. Pictured below is the inside of the sanctuary and Rev. Jean-Daniel O'Donncada, National Pastor, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada is leading communion.
On December 7, 2025, PSWR NAPAD Korean Convocation Christmas Event, Sallims Christian Church, Newport Beach, CA. Pictured are several activities that were designed to bring about light, fellowship, and fun (communal games). It was a very special night experienced by everyone.
More to come. Pray Always. Speak Out on behalf of the Voiceless. Do the difficult work of common good.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!
Blessings,
Richie
