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.

PostedJune 5, 2026

AuthorAlisa Mittelstaedt

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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

PostedApril 16, 2026

AuthorAlisa Mittelstaedt

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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.”

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

PostedMarch 4, 2026

AuthorAlisa Mittelstaedt

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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!

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

PostedJanuary 30, 2026

AuthorAlisa Mittelstaedt

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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.

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.