In keeping with a long-standing Pacific Palisades tradition, clergy from seven religious’ institutions in the Palisades will participate in a Thanksgiving service, at 7 p.m. Monday, November 25, at Corpus Christi Church, 880 Toyopa Drive.
Presented by the Pacific Palisades Interfaith Council, this year the focus will be on giving thanks for unity, according to Jane Richardson, who has coordinated this service for the last 20 years and is retiring after 30 years as Director of liturgy at Corpus Christi Parish.
During the service, each clergy member contributes a scripture reading, a blessing or a song that transcends denominational differences to reflect the overarching theme. Afterwards attendees and clergy gather for fellowship and refreshments.
The hour-long service is inspirational and offers hope, unity and love.
Participating clergy this year will include Corpus Christi Parish, The Parish of St. Matthew’s, Palisades Lutheran Church, Community United Methodist Church, Pacific Palisades Presbyterian Church, the Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine and Kehillat Israel Reconstructionist Congregation.
For years, this Circling the News editor had heard positive feedback about the service but had never attended until 2014 while editor of the “original” Palisades News.
The service proved to be an absolutely wonderful and uplifting experience and now I always make a point to attend. The service rotates between the different religious institutions.
My one regret was that I waited so long before I joined this remarkable celebration. Regardless of one’s faith or beliefs, this service brings the community together in giving thanks and contemplation.
It is always interesting watching the heads of the religious groups—they seem to be close-knit; they tease each other and genuinely seem to enjoy each other’s company. I’ve been told they routinely meet to discuss the spiritual issues facing this community.
A donation is taken during the service and given to a specified charity. This year the money will be given to the Westside Food Bank.
All are welcome.