The Pathfinder: October 30th, 2025
Ingathering Sunday
Last Sunday at All Souls was a milestone day, as we prepared for 2026 and celebrated the strength and vibrancy of our community. At both the 8 am and 10:30 am services, Senior Warden Michael Lewis offered a moving sermon about how All Souls has been an oasis for him and his family – and his desire to help create that same sense of belonging and refuge for others. Watch or listen to Michael’s sermon.
Afterward, people completed pledge cards and came forward as a community to offer their financial pledge to the community. By the end of the day, we had 111 pledges totaling $600,897, toward our 2026 pledge goal of $820,000. This is a good start to the Annual Operating Campaign. You can join the community of pledgers by using our 2026 Pledge Form.
Later that evening, we gathered for the annual Ingathering Potluck. Late afternoon rain had moved the entire event indoors, and the feeling of an oasis was palpable. More than 120 adults gathered around tables in the Parish Hall and the Nave to share a meal and time with each other.
Meanwhile, 20 children and youth spent the evening together in the Nave and Narthex, eating, creating art and talking.
After dinner, the One Minute Silent Movie Bible Story (OMSBS) was again must-see entertainment. Hosted by Tim Ereneta, four bible stories came to life as All Soulsians traded away a resented brother, flapped their wings down the aisle to find land, personified fire in a fiery furnace, and celebrated (or not) the return of a wayward child.
This dinner has become one of my favorite social events of the year. It brings together so many people who have not yet spent time together. New All Soulsians were welcomed into the community, and old friendships were renewed. The breadth, kindness, and willingness of so many people to do so much makes All Souls a special place. I am grateful and am not alone in that feeling.
A very special note of thanks to Deirdre Nurre for shepherding the potluck and the OMSBS. Deirdre (and her kin) washed a lot of silver, set a lot of places, decorated a lot of space, and welcomed a lot of All Soulsians to a great evening. Thank you, Deirdre!
More news to come as we prepare for this next year together!
-Richard Lynch for the Annual Operating Campaign team
Newcomer Classes
Looking for ways to learn more about All Souls and connect with community? The newcomers' class is an excellent opportunity for those new to All Souls to become acquainted with the life of the parish and the many ministries that take place here.
This class serves as a space for introductions, orientation, and fellowship. We will cover topics such as our mission and values, baptism and confirmation, membership, liturgy and prayer, and how to find your place and get involved. We will also provide a tour of the church and answer any questions you may have. Join us to connect with other members and to learn more about what All Souls has to offer.
The classes will be held in the Common Room at 9:15 AM on the following Sundays: Nov 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th.
– Mother Rachel
October Vestry Meeting
The Vestry gathered on October 15th for its monthly meeting, beginning with a reflection on how to strengthen our individual practices around building prayer and reflection into our lives.
Living Waters Project Progress
Grace Telcs provided an encouraging update on the Living Waters renovation. The elevator installation is just weeks away, with permitting to follow. The new kitchen stove has arrived, and electrical work is complete—we're hopeful the kitchen will be ready for this month's Open Door Dinner! Other improvements include new countertops and fixtures in the sacristy and landscaping work that addresses Berkeley's updated fire code requirements. The Crow's Nest is also getting refreshed with new paint and shelving.
Generous Bequest
The Vestry received wonderful news about Kay Dreher's estate, which will provide approximately $157,000 to the parish. The Vestry voted to place $66,500 into the Living Waters fund to reflect Kay’s pledge to that endeavor, and the remainder into the strategic reserve account. We are deeply grateful for Kay's generosity and faithful stewardship.
Seismic Retrofit Planning
Rev. Phil shared good news that our recent roof repairs held strong through the recent rains. However, the bid for remaining seismic work—shear walling the Parish Hall and reinforcing the nave—came in at $751,000, above our current funding of $645,000 (including $85,000 that could be contributed from Kay Dreher's gift). The Vestry approved forming a small working group to recommend how best to move forward with the project given this funding gap.
Annual Stewardship Campaign
Richard Lynch outlined plans for our annual operating campaign, including a refined approach to invitations based on parishioner engagement and giving history. Watch for details about the upcoming service and ingathering dinner that will kick off this year's campaign.
Diocesan Convention Preview
The upcoming Diocesan Convention will address important topics including the strategic vision plan, parish assessments, benefits for non-stipendiary clergy, and housing initiatives. The Vestry engaged in discussion about the Diocese's strategic vision, appreciating plans for inter-parish collaboration on social justice while hoping for more specific action items and greater visibility of diocesan support for parishes.
Celebration of Emily Hansen-Curran
The evening concluded with joyful news: the Vestry unanimously voted to endorse Emily Hansen-Curran for ordination to the transitional diaconate! Emily shared her journey of discernment and her conversations with the Commission on Ministry. We celebrate with Emily as she continues her path toward priesthood.
Upcoming Celebrations
Mark your calendars for All Saints and All Souls Day celebrations, which will include five baptisms, a collective ofrenda prepared by Humberto Carillo, preaching by the Rev. Canon Sierra Reyes, and a potluck following the 10:30 am service.
The meeting adjourned at 9:05 pm with closing prayers.
– Ryan Greene-Roesel
Beyond the Pews
One of the most touching moments during the Eucharist service on Sunday morning is when a priest walks briskly into the congregation, one or two chalice bearers following behind. On any given Sunday, three or more congregants need communion to be brought to them because they are unable to go to the railing.
Partaking of the Eucharist is one of the most meaningful parts of the lives of Christians in the Church. Receiving communion goes beyond the railing, beyond the aisle, even beyond the pews, right into the homes of people who cannot come to church due to issues of health or age.
Each Sunday, different church members–Julie, Vimala, Lenore, Bonnie, Marilyn–approach the altar to be handed a small box containing bread and wine, which has been consecrated simultaneously with the bread and wine used during the church service. The term Lay Eucharistic Visitor, LEV for short, refers to the individuals who take the bread and wine to members in their homes. These visits can happen on Sunday afternoons or on another day during the week, based on mutual convenience.
The ministry has been growing, which means that we need more LEV visitors. We are seeking caring, compassionate people who feel called to explore this role and discern whether this is a way you’d like to serve the parish. The first step is to attend an upcoming information session and training taught by the Reverend Emily Boring on November 9, 2025, after the 10:30 service in the sanctuary (around noon to 1 pm). To sign up, you may email emilyb@allsoulsparish.org, or just come to the training. If you are curious but cannot attend the training that day, please reach out to Emily+ to find another time to meet.
Thank you,
– Bonnie Bishop
Announcements & Events
Happening This Week
SUNDAY
7 AM, Reading Between the Lines Bible Study, either in person in the Common Room or click here to join by Zoom.
8 AM, Holy Eucharist in the Chapel. Please access the Chapel through the copper doors on Cedar St.
9:15 AM, Adult Formation in the Common Room.
10:30 AM, Sung Eucharist in the Nave. Join us via livestream here. Sunday School in the Godly Play room.
12 N, All Souls’ and All Saints’ Potluck in the Parish Hall.
7 PM, Youth Group - High School Small Group.
MONDAY
7 PM, Reading Between the Lines Bible Study, either in person in the Common Room or click here to join by Zoom.
TUESDAY
8 PM, Taize Service in the Chapel.
WEDNESDAY
9 AM, Eucharist in the Chapel.
Learn with Us
COMING UP IN ADULT FORMATION
November 2nd - Kaki Logan: “Immigration with Dignity”
Join Kaki Logan for the second of her two-part series on Immigration. This session discusses the Episcopal Pilgrimage to 5 detention centers in New Mexico and Texas in early June as well as more recent experiences. It will offer ideas about why immigration has increased and changed in recent years, and suggest how we might support immigrants in this present and rapidly changing environment. Class meets at 9:15 am in the Common Room.
November 9th - “The End: Body, Mind, and Soul”
Death is one of life's few certainties, yet it's a topic many of us avoid discussing until crisis forces our hand. We will tackle these important conversations head-on with a three-part series titled "The End: Mind, Body, Soul" taking place in November.
Whether you're 30 or 80, planning for end-of-life is one of the most loving gifts you can give yourself and your family. Too often, families find themselves making difficult decisions without knowing their loved one's wishes or discover that the absence of proper legal documents creates unnecessary stress, expense, and conflict during an already difficult time.
Each Sunday will focus on a different dimension of end-of-life planning, with Richard Lynch facilitating conversations centered on preparing for life's final chapter.
Week 1 - 11/9 "Mind": Legal and Financial Planning
Week 2 - 11/16 "Body": Physical Care and Final Arrangements
Week 3 - 11/23 "Soul": Spiritual Preparation
Classes meet in the Parish Hall at 9:15 am on the following Sundays: November 9th, 16th, and 23rd.
2025-26 Adult Formation Calendar
Click here to see the calendar for the entire year.
NEWCOMER CLASSES
Wondering how to learn more about All Souls and connect with our community? Join the clergy for a newcomer class held in the Common Room (downstairs at the church) at 9:15 am on the following Sundays in November: 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th.
Gather with Us
ALL SOULS/ALL SAINTS DAY POTLUCK - NOVEMBER 2nd
Join us on 11/2 as we celebrate our Feast of Title! Just after the 10:30 am service, in the Parish Hall, we’ll gather for a potluck meal together. Please bring a dish that reminds you of someone you have loved but no longer see. Feel free to include a story of the dish, the recipe, and/or a fond memory of the person alongside. We hope you will gather with us as we celebrate the saints and souls of All Souls Parish. No sign up needed.
The Arts at All Souls Committee invites people to bring pictures, momentos, and flowers for the beautiful ofrenda we are building in honor of our loved ones.
"LOVE OVER FEAR" BENEFIT CONCERT - NOVEMBER 13th
The Justice and Peace Committee invites you to attend the 2025 "Love Over Fear" Benefit Concert at the Freight & Salvage on November 13. This terrific, family friendly evening of multicultural song and storytelling supports the work of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity, which has been leading the faith-filled witness to our unjust immigration and incarceration systems.
Date: Thursday, November 13th
Time: Doors at 6 pm, Show at 6:30 pm
Location: Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St, Berkeley
Purchase tickets here (sliding scale): bit.ly/2025LoveOverFear
A group of All Soulsians is attending. Please email Gretchen Donart (gbdonart@gmail.com) if you plan to come and want to connect.
BEER GARDEN MEETUP - NOVEMBER 13th
One Thursday a month, from 6 pm-8 pm, All Soulsians will meet up at a different beer garden in Berkeley. All are welcome to come for a drink, a bite, a chat, or to play a game. Beer gardens are ideal because they have plenty of family-friendly, outdoor space and are casual enough that anyone can drop by for a spell as they are able. But this is an all-ages, intergenerational event—we would love to see everyone there.
November location: Headlands Brewery, 1280 Gilman St, Berkeley
Worship with Us
TAIZE TUESDAY
Join us on Tuesday evenings this Fall for a community-led Taize service. These weekly services will be held from 8 pm-8:30 pm until November 18th. All are welcome to join us in the Chapel for a simple program of silent meditation and Taize chants.
WEDNESDAY EUCHARIST
The 9 am Eucharist will remain in the Chapel of the Nativity. Come join us for a reflection on the Saint of the day and sustenance for the rest of the week.
CHILDREN & FAMILY
Sunday School
Sunday School happens every week during the 10:30 am service. Kids pre-K through 5th grade are welcome. Children begin the service in the nave with their families. About five minutes into the service, they process down to the classroom together - look for the leader with a wooden cross! We follow the Godly Play curriculum: a mixture of storytelling, wondering, and creative work time. Children return to church at the “Peace.”
A BIG “thank you” to all of the kids and teens of All Souls for helping guide our thoughts toward how we experience God’s presence by creating icons that beautifully decorated our church. Please come by the Sunday School room to pick yours up to take home as a way to feel connected to God at all times. Contact Emily B. or Brenna Hall if you have trouble locating your icon.
To sign up for our Children and Family e-newsletter, please email Emily+.
YOUTH PROGRAM
Youth Group
Youth Group happens on Sundays from 7 pm-8:30 pm during the school year. We alternate between a high school small group and an all-grades (6-12th) youth group.
Coming Up:
Nov. 2nd - High School Small Group, 7-8:30 pm in the Youth Room
Nov. 9th - All Grades Youth Group, 7-8:30 pm in the Youth Room
Download our full Fall Youth Program 2025 calendar here.
To sign up for our Youth e-newsletter, please email Emily+.
Serve with Us
Coffee hour isn’t just about coffee and cookies—it’s about community. After worship, we gather not only to enjoy a bite to eat but also to welcome newcomers, catch up with friends, and strengthen the bonds that make our parish family so special. To keep this ministry thriving, we invite everyone to take part, as they are able.
Each week, we ask a few parishioners to bring refreshments—homemade treats, fruit, or simple snacks—to share. Your contributions help make our hospitality warm and abundant. Please click the Coffee Hour Sign-Up link to support this ministry. We ask for someone to lend a hand (literally) as “host” in support of Scott, and folks to provide some treats (enough to feed 10-15).
Your help will make coffee hour a joyful expression of Christian community and welcome!
Food Bank collection is active. Please bring non-perishable food on Sundays and use the baskets in the Narthex. We also need drivers to deliver food. If you want to help, click here to e-mail Cathy G.
Meal Train delivers food to others. If you are in need of meals, or if you’d like to join this team to deliver to others, click here to email Sarah O.
Open Door Dinner (ODD) will be making a warm jambalaya meal TODAY for anyone who is hungry. If you are interested in joining the ODD team, click here to email Jennifer A.
Undergraduate Street Medicine Outreach (USMO) is a Cal student group that organizes outreach events every Saturday to bring food and resources to homeless encampments in Berkeley. They are especially seeking donations of the following items:
Bottled water, or water filtration devices
Clothing, particularly large shoes, socks, and jackets/sweaters
Hygiene supplies and toiletries, particularly wet wipes, toothbrushes, soap
Menstrual pads and diapers
Please bring these donations to the red bin in the Narthex. Click here to email Beth Christensen for donation and other direct volunteer opportunities with USMO.
Looking for ways to be politically engaged from a faith perspective?
Learn more on the Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations site. You can find out about timely action alerts, service opportunities, and ways to be involved on local and national levels.
In particular, consider joining their weekly network call via Zoom, which the Rev. Dr. Ruth Meyers mentioned in her recent sermon. Register here.
You can also receive action alerts from the Episcopal Public Policy network here.
PROTECTION AGAINST EMAIL AND TEXT SCAMS
Over the past several years, scammers have gotten increasingly more sophisticated with targeting people in churches. Stopping scammers can be difficult, so it is important to educate yourself on how to spot suspicious messages and avoid falling for scams.
Keep an eye out for:
Money or information requests — Clergy will never ask for money, gift cards, or personal information via email.
Urgent language — Does the email have vague but urgent language? (Ex: “I’m in a meeting right now, but please send me the gift cards as quickly as possible!”)
Fraudulent email addresses — Check the email address against what is listed on the All Souls website.
If you are unsure whether an email or text is legitimate, please contact the church office via phone or e-mail.
Click here to see a helpful flyer created by our Diocese. Click here to learn more about how to file a complaint.
FORWARD DAY BY DAY
We provide Forward Day by Day to parishioners as a simple and effective daily prayer practice. Each day features a Bible verse from the daily readings and a related reflection written by a different author each month, all in less than 200 words. It even includes the daily feast days, as well as prompts to take faithful action in your daily life. The November, December, January issue of Forward Day by Day is about to begin so ask one of the ushers for your copy or pick one up on the counter closest to the glass doors on Cedar Street.
DON’T FORGET TO FALL BACK!
November 2, 2025, at 2 am: Clocks will need to be set back 1 hour (“fall back”). Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier than the day before, with more light in the morning. Since the time changes at 2 am, it’s considered a good practice to change your clocks before going to bed on Saturday night.
