March 18, 2026
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Dear Beloved Community,
Last week, on Thursday, my heart was heavy as I learned of the attack on Temple Israel in West Bloomfield Township, Michigan, which the FBI called a targeted act of violence against the Jewish community. Let us hold our Jewish sisters and brothers in prayer, grief, and steadfast solidarity. At College Heights Church we condemn antisemitism and every form of hate directed toward any people. I am grateful that at College Heights we will always stand on the side of love and not bigotry in any form or shape. That is part of what makes College Heights a safe place for all people, and we will continue to raise our voices against this kind of hate whenever it appears.
This Sunday, our very own Caje will share with us a message based on Jeremiah 31:27–34 and Mary Oliver’s poem “Mindful.” It has been such a gift to journey with Mary Oliver this Lenten season. I know for me her poetry, alongside Jeremiah’s vision of a faith written on the heart, is always a reminder to slow down, pay attention, and trust that God is still forming something new in us, something gentler, truer, and more alive.
See you Sunday!
Peace and blessings!
-Jorge
P. S. March's Giving Sunday collection is for "Our Turn", CHC's pastor-discretionary fund. We used to just pass the basket when someone needed help, but these days the need sometimes can't wait until the next Sunday. So the Council decided to pre-fund "Our Turn" so that Jorge has immediate funds available.
On the first Sunday of the month (the "Giving Sunday"), the whole plate goes to the designated nonprofit. Any other time during the month you can contribute by way of a check with the name of the nonprofit in the memo line.
Recent sermons
Check out our YouTube page to see recent sermons. Go to our archive of slides to see bulletins and slides used during recent services.
Recordings of our Taize services are also on the YouTube page.
Upcoming services and events
Instant Choir: Sunday, Mar 22, 9am. Rehearse at 9, sing for the service.
Book Group: Sunday, March 22, 7pm on Zoom. Al's "AI Salon". We'll use different AI tools on the same question and compare the results. A good chance to learn to use at least one AI app, or find one you like better than your current favorite! All are welcome to join in the fun.
Thursday Discussion Group: Thursday, March 26, 7pm on Zoom. Dream exploration. Read chapters 7 and 8 of "The Wisdom of Your Dreams" by Jeremy Taylor.
Church Pot Luck: Sunday, March 29, after worship. Our monthly meal together.
Worship & Arts: Sunday, April 12, after worship. All are welcome to come help us plan worship.
Church Council: Sunday, April 19, after worship.\
Church Work Day: Saturday, April 25, 9-3. Mark your calendars and come help as you can. Indoor and outdoor cleanup and repair tasks. Always more fun together!
Links and resources
Masterworks Chorale Concerts, Sat Mar 21 and Sun Mar 22. Mozart's Great Mass in C minor and "Dixit Dominus" by Marianna Martines. Info and tickets here.
Quote of the week
“Instructions for living a life:
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.”
--Mary Oliver
Weekly events
• Meditation group: Wednesdays at 7:30 am.
In person at the church building
• Sunday worship: 10 am
In person at the church building
• Church Office Hours: Thursdays 2:30pm-5:30pm, in person at the church building.
To schedule an appointment please call or text 510-754-6796 or email xicanominister@gmail.com.
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