For Saturday November 2, 2024

Pride Triduum Events!

- Join us at the Methodist Church Friday, November 1 at 6:30PM for our annual Interfaith Pride Kabbalat Shabbat service.
- Just a reminder that due to the parade on Sunday, we will have only ONE service this Saturday, November 2 at 4PM (no services on Sunday). Come wear all your PRIDE colors and get ready to celebrate, worship through the eucharist, and witness the sacrament of marriage of Ray Hickman and Phil Pickens. Reception following and a special RAINBOW lighting of the outside of the church.
- March with us on Sunday! Meet in the church Parking lot at 9:30AM to march with the St. Paul contingent or join the parade at our assigned spot: #103. The colorful parade steps off at 10:00AM in the Uptown Design District at Tachevah and Palm Canyon Dr. and travels south through downtown, ending at the entrance to the Pride Festival at Amado. For those who would rather ride than march, limited parade vehicle seating will be available. Wear your St. Paul’s t-shirt and join in proclaiming our core value that we believe in the dignity of EVERY human being.


Mobile Library at St. Paul’s!
Let the library come to you! Each month on the first Sunday (or Saturday, in the case of November), Ben Palmer, our fantastic and faithful librarian, will bring a curated assortment of books on the rolling carts out near the Welcome Table for you to check out. Come and browse (and take a few of the “free books” on the other cart home!). May your love for reading and learning grow and be strengthened here at St. Paul!
All Saints’ Baptisms
Congratulations to Terry Fabian and Billy Stevens on the sacrament of baptism! What a wonderful All Saints’ it was to celebrate with you both! “We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified, proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.”
The Path Ahead: Spirituality & Purpose in Later Life℠ Class
SIGN-UP AS THE FIRST CLASS STARTS THIS WEDNESDAY THE 6TH!
Wednesdays before Eucharist 4-5:30PM Nov 6, Nov. 13, Nov. 20, Dec. 4, Dec 11, Dec 18—led by The Rev. Dale Carr
The Path Ahead: Spirituality & Purpose in Later Life℠ is a curriculum from the Episcopal Diocese of Washington DC, on the spirituality of aging that combines guided discussion with contemplative practices to reframe aging for persons of faith. Over six sessions, participants grapple with ageism, identify changing spiritual needs, equip themselves with new prayer practices, and engage in discernment about God’s continuing call. Rejecting stereotypical views of aging that define it in terms of a singular narrative of decline, The Path Ahead instead reveals this season of life as a time of spiritual growth and pursuit of purpose. Employing video presentations, directed discussion, contemplative practices, and the arts, the course encourages connection, builds community and promotes wellbeing.
Rev. Dan and Rabbi David are back at it again with this dynamic interfaith class.
- Adult Forum – Sunday Mornings – 9:00-10:00 AM (Between Services) – In the Parish Hall
- November 10 – Diocesan Convention Q & A
- November 17 – A Peek Behind the Curtain with the Treasurer
- November 24 – Preparing for Advent
Election Day Prayer Vigil

Livestream, watch parties planned for presiding bishop-elect’s investiture on Nov. 2

Photo: Randall Gornowich
“The Episcopal Church is preparing for a leadership transition that occurs once every nine years: This week, the Rt. Rev. Sean Rowe takes office as the church’s 28th presiding bishop. On Nov. 2, Episcopalians will celebrate the beginning of the new denominational leader’s term with a service of investiture. Livestream watch parties are planned in dioceses across the church. This transition, however, will look a bit different from transitions past. Rowe has arranged for a simpler, scaled-down service at 11 a.m. Eastern Nov. 2 in the Chapel of Christ the Lord at the church’s headquarters in New York. It will be a contrast to the larger, grander presiding bishop installations that typically have been hosted by Washington National Cathedral in the U.S. capital. The cathedral has served as the seat of the presiding bishop since 1941.” To continue reading, click here: https://episcopalnewsservice.org/2024/10/29/livestream-watch-parties-planned-for-presiding-bishop-elects-investiture-on-nov-2/
Patio Parties!
Welcome to the fourth year of St. Paul’s Patio Parties! If you’ve never been, THIS is your year to sign up for one.
What are Patio Parties?
Patio Parties are a one-time two-hour gathering at a parishioner’s house, whereby the Co-Rectors lead an energetic and exciting conversation around matters in the church. This year we will discuss 1) the Future of the Parish Hall; 2) Mission & Ministry (Outreach/Community Advocacy); and 3) A Possible Third Weekend Worship Service.
The host home provides drinks, and you can bring snacks and great ideas to share! Whether you’ve been a member for 55 years or only recently begun to call St. Paul your spiritual home, YOU are invited. In fact, we need your voice and ideas. Patio Parties are a great chance to meet new people, and this year there’s a few new surprises you won’t want to miss!
Our first FOUR Patio Parties were a wonderful time of deep discussion and dreaming! We hope to see you at one of the remaining two. (If you wanted to sign up but the sign-ups are full, please email revjessie@stpaulsps.org and let her know what Patio Party you hoped to be at and she’ll send you the info!)
Mercy Ministries Distribution this Wednesday, Nov. 6

The weather is expected to get colder earlier this year. It is estimated that night temperatures starting this Thursday will be in the low 50’s. Therefore, we will do a “special” distribution of blankets and backpacks and socks to those who will need them. No sundries will be offered on this day. Please let me know if you can be part of the distribution from 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM on Wed. Nov. 6th.
Thanks,
Lena Granet (lorainehome@gmail.com)
Healing Rainbows: A Beacon of Hope for the LGBTQ+ Community
Transgender Health & Wellness Center presents: Healing Rainbows, your new community center dedicated to connecting transgender, gender non-conforming, intersex (TGI), and allied individuals with essential resources. At Healing Rainbows, we provide a safe and inclusive space where you can find housing assistance, and supportive services tailored to your unique needs. Our mission is to empower and uplift the TGI and allied community by fostering connections, promoting well-being, and ensuring everyone has access to the support they deserve. Join us at Healing Rainbows and be part of a vibrant, caring community where you can truly thrive.
Rev. Jessie was invited to attend the Healing Rainbows open house ribbon cutting. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet the team, learn about their mission, tour the facilities, and participate in interactive sessions. Healing Rainbows supports those escaping domestic violence and is a great resource center. In talking with staff, Rev. Jessie learned that Palm Springs is becoming known for being a safe place for transgender folks, and more people are moving here because of that. But transgender neighbors are still not totally safe. May we continue to pray and think about how we can support the dignity of every person.
What wonderful All Saints’, Dia de los Muertos, and All Souls’ services we celebrated together this week!
Many thanks to our altar guild, altar ministers, ushers, lectors, welcome team, Legacy Society Steering Committee, Director of Music, Parish Administrator, Registrar, Office Volunteers, Latino Ministry, Sextons, and Clergy for creating such sacred and holy space.
“O God, the Maker and Redeemer of all believers: grant to the faithful departed the unsearchable benefits of the passion of your Son; that on the day of his appearing they may be manifested as your children; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.”
Want to help at Diocesan Convention?
The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego holds an Annual Diocesan Convention, and this year it is in the desert at St. Margaret’s in Palm Desert on Friday, November 8 and Saturday, November 9.
From all three Desert Churches (St. Paul’s, St. Margaret’s, St. John’s), we are asking if you’d like to volunteer and help for part of this huge event! Set up coffee/snack bars and person-ing them, helping with registration table, set up and take down of dinner on Friday, set up and distribution of lunch boxes on Saturday, and many more opportunities.
To find out more how you can help, please contact Debby Jansma, Parish Administrator/Facilities/Membership at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church at 760-346-2697 x 104 or 760-219-1203 (cell) or debbyj@stmargarets.org.
Our annual Diocesan Convention is just around the corner! Bringing together clergy and lay leaders from across the diocese, Convention is a time of worship, fellowship, and important decision-making. This gathering offers an opportunity to reflect on where we’ve been, where we are, and where we are called to go as a diocese.
Delegates will vote on resolutions, elect new leaders, and participate in discussions that shape our diocese. In addition to business sessions, there will be opportunities for learning, fun, and prayer. To help you get ready, we’ve prepared everything you need to know about the upcoming Convention. Below you can review the schedule, pre-convention hearings, resolutions, nominations, and the 2025 Diocesan Budget–all the important details are available at your fingertips.
Whether you’re attending in person or following along as a visitor online, these resources will keep you up to date on the work of the Diocesan Convention. Your participation is vital as we come together to reflect, discern, and plan how we can share Christ’s love courageously throughout our diocese and beyond.” Click here for more info: https://edsd.org/news/diocesan-convention-2024-all-you-need-to-know/
Parish Life Event: St. Paul’s Does Disneyland!
Parishioners, family & friends, you are invited to a fun day at the “Happiest Place on Earth” on Monday, November 18th (Minnie Mouse’s Birthday)! The park opens at 8 a.m. but you can arrive whenever you want, either with St. Paul’s carpooling group, or on your own. However you get there, we will ALL meet at 11:30AM for a group picture (Location: At the end of Main Street and before the Castle there is a circular garden area with a statue of Walt & Mickey in the middle—we’ll meet in front of the statue). Have fun and get to know your fellow parishioners in a totally informal, fun environment.
You are responsible to purchase your own ticket (and can do so on https://disneyland.disney.go.com/destinations/disneyland/?CMP=OKC-330339_GM_DLR_destination_disneylandpark_NA). Disney raised the prices so the “Park Hopper” for that date is now $207 & the single park pass is $142. Anyone who decides to come, who has an annual pass and hasn’t made their reservation yet, can no longer book Disneyland, for that day, they can only book California Adventure BUT after 11, they can switch parks. This means we’ll make sure everyone is in and take our group photo at 11:30AM. If you wish to add Lightning Lane, that will be an additional cost depending on which you choose and there is a fee for parking.
Wear your St Paul’s shirt. Carpooling is encouraged. Cars can be left in the church parking lot. (According to Waze, the group should leave at 5:30AM to arrive by the 8AM opening.) You can buy your admission ticket on-line. Please make sure to make a reservation for Nov 18. Everyone, whether you have a pass or are using a ticket, please reserve Disneyland Park.
Email Nancy Antonius to let her know you’re coming (and let her know if you’d like to carpool): nancyjantonius@gmail.com
St. Paul’s Book Club
Are you someone who enjoys reading, discussing, and talking about books? Book Club started in 2017. On the first Tuesday of each month at 2PM, folks gather in the Parish Hall Conference Room to discuss a book they have all read. Talking together is a way to build community at St. Paul’s. Meet people in a friendly, social and non-judgmental way and talk about something everyone has in common: reading the same book. The book selections are eclectic. Classics to contemporary best sellers. Most titles are secular. Book Club participants make suggestions on the selection on books to read. Each member provides their own book. Members read via paper, electronic and audio books We are mindful to make selections that are available in local libraries.
The meeting is held on the First Tuesday of each month at 2PM: Nov 12 (moved to accommodate Election Day), Dec 3, 2024. Jan 7, Feb 4, Mar 4, Apr 1, May, 6 Jun 3, 2025.
Alan Zimmerman
alanzimmerman@icloud.com
November Book Club
The next Book Club meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM in St. Paul’s Parish Hall conference room. (Note: The regular meeting date has been changed to accommodate Election Day.) For November, Book Club has selected The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta Molnar. The discovery of the diary of Johanna Bonger, Vincent Van Gogh’s sister-in-law, reveals her influence introducing Vincent’s legacy to the world.
New members are always welcome. For more information, please contact Alan Zimmerman at alanzimmerman@icloud.com
Studio One Forever

EDSD LGBTQIA+ Summit!
Saturday, October 26, 2024 marked the first summit to enhance acceptance of all peoples in the Diocese of San Diego. A Celtic Eucharist was led by Reverend Brenda Sol, from St. Andrew’s in Encinitas. She led us in singing, praying, reading, eating, and thinking how all our communities can be more welcoming! This is an ongoing process and if you are queer or an ally who would like to be a part of this ongoing process for the diocese, call or email Ray Tackett: 503-689-7361 or ertack6560@gmail.com
Fall Choir Rehearsals
We will use the schedule we have been using this past year: Sundays after the 10:30 AM postlude for 30-45 minutes, and Thursdays at 5:45 PM for 45-60 minutes. Singers choose which time is best for them. There is no expectation that you’ll attend both rehearsals, but you are certainly welcome to do so if you choose.
Everyone is welcome! Questions? Please contact Chuck Peery musicdirector@stpaulsps.org
Want a St. Paul’s T-shirt?
Wear your church pride and baptismal covenant at upcoming parades and community events: “We believe in the dignity of every human being.” Purchase your Church of St. Paul in the Desert T-shirt on Sundays at the Welcome Table! Shirts are $25, and can be purchased with cash or check.

Fall Back is Back!
Fall Back – Daylight Saving Time Ends Sunday, November 3, at 2:00 AM. You’ll need to set your clocks back (“fall back”) one hour before going to bed on Saturday.
Rectors’ Discretionary Fund
The first week of the month loose-plate offerings (i.e., general giving, not pledged giving) will be designated for the Rectors’ Discretionary Fund (sometimes referred to as “Benevolence.”) This fund provides the clergy opportunities to support those in need of rent or housing assistance, and can help cover the cost of utilities, medical bills, etc.
Add a Name to the Prayer List at St. Paul
Want to add someone’s name to the prayer list? Please call the Church Office or email our Registrar, Orin Ellingson, at registrar@stpaulsps.org with names. Prayers remain on the list for one month unless otherwise noted.
Altar Flowers
“The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom . . .” Isaiah 35:1-2
Altar flowers, also known as chancel flowers, are a Christian tradition of placing flowers in the chancel of a church to beautify the space and honor loved ones. In the Episcopal Church, altar flowers are often used to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or the birth of a child. They can also be given in memory of a loved one or to honor a person.
If you would like to sponsor altar flowers for a future Sunday to commemorate a special person or event, you’ll find the sign-up book in the Narthex, or you can call the Parish Office at 760.320.7488 to reserve your sponsorship dates(s). A donation of $95 for each altar flower sponsorship (or $65 for narthex flower sponsorships) covers the flower shops fees.
Prayers of the Church
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For the Anglican Communion, and for the Archbishop of Canterbury, The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Justin Welby; for the Church of the Province of South East Asia, The Most Reverend Dr. Titus Chung, Archbishop and Primate.
For the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, The Right Reverend Carrie Schofield-Broadbent, Bishop.
For the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, The Right Reverend Dr. Susan Brown Snook, Bishop of San Diego; for the faculty and students of the West Coast Collaborative; for the clergy, delegates and official youth presence at the 51st Annual Diocesan Convention; for our nation’s elections and all elected officials.
For those commended to our prayers: Terry Moran, Pat, Ken Smithler, Kathy Schmidt, Harry Nussbaum, Jim Bozora, Lori Miller, Terri Miller-Steele, Marie Ratnam, Vivian Dortch, Marcia P., Sandy Slauson, Jan Wacker, Marilyn, Mia Glazier, Sonny Barnard, Kelly Barnard, Ned Smith, David Mellisch, Michael Marguet, Akinyele Roberson, Justin Gammage, Yasir M. Jones, Aaliyah Roberson, Kai Roberson, Kaari Martin, Aaden Silverberg, Tish & Eliott Kahn, Hap Blaisdell, David Valenzuela, Amelia Grinstead, Chloe Grace Wilson Barton, Marilyn De Silva Currie, Tom Lutgen; pray for all those for whom no prayers have been said.
For those who have died: Charlene Smith, Evelyn Claire, Marlene Cafferky, Anna Secrist, Roy Wiley, Timothy White, Sr., Odell Jones, Sophie Miller, Leonard Sutton, Santiago Sanchez, Anita Sanchez, Raymond Harris, Elliot Fields, John Norman. Rest eternal grant to these, your servants, O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.
For those celebrating their anniversary: November 5: Wesley Henry & Adam Swinney.
For those with birthdays: November 3: Bruce Blauvelt, Rev. Deb Seles; November 5: Valerie Winters; November 7: Mark Berry; November 8: Christopher Nance; November 9: Patrick Jarvis, Mick Welch.
Today’s Altar Flowers are given to the glory of God, in celebration of Palm Springs Pride. We respect the dignity of every human being.
“The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom . . .” Isaiah 35:1-2
If you would like to sponsor altar flowers for a future Sunday honoring a special person or event, you’ll find the sign-up book in the Narthex, or you can call the Parish Office at 760.320.7488 to reserve your sponsorship date(s).
Send us your Prayer Requests via email — You may request prayers, “For those commended to our prayers” or “For those who have died,” by sending requests to registrar@stpaulsps.org. The weekly print deadline is Wednesday noon.
For next Sunday’s Lectionary readings, go to www.lectionarypage.net and click on November 10, the Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost.
Upcoming Meetings & Events at St Paul’s
- Saturday, November 2 – 4:00 PM – PRIDE Mass and wedding of Ray Hickman & Phil Pickens
- Sunday, November 3 – NO SUNDAY SERVICES – PRIDE Parade – Meet in church parking lot at 9:30 AM to march with the St. Paul contingent
- Monday, November 4 – 2:00-4:00 PM – Sacred Ground -Library
- Tuesday, November 5 – 1:00 PM – Stewardship Committee meeting – Library
- Tuesday, November 5 – 3:30-5:00 PM – Psychology & Spirituality – Library
- Wednesday, November 6 – 4:00 – 5:30 PM – The Path Ahead: Spirituality & Purpose in Later Life – Library
- Wednesday, November 6 – 6:00 PM – Mid-week Eucharist – Come and rest
- Thursday, November 7 – 1:00 PM – Campus Care Committee meeting – Library
- Thursday, November 7 – 3:30-5:00 PM – Bible Study – The Book of Ruth – Library
- Friday & Saturday – November 8 & 9 – Diocesan Convention – St. Margaret’s Palm Desert
- Saturday, November 9 – 10:00 AM-2:00 PM – Baking for Community Retreat – Parish Hall
- Tuesday, November 19 – 1:30 PM – Daughters of the King Open Meeting for ALL Women – Noonday Prayer and free Advent Study kickoff – Library
Stay Connected
Sunday Service LiveStreaming
We are livestreaming our 10:30 AM Sunday Eucharist every week. You can view the livestream on our Home Page, YouTube Channel, and Facebook Page.
Missed a service? Or want to rewatch a liturgy? All our past services are available to watch either on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/StPaulintheDesert or on our Facebook timeline: https://www.facebook.com/stpaulinthedesert
Join our E-Mail List
You’ll find this invitation on the front page and many pages throughout our website. It’s intended for anyone who wants to receive communications from St. Paul’s via email. This includes The Abundant Life weekly, online newsletter. If you haven’t already, sign up today!
Get “Social” with St. Paul’s!
Want to see daily pics about what’s happening at St. Paul’s? Be sure to like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram. And, subscribe to our YouTube channel to view our livestream and past services.














