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Belonging, Becoming, and What’s Ahead

Belonging, Becoming, and What’s Ahead
Photo by Tim Mossholder / Unsplash

Greetings! Pastor Matthew here.

This season, the Spirit is moving — in surprising conversations, expanding circles, and the grace we make visible together. As we continue our Let It Be Known series, I hope you’ll join us this Sunday as we reflect on the story of the first church council in Acts 15. It’s a story about belonging — about how the early church chose to widen the welcome rather than restrict it. Sydney will be guest leading us in music, and we’ll share in Communion as part of our gathering.

Next Sunday, May 25, will be a Mission Sunday — a chance to become the liturgy instead of simply observing it. This means no livestream and no traditional service format. We’ll share more details in worship this weekend and on socials, so stay tuned.

And please save the date for two meaningful Sundays coming up:

  • June 1 – Sacred Place’s 6th Anniversary Celebration!
    We’ll celebrate the Spirit’s faithfulness and your bold witness in creating a community where all are included. It’ll be a Sunday of joy, gratitude, and a few surprises.
  • June 8 – Pentecost Singalong Sunday
    A music-filled celebration of the Spirit’s arrival, told through story and song. Come ready to sing, to smile, and to encounter the Spirit in every voice.

As always, thank you for showing up — for God, for each other, and for the world we’re creating together.

Grace and peace to you,
Pastor Matthew


Updates from Bryan

Dear Sacred Place Family,

As we step into this summer season, I am  reminded that sacred places aren't just built inside four walls — they’re created wherever people gather with open hearts, shared purpose, and a spirit of welcome. 

Sacred Place is committed to living our mission beyond Sunday mornings. This summer, we invite you to join in a variety of local events that celebrate justice, inclusion, family, and community connection.

Here are a few opportunities to grow, celebrate, and serve together:


Juneteenth Cultural Celebration 2025
Date:
 Saturday, June 14, 2025
Location: Golden Oak Park, Rancho Cucamonga

Overview:
Commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans with a day of live music, cultural performances, educational exhibits, and local vendors. A powerful opportunity for reflection, celebration, and community unity.

Website: More information is available on the Eventbrite website.


Summer Concerts in the Park
Dates:
 Thursdays, June 5 – July 24, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Red Hill Community Park, Rancho Cucamonga

Overview:
Enjoy free, family-friendly concerts under the stars featuring a variety of musical genres. Bring your lawn chairs, your picnic baskets, and your best dance moves!

Website: City of Rancho Cucamonga – Concerts in the Park


Compassion Connection Volunteer Day – July 20, 2025
Location:
 Central Park, Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Overview:
Join together for a day of volunteer service with nonprofits making a difference locally. A hands-on way to live out our faith in action!

Website link coming soon.


Rancho Cucamonga Night Out – August 6, 2025
Location:
 Various Community Centers in Rancho Cucamonga

Overview:
A night of fun, food, music, and neighborly connection hosted by our city leadership.
Why It Aligns: Building bridges across our neighborhoods and showing up with love and hope.
Website: Rancho Cucamonga Night Out


As always, if you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact me. Remember that creating Sacred Places starts with connection and community. You make this a Sacred Place just by being a part of it. Together, we can help others in the community also feel connected, supported, and safe to be themselves, making more sacred places as.we do.

With joy and anticipation,

Bryan Jones
Community Outreach Coordinator
Sacred Place United Church of Christ