BI-MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER/
DECEMBER 2026
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Leadership
Rev. Peter Whitelock - Head of Staff
Rev. Jaime Polson - Executive Leadership & Mission
Rev. Chris Baldwin - Community & Formation
Rev. Jane Doty MacKenzie - Care
Ministry Directors
Emily Austin - Children’s Ministry
Coleen Moulton - Seedlings Preschool
Rev. Cynthia Purvis - Youth
Susan Wentworth - Children’s Ministry
Finance
Suzanne Ferraro
Focus Newsletter
Pamela Moidel - Design
Lexi Morrissey - Editor
Pledge Campaign ............... 2
AI Recap/Flowers ................ 3
Fall Fest ................................ 4
Community ........................... 5
Children ................................ 7
Youth ..................................... 8
Thursday Fellowship ...........9
Mission ..................................10
Special Offering ...................11
First Friday Forum ..............13
Thursday Work Crew .........14
Session/Finance .................15
Seedlings...............................16
Care .......................................17
Advent/Christmas ...............18
CONTENTS
November/December 2026
Submissions & Deadlines
Please send requests for submissions to: lexi@lopc.org
no later than December 1 for the January/February issue.
Staying Connected: Sign up for our
weekly email to stay up-to-date on all things
LOPC! Visit: lopc.org/email.
Need to reach us?
info@lopc.org • 925-283-8722
Where
We Focus
y father loved to
parent us using
aphorisms and Bible
passages, and he
had a lot of them at
his disposal! On more
than one occasion, I
can recall him finding
me watching or reading
something inappropriate or questionable,
and he would call it out and then quote this
Scripture passage from Philippians (4:8),
which was one of his favorites:
Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever
is honorable, whatever is just, whatever
is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is
commendable, if there is any excellence
and if there is anything worthy of praise,
think about these things.
He knew, just as the Apostle Paul before
him, that we are formed by what we take
in and focus on. We live in a world where
there is so much information, entertainment,
and opinion available to us, but do we
often enough ask the question, “Is this
edifying, ennobling, and worthy of my
attention?” Sometimes we do have to tend
to unpleasant matters, that’s true, but where
are we choosing to focus our attention on
an ongoing basis? I like the way Peterson
paraphrases this verse in the Message:
Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do
best by filling your minds and meditating
on things true, noble, reputable, authentic,
compelling, gracious—the best, not the
worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to
praise, not things to curse.
If you have a minute, list the beautiful, true,
and noble things you’ve noticed today!
Grace and peace,
Peter Whitelock
By Peter Whitelock – Head of Staff
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together.
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
I teach AI at Berkeley, and I couldn’t answer a
seventh-grade homework question.
My daughter and I were driving to her
horse lesson in Pleasanton when she
asked what a constant of proportionality
was. I should have known, but I couldn’t
remember. So we opened Gemini, Google’s
AI chatbot, and gave it four instructions:
“Explain [the topic] to a seventh grader. Do not
give us any answers. Only ask us questions. Then pause,
and we will say it back to you.”
Four minutes later, she could explain the concept herself.
That drive shaped Guardrails for Kids and AI, our three-part
parent workshop at our church. Our premise was that AI can
improve learning, but only if children still do the thinking.
The first session started with uncomfortable evidence.
Researchers examining millions of interactions on a math-
learning platform found that high school students spent
about 31% less time on problems they could easily enter into
an AI chatbot after ChatGPT became available. That’s an
association, not proof that every saved minute came from
AI. But faster homework isn’t necessarily better learning.
We then gave parents a list of twelve academic tasks, from
outlining an essay to checking grammar, and asked them
to classify AI use as “fine,” “depends,” or “not okay.” No two
tables agreed, even though everyone came from the same
community. Telling parents to “follow the school rules”
doesn’t settle what to do at nine on a Tuesday night.
Our second evening focused on having AI teach
instead of answer. In a study of nearly 1,000 high
school math students, one AI tool offered answers
freely, while another used carefully designed prompts
and teacher-provided input to guide students. When
students later took tests without AI, the answer-giving
group scored 17% below students who’d never used
it. The guided group avoided that penalty, though it
didn’t outperform the no-AI group.
We spent the session writing our own instructions.
Then we tried to break them: “Just tell me the answer.
It’s due in ten minutes.” We learned that prompts help,
but they aren’t guarantees, and an AI can deliver a
wrong answer with complete confidence.
The third evening dealt with a problem parents
rarely say aloud. If everyone else’s child uses AI,
does forbidding it put yours at a disadvantage? We
treated that as a real concern, then worked toward
rules that would hold up when nobody was watching.
Each family had to decide exactly which parts of an
assignment a chatbot could help with and which parts
their child needed to complete alone.
A math practice assignment may permit questions
and hints; a test-preparation exercise might require
working without AI. Essay writing poses different
choices. Each family left with a household policy that
reflected its values and set boundaries by assignment.
The next time my daughter tells me her homework is
finished, I’ll ask her to close the screen and explain
what she learned.
I am back at LOPC talking about AI on Friday, June 4,
2027 for the First Friday Forum.
By Jeff Eyet, LOPC member
Sanctuary Flower Sponsorships
The 2027 Calendar opens November 15!
Each week, LOPC’s talented and creative
flower team design the large Sanctuary chancel
arrangement to enhance the worship experience.
Sponsoring the flowers for a Sunday worship
service is a beautiful way to celebrate or honor
your loved ones. For a $150 suggested donation
to our Flower Fund, your personal dedication
will be published in the worship bulletin on the
Sunday of your sponsorship, and the flower team
will do their best to accommodate any special
requests for the arrangement.
Sign up at lopc.org/flowers to confirm your
Sunday of choice for 2027.
Join the
Flower Team!
The LOPC flower team
creates the beautiful
arrangements that grace
our sanctuary each week. If
you have a passion for floral
arranging or experience
with floral design, being
a part of this team is a
wonderful way to use your
skills!
For information, please
email Jayne Hegenbart
at hegenbart.jk@gmail.com.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
LOPC Fall Festival
THANK YOU!
Sunshine, Smiles & the Warmth of Community
A joyful autumn day of fun and fellowship for all ages!
Thank you to everyone who joined us on Sunday, October 4, for
a wonderful day of fun and fellowship! A special thank-you to the
LOPC Foundation for hosting a delicious taco buffet.
Guests enjoyed live music, snow cones, a petting zoo
(including an adorable alpaca!), face painting, games, crafts,
and bounce house fun.
Heartfelt thanks to our incredible volunteers and to
Pastor Chris Baldwin and Gina Hageboeck for planning and
coordinating this joyful celebration.
Be sure to join us at the Jinglebell Jamboree
on December 6 at 11:30 AM. See page 5 for details!
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
community
Young Families Connect
November 8 & December 13, 11:30 a.m.
On the back playground
Families with children from infant through
4th grade are invited to a fun and relaxed
morning of play, laughter, and community on
the back playground.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with
other families, make new friends, and build
meaningful relationships.
The group meets monthly. No registration
is required, and all are welcome.
For more information, contact Ana Barbara
at anacecilia.aab@gmail.com.
Advent
Book Study
Prepare Your Heart
for Advent
This Advent, curl up
with an old friend.
Join a small group to
read Charles Dickens’
beloved classic A
Christmas Carol
alongside Scripture, and discover how
Ebenezer Scrooge’s unforgettable night
of ghosts, regrets, and second chances
echoes the hope of the season.
Together we’ll laugh, reflect, and maybe
even spot a little of Scrooge in ourselves.
Along the way, we’ll explore how God’s
grace can still change a heart, and how a
changed heart can bless everyone around
it. Grab a book, a mug of something warm,
and a few friends. The Christmas Carol
Study Guide will lead the way!
Questions? Contact Pastor Chris Baldwin
at chris@lopc.org. Learn more and
register at lopc.org/registrations.
LOPC Jingle Bell Jamboree
Sunday, December 6, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Celebrate the joy of the holiday season at our free, all-ages community
gathering! Enjoy holiday snacks and treats, a Christmas sing-along, cookie
decorating, face painting, crafts, games, and more.
All are welcome—invite your family, friends, and neighbors to join in the fun!
Please RSVP at lopc.org/jinglebell so we may prepare for the treats.
Questions? Contact Gina Hageboeck at gina@lopc.org.
Watch what fun
we had last year!
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
Book Groups
Please note dates for the Nov/Dec discussions.
They are combined due to the holidays.
Fourth Monday Book Group
December 7 at 2:00 p.m. on Zoom
The Other Einstein by Marie Benedict
To join the Monday book group, please contact
Leslie Finertie at leslie-finertie@comcast.net.
Fourth Friday Book Group
December 4 at 4:00 p.m. on Zoom
Coming Up Short by Robert Reich
To join the Friday book group, please contact
Catherine Coleman at awaitingword@gmail.com.
Find Your Place at LOPC!
Join a Group. Connect. Grow. Belong.
Looking to meet new people, share interests, grow in faith, or serve
alongside others? There’s a place for you at LOPC!
Our newly redesigned Groups webpage makes it easy to browse
small groups, social gatherings, and activities for all ages and stages
of life. Search by interest, schedule, group type, or life stage. See
something that interests you? Email the group leader directly to learn
more and get connected!
Easier to explore. Easier to connect. Easier to join. Discover the
new page at lopc.org/groups. Questions? Contact Pastor Chris
Baldwin at chris@lopc.org.
Reading Scripture
with Fresh Eyes
with Dr. Joby Joy
December 13
10:10 – 11:30 a.m.
Davies Room
We often return to familiar
biblical stories thinking we already
know what they mean—but what if there is
more to see? In this interactive session, we’ll
revisit familiar texts, ask questions we may not
have asked before, and explore how history,
culture, and our own experiences shape what
we notice—and what we miss. Come ready to
look again, challenge a few assumptions, and
perhaps discover something surprisingly new in
a very old text. All are welcome.
The History of Immigration in the US
November 22, 11:30 a.m. in the Oak Room
Many of us had the pleasure of hearing Hidetaka
Hirota speak during our faith250 event. We
have invited him back to speak on the history of
immigration in the US after the second service on
November 22. The sermon that day will draw from
Matthew 25 in which Jesus teaches us that serving
others in need is what love does and, therefore, what God expects of
all who claim him. This includes the immigrants among us.
Hidetaka is an associate professor at UC Berkeley and a social and
legal historian of the United States specializing in immigration. His
research has focused on the history of anti-immigrant sentiment,
immigration law and policy, and the origins of immigrant deportation.
A light lunch will be served. Registration is encouraged at lopc.org/
registrations for planning purposes.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Email Emily Austin:
emily@lopc.org or
Susan Wentworth:
susan@lopc.org.
Parent’s Day Out
Parent’s Day Out is back this fall, and
we look forward to a time of fun and
fellowship for kids while giving parents
some free time! After being dropped off
at LOPC, kids will enjoy games, crafts,
and work together on a service project for
Monument Crisis Center. Pizza, veggies,
and snacks will be served for lunch
followed by some afternoon entertainment.
Meanwhile, parents will have some time
to tend to holiday preparations, enjoy a
leisurely lunch, or just put their feet up.
The registration fee covers kid lunch, art
supplies, and childcare cost.
Questions? Feel free to drop a line
to Emily Austin for more details.
Scholarships are available as needed.
Please inquire.
Participate in
Christmas Eve Service
Children’s Ministry looks forward to
creating a special service for family worship
on Christmas Eve. Is your child interested
in participating? We are currently seeking
dancers, musicians, and performers to
participate in this special service.
Please contact Susan Wentworth for
more information or to be assigned a role.
Practices will be Sunday 12/20 from 11:30-
2:00 p.m. and Wednesday 12/23 from
10a-12p.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
Contact Cynthia Purvis:
cynthia@lopc.org
or Aeden Barnett:
aeden@lopc.org.
@lopc_youth
Youth Alive!
Youth Alive is our Sunday morning
youth Bible study for 5th–8th
graders at 10:30 a.m. in CLC Room
201. We will not be meeting on 12/27
or 1/3 for Winter Break. Youth Alive
will return from the holidays on 1/10!
Holiday Break YOW/BTW
There will be no YOW or BTW on Veteran’s Day (11/11) or the day before
Thanksgiving (11/25). We will also not be meeting on 12/23 or 12/30 for
Winter Break. Enjoy time resting and connecting with family!
YOW and BTW will return to ring in the New Year on 1/6.
BTW By the Way
Wednesdays, 7:15 – 9:00 p.m.
Optional pizza dinner at 7:15 p.m.
in the Davies Room is $5.
Youth in 9th–12th grade connect
with each other through games,
worship, Bible-based devotions,
and small group discussions.
Together, we discuss a wide range
of age-appropriate topics including
God’s vision for justice in the world,
how to grow in your personal faith
journey, and what it looks like to live
as a follower of Christ.
YOW Youth on Wednesday
Wednesdays, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Optional pizza dinner
at 5:30 p.m. is $5.
Youth in 5th–8th grades gather on
Wednesdays in CLC 201 for fun games,
worship music, a Bible-based devotional
lesson, and small group discussions.
There is an optional pizza & salad
dinner for $5 (cash or check) at 5:30
p.m. Together, we discuss topics such
as discovering God at work in the world,
growing in faith, friendship, school,
family, and more!
YOW Friendsgiving
November 18, 5:30 – 7:15 p.m.
We will eat together and practice
gratitude for our YOW friends and
church community.
Mediocre Talent Night
December 16, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Show off your skills in our mediocre
talent night. Prizes for the best of the
best. Sign up by December 9.
Fall Confirmation Worship
November 22 at 10:30 a.m.
This fall we have had a fantastic
group of students engaging in
discussions about faith and learning
more about God. We hope you can
join us in worship on Sunday 11/22 in
the second service, at 10:30 a.m., to
celebrate the confirmands!
Alumni Dinner at
the Elert’s House
December 20, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Reunite with friends and hang out at
our annual Alumni Dinner. Seniors
and returning alumni are invited to
the festivities.
Save The Dates:
Guatemala Family
Service-Learning Trip
Spring Break, April 3–10, 2027. If
you’d like more information, contact
Michelle at michelle@lopc.org.
Young Adult Community Group
Meet together with other young adults for dinner and discussion. We meet bi-monthly
on Monday nights in the Fireside Room. We also like to go to sporting events, nature
hikes, and host game nights.
For more information contact Cynthia or Aeden.
Upcoming Meetings: 11/9, 11/23 (Friendsgiving!), 12/7, and 12/21.
BTW Friendsgiving
November 18, 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
We will eat together and practice
gratitude for our BTW friends and
church community.
Christmas Party
December 16, 7:15 – 9:00 p.m.
Bring in a wrapped gift, worth $10 or
less, for a White Elephant exchange.
Wear an ugly sweater for bonus
points!
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
By Julie Peterson, Coordinator
thursdayFellowship
c a r i n g • s h a r i n g • l o v i n g
Every Thursday
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Fellowship Hall
hursday Fellowship volunteers
have worked hard this fall to
create a warm, welcoming setting
for all the scheduled activities and
programs. Volunteers greet and
welcome guests into a festively
decorated room where they are
treated to snacks and beverages.
The room buzzes with lively chatter
and excitement as guests and
volunteers greet each other and
engage in lively conversation.
Guests are drawn to Thursday
Fellowship to explore the morning
activities that include gentle exercise
classes, creative art experiences,
and quality afternoon entertainment,
but the fellowship and friendships
that form build a caring community
that is treasured by all who attend.
Thursday Fellowship started its 48th
program year on September 10.
Morning activities included gentle
chair exercise with Gillian Roebuck,
chair tap dancing with Mimi Ingrey,
and art experiences led by Penny
Meyerhoff and Renee Lee that let
our creative side shine. Afternoon
entertainment included a wide
variety of musicians from vocalist
Syria T. Berry who had people
dancing in the aisles and Mike and
John Kistner who had everyone
singing along. Also, Frederick
Hodges accompanying silent
films was a big hit. In October,
Cris Hussey performed with her
beautiful voice and engaging
personality, and LOPC member
Sue Farmer and the Singing
Messengers performed a patriotic
program to celebrate our nation’s
250-year anniversary. We ended
the months with a comedian and
a Halloween celebration. We are
truly grateful to provide engaging
activities and uplifting, quality
entertainment. We thank the many
people who have generously
supported Thursday Fellowship
with their time, talent, and financial
gifts, and also with their love. They
have helped the program grow
and provide a valuable ministry to
many seniors in our community.
November and December
promise to be full of fun and
holiday spirit as we welcome the
following programs:
Entertainment schedule:
•
11/5: The Roebuck Duo: Songs from the
Past
•
11/12: Veterans Day/ Marionettes
Performance, Peter and the Wolf
•
11/19: Mike & John Kistner sing a long
•
11/26: THANKSGIVING, no program
•
12/3: Cris Hussey
•
12/10: Moonglow
•
12/17: Mike and John Kistner and Santa
Our schedule daily is as follows:
•
11:00 a.m. “Meet and Greet” with snacks
and beverages
•
11:15 a.m. Creative arts and crafts, activity,
or light exercise program
•
12:00 p.m. Lunch
•
12:45 p.m. Entertainment
•
1:30 p.m. Program ends
We’re so grateful to our many volunteers
who make our program run and to our guests
who participate and without
whom our program would
not exist. Come and join
us for some holiday fun.
Questions? Contact
Julie Peterson at
julie@lopc.org for more
information.
Click here to see what happened at
our Halloween event on 10/29!
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
10
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
mission
Winter
Nights
Family
Shelter
Closes After
More Than
20 Years
e are saddened to share that Winter Nights
is closing as an independent nonprofit.
The Winter Nights Board decided that ongoing
financial, staffing, and organizational challenges
have made continued operations unsustainable.
This decision means the Winter Nights Family
Shelter is closing, and LOPC will not be able to
host families this November as planned.
LOPC has been part of Winter Nights since the
program began. For more than twenty years, our
congregation has welcomed families with warm
meals, a safe place to sleep, and friendship. We
are heartbroken by this news and know it deeply
affects the families and individuals this ministry
serves, its staff, and everyone who has supported
this ministry.
The need for housing remains critical in our
county. During this transition with Winter Nights,
LOPC is joining many other Contra Costa faith
communities to find a responsible, sustainable
way to support unhoused families. The path
forward is uncertain, but our commitment to these
families and others in the community remains
strong.
This closure leaves a real hole, both for the
families and for those who have loved serving
them. If you would like to serve with another
local mission partner, Mission Manager Michelle
Browning can help you find opportunities that fit
your interests and talents, whether individually
or together with your small group. Or, please
visit lopc.org/lovedoes to explore local volunteer
opportunities in our Love Does Volunteer flyer.
Thank you to everyone who has given their
time and care to Winter Nights over the years,
especially those who were already preparing
for November. Please keep the families, staff,
and everyone affected in your prayers. If you
have any questions, please contact Michelle
at michelle@lopc.org. We will share additional
updates as we learn more.
Save the Date: Love Does Day —
February 28, 2027
Love Does Day is our church’s special day of service, bringing us
together to serve through projects both on and off campus that
support our local mission partners across the Bay Area. As this
tradition approaches, we invite you to start thinking about how you
might join in serving others next February. More details and volunteer
opportunities will be coming soon. For now, mark your calendar and
stay tuned!
Learn more at lopc.org/lovedoes or contact Michelle Browning at
michelle@lopc.org.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
11
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
his Christmas, LOPC’s special
offering supports two longstanding
mission partners helping children
grow, learn, and build hopeful futures:
the Presbyterian Community of
Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic
of the Congo (DRC) and Children of
Faith Missions in India. Together, our
congregation can help meet essential
needs, such as school supplies,
nutritious meals, safe housing, and
educational opportunities.
Fostering Education in Kinshasa
Supporting education has long
been a principal objective of LOPC’s
Congo team. Our mission partner,
the Presbyterian Community of
Kinshasa (CPK), operates churches
and schools in Kinshasa and nearby
provinces. In Kinshasa alone, CPK
serves approximately 28,400 students
through 81 schools, mainly at the
primary and secondary levels.
Although the DRC is rich in natural
resources, much of that wealth does
not reach its people. Kinshasa’s rapidly
growing population includes families
fleeing the major humanitarian crisis
caused by violence in the east, and
more recently, an Ebola outbreak.
Sharply rising prices add to these
pressures. Education receives
insufficient priority as the government
focuses on the eastern crisis: teachers
are not being paid as promised and
significant reductions in USAID funding
have further affected education.
CPK’s priorities include school supply
kits, nutritious meals, assistance with
education beyond high school, and
school roof repairs. These efforts meet
Christmas
Christmas Special
immediate needs and help students
continue their education.
A Loving Home at Children of Faith
Children of Faith Missions provides
a safe, loving home and quality
education for 120 vulnerable children
in Visakhapatnam, India. Many have
experienced the loss of one or both
parents or come from difficult family
circumstances. At Children of Faith,
they receive much more than shelter:
nutritious meals, healthcare, education,
Christian teaching, and encouragement
to build a brighter future.
LOPC has walked alongside Children
of Faith since 2010. Over the years,
our congregation has offered prayers
and financial support for a second
dormitory, dining hall repairs following
a typhoon, playground improvements,
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
12
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
Serve and Learn
Together in 2027: India
and Guatemala
Spend time with our mission
partners, experience another
culture, and discover what we
can learn from one another. Two
upcoming trips invite LOPC adults
and families to serve alongside our
partners in India and Guatemala.
India Adult Trip
January 14–25, 2027
Join us in Visakhapatnam, India,
to serve at Children of Faith
and get to know the children
and the people that care for
them. Volunteers participate in
classroom activities and devotions
and help with campus projects,
with time to build relationships
throughout the visit. No special
skills or prior training are needed.
Learn about our partner at
childrenoffaithmissions.org and
read about LOPC’s 2024 adult
trip at lopc.org/india2024.
Guatemala Family Trip
Spring Break 2027
Best suited for families with older
elementary, middle school, or high
school children.
Join Fotokids students and
families in Santiago Atitlán for
a trip centered on connection,
creativity, and cultural exchange.
LOPC families will learn from
their hosts, share experiences,
and serve alongside them. It’s
an opportunity for parents and
children to spend meaningful time
together while getting to know
another community.
Learn about our partner at
fotokids.org and see highlights
from LOPC’s 2023 youth trip at
lopc.org/guatemala2023.
Interested in joining us? Contact
Michelle Browning at michelle@
lopc.org to express your interest
and learn about costs, plans, and
next steps.
Offering
school equipment, and individual child
sponsorships. LOPC youth groups
have also traveled to India to serve and
build relationships with the children.
This Christmas, our special offering will
continue that legacy of love, helping
provide a safe home, an education,
and opportunities for children to grow
into hopeful futures.
Sharing Hope This Christmas
Our Christmas Special Offering
supports our partners in Congo and
India, sharing love and hope with
the children they serve. Your gift will
support both partners, helping meet
needs such as these:
•
$25 provides a day’s supply of rice
for 120 children and staff at COF.
•
$100 provides 3 students in Congo
with essential school supplies.
•
$250 helps provide play
equipment at COF, supporting
physical activity, social
development, and belonging.
•
$500 helps offset college
enrollment fees for a student
in Congo.
How to Give: Learn more
and give online at lopc.org/
specialoffering. To give in
person, write “Christmas Special
Offering” on your envelope or
check memo line and place it
in a collection basket during
the Offertory or in the finance
mailbox in the Ministry Center.
Thank you for sharing the gift of
hope this Christmas!
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
13
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
The First Friday Forum speaker series provides lectures of importance and interest to the entire
community about this ever-changing world sponsored by Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church.
Programs are offered at 1:30 p.m. on the first Friday of the month January through June and are
available simultaneously on the Lafayette campus and via online streaming. Arrive at 1:00 p.m. to
enjoy refreshments and conversation in the Oak Room before the talk.
Please direct any questions to fff@lopc.org.
For more information, to watch online, and to view recordings
of the previous speakers, please visit lopc.org/first-friday-forum.
Add these
dates to your
2027 calendar
January 8: Severin Borenstein, Professor of Business Administration at the Haas School of Business
“Data Centers, Wildfires, and Electricity Bills; A Path to Affordability”
Borenstein will discuss how world energy prices, solar energy incentives, data center electricity rates,
and wildfire liability costs can impact your residential electric bill.
February 5: Jeff Manker, Master Birder, Classroom Instructor, and Radio Host
“A Cherry on Top: The Many Ways Birds Can Make Life Sweeter”
Jeff Manker calls himself an “Ornithangelist” because he believes birders can save the world. He has
worked as an Antarctic guide and birded 42 countries on six of the seven continents.
March 5: Jon Haveman, Economist, Author, and Consultant
“Driving Change – Autonomous Vehicles’ Big Impact”
Haveman will explore what autonomous vehicles might mean for our lives, for the economy including
employment, and for the environment.
April 2: Charles Henry, Professor Emeritus of African American Studies at UC Berkeley
“King: His Life and Legacy”
Henry will focus on three stages of Martin Luther King Junior’s life: the young King, King the icon, and
King the radical. In his conclusion, he will discuss the relevance of non-violent protest today.
May 7: Bryan Dunnewald, Composer, Conductor, and Organ Builder
“How to build a Pipe Organ”
Dunnewald will describes each step of the organ building process from conception to completion. He
will include demonstrations on the Sanctuary organ and a final performance to close.
June 4: Jeff Eyet, Lecturer, Haas School of Business
“Artificial Intelligence: The Achievements, the Promises, and the Risks”
What do the public and our political leaders need to know about AI? With that understanding of what
has happened recently, how do we think through the risks?
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
14
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
14
Thursday Mornings:
A Tradition of Service
or more than two decades, Thursday
has meant more than just another
day of the week for a small group of
LOPC volunteers. It is a day to show up,
roll up their sleeves, and take care of
whatever needs to be done.
Rich Lewis started the Thursday Work
Crew 21 years ago with the goal of
serving for 20. Having reached that
milestone, he has decided to keep
going, and he continues to gather
each Thursday with Don Couch, Terry
Gleason, Bruce Kronmiller, and Jeff
Spires.
Over the years, the crew has tackled
just about every kind of project
imaginable. Some jobs have been
major undertakings; others were
simply things that needed someone
willing to notice and take care of them.
Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, lighting,
furniture, landscaping and repairs of
all kinds have found their way onto the
Thursday to-do list.
In recent years, the crew repaired
the Fellowship Hall stairs, water
line and landing after a hit-and-run
accident; installed new benches in
Kurth Memorial Garden; renovated
the Chapel women’s restroom with
improved accessibility and privacy;
and installed energy-efficient LED
lighting in the server room and
warehouse. They built and anchored
new benches at the CLC, improved
storage and office spaces, constructed
sound-dampening baffles for the
Sanctuary projector, and even removed
vegetation that was blocking visibility
near the Knox exit. This year, they
also transformed part of the Sequoia
Room bookcase into a custom cabinet
for a new TV, including repainting the
area and finding a creative solution for
providing the needed electrical outlet.
Perhaps the project closest to Rich’s
heart was the construction of the
Howard Robbins Storage Room behind
the Sanctuary. Howard, who had
contributed extensively to repairs and
construction at LOPC, designed the
room. After he was diagnosed with
stage 4 lung cancer in 2015, Rich and
the other volunteers worked hard to
complete the project before he died
in February 2017. Naming the room in
Howard’s honor was a meaningful way
to recognize his years of service to the
church.
Rich is quick to share the credit. He
speaks gratefully of the talented
people who have worked beside him
over the years, including Jim Lee and
Kathy Bradshaw, who are no longer
with us.
What makes the Thursday Work
Crew special isn’t simply what they
accomplish. It is the spirit in which they
do it. Their ministry happens quietly,
often behind the scenes, without
fanfare. They see something that
needs attention and pitch in. That kind
of faithful service is easy to overlook—
but it is woven into the life of our
church. Every repaired bench, working
light, improved space and completed
project is a small expression of care for
the people who gather here.
And perhaps Rich says it best, “I do
thank the good Lord for giving me the
strength and ability to continue to do
what I do.”
We are grateful for Rich and the
Thursday Work Crew, and for the
many years they have given their time,
talents, and energy to LOPC. Their
work is a wonderful reminder that
caring for our church is something we
all can share.
If you are interested in joining
the Thursday Work Crew, please
reach out to Rich Lewis at
rklewis26@comcast.net.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
15
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
ession met on September 15 and October 20, 2026.
During the Clerk’s report, Elder Jody Black, Clerk Pro
Tem, gave information on the September 27 congregational
meeting during which Rev. Chris Gelini from the San Francisco
Presbytery provided information about the dissolution of
Lauren Gully’s employment with LOPC. Also at this meeting, the
congregation approved the Church Nominating Committee’s
(CNC) slate of nominees for leadership positions in 2027.
Peter Whitelock shared information on Dr. Heath Carter’s visit
to LOPC on September 20. Dr. Carter, associate professor of
American Christianity from Princeton Theological Seminary,
delivered inspiring sermons during both services and gave
a presentation titled Let your Light Shine: Christian Faith and
the Way Forward Through Tumultuous Times. Peter shared
information on staffing transitions due to Lauren Gully’s
resignation on October 11. Peter expressed appreciation for
Lauren’s contributions to LOPC the past 12 years and shared
information on her farewell celebration on her last day, which
was a lovely event highlighting Lauren’s impactful work with
our mission and spiritual formation ministries, in addition
to her leadership with worship planning. At the time of her
resignation, Lauren was part time and primary focused on
mission and worship. Our leadership team reviewed current
needs at LOPC and decided that due to the gifts we already
have on staff, we can meet current and future needs by
making some minor adjustments to ministry area oversight.
Rev. Jane MacKenzie expressed interest in taking a more
primary leadership role with care, deacons, and senior
ministry, which will transition from Rev. Jaime Polson to Jane.
This will allow Jaime to have capacity to lead mission, along
with Michelle Browning, mission program manager. With the
recent promotion of Steven Hall to worship and music director,
worship planning and development is in excellent hands. Peter
let elders know that we also hired Alicia Ferrin as our new part
time organist/pianist and we are thrilled to have her join our
worship team.
Jeff Eyet, elder for strategic planning, presented information
about the work he has been doing with the three task force
reports from early 2026 which focused on mental health and
loneliness, significant relational groupings, and family ministry.
Recommendations from all three task force reports are being
considered and put into actionable plans.
Finance related topics included Session approving a
motion to approve requesting $267,000 for 2027 facilities
related, capital project reserve study grants from the LOPC
Foundation, in addition to hearing about the upcoming budget
planning timeline. This is just a portion of the funds the LOPC
Foundation gives to LOPC annually. Ministry team leaders
are meeting with Finance to prepare budgets for 2027, which
Session will approve at the January 2027 Session meeting.
session
December Giving Tax Deadline
If you plan to make a year-end gift, LOPC must
receive your mailed donation postmarked by
12/31/2026 or in-person by 5:00 pm on 12/31/2026.
There can be no exceptions. If you are making
a stock gift, please notify our accountant, Farah
Mohammadzai at farah@lopc.org with the type of
stock and how the gift should be applied. The stock
must be received in LOPC’s brokerage account by
12/31/2026.
IRA Distributions
Did you know that a Qualified Charitable Distribution
(QCD) from your IRA to LOPC offers tax benefits
even if you do not itemize? If you are required to
take an RMD, a distribution paid directly to LOPC
is not included in your income and is a tax-free gift
(up to $111,000 for annual charitable transfers in
2026). QCD’s from your IRA can satisfy your required
minimum distribution (RMD) in whole or in part, and
are available to make an immediate ministry impact.
If you are interested in learning more, please confer
with your tax advisor if it is advantageous to fund
your LOPC giving out of your IRA.
Appreciated Stock
Did you know that you can receive a significant
income tax benefit by donating appreciated stock
instead of selling the stock and donating cash? If you
donate appreciated stock directly to a charity, there’s
no capital gains tax to pay. Plus, you are still eligible
to deduct the full fair-market value of the asset you
donated from your income taxes, up to the overall
amount allowed by the IRS. If you are interested in
learning more about donating appreciated stock,
please confer with your tax advisor.
Thank you for your generous giving to LOPC!
Reporting
The most recent LOPC Statement of
Giving & Expense Report is available.
To view, visit lopc.org/financial-reports.
finance
Giving at LOPC
One of the most practical
ways you can help is through
your financial support so
LOPC can share God’s love
through our ministries.
To give, visit lopc.org/giving, or scan the code
on your mobile device.
Report on September and October Meetings
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
16
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
seedlings
The school year is well underway, and the
children have settled into their classrooms.
Fall has brought leaf-finding, painting with
autumn colors, and excitement for all the
holidays to come! We’ve noticed flourishing
friendships and our little ones taking on their
classroom jobs with more independence and
confidence.
Truck or Treat at Seedlings
Our annual Truck or Treat on October 17
was a treat for everyone! Lots of families
joined us for an afternoon of fun community
vehicles to explore, trick-or-treating, and
some wonderfully creative costumes. Thank
you to all the volunteers and community
members who made the day a success.
Check out the photos below!
Giving Thanks
November is a time for gratitude in our
classrooms. The children will be talking a lot
about what it means to share, help others,
and appreciate the people who make our
lives special. Please note that Seedlings will
be closed Nov 23-27 for Thanksgiving break.
Celebrating the Season
In December, children in our classrooms
will enjoy stories, songs, and crafts that
celebrate different traditions and help them
appreciate the wonder and beauty of the
holiday season. Many of our classrooms will
also welcome parents and loved ones for
family holiday parties during the school day,
and our little ones are so excited! For a child,
there is nothing quite like having their two
most important worlds collide: the teachers
and friends they see every day, and the
family they love most.
Winter Break Reminder
Seedlings will be closed for winter break
from December 21 through January 3, with
classes resuming on January 5, 2027.
With Gratitude
A huge thank you to our Seedlings families,
students, and dedicated teachers and
administrators for another wonderful start
to the school year. Wishing you all a season
filled with warmth, laughter, giving, and love!
Watch our video from the Halloween Trunk-or-Treat! Click
the arrow to “show controls” and choose full-screen!
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
17
Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Blue Christmas Service
Wednesday, December 2 at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel
The holiday season can be difficult to navigate. We are grieving
the death of a loved one. We are unsettled by world events and
wonder if “peace on earth” can ever be a real thing. We are
feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or out-of-sorts. Our heart is heavy
due to life’s complications and disappointments. If you are looking
to find just a bit of light or hope this season, join us for this service
of quiet reflection and prayer (both spoken and in song). The birth
of Jesus will shine a light even in our present darkness.
care
Deacon
Connections
The Deacon Ministry
consists of LOPC members
who have been elected by
the congregation to serve
as beacons of care. Deacons offer support
through home visits, home communion, and
food delivery.
To request any of these services, please
leave a message on the Deacon Line at
(925) 283-8722, ext. 274. Messages are
responded to in a timely manner daily.
DEACON
SUPPORT
Dementia Caregivers
Support Group
Join this one-hour support group for those
caring for someone with dementia. The group
meets on the first and third Wednesdays of
the month at 10:30 a.m. on Zoom.
To register, please contact Linda Fodrini-
Johnson at lindafj620@outlook.com.
Stephen
Ministry
Training
Stephen Ministers
are lay congregation
members trained to
provide confidential,
one-to-one care to those experiencing a
difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce,
job loss, chronic or terminal illness. Stephen
Ministers come from all walks of life, but they
share a passion for bringing Christ’s love and
care to people during a time of need.
LOPC’s Stephen Leaders, together with
those from neighboring churches, will be
conducting the requisite 50-hours of training
for Stephen Minister candidates from January
– April 2027. Classes will be held on Tuesday
evenings via Zoom and in-person on a few
Saturdays, with a long holiday break. For
those wishing to participate, an interview will
be required. Your prayerful consideration on
joining this ministry would be appreciated.
To register, or for additional
information, please email Heather
Logan at hct@comcast.net or Pastor
Jane Doty MacKenzie at jane@lopc.org.
FOCUS • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
18
A welcoming and loving community of faith that learns, grows, and serves together
This Christmas, LOPC will continue its
well-loved tradition of adorning the
sanctuary with poinsettias. You can
sign up on the plaza after worship
on December 6, December 13, and
December 20, or you can mail or
drop this form to the Ministry Center
offices. All requests must be received
by December 20. A list of poinsettia
dedications will be published in the
Christmas Eve bulletins. Those who have
donated poinsettias may take their plant
home with them after the final Christmas
Eve service.
christmas eve
POINSETTIAS
Advent Sermon Series
The Gifts God Gives: What’s under the tree this year?
November 29 – December 27
Advent is a season of preparation for the coming of Jesus into our world — both
at his birth and parousia. In celebration of Christmas we engage in rituals of
gift giving in commemoration of the gift God has given to us in the birth of the
Christ child. For many, of course, all the gift giving and receiving at Christmas is
detached from the birth of Jesus, but for Christians it is an invitation to consider
all the gifts God gives to us through Jesus as we offer gifts to family, friends and
those in need. How do the lectionary readings of Advent help us appreciate the
gifts that God gives us through the gospel?
11/29
The Gift of Wisdom and Words
12/6
The Gift of a Fresh Start
12/13
The Gift of Holiness
12/20 The Gift of Vocation
12/24
The Gift of Peace
12/27
The Gift of Ultimate Belonging
Sign up online!
LAFAYETTE-ORINDA
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
49 Knox Drive
Lafayette, CA 94549
info@lopc.org
925-283-8722
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