IUCC EVENTS

Easter Sunday
Mar
31

Easter Sunday

As we gather, we honor the sacred traditions of Maundy Thursday, embracing the spirit of unity and service exemplified by Jesus. Experience a deeply meaningful ceremony that invites reflection, communion, and a sense of shared humanity. Through inclusive language and thoughtful interpretation, we explore the timeless messages of love, compassion, and humility.

And mark your calendars for Easter Sunday, where our celebration continues with joyous festivities! Join us for special music, indulge in delicious crepes during coffee hour, and be uplifted by the angelic voices of our amazing choir as we rejoice in the resurrection and the promise of new beginnings.

All are welcome to join us in fellowship and worship as we embrace the rich tapestry of faith, community, and love. We look forward to sharing these sacred moments with you.

View Event →
Easter Flowers
Mar
31

Easter Flowers

On Easter Sunday, we extend a warm invitation to bring your flowers to church. Join us in a cherished tradition as we collectively decorate the cross with a tapestry of colors, symbolizing the resurrection and the promise of new beginnings.

Whether it's a single bloom or a bouquet, your flowers will serve as a beautiful reflection of the joy and hope that Easter represents. Together, we can transform the cross into a living testimony of the love and renewal we celebrate on this special day.

Your floral contributions will not only add a touch of nature's elegance but also symbolize the collective beauty and diversity within our community. Let's unite in creating a visual masterpiece that echoes the vibrant spirit of Easter.

We look forward to your participation in this joyful expression of faith and community, as we come together to adorn the cross with the blossoms of our shared celebration. Witness the cross come alive with the colors of your Easter joy!

View Event →
Bards and Dragons
Apr
19

Bards and Dragons

Bards and Dragons

Friday, April 19th, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Peace Room

Hark, ye young adults of IUCC! In celebration of Shakespeare's birthday, we're going to party like it's 1597 by playing a Shakespeare-inspired, Dungeons and Dragons one-off adventure. Whether you're a seasoned D&D enthusiast or lover of the Bard's prose, "Bards and Dragons" offers an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, intrigue, and of course... drama!

View Event →
Family Movie Night
Apr
20

Family Movie Night

Family Movie Night

Saturday April 20th, 7:00-9:00 PM

Plumer Hall

Grab your blankets and join us under the stars for a delightful Family Movie Night! Enjoy a cozy evening filled with laughter, love, and your favorite film_ The Lego Movie. Bring your families favorite movie snack to share for a memorable cinematic experience surrounded with friends and community. ๏ปฟSee you at the movies!

View Event →
Youth Group Escape Room
Apr
21

Youth Group Escape Room

Escape Room

Sunday, April 21st, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Peace Room

You and your friends are teen scientists who have been invited to the laboratory of the esteemed Professor Alcott, a renowned inventor and explorer. However, upon arriving at the laboratory, you find it deserted and discover a letter from the professor stating that he has left on an urgent expedition and won't return for several days. In the letter, he explains that he has left behind a series of puzzles and challenges to test your intellect and problem-solving skills. He promises a valuable reward for those who can successfully navigate through his laboratory and unlock its secrets.

View Event →
Women's Retreat
May
3
to May 5

Women's Retreat

Sign ups for the 2024 IUCC Womenโ€™s Retreat at Pilgrim Pines begin Sunday, March 24, on the IUCC patio between services. Spaces are limited so early registration is recommended.

The Rev. Terry LePage will guide the weekend with the theme โ€œLiving as if Earth matters.โ€ The retreat will be the first weekend in May, May 3-5. The cost is $170 and includes two nights of comfortable beds, five meals, snacks and Sunday morning worship. In addition to the weekendโ€™s three themed workshops, participants will be able to choose among additional workshops, discussion groups, nature hikes and crafts. Thereโ€™s also plenty to time for fellowship with IUCC members and friends.

More information is available by contacting members of the retreat committee: Laura Long, Lorraine Fox, Jerri Davenport, Pat Sauter, Marilyn Smith and Cindy Oโ€™Dell.

View Event →

High School Movie Night
Mar
24

High School Movie Night

High School Movie Night

March 24th, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Peace Room

Get ready for an exhilarating movie night adventure, high schoolers! Join us at IUCC for a special screening of Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle โ€“ a thrilling ride packed with action, humor, and epic challenges. Embark on a journey into the heart of the jungle with four high schoolers who find themselves trapped in the world of Jumanji, where they must survive and beat the game to return to the real worldโ€”or be stuck there forever. Gather your friends and get ready for a night of laughter, excitement, and camaraderie. We'll even have sandwiches, popcorn, and drinks to keep you fueled throughout the adventure.

View Event →
Young Adult Paint and Sip
Mar
24

Young Adult Paint and Sip

YA Paint and Sip

March 24th, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

Plumer Hall

Dive into an egg-citing world of color and creativity at our Paint and Sip soirรฉe, tailored exclusively for young adults, in which we'll be stuffing and decorating Easter eggs in preparation for the Easter egg hunt! Whether you're a seasoned artist or a total novice, our event offers a welcoming environment to experiment, socialize, and discover your inner artist. With a mimosa in one hand and a paint marker in the other, let your creativity take flight. Don't miss out on this egg-stravagant opportunity to unleash your inner artist and create stunning Easter eggs that the kids will be sure to love!

View Event →
Jr. Youth Drama Day
Mar
17

Jr. Youth Drama Day

The stage awaits! Are your kids bursting with theatrical flair? Jr. Youth Drama Day for ages 9-12 provides a safe and nurturing space for young talent to thrive. Through theatre games, character exploration, and storytelling, theyโ€™ll discover the joy of self-expression and build self-confidence. Itโ€™s time for their imagination to take center stage!

View Event →
MYP Art Exhibit
Mar
10

MYP Art Exhibit

Unleash the power of young creativity at our Children's Art Auction! Explore a vibrant showcase of imagination and talent, where each masterpiece tells a unique story. Bid, support, and bring home a piece of joy!

View Event →
IUCC Chili Cook-off & Talent Show
Mar
9

IUCC Chili Cook-off & Talent Show

Please put March 9th on your calendar. This is going to be a fun IUCC event. We are combining our annual chili cookoff with an old but not forgotten IUCC talent show. Prizes and trophies are available to our participants and winners. Do you have talent? Do you make awesome chili? Do you just want to come to share in the fun? If the answer is yes, this is your event! ANY TALENT WILL QUALIFY! ALL ARE ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE!

Sign up to bring a Chili

Sign up to be in Talent Show

View Event →
Nerd Theology: Pokรฉmon
Feb
25

Nerd Theology: Pokรฉmon

Are you the best that no one ever was? To celebrate Pokรฉmon Day, Pokรฉmon Master Dustin will lead a vibrant discussion on the religious themes present in the Pokรฉmon franchise and the lessons it has to teach us. Bring your most unapologetically nerdy self (and some friends) as we deep dive into the animรฉ and video games!

View Event →
Queer & Disabled Game Night
Feb
24

Queer & Disabled Game Night

๐ŸŒˆโœจ Get ready for a night of fun, laughter, and celebration at our Queer & Disabled Game Night on February 24th from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm! Bring your favorite games, a joyful spirit, and join us for an evening filled with excitement. Snacks are on us, so all you need to bring is your game face! ๐ŸŽฒ๐ŸŽ‰ Feel free to showcase your talents with presentations and performance art โ€“ we welcome all forms of creative expression. ๐ŸŽจ๐ŸŽค Plus, it's a double celebration as we'll be ringing in Alex Ingal's birthday! ๐ŸŽ‚๐Ÿฅณ Hosted by the fabulous Joy Dorko, it's going to be a night of love, joy, and good vibes. Save the date, and let's make it a memorable evening together! ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŽˆ

View Event →
Safety & Security Training
Feb
21

Safety & Security Training

Dear IUCC community, in response to the evolving global landscape and concerns about safety, we are taking proactive measures to enhance our preparedness. Following discussions with Assistant Pastor Craig, we are pleased to announce a tabletop exercise led by Officer Rick Gramer from the Irvine PD. This event, scheduled for Wednesday, February 21st, from 10 am to noon in the Peace Room, offers us a unique opportunity to collectively discuss and refine our response strategies to simulated emergencies. Officer Gramer will guide us in identifying and activating our safety and security systems, addressing any vulnerabilities we may identify. Your participation is crucial in ensuring the success of this exercise and ultimately fortifying the safety of our IUCC community. Let's come together to strengthen our preparedness and response capabilities for the well-being of all.

View Event →
Broken Heart Bingo
Feb
16

Broken Heart Bingo

IUCC is proud to present Broken Hearts Bingo hosted by Cucu Chanel and her Drag Queen Divas. Who needs a Valentine when you have performances celebrating music's greatest stories of heartbreak? Feel free to wear your best Valentine RED and come have some fun!

Friday, February 16 at 7:00pm at Irvine United Congregational Church:

๏ปฟ4915 Alton Parkway, Irvine CA 92604 in Plumer Hall

$ 25 Entry Fee (tickets can be purchased on the patio or online)

GREAT PRIZES! GREAT PERFORMANCES! GREAT FOOD & DRINK

The entry fee gains you access to the games and show. Dobbers, food, and beverages will be available for purchase. Must be 18 years old or older to play. Costumes are encouraged but not required!

Limited capacity!

Doors open at 6:30pm

Questions? Please email Pastor Craig at iucc@iucc.org

Tickets Here

View Event →
Ash Wednesday
Feb
14

Ash Wednesday

Kindly join us for a distinctive amalgamation of solemnity and celebration this Ash Wednesday, marking the commencement of Lent amidst the love-infused ambiance of Valentine's Day. At IUCC, we warmly welcome the opulence of our traditions, joyfully acknowledging the intersection of these two significant occasions.

Collectively, we shall embark upon a journey of introspection and renewal, while receiving the imposition of ashes. Let us wholeheartedly embrace the duality of this day, acknowledging both the fragility of our human existence and the limitless love that envelops us.

Pastor Sarah will be administering 'drive-through' ashes from 12 PM to 1 PM, in addition to the congregational gathering at 7 PM. Your presence would be greatly appreciated as we observe this meaningful occasion together.

View Event →
Souper Bowl
Feb
11
to Feb 12

Souper Bowl

  • Irvine United Congregational Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us in making a difference! On February 11th, MYP is collecting canned goods to support local communities in need. Your simple act of donating cans can make a significant impact on those facing food insecurity. Let's come together and fill pantries with hope and nourishment.

View Event →
Family Art Day
Feb
3

Family Art Day

๐ŸŽจโœจ Family Art Day - Feb 3, 2024, 10 am - 1 pm! ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ

Kickstart your masterpiece for MYP's March Art Show! ๐Ÿš€โœจ All supplies provided. Bring the family and join us for a day of creativity. Artwork stays for the show! ๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ

Email Tristen for details. ๐Ÿ“ง Let's make art and memories together! ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿ’•

View Event →
Pizza and Game Night
Jan
28

Pizza and Game Night

๐Ÿ•๐ŸŽฎ Pizza & Game Night - Jan 28th, 5-7 pm! ๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿ‘ซ

Calling all middle and high schoolers! ๐Ÿ“ฃ Join us for the ultimate hangout โ€“ a pizza party and game night combo! ๐Ÿ•๐ŸŽ‰ Swing by, grab a slice, and let's make memories with awesome food and even better company! ๐Ÿค—๐Ÿ•๐ŸŽฒ

Bring your friends for a blast! ๐ŸŽ‰๐Ÿ‘ซ Email Dustin for questions and to RSVP. ๐Ÿ“ง Let the good times roll! ๐Ÿ•๐ŸŽฎโœจ

View Event →
Stop Anti-Asian Hate Talk
Jan
28

Stop Anti-Asian Hate Talk

Please join us for an important discussion on stopping anti-Asian hate. Irvine United Congregational Church is honored to host the Filipino Migrant Center (FMC) and Groundswell to raise awareness about this topic. Romeo Hebron, Executive Director of FMC, will talk about the violent attacks on two Filipino families โ€” the Roques and the Arriola-Ochengcos โ€” highlighting their experiences in the legal system and their transformation as community activists to end anti-Asian hate. Don Han, Director of Community Partnerships for Groundswell (the new name of OC Human Relations) will share the increase in hate crimes and incidents reported in Orange County that were motivated by race, ethnicity, and/or national origin bias. This significant dialogue is not to be missed! We can all be part of the solution to stop anti-Asian hate.

Sign-up Here

View Event →
Winter Congregational Meeting
Jan
28

Winter Congregational Meeting

Our annual congregational meeting is scheduled for Sunday, January 28 at 10:30am following first service. This is a hybrid meeting with a zoom option for those not attending first service. Please be sure you have the date on your calendar. The congregation will be voting to approve the annual budget.

View Event →
Parents Night out
Jan
26

Parents Night out

Parents Night Out: A Fun-filled Evening for the Kids!

Mark your calendars for January 26th from 7 to 10 pm, as we host a Parents Night Out! Give yourself a well-deserved break while your kids enjoy an evening of snacks, games, and laughter. For just $25 per child, our event promises a safe and entertaining environment, allowing you to unwind worry-free. Don't miss out on this opportunity for both you and your children to enjoy a memorable night out!

Register Early Here

View Event →
Progressive Parenting: How to Support our LGBTQ+ Youth in School
Jan
26

Progressive Parenting: How to Support our LGBTQ+ Youth in School

An event dedicated to having conversations in a safe space on how to support our LGBTQ+ youth in schools! Our goal is to empower parents, youth, and allies in this difficult time. Listen to educators, advocates, parents, and more share their ideas, views, and supports! We will have additional community partners there to discover if you have further questions or are seeking support in more ways after this event! Letโ€™s celebrate diversity, build community, and make sure that every youth feels supported! This is open to high school age youth and up!

Register here for the event!

View Event →
Helping our Unhoused Friends
Jan
21

Helping our Unhoused Friends

๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿค Jr. Youth Service Project - Jan 21! ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿ‘ง

Join us for a special service project on Jan 21! ๐ŸŽโค๏ธ We'll be creating care packages with essentials for our unhoused neighbors in OC. Let's spread hope and show our IUCC community cares! ๐Ÿ ๐Ÿ’– Contact Dustin for details. ๐Ÿ“ง #YouthInAction #CommunityCares ๐ŸŒˆ๐Ÿ‘ฆ๐Ÿ‘ง๐Ÿ’•

View Event →
Congregational Winter Party
Jan
20

Congregational Winter Party

Congregational Winter Party!

Tickets Now on Sale!

๐ŸŒŸ The IUCC and Fellowship Committee invite you to break free from the digital world and step into a night of pure, analog joy at our Annual Winter Party: "Snowman Square Dance and Barnyard Ball"! ๐ŸŒŸ Escape the virtual realm and embrace the rustic charm of our snow-kissed hoedown celebration!

๐Ÿ“… Date & Time: Saturday, January 20, 2024, starting at 6:30 PM

๐Ÿ“ Location: Woodbridge Village Association

๐ŸŽ‰ Event Highlights:

๐Ÿ– Delicious BBQ: Indulge in the warmth of delightful barbecue flavors.

๐Ÿ‘ข Square Dance Lessons: Kick up your heels with professional square dance callers guiding the way.

๐ŸŽŸ๏ธ Ticket Sales: Grab your tickets during coffee hour and secure your spot for this memorable night.

๐Ÿ‘ข Dress Code: No pixels, just pure charm! Feel free to express your inner cowboy or cowgirlโ€”flannel is encouraged but entirely optional.

This isn't your typical winter party; it's a chance to unplug, unwind, and revel in the simplicity of good company and classic fun. Mark your calendar, invite your friends, and join us for an evening where the only thing digital is the fun we're bound to have.

See you at the Snowman Square Dance and Barnyard Ball! ๐Ÿค โ„๏ธ

#IUCCWinterParty #SnowmanSquareDance #BarnyardBall

View Event →
Orange County: A Personal History
Jan
9

Orange County: A Personal History

DEI TUESDAY BOOK CLUB

Join us on January 9, 2024, as we begin reading and discussing Orange County: A Personal History by Gustavo Arellano.

Nationally bestselling author, syndicated columnist, and the voice of the Mexican-American community, Gustavo Arellano delivers the hilarious and poignant book about Orange County. This book not only weaves Gustavo's family story with the history of Orange County and the modern Mexican-immigrant experience but also offers sharp insights into a wide range of political, cultural, and social issues.

Copies of this book are on the DEI shelf in Plumer Hall.

Orange County: A Personal History

https://a.co/d/dkq2swd

View Event →
Star Words
Jan
7

Star Words

Join us at Irvine United Congregational Church for "Star Words" on Epiphany Sunday, January 7th, either in person at IUCC or online. Discover the words that will light up your year and serve as your guiding stars for the journey ahead. Whether you choose to attend in the sanctuary or virtually, let these words inspire and lead you as you embark on a new year filled with hope, purpose, and meaning. Don't miss this opportunity to set the course for a year filled with wisdom and inspiration.

Draw A Star Word

View Event →
Christmas Eve Service
Dec
24

Christmas Eve Service

๐ŸŽ„ Join Us for Christmas Eve Services at Irvine United Congregational Church! ๐ŸŽ„

As the joyous season of Christmas approaches, Irvine United Congregational Church warmly invites you to join us for our special Christmas Eve services. Embrace the warmth and meaning of this festive occasion with our church community.

๐Ÿ•ฏ๏ธ Christmas Eve Services Schedule:

Sunday, December 24th:

๐Ÿ•ค 9:30 am - Morning Service

๐Ÿ•ฆ 11:15 am - Midday Service

๐Ÿ•– 7:00 pm - Special Evening Service

At all three services, experience the magic of:

Lighting of the Christ Candle: Witness the symbolic illumination, signifying the presence of Christ in our hearts and homes.

"Silent Night" Sing-along: Embrace the magic of the season with a heartwarming rendition of this timeless Christmas carol.

Reflect on the True Meaning of Christmas: Let us come together in a moment of reflection and gratitude as we remember the birth of Jesus.

๐ŸŽ‰ Note: There will be no services on Christmas Day.

Come, be part of a magical evening filled with love, joy, and the spirit of Christmas. Let us unite as a community to celebrate the birth of Jesus and embrace the true essence of this wonderful season.

We look forward to sharing this special time with you and your loved ones.

Wishing you a blessed and Merry Christmas!

View Event →
Christmas Pageant
Dec
17

Christmas Pageant

Experience the magic of the season at the Irvine United Congregational Church with our heartwarming "Who is my family?" Christmas Pageant on December 17th at IUCC. Whether you're a child or young at heart, there's a role for everyone in this festive production. We invite you to join in the celebration and be a part of this special event that explores the true meaning of family during the holiday season. To add a personal touch, contact Myrna to share your family stories and get involved in creating a memorable Christmas pageant that will warm hearts and spread joy. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the spirit of the season with us.

View Event →
Sing Noel - Holiday Concert
Dec
3

Sing Noel - Holiday Concert

๐ŸŽถ Get ready for a holiday musical extravaganza that will warm your heart! The IUCC Chancel Choir proudly presents "Sing Noel," a concert filled with the spirit of Christmas. ๐ŸŒŸ Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 3rd, 2023, at 7pm, as the IUCC Sanctuary becomes a stage for seasonal and special choral music. Under the direction of Dr. Christopher Peterson and with the enchanting tunes of Pianist Yuyoung Jeong, it's bound to be a musical journey like no other. ๐ŸŽน But that's not all! It's not just about the music; it's about giving back, too. A freewill offering will be collected to support the IUCC General Fund. ๐Ÿ™ Don't miss this joyful celebration of the Good News of Christmas! ๐ŸŽ„๐ŸŽ‰

View Event →
Concern America Craft Sale
Dec
3

Concern America Craft Sale

On Sunday, December 3, 2023, volunteers for Concern America will be here at Irvine United Congregational Church with a Craft Sale featuring unique, quality handcrafts that provide us with the opportunity to purchase ethically. This year we have many new beautifully handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and wood products from Bangladesh, El Salvador, Guatemala and Mexico that honor indigenous traditions. When a Concern America product is purchased, we are providing a source of income to materially impoverished communities while allowing artisans to achieve financial stability through gainful, safe, and dignified work.

Concern America is an international development organization based in Santa Ana, CA that builds capacity in health care, clean water, education, and economic opportunities. You may learn more about their work and view a selection of their crafts available on their web site: www.concernamerica.org

View Event →
Snow Play
Dec
2

Snow Play

Embrace the magic of the season at the Irvine United Congregational Church Snow Play event in sunny California on December 2nd as part of our Advent Workshop! Snow play begins at 3:30pm. This delightful gathering welcomes all ages to partake in a day of snowy wonder, crafts, and merriment. Let's come together to kickstart the Advent season with joy and excitement. Stay tuned for further details, as information is subject to change; be sure to check back as the event draws nearer for the most up-to-date information. Mark your calendars for a day of frosty fun and holiday cheer!

You can also check out this event on eventbrite

View Event →
Advent Workshop
Dec
2

Advent Workshop

Join us at Irvine United Congregational Church on December 2nd at 2:30pm for our Advent Workshop event, a delightful gathering for all ages. Dive into the spirit of the season with a festive afternoon filled with fun, crafts, and even some Snow Play. It's the perfect way to kick off the Advent season together as a community. Stay tuned for more details, as information is subject to change. Be sure to check back closer to the event for the most up-to-date information. Save the date and get ready for a heartwarming and joyful celebration!

You can also check out this event on eventbrite

View Event →
Young Adults Friendsgiving Brunch
Nov
26

Young Adults Friendsgiving Brunch

Join us for a heartwarming Young Adults Friendsgiving Brunch on Sunday, November 26th, right after the 2nd service at 12:30 pm. At IUCC, we're bringing the mimosas to toast to friendship and thankfulness, all we ask is that you bring your favorite brunch treat to share. It's the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow young adults, build new friendships, and celebrate the spirit of gratitude in style. Don't miss out on this delightful gathering!

View Event →
Interfaith Thanksgiving
Nov
19

Interfaith Thanksgiving

๐Ÿ‚๐Ÿ™ Save the date, friends! On November 19th, Irvine United Congregational Church is extending a heartfelt invitation to you for an upcoming interfaith Thanksgiving service. We're eager to celebrate gratitude and unity with our diverse community. Stay tuned for all the exciting details, because this special event is bound to warm your heart and bring us all closer together. Let's give thanks and share the blessings of togetherness โ€“ more information coming your way soon! ๐ŸŒŸ๐ŸŒพ๐Ÿ•Š๏ธ

View Event →
Theatre Day Out
Nov
12

Theatre Day Out

THEATRE DAY OUT!

Sunday, November 12 at 2:00pm

Pastor Craig will direct a powerful trans play at The Wayward Artist. All IUCC members get at a $10 discount. Use promo code IUCC when purchasing tickets.

Tickets and Information Here!

Synopsis: It's New Year in Rotterdam, and Alice has finally plucked up the courage to email her parents and tell them she's gay. But before she can hit send, her girlfriend reveals that he has always identified as a man and now wants to start living as one. Rotterdam is a play that is specifically of its time and yet speaks to the issues of our current moment. At its heart it is a play about characters coming to terms with themselves and each other, and centers on identity. Often it presents its themes lightly, comedically and in theatrically interesting ways. In 2016 it won an Oliver award for Outstanding Achievement in an Affiliate Theatre.

View Event →