The March IUCC Newsletter is Here! Highlights include:

The March 2026 newsletter from Irvine United Congregational Church (IUCC) invites us into Lent with the theme “Wonder in the Wilderness,” as Pastor Sarah reflects on seeking awe, resilience, and grounded faith in uncertain times. In a world marked by anxiety and global tension, our congregation responds not only with prayer—including a community peace vigil—but also with tangible acts of love and solidarity. As we journey toward Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter, we also prepare to support One Great Hour of Sharing through the United Church of Christ, joining congregations nationwide in compassionate response to communities in need. Alongside these sacred moments, March brings beloved traditions like IUCC’s Got Talent and the Chili Cook-Off, reminding us that joy and celebration are vital parts of faithful community life.

That spirit of creativity and courageous faith continues throughout the coming months. The Gospel Project returns on March 28 featuring acclaimed artists Heather Mae and Flamy Grant for an evening where music, storytelling, and ministry meet around a shared table. At the same time, The Wayward Artist presents JUICE: A Secret Revealed and hosts The Last Days of Judas Iscariot, produced The Larking House, for the fourth installment of The Gospel Project — offering bold theatrical experiences hosted at IUCC that wrestle honestly with faith, justice, and redemption. Add in the Great American Write-In, the CLUE “Architects of Justice” banquet, a Community Repair Café, youth ministries, a food and hygiene drive, and opportunities for prayer, advocacy, and connection, and you’ll find a church alive with purpose. Read the full newsletter to discover all the ways you can worship, serve, create, and belong this month!

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this January!

The February IUCC Newsletter is Here! Highlights include:

February at IUCC is alive with community, creativity, and courageous faith. From the powerful launch of The Gospel Project and the joyful return of music, theatre, and drag, to congregational gatherings that shape our shared life together, this month reflects who we are at our best—open, affirming, and deeply connected. Highlights include Holy Ground: Disabled Voices, Sacred Stories, Valentine’s Day Bingo, Music in Common with The Black Legacy Project, youth and service ministries in action, and inspiring updates from Woodbridge Children’s School. Whether through worship, justice work, storytelling, or simple acts of care, this issue celebrates the many ways love, belonging, and transformation continue to take root at IUCC.

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this January!

The January IUCC Newsletter is Here! Highlights include:

Rev. Dr. Sarah Halverson-Cano reflects on carrying Christmas light into the new year, announces her upcoming sabbatical, introduces key leadership transitions, and shares exciting plans for arts, justice, and worship in 2026—including major guest speakers like Cori Bush, former U.S. Representative and pastor.

Discover IUCC’s bold new monthly worship series launching January 31. Blending professional theatre, music, dance, testimony, and communion, The Gospel Project reimagines church as participatory, artistic, and deeply inclusive—free, communal, and open to all. Explore the full lineup of powerful themes—from Queer faith and disability justice to immigration, digital life, liberation, and interfaith gratitude—each gathering centered on storytelling, shared meals, and sacred conversation.

By popular demand, this nationally recognized musical experience comes back to IUCC for an evening of music, dialogue, and racial justice—free and open to the community.

Learn about a six-week creative justice workshop led by acclaimed artist and activist Angelica Rowell. Participants will explore urgent social issues, create original activist art, and share their work in a public showcase.

IUCC deepens its global mission by supporting Bethania Kids in India, a life-changing ministry serving orphaned and vulnerable children and families through education, care, and empowerment.

A new DEI-supported ministry launches weekly English conversation classes—free, welcoming, and designed to build confidence, connection, and belonging for non-native English speakers in our wider community.

A moving tribute celebrates Heidi Willcox’s 33 years of dedication to IUCC, honoring her legacy of care, commitment, and behind-the-scenes leadership.

Enjoy thoughtful essays, heartfelt tributes, intergenerational stories, and a delightful list of New Year’s resolutions that remind us why IUCC is a place of depth, warmth, and humanity.

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this January!

The December IUCC Newsletter is Here! Highlights include:

Experience our joyful traditions—from our long-loved interfaith Thanksgiving service with University Synagogue to a festive Friendsgiving that welcomed new faces and old friends.

“Kindle the Light” — our inspiring Advent season theme, including inspiring worship, beautiful music, and events for all ages.

Enjoy our Chancel Choir Christmas Concert, the Candlelight Christmas Cabaret, and a heartwarming Christmas Pageant that asks how we find hope in challenging times.

Families and young people can join in the fun at the Advent Festival, Christmas Bake-Off, photo booth, crafts, and Young Adult holiday gatherings—all designed to spark joy, connection, and belonging.

IUCC continues its commitment to justice and learning with the DEI Book & Film Club, the upcoming Gospel Project blending art and worship, and a new Arts for Activism workshop launching in January.

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this December!

The November IUCC Newsletter is Here! Highlights include:

Powerful testimonies and reflections on Homecoming from Kim Pellet and Myrna Bohan.

An update on this year’s Stewardship Campaign: Firming Our Foundation – Groundwork for Growth, plus exciting updates on campus repairs and future ministry dreams.

Exciting updates on our seasonal holiday events like our joint Thanksgiving Service with University Synagogue, our Christmas Cabaret featuring the talented Joey Miranda (who also played Jesus in Godspell!), and this year’s Christmas concert.

Reflective testimonial essays, featuring Vivian Johnson on our experience of energy as we age, and Luna Moore Latorre on faith’s regenerative power in the age of social media!

Don’t miss The Christians on Thanksgiving weekend, or the weekend before! Details can be found here.

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this November!

The October IUCC Newsletter is Here! Highlights include:

A recap of our Ministries Fair and IUCC’s vibrant presence at OC Pride Festival.

A heartfelt message from Pastor Sarah celebrating 45 years of IUCC, World Communion Sunday, and all the fun of Blessing of the Animals and Spooky Sunday.

Details on this year’s Stewardship Campaign: Firming Our Foundation – Groundwork for Growth, plus exciting updates on campus repairs and future ministry dreams.

Upcoming events like the Advocates for Peace & Justice Ballot Review, AIDS Walk OC, Repair Café, and the DEI Book & Film Club on Mother Emanuel.

Ministry spotlights including SPARK (Supporting Parents, Affirming Rainbow Kids), the new Membership Classes, and ways to support Mission & Service through food donations.

Don’t miss True Stories by Vivian Elaine Johnson—a delightful reflection on cake, kids, and the importance of clarification.

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this October!

The September edition of IUCC News & Notes is here!

IUCC came together in joy and love to witness the baptism of several young members! Surrounded by cool waters and the warmth of friends, this meaningful moment was a powerful reminder of our shared faith and commitment to walk together on life’s spiritual journey.

On the final Sunday of our “Divine Disruption” series, Pastor Sarah challenged us to break the rules for good— taking bold action for justice, compassion, and prayer that reached beyond our walls and into the world!

At our Aug. 31 Listening Session, 26 thoughtful voices came together to dream big about the future of Plumer Hall—sharing heartfelt hopes for a more functional, inclusive, and versatile space.

Mark the date — IUCC will host a booth at OC Pride on September 27th! Email communications@iucc.org if you’re interested in volunteering!

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this September!

The August edition of IUCC News & Notes is here!

IUCC’s Leadership Retreat was a hopeful and inspiring day filled with laughter, deep reflection, practical planning, and visionary insight—highlighted by community-building, financial updates, tech improvements, and a powerful keynote from Rev. Dr. Jacob Buchholz on how churches can thrive.

Join IUCC’s Earth Matters Ministry on August 3rd for a meaningful outdoor gathering as part of the Global Earth Exchange, where we’ll honor the land through reflection, ritual, and storytelling—celebrating our deep connection to the earth, spirit, and community.

Get ready to celebrate in style at Cucu Chanel’s glitter-filled birthday bash—an unforgettable night of bingo, dazzling drag performances, games, and a nacho bar you won't want to miss, all hosted by Cucu and her fabulous divas!

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this August!

The July edition of IUCC News & Notes is here!

Relive the joy of PRIDE Sunday , where rainbow spirit met holy resistance, and catch the highlights from Pentecost Sunday  — with Pastor Paul’s stirring sermon and pancakes at coffee hour!

Pastor Craig shares the heart behind Godspell , a dazzling production opening July 24 that marks a bold new chapter for Theater Ministry at IUCC. 

Get ready for a free concert by the Grammy-nominated Northwest Boychoir on July 12 , plus mark your calendars for Bingo Birthday Bash on August 29  — hosted by Cucu Chanel and her fabulous drag divas!

Explore back-to-school giving opportunities , support our Campership Car Wash , and don’t miss a soulful Book Talk with IUCC’s own Luna Moore Latorre on July 2 .

There’s so much happening — read the full issue now at www.iucc.org and stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube! 

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this July!

The June edition of IUCC News & Notes is here!

Catch all the excitement from our Talent Show and Chili Cookoff  — including a first-place win 30 years in the making!

Get inspired by Pastor Craig’s vision for Theater Ministry, relive the joy of Youth Sunday, and mark your calendars for All You Need Is Love — a heart-lifting choral concert on June 8.

We’re also getting ready for Pride Sunday  and hosting a special screening of Call Her Ganda as we stand for justice and inclusion. Plus, check out how you can help with our Back-to-School supply drive.

Don’t miss out — read the latest issue at www.iucc.org and stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube! this June! 

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this June!

This month, we continue living as Easter people—with joy, purpose, and powerful worship! Highlights include:

PAAM Sunday on May 5 featuring preacher Dustin Nguyen and a musical offering by our Marshallese siblings

Theatre & Creativity: Don’t miss Bela Lugosi Meets Edna St. Vincent Millay on May 24 and Creativity Sunday on May 25

Marshall Islands Cultural Night on May 16—support the youth and enjoy music, food, and storytelling

IUCC’s Got Talent & Chili Cook-Off returns May 31—sign up to perform or cook!

Easter reflections, Guatemala mission highlights, and environmental justice inspiration

DEI Book Club begins a new read: Before the Movement

Important updates on Spring Congregational Meeting (May 18), Mother’s Day Worship (May 12), and our continued commitment to justice, prayer, and care for creation

Read the full newsletter to catch up, connect, and celebrate all that’s happening at IUCC this May!

April at IUCC: Experience Holy Week, Justice, and Joy!

This month, IUCC invites you to a powerful Maundy Thursday liturgical drama enhanced by our new lighting system, and a deeply meaningful Holy Week journey. Our Guatemala mission team is making connections across borders, and Katherine Stewart joins us April 22 to speak on religious nationalism and democracy.

We’re welcoming new members, celebrating youth and community events, and preparing for the upcoming Women’s Retreat. Don’t miss updates on our toiletry drive, One Great Hour of Sharing, and the newly refreshed Early Childhood Center website!

🌸🌟 March is here, and with it, we step into the sacred season of Lent! 🙏✨ A time for reflection, renewal, and growing in faith—together! 💜

Our newsletter is packed with exciting opportunities for worship 🎶, fellowship 🤝, and service 💖 throughout this season and beyond! Don’t miss a thing! 👀📖

A HUGE thank you to everyone who makes our community shine with your kindness, dedication, and presence! 🌟💒 Your love and care make all the difference! 💕😊

🎉✨ As we step into 2025, January was filled with opportunities for 🙏 worship, 🤝 fellowship, and ❤️ service. February holds just as much in store! 🎊

📢 Our newsletter is packed with all the exciting events and activities happening this month and beyond!

📬 Don’t miss a single detail! 👀

💖 A huge THANK YOU to everyone who brings life and joy to our community through your dedication and care! 🌟

🔎 What’s new for February?

👇 Click and find out! 🚀🎶

🎉✨ New Year, New Beginnings! ✨🎉

🎊 As we step into 2025, January is bursting with opportunities for worship, fellowship, and service! 🙌💒

📰📬 Our newsletter is jam-packed with all the exciting events and activities happening this month (and beyond!) 🌟🎶☕️

🚨💃 Don’t miss a single detail—your next favorite moment might be waiting right here! 🕺🎁

💖🙏 Huge THANK YOU to everyone who fills our community with life and joy through your dedication and care. You’re the real MVPs! 🏆🌈👏

Let’s make this year unforgettable! 🥳🌟✨

🎄✨ Advent is Here! ✨🎄

As we enter this sacred season of waiting and hope, December marks the beginning of Advent and the journey toward Christmas. 🎁🌟

Our newsletter is packed with all the 🎶 events and 🎉 activities happening this month. Don’t miss a single detail! 🕯️💌

💖 Thank you to everyone who brings the light of the season alive through your dedication and care. You make this time truly magical! 🌟🙏

🎁 What's new for December?

Click here and find out!

Can you believe it’s already November? 🍁🎉 The holiday season is upon us!

With winter breezes settling in ❄️, we’re gearing up for a flurry of exciting events this month! Whether you're looking to celebrate, connect, or just share some cozy moments with our community, there’s something for everyone—and you’ll find all the details in this month’s newsletter! 🗞️✨

A big thank you to everyone who makes our church a warm and welcoming place. ❤️ Let’s make this November one to remember! 🎊

Click here and find out!

Can you believe it is October?

The fall is flying by.

There are so many events in October. The newsletter contains it all!

Thank you to everyone that is busy doing church!

What's new for October?

Click here and find out!

The summer is coming to an end!

Next week we will be welcoming back the choir and our busy fall schedule. There are so many events in September. The newsletter contains it all! Thank you to everyone that is busy doing church!

Click here and find out!

The summer is coming to an end!

Only one more sipping under the sails this month. We will soon be welcoming back our Chancel Choir. Before you know it, it will be time to go back to school. As the dog days of summer continue, here is an update of all that is going on.

There is so much happening at IUCC!

Thank you to everyone that is busy doing church!

What's new for August?

Click here and find out!