Feb. 1: Black History month begins, World Interfaith Harmony Week Begins Monday, Feb. 2:Remember our Chaplains - Presbyterian Federal Chaplaincies Thursday, Feb. 5:Thursdays in Black
I am delighted to welcome Pat Murphy Chambers as Moderator of the Presbytery.Pat brings a deep love for the church, a steady spirit, and a lifelong commitment to nurturing faith and community. I am grateful for her willingness to serve and invite you to join us in celebrating Pat as she steps into this influential role.
At its January 13 meeting, the Lead Team Commission adopted a new Conflict of Interest Policy. The adoption of such policies is a common and widely accepted practice among nonprofit, ecclesiastical, and mission-driven organizations, and it reflects our shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and faithful stewardship in the life of the Presbytery.
In addition, at its January 8 meeting, the Commission on Ministry approved Rev. Dia, Rev. In Yang and Rev. Mike McClenahan for service within the Presbytery.
The Presbytery will have the opportunity to become acquainted with both Rev. Yang and Rev. McClenahan at the February 24 Presbytery meeting, to be held at Glendale Presbyterian Church.
Brief Biographies
Rev. In Yang was ordained to the ministry of Word and Sacrament in 1990 and honorably retired in 2021 after decades of parish ministry, primarily serving Korean-American congregations. He previously served as Executive Presbyter of the former Hanmi Presbytery and currently assists with the rebuilding and revitalization of Hanyang Presbyterian Church. Rev. Yang is also a co-convener of the Presbyterian Peace Network for Korea, working for peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula. He holds an M.Div. from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Th.M. from Princeton Theological Seminary, and an honorary Doctor of Divinity.
Rev. Mike McClenahan was ordained in 1990 and retired in 2025 after serving more than two decades as Senior Pastor of Solana Beach Presbyterian Church. He currently serves as Executive Director of The Fellowship Community. Rev. McClenahan holds degrees from UCLA and Fuller Theological Seminary (MDiv, DMin.) and has been deeply involved in presbytery leadership, church planting, and mission initiatives. His ministry reflects a strong commitment to discipleship, reconciliation, and cross-cultural engagement.
Please continue to hold the work of the Presbytery and the Lead Team Commission in prayer as we move forward together in pursuit of God’s good purposes in and through us.
Yours in Christ,
Juan
International Relations Task Force Update
The International Relations Task Force has received a thoughtful and encouraging set of responses to its recent survey, reflecting the wide breadth of international engagement already present across the Presbytery of San Fernando. Congregations reported long-standing partnerships spanning Latin America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, many of which integrate evangelism, education, healthcare, disaster response, and justice-oriented ministries. The responses also highlighted the significant presence of diaspora communities within our congregations and a growing interest in more intentional, coordinated approaches to global mission and partnership.
Several respondents noted both gratitude for historic relationships and a desire for clearer connection, shared learning, and presbytery-level support—particularly considering recent transitions within PC(USA) mission structures. These insights will help guide the next phase of the Task Force’s work.
The International Relations Task Force will continue meeting monthly to prayerfully discern next steps, deepen relationships, and develop recommendations for the presbytery. The Task Force is convened by Nick Warnes ([email protected]), and includes Wendy Gist, Eric Sarwar, Carole Wheeler, Jaime Lazaro, Sarah Henken, and Hendrik Shanazarian.
All six-episodes of our series have now been released. Follow the historical journey through 170 years of Presbyterian presence in Los Angeles, tracing the church’s struggles, growth, and lasting influence on the city’s spiritual and cultural life.
Learn more about how our faith communities met transformation with creativity and conviction.
Evicting the American Dream
A church-wide film study
Mondays Feb 2, 9, 16, 23
4:30-5:45 pm PST on Zoom
Join us for a church-wide film study on this excellent documentary about homelessness, the U.S. housing crisis, and its impacts on children. We will gather weekly online after having watched each week’s segment of the film. We will hear from featured speakers and discuss issues of redlining, housing commodification, eviction, the impact of housing insecurity on children, and ways to take action in our own communities. For more on the movie visit pcusa.org/evicting.
Advanced Registrationis Required. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with meeting links and instructions to view the film segments each week.
Then on Monday, March 2 from 4:30-5:30 pm on Zoom join our PSF Communication and Church Support Committee for a local follow-up session to the film study.
To register for this local session click the “REGISTER HERE” button or please email Wendy Gist at [email protected].
Surviving the Struggle - People Investing in People
SDOP Sunday Yearbook and Tool Kit
Feb. 8, 2026 and beyond
Self-Development of People (SDOP) has a great new resource for congregations. Their Yearbook and Tool Kit can be used on SDOP Sunday, Feb. 8 and beyond. We are excited to share this resource featuring inspiring stories about community partners, a “SDOP on the Move” section, sermons from the Kairos Center for Religions, Rights, and Social Justice, a reflection by Pittsburgh Presbytery SDOP Committee Co-Chair and more! Partners featured include a group working on homelessness, immigrants and refugees seeking healing and change from their trauma, returning citizens, economic empowerment and more! Each story/page can be printed and used as an individual resource.
We invite you to use this resource available at SDOP Yearbook & Tool Kit. We look forward to working with you in continuing to partner with communities of economically poor, oppressed, and disadvantaged people that could benefit from the SDOP ministry in 2026 and beyond.
If you want more information about our local SDOP Committee, please reach out to Wendy Gist at [email protected].
San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians Gabrieleno/Tongva Cultural Presentation
Everyone is invited to learn about the Tribe, its traditional values, and its efforts to share its history and culture with future generations and the wider community.
The special offerings in 2026 are changing a bit. There are now three:
One Great Hour Of Sharing
World Communion Offering
Christmas Joy Offering
To learn more you can attend the final webinar on February 10 at 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM PST by registering at Special Offerings Webinar 4 HERE. If you know someone who would benefit from this information, please share the sign-up link with them too.
Support Our Community Through North Valley Caring Services (NVCS)
Dear NVCS Community Partners,
This has been a difficult time for many families across our community following recent immigration enforcement activity. On January 29 during a small food distribution on the church campus where we operate, a community vendor was detained by federal agents from the parking lot — an event that left many families feeling frightened and uncertain about their safety.
In that moment, our priority was clear: protect and support our community. NVCS staff quickly mobilized, transporting pantry participants home to ensure they arrived safely. The following day, out of understandable concern, many volunteers stayed home, leaving us with limited support for our weekly food distribution that serves over 800 families every Friday. Yet what we witnessed next was nothing short of powerful. Check out our video HERE.
Pastors and church members from neighboring congregations stepped forward without hesitation. Local councilwomen and their teams joined us on the ground to continue the work. Community members organized themselves to help monitor the area and support a safe environment. News stations arrived to cover the story — but the true story is the strength, compassion, and unity of a community that refuses to let fear define it.
North Valley Caring Services stands with and for our community. We remain committed to providing essential services, creating safe spaces, and ensuring that every family we serve is treated with dignity and care.
Pick up food for a neighbor or loved one at our weekly pantry if they are unable or afraid to come themselves.
In times of uncertainty, community action matters more than ever. Thank you to everyone who has stepped up, spoken up, and stood beside us. Your support ensures that hope remains stronger than fear.
With gratitude,
The NVCS Team
Help Rebuild Altadena with Local Churches and Habitat for Humanity
Work alongside members of other churches as we rebuild homes in Altadena. No experience necessary!
Don't miss out on the next build day. Get informed early about the next build day by contacting Cindy Guenther at [email protected].
Register now for early-bird pricing. Visit LuminosityConference.org to register for the 2026 pastoral leadership conference designed to spark your imagination and equip you with practical wisdom to enhance your ministry. Through keynote/plenary sessions, dynamic workshops, and meaningful conversations, we will explore how to navigate challenges, maximize resources, and lead with confidence.
Need Financial Assistance?
We are pleased to announce that grants are available through the Presbyterian Foundation’s Church Financial Leadership Grant Program. Learn more and apply at presbyterianfoundation.org.
Bringing a group?
Contact us for information on group discounts. We look forward to welcoming your team.
The Luminosity Conference 2026 will be held in Orlando, FL March 9-11 at Disney Springs. Whether you’re shaping the future of your church, organization, or community, this is your moment to be inspired, equipped, and empowered for lasting influence. Registration closes Feb. 20. Register today!
Employee Assistance Plan from BOP
The Board of Pensions is pleased to introduce EAP services from Spring Health, bringing eligible members fast access to resources and treatment. We are partnering with Spring Health and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) to offer this new service.
Our new Employee Assistance Plan (which is included for anyone enrolled in our medical or pension plan) includes personal coaching and professional coaching. These coaching sessions are at no cost to the participants. Please log onto your Spring Health portal to access. You can find more information HERE.
Two Board of Pensions Meetings for Presbytery and Church Leaders
Please consider attending one or both of the following meetings to stay informed aboutupcoming changes to Board of Pensions benefits:
1. Virtual Town Hall for Presbytery Leaders
A virtual (Zoom) Town Hall Meeting for presbytery leaders will be held on Thursday,February 26, from 10:00 a.m. to noon. This session will preview several planchanges being recommended to the Board of Pensions’ Directors. Proposed changes to be discussed include:
New subsidies to support pastors with dependent child medical coverage needs
A new Assistance Program grant to support child care needs of pastors with young children
These proposed changes are positive in nature and are not on the scale of thesignificant changes introduced in 2024. Here is a link to the registration.
2. Regional Benefits Summit (In Person)
A Regional Benefits Summit will take place at First Presbyterian Church of Downey on Tuesday, April 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This in-person gathering will cover upcoming benefit changes as well as other Board of Pensions–related updates. Registration opens on February 9. We encourage pastors and church representatives who are able to make the short drive to Downey to attend this Summit and learn more about what lies ahead regarding benefits.
If you or someone you know was affected by the Eaton or Palisades fires, the IBTU Relief Hub is offering paid, temporary job opportunities for fire-impacted individuals as part of our recovery efforts.
Now Hiring for:
- Disaster Recovery Case Manager
- Humanitarian Aid Worker
- Warehouse Coordinator
- Communications Specialist
- Graphic Designer
To apply, go to bit.ly/joinibtu. Applicants must meet the qualifications of being fire-impacted.
We're rebuilding with a purpose, together.
Church Related Job Opportunities
Stewardship Officer- The national offices of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
has a opening for a full time flexible work options Stewardship Officer (Stewardship and Funds Development)
Full-Time Pastor - Nipomo Community Presbyterian in Arroyo Grande
Nipomo Community Presbyterian in Arroyo Grande is looking for a new full-time pastor. For additional information, please contact Rev. Jason T. Micheli General Presbyter at the Santa Barbara Presbytery: (805) 627-4055 or[email protected]
Children’s Ministry Director - Silver Lake Community Church
SLCC seeks a part-time Children's Ministry Director to guide planning and execution of a program of Bible learning and childcare for kids ages 0-12. More Info:HERE
Westlake Presbyterian Church in Westlake Village has the following job openings:
Contemporary Worship Leader & Musician - First Presbyterian Church of Granada Hills – Los Angeles, CA
First Presbyterian Church of Granada Hills is seeking a passionate Contemporary Worship Leader & Musician to lead Spirit-filled worship and build a vibrant worship team. Part-Time (15–20 Hours/Week).
Director for Contemporary Worship (Part Time) - San Marino Community Church
San Marino Community Church is looking for a musically dynamic and spiritually grounded leader for our Contemporary Worship service! Please send your resume and links to two (2) videos of your singing and/or worship leadership to: [email protected]
Rev. Rosie DiBianca, Pastor of Caring Ministries at First Presbyterian Newhall, has written a book titled He Calls Me Daughter, created specifically for small group Bible studies and Presbyterian Women (PW) groups. Each chapter concludes with reflective questions to spark meaningful discussion.
One of our own PW groups recently used it and shared how much they enjoyed the experience. At under 120 pages, the book is a great fit for a 4–8 week study—perfect for a short-term series with lasting impact.
Legacies of Faith, a carefully crafted book by Bobbie Putnam chronicling the history of our churches, is now available to order! This inspiring volume captures the spirit and legacy of our shared ministry.
Do you have a story about your church that could encourage and inspire others? Are there ministry resources that need to be shared? Do you have an announcement that the Presbytery should know about?
Our editorial team will be happy to consider publishing it in The Wire.
Please read our Guidelines for what can be submitted, how to submit, and the new deadlines for each issue.
