Welcome to the Shalom Zone

Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes • October 1, 2024

World Communion Sunday

This Sunday World Wide Communion Sunday, when we come together in unity to celebrate God’s work through the global church. We will celebrate our work with other churches on the Northside in a program known as “The Shalom Zone.” 


Shalom Zone is an inspiring example of interfaith collaboration in action. Diverse churches – Allisonville Christian Church, Cross & Crown Lutheran Church, Epworth United Methodist Church, St. Pius X Catholic Church, The Garden, and First Friends Quaker Church – are driven by their shared mission to serve the community and build God's kingdom. 


Shalom Zone's activities are as diverse as its members. They host eco-film screenings with expert discussions, organize electronics recycling drives to promote environmental responsibility, and hold annual garage sales that fund local charities like School on Wheels. Recognizing the issue of food insecurity, they provide free lunches for children during school breaks. Furthermore, they foster a spirit of unity through an annual ecumenical Thanksgiving service. Through their support of SAWs, a non-profit that builds wheelchair ramps, Shalom Zone empowers those with disabilities to live independently and remain connected to their community.


World Wide Communion Sunday reminds us that while we may worship in different languages, cultures, and traditions, we are all called to share in the transformation of the world with the unconditional love of God. We will highlight some of the special projects The Shalom zone will be offering, and share how you can get involved. Join us Sunday as we celebrate coming together in The Shalom Zone.


Read the Bulletin

Devotional Moment


May the love of life fill our hearts.


Mat the love of earth bring joy to heaven.


May the love of self deepen our souls.


May the love of neighbor heal the world.


As nations, as peoples, as families this day,


may the love of life heal our world.


John Philip Newell

"Praying with the Earth"

By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes May 27, 2025
Messages from the Mountaintop
By Betty Brandt May 23, 2025
A blog post in which Betty Brandt explores the alarming rise in antisemitism, recent tragic events, and the impact on Jewish communities, urging readers to stand in solidarity and foster awareness. It highlights personal reflections, concerns for safety, and meaningful ways to support and engage with Jewish friends and neighbors.
By Rev. Richard Brendan May 20, 2025
Messages from the Mountaintop
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes May 13, 2025
Who's On Your Mt. Rushmore?
By Betty Brandt May 10, 2025
Jesus Was Woke.
May 5, 2025
Some interesting facts about this special day
By Betty Brandt April 30, 2025
Betty Brandt comments on how two films—Conclave and Penguin Lessons—have taken on unexpected relevance in 2025. Conclave offers a glimpse into the process of selecting a new pope, coinciding with Pope Francis’s passing, while Penguin Lessons delves into Argentina’s turbulent 1970s, raising questions about justice and moral responsibility. Explore their significance in today's changing world.
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes April 29, 2025
Progress Report
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes April 22, 2025
Let's be the change we want to see
By The Garden April 18, 2025
"Easy on Me" Sung by Caroline Smith Songwriters: Adele Laurie Blue Adkins & Gregory Allen Kurstin. "Easy on Me" lyrics © Jack Reynolds, Jack Reynolds Music, O/B/O DistroKid, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group
More Posts