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. Richard Brendan September 3, 2025
Choosing Light When the World Feels Heavy
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes September 3, 2025
The Garden Moves to Its New Home
By Richard Brendan August 29, 2025
Explore how everyday choices shape your inner flame and life force. Richard Brendan reflects on spiritual wisdom, emotional vitality, and conscious decision-making—featuring insights from Debbie Ford and Bradford Keeney, Ph.D.
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes August 25, 2025
On the Bridge Between
By David Bolander August 22, 2025
Dave Blonader explores how attachment theory and spiritual healing help faith communities offer safety, belonging, and hope after trauma.
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes August 19, 2025
Celebrating the Love of Our Animal Friends and Family
By David Bolander August 15, 2025
Exploring the quiet loneliness of midlife - why connection feels harder despite being surrounded by people, and how therapy and authentic presence can help us reclaim meaningful relationships. A psychotherapist's personal journey from isolation to emotional safety.
By Rev. Dr. Carolyn Scanlan-Holmes August 12, 2025
How would you finish the sentence?
By Betty Brandt August 8, 2025
Explore how psychedelics are reshaping spiritual practice and religious thought—bridging ancient traditions with modern insights into healing, consciousness, and faith.
A man sitting on the edge of the cliff in the twilight
By Rev. Richard Brendan August 4, 2025
A soulful reflection on how embracing death’s inevitability can illuminate the art of truly living—cultivating presence, purpose, and connection in each fleeting moment.