Featured Volunteer: Jim Strand

Hi, I'm Jim Strand, and when I first heard of this project, I felt called to participate because Los Guilicos Village is about 5 minutes from my house. I thought we'd be cooking there. How could I pass up an opportunity to be of service to some of the folks recently, and rudely, evicted from the Joe Rodota trail encampment, AND have it be so convenient?

St. Vincent de Paul

Well, it turned out we would cook at the St. Vincent de Paul kitchen in SR, but I was already hooked. The idea that, even though these tiny cabins didn't solve the problem of shelterlessness in SoCo, I could be a part of an effort to provide a substantial, healthy, hot meal for 60-70 people on Tuesdays.

I've worked with Kathryn Jurik for over 25 years on the altars for the annual world peace meditations at the Center and know her to be a creative and capable leader. She was also already actively involved with this same community, so when she put out a request, it was easy to jump in.

I missed the first meal, but have cooked just about every Tuesday since February 11! It has been a joy to work with these folks and be representing the Center in a very meaningful way in the community. We pray before we start work. We know our commitment to serving, and our love of Life, enhances the work we do, juices up the meal, and feeds us spiritually too.

Thoughts and Prayers

We all know "our thoughts and prayers" really do have an effect out in the world, but this physical activity feels so right, we can see and taste the results of our efforts. I am so grateful to be a part of this team. Blessed be.

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Blast from the Past: Revisiting a Memorable 2007 Event

Hello, cherished community members! In today’s installment of our "Blast from the Past" series, we're throwing it back to a memorable event from 2007. The details might be a bit hazy, but with a little collective memory, we can bring this picture back to life. The central clue to unlocking this memory is the presence of lilies on the stage. These beautiful flowers set the scene for what must have been a special occasion. But what exactly was this event celebrating or marking? Was it a seasonal festival, a commemorative gathering, or perhaps a milestone for our community? Now, let's turn our attention to the people in the photo. They were undoubtedly key players in this event. Do you recognize any of these faces? They could be long-standing members, volunteers, or even special guests with a significant role in the occasion. And for those who have been part of our community since 2007 or earlier, I have a question: were you there at this event? If so, what memories or

Blast from the Past: Reliving a Memorable Event in Our Community's History

Hello to all our wonderful community members! Today, in our "Blast from the Past" series, we're taking a stroll down memory lane to revisit a special event in our community's history. An event captured in a photo that speaks volumes about the spirit and camaraderie of our group. Let's start with the event itself. Can you identify which event this photo is from? Each event in our community has its unique flair and significance, and this one is no exception. It might have been a celebration, a commemoration, or perhaps a regular gathering that holds a special place in our collective memory. In the photograph, there's a person playing the harp. Do you recall who this talented musician is? The harpist's performance undoubtedly added a layer of elegance and tranquility to the event. Ha. And the hair? Alongside the harpist, there are other individuals who appear in the photo. Each of them played a role in making the event memorable. Do you recognize them? Perha

Blast from the Past: Unraveling the Mystery of the Number 45

Hello, everyone! It's time for another delightful trip down memory lane with our "Blast from the Past" series. Today, we're focusing on a photo from a past party that holds a special place in our community's history. And there's a hint to unlock the memory - it has something to do with the number 45. But what exactly were we celebrating? In the photo, you can see a group of people, each with a story to tell. Do you recognize any of these faces? They could be long-standing members of our community, special guests, or perhaps even individuals who played a significant role in what we were celebrating that day. One detail in the photo that might catch your eye is the floor, which appears to be in less-than-perfect condition. Why is that? Maybe there's an interesting story behind it? And finally, I'm reaching out to you - were you there at this party? If so, what memories do you have of the event? Was there a special significance that the event held for you

Volunteer Community at the Center for Spiritual Living, Santa Rosa

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