,

Registration for SPEC 2026 is now OPEN

,

❤️ Love First: Join Calizonia at SPEC 2026!

Hi PSI Families!

It is officially time to get excited! We are gearing up for the highlight of the summer: SPEC (SPECTACULAR) 2026 at Graceland University. This year’s theme is "Love First," and we can’t wait to see our youth lead the way in living out that message through a week of sports, arts, worship, and lifelong friendships.

Whether your teen is a SPEC veteran or this is their first time heading to Lamoni, this is a week that truly changes lives. Here is everything you need to know to get them there:

🗓️ The Details

  • Who: Teens who have completed grades 9–12.

  • Official SPEC Dates: July 11–18, 2026.

  • Calizonia (PSI) Travel Dates: July 10–18, 2026.

  • Cost: $750.

    Note on Cost: We want every single youth to be there! If help is needed, please contact me directly. There are scholarships provided by SPEC and other ways to get the cost covered. Don’t let the price tag be a barrier!

✈️ Travel Schedule (Ontario Airport - ONT)

  • Departure: July 10th | Departs ONT at 8:35 AM.

  • Arrival Home: July 18th | Arrives at ONT at 10:40 PM.

📝 How to Register (Must Complete Both!)

To secure a spot, campers and staff must complete both of the following registrations by 11:59 p.m. on June 28, 2026:

  1. PSI Registration (Mission Center): Register Here

  2. SPEC Registration (Graceland): Register Here

For more general info, visit the Official SPEC Website.

🎨 T-Shirt Design Contest: Call to All Artists!

We want our Mission Center to look sharp this year, so we are holding a contest for our official Calizonia t-shirt!

The Rules:

  • Deadline: Submit by June 17th.

  • Ink: Use 3 colors or less. (You can specify the shirt color!)

  • Requirements: Must include the CZ Logo.

  • Submit to: Clayton Troxell at Ctroxell@cofchrist-psi.org.

We are so looking forward to this incredible week of community and growth. If you have any questions about registration, travel, or scholarships, please reach out.

Let’s go put Love First!

Clayton Troxell
Youth Minister
Community of Christ Pacific Southwest Int'l Mission Center

,

USA Youth Leader Check-in

,

We are reaching out to share information about a Youth Leader Check-in. This is a great opportunity to provide important updates and to offer blessings, build community, and share encouragement before the busy summer camp season.

Local congregational leaders and teachers, mission center youth leaders, and youth camp directors are invited to attend.

Join us—May 22

10:00 a.m. or 6:00 p.m. Pacific Time

  • More information about the new Camping Guide

  • Updates to Registered Children and Youth Worker training

  • Information about upcoming national and international youth events

We will be recording the event, but we strongly encourage live participation so everyone can fully enjoy this time together.

REGISTER TODAY

Thank you again for all that you do!

Humberto Tinsman, Emerging Generations Specialist

🌲 Epic Summer Road Trip! Join us for Jr./Sr. High Camp at Big Spruce! 🚐⛰️

🌲 Epic Summer Road Trip! Join us for Jr./Sr. High Camp at Big Spruce! 🚐⛰️

Calling all Southern California Middle and High Schoolers! Get ready to trade the beach for the mountains this summer. Pack your bags for an unforgettable adventure with the Community of Christ Pacific Southwest International Mission Center!

This isn't just any summer camp—the adventure starts the second we hit the road. We are taking an epic group road trip from SoCal all the way to the beautiful, towering pines of Big Spruce, Colorado. It’s the perfect chance to make memories, bond with friends, and enjoy the scenic ride before we even arrive at camp!

🏕️ The Details

  • Who: Middle and High School Youth

  • What: PSIMC Jr./Sr. High Summer Camp

  • Where: Big Spruce, Colorado

  • When: June 7–13

✨ The Best Part?

Your travel costs are entirely COVERED! All you need to bring is yourself, your gear, and your excitement for a week filled with campfires, outdoor adventures, deep connections, and a whole lot of fun.

📝 How to Sign Up

Note: Please select, "Southwestern USA Jr/Sr High Camp" when registering.

REGISTER

Get ready for the road trip of the summer. We can't wait to see you there!

Harmony Sacred Pause - Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ Worship (April 27)

We hope you will join our friends at Harmony on Monday, April 27, at 8:00 p.m. Central for their monthly Sacred Pause gathering! The theme will be The Mountain Is You. 

 This gathering will include Communion (Lord's Supper). Please have a snack and a drink nearby.

This gathering is fully inclusive and celebratory of all our Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ siblings, free of charge, and open to the public. We hope to see you there! 

JOIN VIA ZOOM

Alternatively, join by phone: +1 312 626 6799 (USA) OR
+1 587 328 1099 (Canada)
Meeting ID: 837 1067 0384
Passcode: 969059

 WHAT IS SACRED PAUSE?

Sacred Pause is an opportunity for connection and renewal. Harmony is committed to supporting the spiritual needs of the Queer/2SLGBTQIA+ Community, and as such, this monthly online gathering is intended to provide spiritual companionship for a Queer/2SLGBTQIA+   audience and its allies. Gatherings typically last about an hour. Please make plans to join us for this opportunity for rest, renewal, and connection...wherever you are!

All are welcome. Bring a friend!

Register Today for Harmony Reunion (2SLGBTQIA+ Affirming Event)

Harmony Hosts First-Ever Reunion This June (June 20–26, 2026)

Harmony warmly invites members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community—and the allies who love and journey alongside them—to gather this summer for a meaningful reunion experience at Samish Island Campground & Retreat Center in Bow, Washington.

Together, we will explore the theme “Discord & Grace: Where Sacred Tension Meets Radical Belonging,” and be enriched by the ministry and presence of Presiding Evangelist Mareva Arnaud Tchong.

Participants may choose to attend the core campground reunion from June 20–24, or extend their stay through June 26 for the full experience, including opportunities to explore the Pacific Northwest alongside fellow attendees.

This inclusive gathering is thoughtfully designed to create a space where all can experience the deep blessing of authentic community.

Registration Deadline: June 1, 2026
More Information & Registration: https://www.harmony.lgbt/reunion.html

Questions?
Contact Sean Langdon (sean@harmony.lgbt) or Molly Wilkins (molly@harmony.lgbt)

Invitation to Partner in a Journey of Peace-Nomads for Peace Ride

In October 2026, a small group of 8 riders will travel by bicycle from Georgia to Independence, Missouri as part of the Nomads for Peace and Love -Peace Ride 2026 — a pilgrimage dedicated to pursuing peace, honoring the sacredness of creation, and affirming the worth of all people.

We are not simply riding for distance, but for purpose — carrying a message of peace mile by mile, trusting in community, and inviting others to be part of something meaningful.

We would love to partner with you in one or more of the following ways:

  • Hosting a simple fundraiser or love offering opportunity (We would gladly connect via zoom to share)

  • Inviting your community to join our Virtual Peace Ride-Prayer-Submit a Prayer Per Mile (PPM) -Submit a Prayer of Love and Peace

  • Sharing this journey through your congregation or organization

  • Offering encouragement, connection, or support in any way that feels meaningful

Below you will find a short YouTube promo video and sign-up opportunities to make participation easy and accessible. You can join our Facebook Group and follow us on Instagram. We are working on getting our website fully accessible so that signing up and news will go smoothly, but feel free to look at that as well. 

Our hope is to create a shared movement- where even those who are not riding physically can walk alongside us in prayer, intention, and support. Every mile becomes more meaningful when carried together.

If this resonates with you, I would love to connect and explore how we might partner in a way that fits your community.

Thank you for the ways you already embody peace in the world. We would be honored to journey alongside you.

With gratitude and hope,

Andrea Johnson
Nomads for Peace and Love – Peace Ride 2026
269-271-4300 || johnsons12012@yahoo.com
http://www.nomadsforpeaceandlove.com || http://www.cofchristsemc.org 

VIEW SIGN-UP SHEET
VIEW FLYER
DOWNLOAD TRIFOLD
WHY WE RIDE
,

Sun, Sand, and Fellowship! Join us for a Family Beach Day! ☀️

,

🌊 Sun, Sand, and Fellowship! Join us for a Family Beach Day! ☀️

Get ready to soak up the sun and enjoy a beautiful day by the water! We are hosting a relaxed Family Beach Day at Huntington State Beach, and we’d absolutely love for you and your loved ones to join us.

This is a totally free, completely no-pressure event. Feel free to come and go as you please throughout the day—it’s all about relaxing, connecting, and enjoying some great fellowship by the ocean.

🏖️ The Details

  • When: Saturday, May 23. I’ll be out there setting up by 8:00 AM and will be hanging out until just before sunset, so drop by whenever works for you!

  • Where: Huntington State Beach, right between guard towers 13 and 14. Just look for the blue, yellow, and grey EZ-ups!

🍔 Food & Fun

Lunch is on me! I’ll be firing up the grill to serve burgers and hot dogs, along with chips, fresh fruit, and plenty of ice-cold water.

Note: If you'd like a veggie or vegan option, just let me know ahead of time and I'll make sure you're covered! Contact me at ctroxell@cofchrist-psi.org

I'll also be bringing plenty of activities, including frisbees, a volleyball net and ball, a kite, the grill, and plenty of EZ-ups for shade. (And probably a few extra surprises I think of between now and then!)

🎒 What You Need to Bring

  • Yourself and your family!

  • Beach chairs

  • Whatever you normally pack for a day at the beach (sunscreen, towels, sand toys, etc.)

Can't wait to see you out there for a fantastic day at the beach!

Easter Reflections from Denise Leichter (Ventura and Beach Church)

Reflecting on such a beautiful and life-giving Easter Sunday.

I had the privilege of worshiping with the Ventura community for a truly lovely Easter Communion service. The absolute greatest joy of the morning was the presence of three young families—hearing the sweet oohs and coos of five little ones throughout the gathering was such a blessing and a perfect reminder of new life and hope.

Down by the water, the Beach Church shared a beautiful gift along the shoreline. It was so moving to watch passersby naturally stop, take a quiet pause in their day, and snap pictures to remember the moment.

Sharing a few glimpses below from a deeply special day of community and celebration.

Empower Your Youth to Make a Real Impact: Join Our Fast-o-Thon!

Empower Your Youth to Make a Real Impact: Join Our Fast-o-Thon!

Are you looking for a meaningful way for your youth to connect with others, build empathy, and actively make a difference in the world? We would love to invite them to participate in our upcoming Fast-o-Thon!

This unique overnight event is designed to challenge our youth, teach them about global and local needs, and give them hands-on opportunities to serve others—all while bonding with their peers.

What is the Fast-o-Thon?

During this event, participants will take on the shared challenge of fasting with the goal of lasting 24 hours. Rather than just a test of endurance, this is a purpose-driven experience. Youth are encouraged to gather pledges for their fast, with all proceeds going to Outreach International, a global charity dedicated to fighting poverty.

Through this shared experience, your child will:

  • Learn: We will dive into the realities of food insecurity, discussing what we can do to help and learning how Outreach International addresses community needs worldwide.

  • Serve: We are hosting two hands-on service projects during the event:

    • Foster Love: We will be rolling up our sleeves to assemble brand-new bicycles or skateboards, which will be donated directly to local children in foster care.

    • Color a Smile: We will be creating bright, cheerful coloring pages to be distributed to senior citizens, overseas troops, and anyone in need of a smile.

  • Bond: While fasting is a challenge, tackling it together builds incredible camaraderie! We have plenty of fun group activities planned to keep everyone engaged and supported.

  • Worship: To wrap up the experience, the youth will have a special opportunity to participate in our Sunday morning church service.

Event Logistics

  • When: Saturday, May 2 – Sunday, May 3

    • Drop-off: 12:00 PM (Noon) on Saturday

    • Pick-up: The event concludes with a celebratory potluck starting at 12:00 PM (Noon) on Sunday. Families are welcome!

  • Where: Chula Vista Church of Christ

    • 1320 Fourth Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91911

How to Register

We would love to see your youth there! Please help them sign up and start gathering their pledges today using our registration form below.

REGISTER HERE

Learn More About Our Partner Organizations: If you or your youth would like to read more about the incredible organizations we are supporting this year, you can visit their websites below:

Presiding Bishopric Hosts "Identity Theft Workshop" April 26

You are invited to join us for an important and timely workshop on identity theft and scam prevention.

Identity Theft Workshop

Sunday, April 26, 2026

4:00–5:00 p.m. Central Time (2:00 - 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time)

JOIN VIA ZOOM

In this workshop, participants will learn about the methods used by identity thieves to steal personal information and how to stay protected. We will discuss what information is most at risk, common scams to watch for, and the red flags that may indicate fraud.

The workshop will be presented by Matt Wahoff from BOK Financial. With more than 20 years of experience in mortgage banking and financial services, Matt brings valuable expertise in helping individuals and families make informed financial decisions and protect their personal information.

We encourage everyone to attend and invite family members or friends who may benefit from this practical and informative session.

We hope you will join us!

The Presiding Bishopric

Ron Harmon, Carla Long, Wim van Klinken

,

Application Period Now Open for 2026 Charlotte Jones Scholarship

,

Greetings PSI friends,

The 2026 Charlotte Jones Scholarship application period is now open. Each year, we are honored to support students with financial assistance as they pursue their educational goals.

These scholarships support post secondary education in its broadest sense; college, specialized certification or training. Age is not a barrier, as long as the program is college level or professionally accredited. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. PDT on May 15, 2026.

Do you know someone who might be interested? The committee would appreciate your help in spreading the word. We do honor friends and relatives of PSI members, but applicants must reside in the mission center.

If I can answer any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you in advance for your assistance!

On behalf of the CJS Committee,

Pam Lindamood
760-310-3662
pamlindamood@sbcglobal.net

Learn more

Summer Employment Opportunities at Buckhorn

Summer Employment Opportunities at Buckhorn Camp

Buckhorn Camp in Idyllwild, California is seeking a few seasonal (May-September) team members to join us this summer in supporting our retreat and camping ministries. These positions offer a unique opportunity to serve in a beautiful mountain setting while helping create welcoming and meaningful experiences for a diversity of guests.

We are currently looking for individuals interested in assisting with kitchen support and housekeeping. Kitchen support staff help with meal preparation, food service, dishwashing, and maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment. Housekeeping staff help prepare guest rooms and facilities by cleaning lodging areas, restrooms, and shared spaces so that visitors experience a comfortable and well-cared-for environment.

Working at Buckhorn Camp is more than a job; it is an opportunity to contribute to a ministry of hospitality and care. Staff live and work in a small mountain community and support one another in creating a welcoming atmosphere for retreat groups, families, and youth.

Current positions are seasonal.  Ideal candidates are dependable, flexible, and willing to work as part of a team in a communal camp setting. Buckhorn is a non-smoking and sober environment from alcohol and drugs. 

To apply or get more information; please contact Mia Yip at myip@buckhorncampgrounds.com.

Young Adult Retreat @ Samish Island August 14-18

What does it mean to Love on Purpose? Young adults from across the USA are invited to explore intentional love during a young adult retreat hosted by western USA mission centers. This event is open to all young adults who want to spend a few days in community, service, and shared experience.

August 14–18, 2026
Samish Island Campground, Washington

Registration is $200.
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984159432274?aff=oddtdtcreator

If you would like to help support young adults attending this retreat, you can donate here:
https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/3ERR7AA9P43BY

For questions, contact Travis Rees at trees@cofchrist-gpnw.org.

,

PSI Peace and Justice Retreat with Apostle Joey Williams

,

We are excited about PSI’s 2026 Peace and Justice Retreat at Camp Buckhorn with guest minister Apostle Joey Williams. The retreat will be held at Camp Buckhorn April 24-26, 2026. The planning committee has selected the theme: “A Place at the Table … A Part in the Song” drawn from Community of Christ Sings 285 “For Everyone Born.” 

Registration is now closed.

APOSTLE JOEY WILLIAMS

Guest Ministry

Joey S. Williams is a minister for Community of Christ, is a member of the Council of Twelve Apostles. He is assigned to Field 5.

Joey is a passionate musician, educator, and advocate for justice and peace. His previous roles include President of Seventy, director of Hospitality and Formation Ministries specialist at International Headquarters, Mission Centre President for the Western Europe, British Isles, and Eurasia mission centres, translator/interpreter, and youth minister for Western Europe and Central Mission.

Joey holds a Master of Arts in Romance languages from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he also taught French, and a Master of Arts in religion from Community of Christ Seminary. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in music through studies at Eastman School of Music, the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, and Graceland University, and continued his vocal studies at the Conservatoire de Paris.

As president of seventy for the Eurasia Quorum, Joey committed to creating spaces where diverse voices could flourish. His motto of “Make NOIZ!” reflects his enthusiasm for building inclusive community through music and rhythm, and he looks forward to continued service by sharing his passion for people and peace.

The retreat will provide an opportunity to explore the connection between sacred song and peace and justice. These connections will allow us to better explore enduring principles such as Unity in Diversity, Pursuit of Peace, Worth of All Persons and Blessings of Community. Sharing in old and new songs together we will utilize tradition, scripture, reason and experience in exploring our interior beliefs about the meaning and importance of peace and justice in our lives today.

Questions? Contact PSI Peace and Justice Minister Glenn Johnson at gjohnson@cofchrist-psi.org.

,

Las Vegas 40th Anniversary Recap in Photos

,

What a gift to celebrate faithfulness, welcome, and community in Las Vegas.

On February 21, the Las Vegas Congregation of Community of Christ marked two significant milestones—40 years in their West Oakey Blvd. building and more than 90 years of ministry in Las Vegas—joined by Stassi Cramm, president of Community of Christ, and Stephen Cramm. President Cramm also once served this congregation as associate pastor, making the celebration especially meaningful.

Throughout the day, symbols of welcome told the story of this community’s heart. The Peace Tree—an olive tree planted years ago by Ed Van Meter—stands as a living sign of peace, invitation, and rootedness in the neighborhood. Inside, newly installed glass doors open the chapel with transparency and warmth, reminding us that welcome is both a posture of the heart and an intentional act.

In her message, President Cramm reflected on Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness and reminded us that discipleship isn’t about demanding signs or guarantees before we act. Faith is formed as we walk together—showing up for one another, loving without condition, and trusting the Spirit to lead us step by step. These are the Blessings of Community, especially visible in this congregation’s long, steady witness.

We give thanks for the Las Vegas Congregation’s decades of ministry and for the ways invitation and welcome continue to shape Christ’s mission in the Pacific Southwest International Mission Center and beyond.

Photos by Glenn Johnson

,

Save the Date: PSI Reunion @ Buckhorn

,

Planning for PSI’s 2026 Reunion at Buckhorn is underway, and we’re looking forward to gathering in the beautiful San Jacinto Mountains with you.

More details will be shared as they become available. For now, please mark your calendars and plan to join us.


We will be blessed by President Janne’ Grover as our guest minister.
We will go deeper into LIVING THE MISSION PRAYER for all ages.

We will have Denise Leichter recruiting and leading the reunion staff for an amazing week in community. If you want to serve that week; please let Denise know right away at denise@cofchrist-psi.org.

The Joy of YES! The 2026 PSI Reunion planning and recruiting is starting and there are already so many YES responses for preparing to live in community with the MISSION PRAYER.  

If you have ideas you want to offer as we explore risking something new; please let me know. Do you have anyone that might want to be baptized, or participating in confirmation classes for that sacrament to happen at Reunion; let me know.

Mark your calendars now; you won’t want to miss this year.

With excitement,

Denise Leichter

Weekly Online Confirmation Courses: Wednesdays @ 8:30 p.m.

The Anaheim Congregation is offering online confirmation courses for adults on Zoom at 8:30 p.m. each Wednesday night. Confirmation is a meaningful step for anyone preparing for baptism or membership with Community of Christ.

Whether you're exploring membership or deepening your commitment to the faith community, we invite you to join us for these sessions. You can learn more about confirmation in Community of Christ here.

For more information or to register, please contact Michele McGrath or Andy Markle at comms@cofchristanaheim.org. 

Register Today for CIMM's Christian Ministries Certificate Program

The Center for Innovation in Ministry and Mission (CIMM) launched the "Christian Ministries Certificate" a little over two years ago as a learning opportunity following the MEADS program at headquarters. Through the Community of Christ Seminary, students are provided a mid-point of education between the Ministry and Priesthood courses and the Seminary master's programs.

The Christian Ministries Certificate provides seminary-vetted instructors in a community of learners online covering the following topics:

  • Introduction to Christian Theology

  • Peace and Justice

  • Spiritual Formation

  • New Testament

  • Hebrew Scriptures

  • Contextual Theology and Contemporary Culture

  • Ministries of the Church

  • Missional Leadership

  • Community of Christ Theology

  • Practical Ministry

  • World Religions

  • ...and more to come

Completion of any 10 classes awards the certificate, which can be presented at a Mission Center conference. Students take one course per 8-week period on their own weekly schedule. Summers are off for the camping season. If a student misses a class, they can choose to take another later on.

We encourage you to consider ministers in your area and proactivly approach individuals who may not only benefit their personal ministry, but bring expanded understanding to your mission center leadership. Some mission centers have chosen to subsidise the $100 fee of the classes for some ministers.

Students who wish to enroll should do so by starting with any upcoming Christian Ministries class. We are starting our second round of these courses August 25 with Dr. David Anderson teaching the "Christian Theology" class.

Visit our website, www.graceland.edu/cimm for more information on the Christian Ministries Certificate and registration. Please let me know if you have any questions about this ministerial leadership program, or any other CIMM learning opportunity.

ATTN: Young Adults: Join The Circle!

Calling all young adults and youth/young adult leaders!

Parker Johnson, PSI Communications Specialist has created a new online community for young adults called The Circle.

This space is intended to provide young adults- as well as leaders working with youth and young adults- with a “third space” to gather.

“Third space” is a sociological term and essentially refers to the social surroundings that are separate from the two usual social environments of home ("first place") and the workplace ("second place").

The Circle is intended to be a space for networking, socializing, theologizing, planning, collaborating, mentorship, and even asking if you can crash on someone’s couch while you’re on a road trip.

Community of Christ members are some of the kindest, most generous people many of us have ever met, and one of the most valuable aspects of membership/affiliation with the church is access to its passionate people.

A few housekeeping items to be completely transparent from Parker:

🆓 This space is 100% FREE.
🌳 The Circle is an initiative offered by Cottonwood Creative, a cross-border marketing agency I started in 2021. I use my agency’s resources to give back wherever I can to social impact organizations and my own denomination: Community of Christ.

If you'd like to join, just complete the form to get started!

JOIN THE CIRCLE