First United Methodist Church of Santa Monica - The Sentinel Newsletter, February 2026
SENTINEL NEWSLETTER
It seems like only yesterday that we celebrated Christmas and Epiphany, but now we begin the season of Lent. Lent is the 40-day period (not including Sundays), beginning with Ash Wednesday and ending with the celebration of Easter. This is the season for repentance and spiritual reflection. Our theme this year is “God in the Darkness and Light.” Our art work for this year’s Lenten Devotional reflects our search for God in the darkness while catching a glimmer of the first light of dawn. Our hope is to find God in both the most challenging and most joyful times of our lives. Through worship, meditation on the scriptures, and spiritual reflection, we invite you to undertake this journey of faith.
GOD Darkness Light
There are a number of opportunities to observe a holy and meaningful Lent this month. There will be two Ash Wednesday services (12 noon & 7 p.m.) on February18 in the chapel as we focus on repentance and recognize our mortality before God with the imposition of ashes. The Labyrinth will also be open that day for personal meditation and reflection. Pastor Keri and Bill Buxton begin a fiveweek Lenten Study entitled Imago Dei: Lectio Divina Study on February 22, for in-person study in the Fireside Room, and February 23 online via Zoom. I will introduce a new informal worship opportunity in Simkins Hall on Sunday, February 22, at 5 p.m. in Simkins Hall, including the sharing of Holy Communion. There are also opportunities to serve our community by volunteering for the Westside Food Bank, the People Concern, or giving blood through the American Red Cross Blood Drive on March 1.
We look forward to sharing this sacred time together.
Rev. Greg Batson Senior Minister
LENT2026
ASH WEDNESDAY
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent - a time of introspection and self-examination of our lives and relationship with God. The ritual of the ashes represent a visual reminder of the day as we pause to remember our physical limits in contrast to the infinity of God. Here at First UMC, we offer two Ash Wednesday services in the Chapel (in-person only.) We invite you to this intimate and reflective service that marks the beginning of the Lenten season. February 18, 12 p.m. & 7 p.m., in the Chapel
GOD Darkness Light
ASH WEDNESDAY BRUNCH
Prior to the Ash Wednesday 12 p.m. noon service, all are welcome to an Ash Wednesday Brunch in the Fireside Room for food and fellowship together as we begin the Lenten season. February 18, 10:30 a.m. in the Fireside Room
ASH WEDNESDAY: WALK THE LABYRINTH
The First UMC Labyrinth extends hours for walking from 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. in Simkins Hall
Come and join us for Youth Sunday on February 8! It will be a meaningful worship experience as our youth will plan and lead worship, including our seniors who will be giving their sermon reflections. We look forward to what they have to share with us about their faith journey! Sunday, February 8, during 10 a.m. worship
FEBRUARY ONLINE MID-WEEK RECITAL
Wed Feb 11
Sun Feb 15
Mon Feb 16
Tues Feb 17
February Mid-Week Recital
Youth Pancake Breakfast after worship
Lenten Art Exhibit opens in the Fireside Room
Presidents Day preschool closed
Preschool Lunar New Year celebration
Wed Feb 18 First day of Lent
Ash Wednesday Services (12 p.m. & 7 p.m.)
Ash Wednesday Brunch
Walk the Labyrinth for Ash Wednesday
Sat Feb 21 Prayer Quilt Workparty
The People Concern volunteer day
Messy Church (new time 10 a.m.)
Sun Feb 22
First Sunday in Lent
Lenten Devotional available
Lenten Study begins in-person with Rev. Keri
Reflect Worship with Pastor Greg
Mon Feb 23
Lenten Study with Bill Buxton via Zoom
Tues Feb 24 Board of Trustees & Finance Committee
Wed Feb 25
Meeting
Westside Food Bank Volunteer opportunity
CHILDREN’S SABBATH / 4TH GRADE BIBLES
Join us for worship on February 1 for Children's Sabbath, where the First UMC children lead worship. Bibles will also be blessed on this day, and given to any fourth grader who would like to receive one. Receiving a Bible is a special and important step in the faith journey of our children. We rejoice as a community and with our families as our children grow in their love for God and one another. Sunday, February 1, during 10 a.m. worship
WALK THE LABYRINTH: 2 OPPORTUNITES
In February, there are two opportunities to Walk the Labyrinth: the first Friday of the month on February 6, and also on February 18 from 12:30 - 7 p.m. in observance of Ash Wednesday. Walking the Labyrinth is an ancient spiritual practice, a way to quiet our minds and open our spirits to the presence of the Holy. View the 2026 Labyrinth schedule on the website: https://santamonicaumc.org/labyrinth/ Friday, February 6, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Simkins Hall & Chapel Open for Prayers
Ash Wednesday, February 18,12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. Simkins Hall
First UMC is pleased to present the 2026 February Online MidWeek Recital featuring Gold Line Saxophone Quartet. “Gold Line Quartet exists due to the passion of its members to impact our community and the city of Los Angeles with highquality, engaging fine art music. We seek to establish a third stream approach that is neither wholly jazz and pop, yet neither fully classical either.”
To read full bio and view past recitals, visit the website: www. santamonicaumc.org/mid-week-recital-series How to watch the Livestream:
• Facebook: @santamonicaumc
• YouTube Channel: @SantaMonicaUMC
• Website: www.santamonicaumc.org/livestream
• The First UMC App: (App Store, search FirstUMC_SM) You may also view past recitals on these channels. Wednesday, February 11, at 12:10 p.m., online
ALL CHURCH PANCAKE BREAKFAST
All are invited to join the Youth Group on Sunday, February 15 after worship for a Pancake Breakfast! Proceeds will go towards the Youth Service Project this summer. They will be working on homes for people with limited financial resources in the Appalachian Mountains area through the Appalachia Service Project. The cost for breakfast is $20 per person or $50 per family. Sunday, February 15 after worship, Simkins Hall
THE PEOPLE CONCERN VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
Linda Diane Anderson and Janet Searfoss run a volunteer group on the third Saturday of the month at The People Concern, making sandwiches and assembling sack lunches. The shift is 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., but often ends earlier. Volunteers meet at the church to carpool. Contact Tricia to volunteer: t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org
Next Volunteer Day: Saturday, February 21, 8 a.m.
LENT2026
LENTEN DEVOTIONAL BOOKLET
The Spiritual Formation Council invites you to read your Lenten Devotional online and in print. Printed copies will be available Sunday, February 15, at church and in the church office, and daily emails begin on Ash Wednesday. The devotional is written by the First UMC congregation and provides a wonderful opportunity to share Lent with family and friends. To sign up for the daily emails, visit the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/lent
ART IN THE FIRESIDE ROOM
During Lent, an exhibit in the Fireside Room will reflect the Lenten theme God in Darkness and Light. Each piece features a Psalm reading accompanied by mostly blackand-white artwork from various eras, inviting contemplation alongside the Psalm.
Opens Sunday, February 15, in the Fireside Room
REFLECT WORSHIP
On Sunday, February 22, Pastor Greg will introduce a new worship service called “Reflect.” This will be an additional opportunity to come together for worship and sharing in an informal setting. We will gather in Simkins Hall at 5 p.m. The service will include a time of prayer and sharing, scripture and reflection, and conclude with Holy Communion. At 6 p.m., you are invited to stay and share in a meal in conjunction with our youth as they gather for their weekly program. This is open to all, and we invite you to join us for this new opportunity during Lent. Sunday, February 22, 5 p.m. worship in Simkins Hall, followed by 6 p.m. meal.
LENTEN STUDY
IMAGO DEI: LECTIO DIVINA STUDY
Through Scriptural reflection and sharing, you are invited to identify the Imago Dei (Image of God) in yourself and to perceive that same sacred image in others. We will explore our own socio-cultural identities and reflect on when and how we engage others who hold different identities. We hope this prayerful and Scriptural study will assist our ability to worship, work and live in harmony with diverse persons because everyone is of sacred-worth. *Childcare is available. To sign up, or if you have questions, please email Rev. Keri at k.olsenpaget@santamonicaumc.org
Rev. Keri will facilitate a group on Sunday mornings from 8:30-9:30 a.m. in the Fireside Room. In person meetings will occur on 2/22, 3/1, 3/8, 3/15, and 3/22. Bill Buxton will facilitate a group on Zoom on Monday evenings from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Zoom meetings will occur on 2/23, 3/2, 3/9, 3/16, and 3/23. First Meetings: February 22, in-person; February 23 via Zoom
FEBRUARY MESSY CHURCH - NEW TIME!
The new year often comes with big resolutions - do more, fix more, be more. Messy Church offers something a little different. We value starting imperfectly, showing up as you are, and trusting that God works beautifully through the mess.
At Messy Church:
- Getting started matters more than getting it right
- Peace is practiced in community, not isolation
- Resolve isn't about willpower - it's about walking together
As we enter 2026, let's resolve to:
- Come as we are
- Make a mess
- Discover peace together
Our first gathering will be Saturday, February 21, from *10 a.m. - 12 p.m. *Please note that starting in February we are moving our meeting time to the morning. Come for the whole time or just drop by as you're able.
WESTSIDE FOOD BANK - FEBRUARY DATE
Westside Food Bank offers a volunteer opportunity every 4th Wednesday of the month. Volunteers will unpack cases of food for distribution at the Mobile Pantry at Virginia Avenue Park. Next date: Wednesday, February 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 1914 14th Street, Santa Monica To volunteer, sign up on the WSFB website: www.wsfb.org/take-action/volunteer-opportunities
FIRST UMC BLOOD DRIVE – SIGN UP NOW!
Consider making a blood donation part of your Lenten practice. The American Red Cross is in critical need for donors of all blood types – give blood and you’ll have the knowledge that you’ve truly helped save someone’s life! Schedule your appointment now on the website: www.redcrossblood.org, and enter sponsor code FirstUMCSM.
Donors will receive a $15 Amazon gift card, and will have A1C testing (measures the average amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood over the past three months) a onceper-calendar-year offering for each donor!
Sunday, March 1, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Simkins Hall
ALL CHURCH SERVICE TRIP (INTERGENERATIONAL)
First UMC has a history of responding to disaster relief and engaging in long-term recovery efforts in various locations, including New Orleans, Haiti, and Houston. Building on this deep foundation and history of service and outreach, we are excited to announce a new initiative: a week-long intergenerational service trip (13 years and up) scheduled from Saturday, August 1, to Saturday, August 8, 2026 We will be collaborating with the Sierra Service Project (SSP), sending a work team from our congregation to the Navajo Nation in Arizona. While SSP traditionally hosted only youth groups, in recent years, they have broadened their mission to include intergenerational service weeks for churches, scout groups, and other organizations, creating opportunities for a wider range of participants to serve.
An information session will be held on Sunday, February 8, in the Fireside Room at 11:15 a.m., offering an opportunity to learn more and ask questions. You may also email Tricia with questions: t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org. More info and sign up on the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/church-service-trip
Looking forward to
Sun March 1: Red Cross Blood Drive (info on page 3)
Sun March 8: Spiritual Gifts Workshop w/Bill Buxton God creates us all in special, unique ways (none of the two of us are alike), and calls us to join the work of building God’s Kingdom in the here and now. Join Bill Buxton after worship to learn more about these gifts and learn how to discern our individual gifts. (More info on back page)
Fri March 13: YSP Movie Night Fundraiser
We had so much fun at the December Movie Night on the Lawn, we’re doing it again! All proceeds support the 2026 Youth Service Trip. Tickets are $15 per person or $50 per family, and each ticket includes one free popcorn. Bring your picnic blankets and chairs!
Sun March 15: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon Women of Action, a circle of United Women in Faith, in partnership with Fellowship and Events and Children’s Ministry, will present their 24th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon! Proceeds benefit missions supported by the UWF. Don’t forget to wear green!
Sun March 22: Reflect Worship w/Pastor Greg (info on page 3)
Sun March 29: Palm Sunday Brunch and Festivities
Following worship, come for a Palm Sunday celebration, hosted by Children and Family Ministries. Featuring brunch, an Easter Egg hunt, games and crafts, a family photo opp, and a visit from the Easter Bunny! Fun for all ages!
CAL-PAC SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
This summer, campers are invited to explore what it means to Turn the World Around through stories of faith, justice, environmentalism, and joy. Dive into classic camp fun like swimming, crafts, hikes, and songs, while discovering how small acts of kindness and courage can make a big difference. Come ready for adventure, community, and a week that will change the way you see the world, and hopefully your place in it.
2026 Camp Dates:
Cedar Glen Elementary: June 22-26
Cedar Glen Jr./Sr. High: June 27-July 3
Camp Wrightwood Elementary: July 5-9
Camp Wrightwood Jr./Sr. High: July 12-18
Lazy W Ranch Elementary: July 12-16
Lazy W Ranch Jr./Sr. High: 19-25
Pricing:
Elementary Camp: $395
Jr & Sr High Camp: $525
Camperships are available and can be requested during registration. Register through these websites:
Do you have a loved one you would like to dedicate flowers to on a given week? The church office can assist with the dedication and the cost is $80. Order at the Sunday Welcome Table, or online: www.santamonicaumc.org/flower-fund
Available Sundays: February 1/8/15
Community News
MEMORIAL
A memorial for Ellen Johanna Wise will be held Saturday, February 7, 11 a.m. in the Chapel, followed by a reception in the Alcove.
BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN THE COMMUNITY
Black History Month Reading Challenge
Explore the rich history and achievements of Black men and women through books honored with the Coretta Scott King Book Award. Log your reading to earn badges and entry into a book pack drawing. For ages 12 - 17. Registration begins Sunday, February 1 at smpl.beanstack.org.
February 1 - 28, Santa Monica Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401
Annual Los Angeles Black History Month FestivalLa Brea Tar Pits
The event will feature African Marketplace, Concession Vendors, Performing Artists, and a Surprise Headliner. Discussion on topics including health, mental health and issues related to the African American community. February 21, La Brea Tar Pits, 5801 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 lablackhistorymonthfestival.com
For more events in the greater Los Angeles area, visit: https://abc7.com/post/black-history-month-eventssouthern-california/15830468
STAY CONNECTED
To join in fellowship and ministry online, here’s how to connect online:
First UMC website: www.santamonicaumc.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/santamonicaumc
Instagram: @santamonicaumc
YouTube: @SantaMonicaUMC
The First UMC App: Go to the App Store, search FirstUMC_SM.
CONGREGATION CARE
Feel free to leave a phone message anytime (310-393-8258) or email message for any of the church staff. The Pastoral Care line (310-393-8258 and enter extension 1), is always available for people to leave a message requesting care.
Pastoral Care Resources: Explore the resources on our website to see how we can support you and your loved ones through every season of life. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact: Anne Premer a.premer@santamonicaumc.org or (310)393-8258 ext 103 www.santamonicaumc.org/health-ministry
ANNOUNCING MESSY CAMP 2026: GROWING IN GOD’S GARDEN!
Coming this summer! Join us for an unforgettable week of adventure at Messy Camp, where kids will explore the beauty and wonder of God’s Garden. Each day, campers will dig into hands-on science experiments, exciting games, Bible story adventures, creative crafts, catchy songs, and a hands-on mission project.
As we explore God’s Garden together, we’ll learn how to grow love, joy, peace, kindness, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—in ourselves, just like seeds that flourish with care and light. Through fun, fellowship, and messy activities, kids will discover how our hearts grow when we practice caring for one another and trusting God. Come get messy, make memories, and watch your faith bloom! Ages TK – 5th grade. The cost is $150 for the first child and $125 for each additional sibling. Registration opens March 20. Monday, July 27 – Friday, July 31, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. First UMC Campus
Christmas Eve 2025
Community Photos
PRESCHOOL CORNER
Christmas Eve 8 p.m. Candlelight Service
Christmas Eve 11 p.m. Communion Service, led by the Batson family
Advent Brunch, held on December 21
Youth Ministry went on retreat for the first weekend of January
Preschool Chapel with Pastor Greg and Miss Jamie
WORSHIP WORSHIP WORSHIP
WORSHIP IN THE SANCTUARY
We worship on Sundays at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary, and we Livestream the service on the platforms listed below.
COMMUNION SUNDAYS
Karen Ing will be baking the bread for Communion Sunday. Thank you for your service!
WORSHIP ONLINE
Sundays 10 a.m. Worship Online LIVESTREAM on:
• Website: www.santamonicaumc.org/livestream
After 10 a.m. livestream airs, go to: www.santamonicaumc.org/sunday-service-archive
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/santamonicaumc
• YouTube Channel: @SantaMonicaUMC
• The First UMC App: Go the App Store, search FirstUMC_SM
Let us know if you need assistance in joining online.
ONGOING MINISTRIES ONGOING MINISTRIES
CHILDREN'S MINISTRY / SUNDAY SCHOOL FOR THE FALL
Families are invited to worship in the Sanctuary. Parents with infants are welcome to worship in the Sanctuary, in the Family Zone in the Narthex, or in the nursery. We have 3 groups for Sunday School following the children's message in worship:
- Nursery Care for 6 months through toddler
- Younger Elementary for Kinder-3rd graders
- New Sunday School group for 4th-7th graders
Contact Jamie (j.jones@santamonicaumc.org) for more info. Website: www.santamonicaumc.org/childrens-ministry
YOUTH MINISTRY
Youth Group is open to all 6th -12th graders in the community. They gather on Sunday evenings for dinner, games and a program or topic for discussion and reflection. Meetings are on Sundays from 6 - 8 p.m. 3rd Floor Edu. Bldg. in the Youth Lounge. Contact Tricia with questions: t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org
February Meetings: February 1/22
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY
Men’s Bible Study is a weekly Zoom meeting where men of all ages and generations gather to ground themselves in the Holy Scripture. As men try to navigate the stresses and complexities of this modern world and daily life, Men’s Bible Study is a place for community, prayer and fellowship through the sharing of God’s Holy word. For more information and to join, call the church office: 310-393-8258.
Tuesdays: 7 a.m. via Zoom
PRAYER REQUESTS
The First UMC Prayer Group is a network of persons who provide regular, dependable, and confidential prayer support. You may send a prayer request to the church at any time, and our Prayer Group will be notified of your request. Call the church office, or visit: www.santamonicaumc.org/prayer-requests/
LISTENING HEARTS WOMEN’S GROUP
Listening Hearts is a group for women of all ages, grounded in the practices of sacred listening, prayer and reflection. We gather both in person and online. All are welcome to join!
Contact Tricia Guerrero to learn more: t.guerrero@santamonicaumc.org
Wednesday, February 11, *10 a.m. via Zoom (*note new time)
THE CHANCEL CHOIR
Sing in the Chancel Choir! Thursday evening rehearsals are 7:40 - 9 p.m. Contact Jim Smith if you are interested: djes@roadrunner.com
FREE BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS
The Health Ministry Council hosts Blood Pressure screenings one Sunday of the month in the Fireside Room. We are grateful to this ministry for their continued care of the congregation! Next Screening: Sunday, February 8, 11 a.m. in the Alcove
REQUEST A PRAYER QUILT
Led by Sue Payne and Maile Marquand, the Prayer Quilt Ministry offers Prayer Quilts to those in need. To request a quilt: 1. Talk to the intended recipient. Ask if the person is willing to be prayed for and to receive a quilt. Ask what specific prayers are wished for. There is no charge for the quilt – it is a gift of love. 2. Contact Maile Marquand and Sue Payne at: prayerquilts@santamonicaumc.org (Prayer quilts may only be requested and sponsored by members of the First UMC congregation.) 3. Select the quilt, if some are already made, or suggest colors if one is to be selected for you. First UMC will display the quilt in the Friday Community Email, and during Sunday 10 a.m. worship, where you may tie a prayer knot during in-person worship, or view the quilt on the Livestream. Next Meeting: Saturday, February 21, Room 300 Contact info@santamonicaumc.org if you would like to volunteer. www.santamonicaumc.org/prayerquiltministry
Scan to visit the website @santamonicaumc www.santamonicaumc.org
FIRST UMC OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., and by appointment. (Office closed on Fridays.) Pastoral Care : 310-393-8258, enter ext. 1
SPIRITUAL GIFTS WORKSHOP WITH BILL BUXTON
Ephesians 4:11-13 describes spiritual gifts as, “The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ.”
God creates us all in special, unique ways (none of the two of us are alike), and calls us to join the work of building God’s Kingdom in the here and now. We will be gathering after worship to learn more about these gifts and will work on a reflection to help each of us to discern our individual gifts. This can be a life-changing experience as the Spirit helps us see ways we can contribute to God’s work in our communities and in the world. I hope you can join us!
Sunday, March 8, 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 a.m. in the Fireside Room
