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Embracing Lent: Spring Church Events for Reflection and Growth
Words from Pastor Sadie
Before we broke ground, everything on campus had its place, we were very organized. When someone would ask where to find something, we would know. Now, all of a sudden, nothing is where we thought it was. And some things are blocking the things we need. Some things feel really awkward and messy. Some things look really overwhelming. A new visitor may even think that we are messy, that we are disorganized.
But the truth is very different. The truth is that we are in the messy middle of a project that will fundamentally change the way we do ministry at Harbor. We are in the messy middle of a project that we have been planning for over two years! We are in the messy middle of a project that will allow us to deepen our inspiring ministries and to be a better neighbor to our wider community. Yes, there is too much furniture clogging up our sanctuary and our closets and our hallways. Yes, it is taking too long to find the things we need. Yes, it feels a bit crowded and overwhelming to be on campus. This is all true. It’s all real. And yet, if we can approach this messy in between moment with patience and gratitude, we’ll find ourselves moving through the hard parts with surprised smiles on our faces.
Isn’t this how life can be? So overwhelming! So messy! So disorganized! And also so beautiful!!! So raw and open, so filled with possibility. When we walk the spiritual path, we learn the importance of being present in the messy in between spaces, this is where life is lived–in between. When we have to wait for order and completion in order to enjoy life, we will never drop into the beauty of full presence.
The challenge to remain present this Lent is represented by our church project, but I know that you all can find examples of these messy in between moments in your own lives. Maybe you’re a high school senior, frantically making decisions about where you’ll go to school, or what job you’ll apply for once you’ve graduated. Maybe you’re a new mom, waiting for your baby girl to take her first steps. Maybe you’re a grandparent getting used to the glorious clutter of grandkids. Maybe you’re waiting for your well planted garden to bloom and produce fruit. Maybe you’re waiting for your retirement to finally begin. Maybe you aren’t sure what you’re waiting for, that’s okay too.
Whatever messy in between space you find yourself in, take a moment to look around at the raw and open chaos, and rather than fall into anxiety over it all, try gratitude instead. Try to take a moment to say, thank you for this messy in between space!
Starting with gratitude won’t fix the mess and it won’t make the hard things go any faster, but it will make the journey more meaningful. I hope you slow down this Lent to appreciate all of the in between spaces in your life and I hope you appreciate them exactly as they are–filled to the brim with messiness and chaos and life in all its beauty.
May it be so!
Upcoming Studies
March 5 - April 20
Harbor will be guided through Lent with the words, art, special services from Everything [in} Between: Meeting God in the midst of extremes by A Sanctified Art.
About the Series
Guide developed by Rev. Lisle Gwynn Garrity with input from the SA creative team
This series is an invitation to navigate the polarities in our lives with more faith, intention, and openness to be transformed. Each weekly sub-theme explores two supposed binaries, like “faith & works” or “rest & growth,” or “grief & hope.” We often consider these ideas to be opposing. However, as we explore these concepts within the scriptures, we find nuance and complexity. We find that these dichotomies are false. We might begin to see a full spectrum instead of black and white. We might find that God is present in between.
Stay centered in our studies themes through the week between Sunday Gatherings with this Spotify playlist below.
May 11 - August 24
Our next study takes us all the way through summer after a short break between Lent.
Pastors Ryan and Janette will take lead on the Sunday sermons while Pastor Sadie is on her sabbatical.
About the Series
Guide developed by Rev. Lisle Gwynn Garrity with input from the SA creative team
There are many heroes of the faith, people we admire and wish to be. However, there are even more ordinary people of faith—those doing what they can with what they have to make a difference. We’ve selected 16 bold stories of those often overlooked in our biblical narratives. Using visual art and prompts for reflection, we hope to dig deep into the worlds of these characters, entering their stories with curiosity and openness to what they might teach us.
Spring Events
March - May 2025
Pastor Sadie's Sabbatical Luncheon - Part 2
Sunday, March 30
Following Sunday Gathering
On March 2, we got to hear about Sadie’s upcoming sabbatical and all of the amazing things she has planned, thanks to the generous Lilly Endowment grant that she received.
Sunday, March 30 - Join us for tacos as we learn about the exciting things that Harbor will be doing while Pastor Sadie is on sabbatical. Don’t miss it!
1st Saturday Land Tending
April 5, May 3 (Cancelled)
9 - 12 PM
Join Elder Caroline with other volunteer community members Saturday morning to tend our beautiful campus and learn more about Gxd's creation.
We have been making great strides in converting our campus from non-native to native species.
All ages, experience and abilities welcome!
Blessing of the Bikes
Sunday, April 6
1 - 2 PM, Front Lawn
Celebrate Earth Day with us for this special service. All are welcome! Bring all alternative transportation to be blessed by one of our pastors.
Basic equipment care materials will be available such as air pumps, chain oil and safety accessories.
At the end of the event, we will enjoy a short ride (or walk) around the Upper Newport Back Bay.
Palm Sunday Brunch Potluck
Sunday, April 13
12 - 2 PM, Potluck
Join us for the start of Holy Week at Harbor! Palm Sunday will feature many special moments including Chaplain David Jaimes guest preaching. Following our Sunday Gathering, we will enjoy a Spring Potluck!
Information on the potluck such as suggested dress or sign-up instructions will be updated on the event page linked below.
Maundy Thursday
Thursday, April 17
6 - 8 PM
Please join us for an experience of Holy Week this Maundy Thursday on April 17 at 6-8pm. This service will be longer than a typical Maundy Thursday service because we will be leading you through meaningful ritual and story. Plan to spend about 2 hours if you can. If you need to leave early or come late, we welcome you for as long as you can be with us.
As part of this service, simple snacks will be provided. If you’d like to bring something to go with crackers, cheese, and fruit you are welcome to do so.
If you would like to be part of this special service, please let us know and we will find a meaningful place for you.
Easter Sunday
Sunday, April 20
6 - 7:30 PM
Join us on Sunday April 20 as we celebrate Easter Sunday! We are so excited to be baptizing Lauren Graham and Indigo Cullumber! We hope you can join us for this special experience of resurrection and baptism!
Stay for our traditional Egg Hunt for Children & Youth.
If any members would like to host a post-service event for the community to enjoy please speak with Pastor Sadie.
OC Marathon
Sunday, May 4
6 - 9 AM
We have been asked to join with a volunteer group through OC Marathon this year. We’ll be
meeting at 6am in front of Harbor to walk together to the volunteer location.
If you would like to be part of this early morning and fun event, please let Pastor Janette know and she will get you signed up!
You can also sign up here on your own.
OC Marathon Volunteer Sign Up Here
Remember to leave early for church due to the traffic and road closures! Plan your alternate route using the map linked below:
Children & Youth Events
Kids' Night In!
Saturday, May 3
3 - 8 PM
We’ve enjoyed our time with our elementary kids so much and would love for them to join us for our next Kids’ Night In on Saturday May 4.
We know how hard our parents work and sometimes it’s nice to take a break and enjoy a nice meal or a movie. You can drop your children ages 3 years to fifth grade for a few hours so they can play, enjoy snacks, and activities.
If you would like to learn more about this event, please talk with Pastor Janette.
1st Sundays High School Youth Dinner
April 6, May 4
5 - 8 PM
High school youth are invited to the Cullumber house on the first Sunday of each month at 5pm to cook dinner, get to know each other, and participate in our interfaith study.
We hope you can join us and if you have any questions reach out to Pastor Sadie or Pastor Ryan.
Community Events
Marfan Walk for Victory
Saturday, March 29
12 - 3 PM
Raise awareness with the Earnhart family for this event that focuses on fundraising to save lives and improve the quality of life for people with Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz, VEDS, and related conditions! Registration and more information here
The Little Mermaid
April 24 - 27
Support and enjoy Shelby Kliewer and Nicholas Earnhart in Newport Harbor's production of The Little Mermaid the Musical! In recent years, Harbor plans a day to watch a performance together. Please speak with Lindsey Kliewer or Heather Earnhart about tickets and best day.
Workout Crew at Harbor
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
8:30 - 9:30 AM
A workout group started and led by Caroline Kaufmann meets three times a week under the pergola on Harbor's front lawn. Join the group workout planned for the day (all abilities welcome) or focus on your own routine safely with others nearby. No equipment is required. Please contact Caroline with any questions.
Weekly Meetings
Bible Study
Women's Group on break late April - Aug
Men's Group
Music Rehearsal
Save the Dates
June 5 - WUICAN Elemental Conversations Earth Event
June 8 - Pentecost Sunday
PSWR Summer Camp
October 24 - 26 Multi-Congregation Women’s Retreat
We are excited to announce that Harbor will be part of a women’s retreat with women from five different local Disciples churches! Sign up for the interest list and get more information here:
October WUICAN Climate Action Festival
2025 Spring Events Flyer (11x8.5)
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