President’s Letter
December 2025
Dear Beloved Community,
As the year begins its quiet close and we move through this season of shorter days and longer nights, I’ve found myself pausing more often, taking in where we’ve been, and imagining where we might be headed. This time of year has a way of inviting reflection. It reminds us that change is always happening, that growth is often subtle, and that community is something we create moment by moment, together.
Over the past several months, the Board has gathered regularly; not just to make decisions, but to thoughtfully explore who we are as a congregation and what future we want to nurture. These conversations have been grounded in care and curiosity. We’ve been asking big questions about how Sepulveda UU can deepen its purpose, strengthen its identity, and extend its presence into the wider world.
I am excited about our first major venture into broader outreach: the upcoming Sepulveda UU Podcast, featuring Rev. Gordon. This new platform will allow us to share our message, values, and conversations with a wider audience. Stay tuned, more details will be coming soon!
This year, we also made a point of being visibly present in our broader community. Having booths at both San Fernando Valley Pride and the Granada Hills Street Fair gave us the chance to meet new faces, reconnect with old friends, and simply let people know that we are here: welcoming, open-hearted, and committed to justice and compassion. Standing together at those events was a reminder of how powerful it is just to show up as our authentic selves.
We are also looking forward to our Holiday Party on December 20th, a time each year when we come together not just to celebrate, but to pause and appreciate the spirit of community that sustains us. These gatherings hold a special kind of warmth, an affirmation that we belong to one another in meaningful ways.
Our dedication to service has continued throughout the year. Our ongoing partnership with The Drop-In Access Center at UU Church of Studio City remains an important expression of our values in action. And through our Matching Plate program, we have been able to support a number of organizations throughout the San Fernando Valley, sharing our contributions that ripple outward.
As I reflect on all of this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. I want to offer heartfelt thanks to everyone on the Board, to all who serve on committees, and to every member and friend who has supported this congregation in one way or another. Whether through planning, volunteering, donating, showing up, or simply offering kindness, each one of you helps weave the fabric of this community. None of what we do would be possible without your care and commitment. Thank you for Rev. Gordon for meaningful Sunday Sermons and your guidance, support, and care for our community.
As the year turns, I’m reminded that community is not a static thing; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of the hopes, efforts, and connections we share. I am grateful to be part of this one and look forward, with quiet optimism, to everything we will continue to build together in the year ahead.
Wishing you peace and blessings this season and always,
Janet
Janet Landau
President
Sepulveda UU Society
818-724-4260
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